Hi sneezy, I am sure ozgirl will answer your question but I know that at 6FlagsMarine World in Vallejo, CA they have students come from around the world to work for something like 3 months. Believe they get a visa for a 3 month job. Sort of like an exchange student. I remember the last couple of summers there was a problem for 6 Flags to get the students that they anticipated because the students had a harder time getting their visas (due to 911). So probably the same situtation.

Hey I don't mean to start an international incident here.... yes loveitaly, it is part of a cross cultural university exchange, apparently Disneyworld recruit from all over the world for these short term positions but this is the first time Australia has been approached the boys were told. Its only eight weeks and then they can remain in the US for a further 30 days.

Hello again, after long perusal of the Fodor's forum and the internet in general, the boys have decided budget hotel would be preferable to hostel accommodation in NYC and DC. They are also thinking that kitchen facilities may save them some money as well. I can get quite a good deal from here on Shelburne Murray Hill Suites in NYC and the Carlyle suite hotel in DC - both of which seem to get reasonable reviews here from what I've seen. Do those in the know agree that these would be OK choices for two lads who want to be fairly close to "touristy" spots? I'm also trying to be mindful of the weather they may experience which will be a new experience for both of them! Thank you.

ttt

Hello ozgirl, I cannot answer your question regarding rooms for your son and his friend ( I live in California) but I just wanted to say that I am glad to see that this adventure has worked out for them! I sure hope the two young fellows enjoy their time in the US. My father, born in NZ, was raised in Australia btw. Best wishes to you and your family.

The Carlyle Suites hotel in DC is an excellent in the heart of Dupont East. I would book it in a heartbeat.

I don't know much about the Shelburne Murray Hill Suites in NYC (I'm in DC), but am (somewhat) familiar with the neighborhood. Murray Hill is a good area and convenient for NYC sightseeing, eating, etc.

Thank you both for your comments! I stayed in the Murray Hill Suites myself last year so know what he's getting there but just needed some local confirmation that the Carlyle was OK! I have chosen that one largely due to research on this site and cannot say how valuable it has been to me. The boys are getting quite excited now, received their Disneyworld "pack" yesterday and realising it is not just a possibility! Thanks again.

I agree that the HI Hostel in New York is a great choice. I have generally been able to find really low prices on hotels during slow season in NY on Priceline.
My company sells inexpensive bus tickets and tours online. Your son should definitely look for transportation between NY and DC.

http://www.gotobus.com

good call on the Contiki tour , they do such a great job