So, I'm now down in Byron Bay, having driven up then coached down the east coast of Australia. Here's some hints and tips for those wanting to do something similar.
Don't hire a van, they're small, uncomfortable, awkward to find places to park, and less sociable
Budget well
Book as you go, listen to other travelers and get recommendations
Don't trust travel agents - especially in the UK, they have no idea what they're booking you into
Don't stop everywhere, there's no need
CAIRNS
If you want to party, stay at Gilligans - it's like freshers week all year round
All the hostels are cheap and offer free food, don't think you're getting a bargain, they all do it!
Book onto lots of trips/activities, they are great fun and a brilliant way to meet people
Book through your hostel, most people do, so you'll meet people from your hostel
Don't get trapped, it gets old after about a week
Do the great barrier reef, white water rafting and bungee jumping
MISSION BEACH
This place is tiny, so go if you want to chill.
The full moon party was apparently shit
AIRLIE BEACH
Airlie is like a mini Cairns, but everyone is heading off to the Whitsundays, so don't stay long unless you like making new friends every night
WHITSUNDAYS
Beautiful, must see part of the east coast
If you want to drink and party, book onto the clipper,(ratio may be very bad) if not, most of the other boats will do. (good ratio)
Boomerang was a professional sailing boat if that's what you want - though little sailing happens
TOWN OF 1770
Scooteroos are pretty much the only thing to do here, so don't stay long
Very chilled
HERVEY BAY
Gateway to Fraser Island, don't stay longer than you need, no-one else does
RAINBOW BEACH
Like Hervey Bay, but with a nicer beach
FRASER ISLAND
You must do this.
Do a two night camping trip, you'll make amazing friends, meet awesome people, and get to drive a bad-ass 4x4 around in sand. Try not to have sex in the sand, it's not good (wait till you get home on the last night)
NOOSA HEADS
I have no idea what's here, or why people go...
BRISBANE
It's a city, a small one, with not much to do and lots of Germans
Nice to settle, maybe
SURFERS PARADISE
This is a city, not a cool beach town
Good for partying and the beach
BYRON BAY
Small town, but popular with travelers, stoners and hippies
Don't stay in the YHA, it's too strict on noise/alcohol
Try all the bars, some are tacky and naff, others are tackier, others are kinda boring
Hard to find work here!
