Billet system for internationals who may want to attend?

[martinpribble]

I apologise if this thread has been started already but I couldn't find it. My question is this:

I have several friends who may try and travel internationally for the convention in 2012, but may be looking for a place to stay for the weekend. Is there anyone setting up something like a billet for GAC attendees who may need a place to crash? If not, does this sound like a good idea? If people have a spare couple of cushions and a tarp in the back yard for those in need of accommodation, or even if they have a spare blanket or two?

What do you think?

[Voltairine]

I'm coming some somewhat afar; however, I hadn't thought about this. I had intended to stay in a hotel (will check out flight/hotel packages once the GAC tickets are confirmed) but I would be interested in alternative accommodation. Not necessarily billeted, "value" is an appropriate word.

[martinpribble]

I'm coming some somewhat afar; however, I hadn't thought about this. I had intended to stay in a hotel (will check out flight/hotel packages once the GAC tickets are confirmed) but I would be interested in alternative accommodation. Not necessarily billeted, "value" is an appropriate word.

Either way, it would be cool for guests to our lovely city to have places to stay right? :)

[Voltairine]

Absolutely, and folks like your friends and myself will appreciate any assistance/advice from Melbournites. I have already ruled out the Hilton!

[Praxis]

Well I'm a Melburnite but I live a long way from town and we have no spare room anyway!

I'm splitting the cost of a 3br apartment with two others, which works out much cheaper than us all paying for separate motel rooms for two nights.

The YHA in Spencer Street is very good value (ask Darwinsbulldog for more details, he is THE backpackers/YHA go-to guy) and there's lots of cheap dorm-style accommodation in and around the city as well.

Everything seems to work out for everyone in the end. I'm sure the internationals will be fine :)

[Xeno]

If I go to GAC, which I would like to do but have yet to negotiate, then I will probably take an apartment somewhere. I would be willing to share to reduce costs for all concerned, even funny foreigners. I speak a little German and French but hardly any American. Happily, some of those can speak English.