GAC2012 Accommodation Thread

[Praxis]

This thread is for discussions, hints, tips, etc. about accommodation in Melbourne for the GAC2012.

We would ask that you don't hijack the thread or steer it off the rails if you can possibly help it as it will provide a useful resource for people and it would be great if we could keep it for the intended topic.

Thanks everyone :)

************************************************** **

For starters, here are some useful links:

http://melbournehotelmap.com/convention-center.html

http://www.budgetstay.com.au/

http://www.wotif.com/hotels/cheap-accommodation-melbourne.html (not sure this will be much use so far in advance but maybe worth a look anyway)

http://www.hotel.com.au/my/Hotels-Near-Melbourne-Convention-Exhibition-Centre/

[Podblack]

Best Western Atlantis Hotel at 300 Spencer St. Was okay - for $100 it got me a room with no view, basic empty bar fridge, little couch and desk with a chair. For a place to crash, it was good, and a walk down the road from the venue (with the addition that it was nearly exactly on top of the Southern Cross trainstation and the place to get the SkyBus to the airport - hop, zoom, home). Didn't see a place for food and nothing in terms of a menu, so I suspect you'd have to go out and forage if you were so inclined. Basic foraging is easy with one of those 24hr deli things across the road and I got chocolate to get me through the night.
Quality Hotel Batman's Hill on Collins at 623 Collins St. TINY little room, pretty much a triangle on the edge of the building. Had a stand-in bath/shower though. Little desk, wouldn't be able to squeeze in anyone besides myself (whereas one could probably sneak in another person to snooze on the couch at the Atlantis one). Super Bedsaver Deal 2 nights minimum stay, for $90 a day was what I got. No bar fridge, nothing else besides desk, bed, bathroom, which was fine for essentially just a place to crash near the venue. Buffet breakfast was nice though, on the mezzanine level.
Hilton South Wharf. Right on top of the venue. Lovely. Great way to walk out the front door and be IN the convention centre. It is a Hilton, and therefore you're getting Hilton rates, et al.
Futher afield (but on the tram lines) - I try to stay at www.drummondapartments.com.au (http://www.drummondapartments.com.au) when in Melbourne and it's a lovely area. But would be more for those who don't mind the trek.

[Darwinsbulldog]

The Melbourne Metro or Melbourne Central YHA's are great for folks on a budget. A private room with on-suite is far cheaper than most hotels and there is a better service and atmosphere. DB and partner are staying at the Metro -unit One of course! :)

[Voltairine]

It may seem like this thread was begun prematurely but already the Travelodge Southbank, which some attendees stayed at last year, appears to be fully booked for that weekend.

[Praxis]

It may seem like this thread was begun prematurely but already the Travelodge Southbank, which some attendees stayed at last year, appears to be fully booked for that weekend.
This is true!

The GAC also coincides with the last weekend of the Victorian school holidays (and possibly NSW?) and Easter.

So if you need to book accommodation for the weekend, it is strongly recommended you get in as soon as you can!

[Voltairine]

(Not that I'm overplanning this or anything but... :o)

On the MCEC website, it mentions that the Saturday session ends at 5pm and the dinner starts at 7pm. If this is the case, this might influence the choice of hotel (i.e. distance from the MCEC in order slip back to change for the dinner) for those going to both.

Is this so?

[Lord Blackadder]

(Not that I'm overplanning this or anything but... :o)

On the MCEC website, it mentions that the Saturday session ends at 5pm and the dinner starts at 7pm. If this is the case, this might influence the choice of hotel (i.e. distance from the MCEC in order slip back to change for the dinner) for those going to both.

Is this so?

Jeff's Shed (or MCEC for you out of towners) is within very reasonable walking distance from the CBD. There are also three tram routes and two train stations nearby. As long as you are not staying too far out of town, you should be okay.

[Podblack]

I think this was raised last year and it was suggested that using the cloakroom facilities might be useful if people wanted to put on a nicer jacket, or have a better blouse to slip on at the end of the day. I found the cloakroom around the back of the venue, really quite close to all the entry doors. There's lots of toilet facilities around the venue where if you felt you were REALLY pressed, you could change and then just cool your heels with a coffee until it all started.

Really, the way tables were organised to seat people ahead of time and when it started, I don't think it was a rush at all. People mingled a bit, the entertainment started after the food was served and was timed well - even (at the very worst) if you missed your entree, there was so much happening on the night, it didn't matter.

People had mixed dress standards (ranging from the most little black cocktail dress to the usual pair of jeans and an atheist slogan t-shirt). No one cared if you had your shirt from earlier in the day on. Just two minutes with the Chasers' talking about the 'Satan Bus Campaign' was worth it. :)

I should point out, I'm the kind of person who keeps a little toiletries bag in her desk with a change of top, little bottle of perfume, hairbrush, clips, nicer heels and lipstick so I don't have to go home at the end of the day and return in four hours time to do parent-teacher interviews and it's exactly the same situation. Just pop on a new jacket, wear better shoes that day than usual, put in some nicer earrings and reapply lipstick and you'd be fine. :) ESPECIALLY if you're a guy, nice earrings on a guy are cute.

[Admission - last time I was in Melbourne, I visited the venue specifically to check out where the powerpoints were for recharging a laptop during the breaks! And I found a prayer room around the corner of the Security office near the cloakroom, which amused me no end.]

[Antipotheosis]

Assuming that I get everything in order, I may have an empty couch that someone can crash on for free. It's not an open offer yet though... watch this space...

[edit] in West Brunswick...

[Praxis]

Assuming that I get everything in order, I may have an empty couch that someone can crash on for free. It's not an open offer yet though... watch this space...

[edit] in West Brunswick...
Hey!! How are you? Great to see you :) Hope all is well in Antipotheosis land.

[davo]

Don't forget last years http://2010.atheistconvention.org.au/accommodation/ it may be somewhat dated, but reproduced here anyway.

The coming year we will have something similar added to the current site.

Registration codes below are invalid, OBVIOUSLY

Accommodation

The following hotels have agreed to provide Global Atheist Convention attendees with their group rate for Friday 12 March and Saturday 13 March 2010
Please use the relevant booking codes noted below to receive these hotel rates.


Hilton Melbourne – South Wharf (http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/MELSWHI-Hilton-Melbourne-South-Wharf/accommodations.do;jsessionid=DE324FC5F833C4D813A22 4C854547248.etc22)
2 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf, Melbourne
Ph: +61 3 9027 2000
Located onsite at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Hilton, South Wharf is our premium accommodation partner for the Global Atheist Convention. We have a limited number of rooms specifically reserved for convention attendees.
Please call the Hilton on 03 9027 2000 and ask for In House Reservations desk and quote Registration Code GATHA
Rates: $235 Guest Room - $280 Deluxe
Attendee registration code: GATHA


Crowne Plaza (http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/cp/160/en/hd/melfs?_requestid=773931)
Cnr Flinders & Spencer Streets, Melbourne (500m from MCEC)
Ph: 03 9648 2724
Email: reservations.melbourne@ihg.com
Rate: $245 Room Only
Attendee registration code: ATH


Holiday Inn on Flinders (http://www.ichotelsgroup.com/h/d/hi/160/en/hd/melsf?_requestid=774807)
Cnr Spencer St & Flinders Lane, Melbourne (200m from MCEC)
Ph: 03 9648 2724
Email: reservations.melbourne@ihg.com
Rate: $225 Room Only
Attendee registration code: CON

The Langham Hotel (http://melbourne.langhamhotels.com.au/en/PPC/AdvancePurchase.htm?cid=ec-tlmel-ppc-en-pkg2&s_kwcid=langham%20hotel%20melbourne%7C3131782252)
1 Southgate Avenue, Southbank (1km from MCEC)
Ph: +61 1800 858 662
Toll free number : 1800 858 662
Email: mel.resv@langhamhotels.com
The Langham, Melbourne is situated on the banks of the Yarra River and sits amongst the thriving Southgate complex, our location provides you with endless choices for dining, shopping and entertainment, and a convenient five to ten minute walk to the new convention centre.
Reservations can be also be made via email – mel.resv@langhamhotels.com Please quote Group code when making a reservation.
Rate: $280 Room Only
Attendee registration code: ATH11MAR

Bayview On The Park (http://www.bayviewhotels.com/bayviewonthepark/)
52 Queens Road, Melbourne (2km from MCEC)
Ph: +61 3 9250 2222
Email: sales.botp@bayviewhotels.com
We are ideally located along Queens Rd and the hotel is just 2km away from Melbourne Exhibition & Convention Centre. The trams are easily accessible from the hotel. We also offer complimentary on-site car parking facility in our hotel building for the in-house guest.
Rate: $145 Premier Room - $175 Superior Room
Attendee reservation code: ATHEIST

Clarion Suites Gateway (http://www.carlionsuitesgateway.com.au/)
One William Street, Melbourne (1km from MCEC)
Ph: +61 3 9296 8864
Email: res@clarionsuitesgateway.com.au
Clarion Suites Gateway offer apartment style accommodation that is perfectly suited to those who prefer self contained style accommodation with all the comforts of home along with full hotel services. We feature a number of different room styles including studios, one two and three bedroom suites. Most suites in the hotel have spectacular views across the Yarra River, and some have private balconies.
Rate: Studio King/Twin $209.00 per night
One Bedroom Suite Queen/Twin $229.00 per night
One Bedroom River View Suite King/Twin $249.00 per night
Two Bedroom Suite King/King or 4 Singles $372.00 per night
Attendee reservation code: Atheist

PUNTHILL APARTMENT HOTELS MELBOURNE (http://www.punthill.com.au/)
24-hour central reservations: T.1300 731 299 / 61 3 9916 8888
Email: info@punthill.com
Attendee reservation code: ATHEIS & location required.
Punthill Flinders Lane Apartment Hotel – 267 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
http://www.flinderslane.punthill.com.au (http://www.flinderslane.punthill.com.au/) | 1.7 km to Convention Centre
Studio Apartment $158.00 pn
One Bedroom Apartment $176.00 pn
Two Bedroom Apartment $248.00 pn
Punthill Manhattan Apartment Hotel – 57 Flinders Lane, Melbourne
http://www.manhattan.punthill.com.au (http://www.manhattan.punthill.com.au/) | 2.4 km to Convention Centre
One Bedroom Apartment $176.00 pn
Two Bedroom Apartment $248.00 pn
Three Bedroom Apartment $320.00 pn
Punthill Little Bourke Apartment Hotel – 11-17 Cohen Place, Melbourne
http://www.littlebourke.punthill.com.au (http://www.littlebourke.punthill.com.au/) | 2.8 km to Convention Centre
Studio Apartment $158.00 pn
One Bedroom Apartment $176.00 pn
Two Bedroom Apartment $248.00 pn
Punthill South Yarra Grand Apartment Hotel – 7 Yarra Street, South Yarra
http://www.southyarragrand.punthill.com.au (http://www.southyarragrand.punthill.com.au/) | 5.2 km to Convention Centre
Studio Apartment $175.00 pn
One Bedroom Apartment $195.00 pn
Two Bedroom Apartment $280.00 pn

Punthill South Yarra Serviced Apartments – 470 Punt Road, South Yarra
http://www.southyarra.punthill.com.au (http://www.southyarra.punthill.com.au/) | 4.9 km to Convention Centre
One Bedroom Apartment $140.00 pn
Punthill South Yarra Serviced Apartments – 44 Davis Avenue, South Yarra
http://www.southyarra.punthill.com.au (http://www.southyarra.punthill.com.au/) | 5 km to Convention Centre
Studio Apartment $108.00 pn
One Bedroom Apartment $117.00 pn
Punthill The Stanton Serviced Apartments – 622 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
http://www.stanton.punthill.com.au (http://www.stanton.punthill.com.au/) | 5.4 km to Convention Centre
Two Bedroom Apartment $185.00 pn
Three Bedroom Apartment $239.00 pn
At time of booking the best internet rate will be honoured if lower than the above rates.

Budget accommodation
Urban Central Hostel (http://www.urbancentral.net.au/index.jsp) is located a five minute walk (approx. 300 meters) from the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and Melbourne’s CBD. Facilities include free breakfast, storage, 24 hour reception, a kitchen for guest use, internet access, outdoor balcony and bar.
The hostel offers four bedroom dormitory style beds with or without ensuite as well as double and family rooms. For guests staying a minimum of three nights, a free Skybus Airport transfer (Melbourne International Airport – Hostel) is offered. Current rates are:
Four bedroom dormitory room shared facilities: - $33.00 per person per night
Four bedroom ensuite room with shared facilities: - $40.00 per person per night
Double Room: - $115.00 per night
Family Room: - $145.00 per night
---------------------------------------------------
If these none of these hotels suit, or they become unavailable, you may search for alternative accommodation through www.wotif.com (http://www.wotif.com/) or other accommodation booking sites.

[Centauri]

For starters, here are some useful links:

http://melbournehotelmap.com/convention-center.html

http://www.budgetstay.com.au/

http://www.wotif.com/hotels/cheap-accommodation-melbourne.html (not sure this will be much use so far in advance but maybe worth a look anyway)

http://www.hotel.com.au/my/Hotels-Near-Melbourne-Convention-Exhibition-Centre/

I'm all booked now. Thanks for these links, Praxis.

EDIT: Thanks also, Davo.

[Darwinsbulldog]

Mrs DB and me are going to be again enjoying the $100 apartment at the YHA. Somehow, we find these hostels are friendlier and cheaper than hotels, especially in that budget range. Many interesting conversations are to be had in the common rooms, dining hall and roof [smokers! :)] with people from all nations and walks of life that happens less often in a hotel setting. The Unit is large but with a separate bedroom, on-suite and balcony. Air conditioning and kitchen of course.

It is not totally unknown for the Bulldog on the roof or smoking areas to convert the odd skeptic of science or atheism to a more rational viewpoint, albeit at the cost of some lung function. ;):p

[wolty]

Onya DB. I can well understand the allure of hostels. You really do meet some very interesting people.

If it was up to me, it would be a toss up between where we are staying and a hostel. Where we are staying has some wonderful people staying there as well.

[Antipotheosis]

Hey!! How are you? Great to see you :) Hope all is well in Antipotheosis land.

Hey Praxis, nice to see you too.

Things are better - though not as much as I would hope of course. But things are definitely getting better for me.

How about you?

[Praxis]

I've PM'd you so as not to hijack the thread :)

[Rogerb]

Hi all, I'm booked into best western on Flinders St, looked like it was close. Never been to Melbourne so will bring summer & winter clothes :) looking forward to meeting some afa members!

[pierrenoir]

Hello All
Ive got my flights booked and will try and arrange some accommodation this week however there is as yet no information on tickets. What is attendance likely to cost and how well subscribed will this be ?

Thanks

[TING]

Staying the same place I stayed for the 2010 convention : http://www.hotelcauseway.com.au/
found it to be very clean and well appointed, decent sized rooms and right in the middle of the CBD (just near the mall). I booked via Wotif last time and from memory the rate was about $115 p/n, though they do have special deals & rates as well.

@pierrenoir - this will sell out quickly, so keep an eye out for announcements when tickets go on sale ;)

[pierrenoir]

Staying the same place I stayed for the 2010 convention : http://www.hotelcauseway.com.au/
found it to be very clean and well appointed, decent sized rooms and right in the middle of the CBD (just near the mall). I booked via Wotif last time and from memory the rate was about $115 p/n, though they do have special deals & rates as well.

@pierrenoir - this will sell out quickly, so keep an eye out for announcements when tickets go on sale ;)

Thanks Ting, any idea how much the tickets will be ?

Roughly speaking that is

[Podblack]

Tickets were discussed in another thread. (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/showthread.php?t=9564&highlight=tickets&page=9)

[Onlyatheory?]

Woohoo!! All booked at the grand mercure. My significant, grainy other suggests that packing is a little premature.
I am hoping to meet as many AFAers as possible. May even give Annie and 2Dogs a run for their money in the 'How many forumites have you met' stakes:rolleyes:

[Linda Harris]

I am looking to share accommodation at next years GAC in a hotel near the convention. If anyone is interested please email me.:)

[Praxis]

MOD NOTE:

I've just realised that this thread has taken somewhat of a derail into general chit chat so I am going to move some chit-chat stuff into the general discussion thread about the GAC, which is the Now It's Official (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/showthread.php?t=9564) thread.

We need to leave this thread for speciifc discussion about accommodation, such as Linda Harris's post (now shown above), which will otherwise get lost.

I'm just going to do this rather than tiptoe around the niceties of "I hope you don't mind if I..." because all of those involved (including me!) are grown-up enough to cop it sweet ;)

Please continue the discussion re chocolate, the Annie/Two Dogs Race To Meet Every Forum Member, etc. in to the general thread.

Thanks everyone!

/END MOD NOTE

[OzAtheist]

Is the AFA going to organise cheap deals at some of the hotels like last time?

[davo]

Is the AFA going to organise cheap deals at some of the hotels like last time?

Yes this information was up, then we had a server crash. I have been flat out with a myriad of stuff but will collate it all again asap.

[OzAtheist]

Yes this information was up, then we had a server crash. I have been flat out with a myriad of stuff but will collate it all again asap.

You are a (over-worked) marvel Davo. Thanks, will postpone booking till then

[Imperfectpeta]

If people are very hard up on cash (as I am now!) I suggest looking through the options on www.hostelworld.com. Awsome site and you can look at hostels from location, quite a few around the area.

Prices range form $20 a night for a dorm to up to $100 a night for privates.
Stayed in plenty of places like this while travelling Japan and they are awsome, and for the broke among us, the place to be!

[Quark]

Is Crown seriously fully booked out from the 13th to the 15th already? :eek:

Back to the drawing board.

[davo]

Accommodation options and deals via the Accommodation page (under the FAQ menu as a drop down)

http://www.atheistconvention.org.au/accommodation/

[two dogs]

Accommodation options and deals via the Accommodation page (under the FAQ menu as a drop down)

http://www.atheistconvention.org.au/accommodation/
Thanks Dave! I've just cancelled the "placeholder" booking that I made at the Hilton on 22 June, and have rebooked at the AFA Convention rate, for a saving of $120.

[sbgv23]

so ahh...anyone here staying at the nunnery?

[Goldenmane]

so ahh...anyone here staying at the nunnery?

There's a nunnery?

I've probably got too many bad habits...

[Podblack]

There's a nunnery?

I've probably got too many bad habits...

http://www.nunnery.com.au/ (http://www.nunnery.com.au)

[Xeno]

My wife stayed at the Sydney equivalent, a McKillop place, a few years ago. It was cheap, quiet and comfortable and only a little spooky with a giant looming Joseph framed by her window.

We would have little compunction about using it but for the fact they are tax-advantaged in their operations, nor did they have to acquire that land when they got it a couple of centuries ago.

[two dogs]

It appears that quite a few people will be staying at the Pensione Hotel Melbourne for the GAC 2012, and as I spent two nights there on the weekend, I thought I do a brief review.

I booked a Double Room. It was small, as I had expected, clean, and with modern furnishings. There's no seating other than a single ottoman, which served mainly as a seat at the work desk.

The only "problem" was the tiny bathroom, but I had also expected that from reviews I'd read.

http://julian-jordan.net/images/Toilet.jpg


There was insufficent room between the toilet and that box covering the plumbing below the basin for one's knees, so it was necessary to sit on the loo at a 45 degree angle, but I soon grew accustomed to that. The basin itself is tiny, and half of it is below the shelf above, making it hard to wash one's face without splashing water around, and to spit out one's toothpaste. I'd also read that there wasn't shower curtains, but that was not the case in my room.

The window of my room faced another.

http://julian-jordan.net/images/RoomView.jpg


I thought it would have been useful if the windows had sheer curtains, as well as the heavy drapes, to allow daylight in while providing some degree of privacy. As it was, the room across from me had its curtains drawn all the time I was there, so most of the time I had mine open.

There's a small bar, lounge area, and a cafe, on the ground floor. All the staff, in reception, the bar, and the cafe were very friendly and attentive. I had dinner and breakfast in the cafe, and was quite impressed.

There is also a rooftop sundeck (where smoking is allowed) accessible from the top (third) floor.

http://julian-jordan.net/images/RooftopSundeck.jpg


For those flying in from interstate, I'd recommend using SkyBus (http://www.skybus.com.au) for your transfers from/to the airport ($26 return per adult). It terminates at the Southern Cross Coach Terminal (adjacent to Southern Cross Station) which is about 500m away from the Pensione. It's an easy walk if you've got suitable luggage (backpack, wheeled suitcase, etc), but you can also catch a free SkyBus minibus from the terminal to the hotel.

Would I stay there again? Yes, it's good value for money. If anyone has any questions, I'd be glad to answer them.

[Voltairine]

The bathroom looks a lot smaller than the website suggests.

[two dogs]

The bathroom looks a lot smaller than the website suggests.
It's tiny; I found it adequate, but I'm a bloke. ;) The shower cubicle is to the right. The door is a frosted glass sliding door (on the right in the photo), so it doesn't encroach on the space.

I had meant to mention earlier, but forgot, that I timed the walk from stepping out of my room on the third floor, to the entrance of the Convention Centre. It took me 12 minutes, which includes time waiting for, and riding in, the rather slow lifts at the hotel, and waiting for green lights at two pedestrian crossings.

[Voltairine]

I had meant to mention earlier, but forgot, that I timed the walk from stepping out of my room on the third floor, to the entrance of the Convention Centre. It took me 12 minutes, which includes time waiting for, and riding in, the rather slow lifts at the hotel, and waiting for green lights at two pedestrian crossings.

If you are there again before next April, would appreciate it if you could time it again, this time in heels. ;):D

[AUSloth]

I had meant to mention earlier, but forgot, that I timed the walk from stepping out of my room on the third floor, to the entrance of the Convention Centre. It took me 12 minutes, which includes time waiting for, and riding in, the rather slow lifts at the hotel, and waiting for green lights at two pedestrian crossings.
Getting there is no problem it's the return trip that has all the traps:D

Added: LOL please post photo's if you do it in heels

[Logic]

It appears that quite a few people will be staying at the Pensione Hotel Melbourne for the GAC 2012, and as I spent two nights there on the weekend, I thought I do a brief review.

Great, thanks.

[Praxis]

Great review TD, thanks!

[freelions]

Hi all, just booked the following at Plumb Apartments, Southbank, 4 Star.
I have stayed there on a number of occasions, its really modern and about 5 min stroll from the Exhibition Centre.

1 Bed Apartment (Room Code: Southbank 1) for 2 adults
Fri 13th was $189
Sat 14th $145

Can sleep up to 3 adults, extra $30 for the 3rd person
Bargin!!

[Mother of Chaos]

If anyone is still looking for a room, I have booked a twin at Pensione from the 12th till the 17th $685. Just send me a message if you would like to share. :)

[Bolero]

Thanks for the Pensione review, 2D. I kinda thought it would be like that. Not to worry - just a place to sleep and shower...and that sundeck looks like a good gathering spot for gregarious atheists!

[Annie]

If you are there again before next April, would appreciate it if you could time it again, this time in heels. ;):D

Yes please. :)
High, stiletto heels, a short skirt and a handbag. Ta.


King Pattalak

[Praxis]

Ladies, fret not. I managed it last year from one end of Southbank to the other (a little over 1 km I'm pretty sure) in very high heels and a full-length frock :D

We'll have no trouble tottering there from the Pensione, trust me!

[dilbadoon]

I just had to book accommodation in Melbs for a wedding next month and decided to take a gamble and go with one of the mystery places for 120 a night on wot if, ended up being the citigate on flinders street which would be perfect for the conference, could I ever be that lucky to score it again in april!? :rolleyes:

[Voltairine]

... could I ever be that lucky to score it again in april!? :rolleyes:


You scored?!? ;)

[Secme]

Woo, wandered around South bank and the MCC the other night after being in Melbourne for work had a look at all the hotels me and a friend were thinking of (my feet are still sore, I had un-worn in work shoes) and settled on the Pensione, all booked. So excited.

[Podblack]

I'm currently staying in the Alto Hotel on Bourke (http://www.altohotel.com.au/) - it's GREAT. Got a little kitchenette, bathroom has lots of towels, comfy bed and there's a microwave. There's also a few additional larger 'apartment' style rooms that could suit a big group booking. FREE WIRELESS!
Good for a BYO breakfast before heading out to the convention or come back to your hotel and then head out on the tram line. The Vibe, nearby, also looks rather spiffy, but costs a little more? So, if people still searching for places, I'd recommend this one. :)

[Bolero]

Woo, wandered around South bank and the MCC the other night after being in Melbourne for work had a look at all the hotels me and a friend were thinking of (my feet are still sore, I had un-worn in work shoes) and settled on the Pensione, all booked. So excited.
Crikey! There'll be shitloads of us there! Excellent stuff. :)

[Praxis]

Crikey! There'll be shitloads of us there! Excellent stuff. :)
I do wonder if the people who run the Pensione realise who the majority of their guests will be on that weekend!

Great news Secme :D

[Bolero]

I do wonder if the people who run the Pensione realise who the majority of their guests will be on that weekend!


Same same, Praxis. I sincerely hope the place is run by a bunch of theists! ;)

[Secme]

I walked in at 11pm and talked to the nice guy behind the desk, and when I told him the date I was thinking of booking for he smiled, so maybe they do.

They have a nice little lounge out the front complete with library and comfy chairs. The pub next door also seems to be open late and the patrons seem fairly normal. There is also a 24x7 7-11 two doors down that will be awesome for midnight snacks and breakfast on the way :)

Edit: Sorry Bolero, I think the guy behind the counter was at least a bit clued in as to why they have so many bookings this weekend. I didn't have a decent look in their library but I didn't see a bible there.

[Bolero]

Edit: Sorry Bolero, I think the guy behind the counter was at least a bit clued in as to why they have so many bookings this weekend. I didn't have a decent look in their library but I didn't see a bible there.

Damn. Oh well, will have to shit-stir elsewhere. :p

[Voltairine]

They know - I noticed the cost has risen slightly... :p

[Secme]

Damn. Oh well, will have to shit-stir elsewhere. :p

Can't shit where you sleep(sleep in this case).
I saw the nunnery and though that would be worth a laugh, but then again I think I wouldn't be laughing if I got kicked out first night and all the hotels were booked up due to GAC.

[sbgv23]

i stayed there with the basketball team at uni games in like 2007, we filled the place with indefinitely borrowed road work apparatus and all we got was a frowny face and cleaned up after..

[Darwinsbulldog]

If anyone in a nearby hotel could let Mrs DBD and myself park our togs for the Saturday night dinner that would be much appreciated.

[two dogs]

If anyone in a nearby hotel could let Mrs DBD and myself park our togs for the Saturday night dinner that would be much appreciated.
Would the Hilton South Wharf be close enough? ;)

You're quite welcome to store you dinner garb in my room.

[Darwinsbulldog]

Would the Hilton South Wharf be close enough? ;)

You're quite welcome to store you dinner garb in my room.
Tanks Two Dogs!

[Podblack]

Hi all (again) - since I recently finished a podcast interview with Jason Ball about the GAC (http://tokenskeptic.org/2011/11/14/episode-eighty-six-on-the-freethought-university-alliance-at-the-global-atheist-convention-jason-ball/), it got me thinking about this thread and accommodation

Further afield from the GAC location, I'm familiar with three other hotels (I think this brings my total to about six hotels?) that are good for those who don't mind jumping on at least two trams in order to sail into the venue of a morning.

Rydges, Flemington Road, North Melbourne.
I stayed here by accident, twice. Not being a local, I thought it was closer to the two venues I was attending a conference at and ended up either driving to where I had to get (it was a weekend, no big issue) or catching a tram/walking across some rather lovely old parkland and posh houses, with my Navigator on my phone telling me to pay attention so I'd get to the conference on time. It's not bad. But it is North Melbourne, so there's no shuttlebus and you are out of the city somewhat.
In-house meals were great; I enjoyed a nice room with comfy bed and if you're after a ground floor room for disabled access, it was excellent. The lift is crap, but there's only three floors. Nice carparking bay. Jump outside and there's McDonalds at the Children's Hospital across the road. Get the tram heading down Kings Street and it's just a matter of sailing towards the venue from there. I gave myself a 40 minute early morning walk to the GAC centre the last time I was here, when attending a conference at Melbourne uni.

Drummond Serviced Apartments. 371 Drummond Street, Carlton.
If I have a choice of staying somewhere for a four day stay, that has some space and allows me to have my own kitchen, this is it. Stairs, no wifi but does give the sense of being in your own place. Allows for a family to hang out (which is what I'd recommend it for, or a group of three or four) and also saves if you're arriving early and want to cater by visting the Safeway up the road for your own food supplies. It is in Carlton, so you'd walk up towards Melbourne Uni and grab the tram down Swanson St, change at Flinders and cross over to the convention centre down there (maybe 30-40 mins?). I just love the Carlton area and the Lygon Street/ Melbourne Uni proximity, but I'd highly recommend these apartments as a nice little hideaway.

In a similar area: Best Western Travel Inn - 223 Drummond St, Carlton. Essentially up the road (and therefore closer to the city) than the Serviced Apartments. Has a pool! Your basic hotel, has wifi (pay for) and pretty much your standard hotel. Tea/coffee facilities; I spent a weekend holed up here writing for a conference I was presenting at on a Sunday and I was fine. I turned up way too early on a Saturday morning and they let me drop off my luggage and I spent two hours at the cafe Brunetti's just around the corner with my laptop and it was heaven. Tip - the last table on the far left at Brunetti's has a powerpoint, and if you're at stupid-O'clock in the morning, no one gives a damn if you tap away for a couple of hours with a coffee and as much breakfast as your arteries can handle. Which is kind of off-topic, but the hotel was very close to there and to the Melbourne Museum for another bit of a run-around. 30-40 mins tram and walk to the GAC venue.

[Logic]

Just pre-paid our accommodation and booked a hire car for our pre-GAC holiday - makes it seem even closer!!!

[Praxis]

Just pre-paid our accommodation and booked a hire car for our pre-GAC holiday - makes it seem even closer!!!
It does give one a little frisson of excitement doesn't it? :D

Mr Praxis has booked tickets to a concert which is on the Thursday night, the night before the GAC. The concert is at a Bourke Street venue and I'm giving serious consideration as to whether I should see if I can get my room a night early and just stay on. That way I'd get the whole Friday as well!

[AUSloth]

A little reminder for those who are considering extra time in Melb. The Melb. comedy festival runs 28/3 to 22/4 well worth a cackle. The GAC may even be seen by some theists as part of the comedy cavalcade ;)

[Voltairine]

A little reminder for those who are considering extra time in Melb. The Melb. comedy festival runs 28/3 to 22/4 well worth a cackle. The GAC may even be seen by some theists as part of the comedy cavalcade ;)


Hoping to catch a show or two ... I check the website every so often but nothing up yet. :cool:

[Lord Blackadder]

Finally booked my accomodation. Huzzah!

I initially only booked for the Saturday night, but after an earnest discussion with Praxis, I was informed that one must also be in town on Friday night. So I booked in for the Friday too.

I'm staying at the Grand Hotel on Spencer Street. So it's within staggering distance of the GAC. :D

[two dogs]

...
I'm staying at the Grand Hotel on Spencer Street. So it's within staggering distance of the GAC. :D
That's in the big old building opposite the Pensione? Nice!

[Lord Blackadder]

That's in the big old building opposite the Pensione? Nice!

It certainly is.

I thought "Bugger it - you only live once." And credit cards can be paid off. Eventually... ;)

[wolty]

It certainly is.



So you'll be spending some time over with all of us? Noice. :)

[Praxis]

So you'll be spending some time over with all of us? Noice. :)
Indeed I have almost succeeded in convincing her that it's MADNESS to go home on the Friday night and that she MUST stay in town that night also.

I'm going to lean on my manbag, Durro, whom I happen to know has a spare bed in his room, to see if he wouldn't mind sharing his digs for that night with LBA. Unless he's already subbied it out to someone else of course.

But really, there's no way you can go home after the Friday night opening - it's such a massive buzz plus it's an early start on Saturday morning.

Don't worry, I'll have her staying in town on the Friday night :D

[wolty]

Don't worry, I'll have her staying in town on the Friday night :D

Not worried. I know you can be very persuasive. :D

[Praxis]

Not worried. I know you can be very persuasive. :D
:D :p ;)

[Lord Blackadder]

Praxis is persuasive. I booked in at the Grand for the extra night on Friday.

See my post above. :)

And my arm doesn't hurt or anything. :D

As a side note, the Logies is on on the Sunday night (15th April - for some reason they are having it earlier next year). If anyone is looking to book accomodation, I'd seriously start thinking about doing it before the end of January, as I have a feeling Saturday/Sunday night may book out soon.

[Praxis]

Wait. What? I missed that. Knew you'd booked for Saturday night. Awesome you're booked for Friday night now too. W00T! You won't regret it.

Well, actually you might. We all will come Saturday morning as we drag ourselves to the first speaker of the morning. But it will have been totally worth it. Promise :D

[Voltairine]

As a side note, the Logies is on on the Sunday night (15th April - for some reason they are having it earlier next year).

Trying to muscle in on the attention GAC will be getting... hmmm :rolleyes:



If anyone is looking to book accommodation, I'd seriously start thinking about doing it before the end of January, as I have a feeling Saturday/Sunday night may book out soon.

Very important point.

[Lord Blackadder]

Trying to muscle in on the attention GAC will be getting... hmmm :rolleyes:

It is surprising that it is so early this year. I got the heads up from my sister yesterday, and I thought the date sounded familiar.

So yeah, book early peoples, before some D-Grade celebrities steal all the good rooms. ;)

[Voltairine]

... and (perhaps worse) some journos!

:p

[pro.dev3]

If people are very hard up on cash (as I am now!) I suggest looking through the options on www.hostelworld.com (http://www.hostelworld.com). Awsome site and you can look at hostels from location, quite a few around the area.

Prices range form $20 a night for a dorm to up to $100 a night for privates.
Stayed in plenty of places like this while travelling Japan and they are awsome, and for the broke among us, the place to be!

$20 a night is really tempting. Makes me want to backpack all around Australia after the convention for a couple of months staying at YH's. But I think the bunk mates will kick me out for snoring too loud.

[Podblack]

Wonder if we can get a fake Logie onto the stage for a visual gag? It could be presented to Mr Deity! :D

[Secme]

It is surprising that it is so early this year. I got the heads up from my sister yesterday, and I thought the date sounded familiar.

So yeah, book early peoples, before some D-Grade celebrities steal all the good rooms. ;)

I already booked, but they said I don't need to pay till arrival, now I am worried they will over book or something.

[Jin-oh Choi]

Flights booked now now to get accommodation.

[Secme]

Wonder if we can get a fake Logie onto the stage for a visual gag? It could be presented to Mr Deity! :D
Tried to google it, but best I could find was http://www.thepartywarehouse.com.au/logieawardstatue-p-5639.html which although presented as a logie looks more like an Oscar.

Just in case I confirmed my reservation and the pensione, I was worried they may have given it away seeing as I made the booking so long ago.

[Podblack]

I'm going to be checking out the City Square Motel in Melbourne (http://maps.google.com.au/maps?um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=City+Square+Motel&fb=1&gl=au&hq=City+Square+Motel&cid=0,0,17346332535332403044&ei=LOQpT4eGGYyXiAe0iM3SAg&sa=X&oi=local_result&ct=image&ved=0CCQQ_BI), later this month - it's a twenty minute walk from Swanston Street (shorter, I should imagine, if you just hopped on the tram that goes down Flinders Street). Around $100 a room.
I'll let you know what it's like after staying there!

Anyone got recommendations for backpackers? I've only stayed in ones in Sydney.

[Praxis]

This might be worth checking out: The Spencer Backpackers (http://www.spencerbackpackers.com.au/) and it's up the GAC end of town.

[Darwinsbulldog]

Flights booked now now to get accommodation.
Magic! :thumbsup:

[Worldslaziestbusker]

I'm going to be checking out the City Square Motel in Melbourne (http://maps.google.com.au/maps?um=1&ie=UTF-8&q=City+Square+Motel&fb=1&gl=au&hq=City+Square+Motel&cid=0,0,17346332535332403044&ei=LOQpT4eGGYyXiAe0iM3SAg&sa=X&oi=local_result&ct=image&ved=0CCQQ_BI), later this month - it's a twenty minute walk from Swanston Street (shorter, I should imagine, if you just hopped on the tram that goes down Flinders Street). Around $100 a room.
I'll let you know what it's like after staying there!

Anyone got recommendations for backpackers? I've only stayed in ones in Sydney.

Being Melbournian, I haven't had need to use the local ones, but I have known people to stay at and enjoy the Nunnery on Nicholson St. A nice but long walk from the venue. Oh, the irony of staying in a former home of the brides of Christ while attending the GAC. You could mine it.

[Darwinsbulldog]

Being Melbournian, I haven't had need to use the local ones, but I have known people to stay at and enjoy the Nunnery on Nicholson St. A nice but long walk from the venue. Oh, the irony of staying in a former home of the brides of Christ while attending the GAC. You could mine it.
Ah got it! {Another thread]

[Worldslaziestbusker]

Ah got it! {Another thread]


As TISM would have it:
Get thee there


PS: Iwasn'tinTISM

[Mjt]

The mantra on Bourke ( in the bourke St mall) has pretty cheap rooms fairly plain but clean so does the queen Victoria.
Any one after places that still allow smoking give me a hoy

[Mother of Chaos]

I have a twin room booked at Pensione boutique hotel from the 12th to the 17th (checkout on the 17th). If there is any female wanting to share for all or part of that time just send me a private message. The rates for the room are.
12th $125
13th $155
14th $155
15th $125
16th $125 what ever nights you stay you just pay 1/2 the amount :D

[Dancer]

I have a twin room booked at Pensione boutique hotel from the 12th to the 17th (checkout on the 17th). If there is any female wanting to share for all or part of that time just send me a private message. The rates for the room are.
12th $125
13th $155
14th $155
15th $125
16th $125 what ever nights you stay you just pay 1/2 the amount :D

I booked with a room with a lovely lady who at the time was single... not anymore - far from it! :eek: Can I come hide in there on the odd occassion when my roomy gets too noisy....*cough cough Bolero and JG ....:facepalm::p

[Mother of Chaos]

I booked with a room with a lovely lady who at the time was single... not anymore - far from it! :eek: Can I come hide in there on the odd occassion when my roomy gets too noisy....*cough cough Bolero and JG ....:facepalm::p
Dont see why not LOL :D

[Secme]

Wooh more staying at the Pensione, It'll be funny and awesome if there are only GACees there

[Voltairine]

Wooh more staying at the Pensione, It'll be funny and awesome if there are only GACees there

Shoulda gone for a group discount! :D

[gruber]

ive booked a place at the Travelodge at docklands, 4 star hotel :thumbsup:

[Jin-oh Choi]

Just got back from an overseas trip. Now I need to find accommodation for AtheistCon. Where is everyone at?

[Logic]

Just got back from an overseas trip. Now I need to find accommodation for AtheistCon. Where is everyone at?

A lot are at the pensione!


i sent this from my iPad

[Praxis]

ive booked a place at the Travelodge at docklands, 4 star hotel :thumbsup:
Well done Gruber, you'll be nice and close.

We stayed at the Travelodge last time, but the other one which was at the complete other end of Southbank! I still don't think my feet have recovered!

[gruber]

yeh, i think on the webpage it said its only about 300m away

[Robs.au]

Wooh more staying at the Pensione, It'll be funny and awesome if there are only GACees there

*Raises hand* ... you can count me as another (as are the others I know from Sydney coming down). I wonder how many rooms the place has...

[Jin-oh Choi]

I went for the Urban Central Backpackers, Double Room. Saving my pennies.

[Voltairine]

I went for the Urban Central Backpackers, Double Room. Saving my pennies.


:thumbsup::thumbsup: .......................

[OzAtheist]

I'll be staying at Melbourne on Flinders (http://www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/melbourne/melsf/hoteldetail) it's a Holiday Inn hotel reasonably priced and not too far to walk to the convention centre.

[TaniaOK73]

We are booked in at The Grand. Could not resist such a lovely old building!
I will be the one sweeping down the grand stair case like Scarlett O'Hara. Be warned.

[coffee]

I'm coming from interstate. Haven't been to a 'do' like this before. Bit intimidated by all the people who already seem to know each other on this forum (and some of the banter!). It would be good to know if anyone else is staying at Punthill on Flinders Lane and/or if anyone else attending is from northern NSW.
[be nice to me, I'm new here]

[AFA Admin]

Hi coffee

This is a message sent to all who find their way to these forums.

We like people, and we like facts too!

We're friendly but we're skeptical, and if somebody calls for proof, it's not an accusation. Only the strong ideas thrive here: we try to respect people. (We do not tolerate personal abuse.)

You may already have visited these other handy places:
* New Member Information (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/showthread.php?t=12)
* Welcome from AFA president (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/showthread.php?t=18)
* For those interested in learning, I recommend the Atheism Resource Thread (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/showthread.php?t=7608) maintained by Fearless.
* And a quick look at our reserved spot for belief-based discussion, Fantasy Island (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=16), includes The Great Big List (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/showthread.php?t=4784), a sort-of "things we've seen before" for those of faith, and general rules of argument for the forum.

If you've got questions, please ask. Moderators have red name tags, but many of our friendly people may have the answers you need.

Enjoy the forums. We hope to see plenty from you in discussions.

Have fun.

[Logic please]

Hi coffee, welcome to the forum. :)
I'm coming from interstate. Haven't been to a 'do' like this before. Bit intimidated by all the people who already seem to know each other on this forum (and some of the banter!). It would be good to know if anyone else is staying at Punthill on Flinders Lane and/or if anyone else attending is from northern NSW.
[be nice to me, I'm new here]
Please feel free to head on over to Welcome New Members (http://www.atheistfoundation.org.au/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=2) and post your very own welcome thread. Hopefully you'll feel a little less intimidated once you've met, and exchanged some banter with, a few of us. ;):D:)

[TaniaOK73]

I'm coming from interstate. Haven't been to a 'do' like this before. Bit intimidated by all the people who already seem to know each other on this forum (and some of the banter!). It would be good to know if anyone else is staying at Punthill on Flinders Lane and/or if anyone else attending is from northern NSW.
[be nice to me, I'm new here]

Never fear - EVERYONE loves coffee! I'm from Port Mac and we don't know anyone going either, but unfortunately for all these lovely forumites they will know me soon MWAHAHAHA. We will all have fun Coffee :)

[wolty]

Hey coffee, I love everything about you, your smell, your taste, mmmmmmmmmmmm


Oh hang on. Welcome. Looking forward to meeting you and shooting the shit. :)

[coffee]

OK ... interesting responses to my first post!
Starting to realise the implications of my chosen moniker.
To be fair, I should point out that I'm more your small country town 'instant', pretty well past my 'use by' date and unlikely to be found at the table of the well-heeled and famous.
I suspect, hayseed that I am, I shall find Flinder's Lane stimulating.

[Praxis]

OK ... interesting responses to my first post!
Starting to realise the implications of my chosen moniker.
If you are going to stick around the forums and want to change your user name, just drop a PM to Admin and he will wave the magic wand and change it for you.

To be fair, I should point out that I'm more your small country town 'instant', pretty well past my 'use by' date and unlikely to be found at the table of the well-heeled and famous.
As long as you're not International Roast, you're fine ;)

I suspect, hayseed that I am, I shall find Flinder's Lane stimulating.
You'll find the whole of Melbourne stimulating! The Punthill apartments look very nice :)

[Darwinsbulldog]

A warm welcome to the morning pick-me-up. Jelly-boy [A.K.A. Darwinsbulldog] has put on a few pounds, so I suggest a front-end loader :thumbsup:

[Voltairine]

Near the Convention Centre is the Plum Apartments (something like that). Did anyone stay there during GAC, or any time really? Nice? Wifi in rooms worked well?

Cheers
A request from a friend.