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Wake
Up My staff and I arrived in this city of millions in the middle of June 2002 via the Indian Pacific Railway, which was one of the greatest adventure train rides I have ever had the pleasure of enjoying. When I stepped off the train in downtown Sydney there wasn't a lot to look at, with buildings blocking the greater view. But there was a clean, fresh, vibrant echo in the air. I knew I was going to enjoy exploring this city. About the only thing I could see, from the train station, was directly across the street and I would never of noticed it, if not for a large banner draped down its side. "Wake Up" is all that it read. I didn't know if it was a message board for coffee or what? We had scheduled hotels that we had to review, eventually, but I wanted to see what this "Wake Up" was all about. There were three of us on this tour and I asked if they wanted to examine this seven story building with the massive banner. We are a curious sort, so why not? As we entered the large glass doors it appeared to be the lobby of an expensive hotel. Polished floors, lounging chairs and sofa's, neatly dressed personnel behind the counter. What else could it be? We started to leave, when one of the receptionist asked if she could help us? As I talked to her, another lady, with a great smile, approached and introduced herself. I have traveled the world and it is very rare to have such attention given without cause. I was impressed. As we talked, I discovered that she was one of the owners and that this was not a high priced hotel, but a backpackers hostel. "NO WAY" I thought. She went on to tell me that her and her husband had just opened this new concept in hostel's and wanted to offer more to the budget traveler. I gave her by business card and told her I was from Travelers Digest. She insisted that my staff and I spend a few days at the hostel to see if I approved of it. So, we did. We actually spent more days than we intended. Even after we moved on to our confirmed destinations in Sydney, we came back almost every night to visit with the staff. Great bunch of people! As we carried our bags to the elevator, yes,' they have several, we noticed that the building had been totally refurbished and tastefully so. The rooms were as clean as a hospital's and quiet. There was light coming in through the window, creating a welcoming feeling. I slept like a log every night, thanks to their firm beds. Later, we wandered around the different floors, seven to be exact and noticed that every floor had been decorated and painted to a different theme. Each floor had a large, and I mean large, bathroom. Several showers, stalls, sinks, lot's of mirrors and all were perfectly balanced to accommodate several people without disruption. All of the rooms had private entrance's and were clearly marked. They provide a wide assortment of rooms. The large ones can sleep groups, which lowers the cost per person and they also have more private rooms. In the lobby, there was an internet area, a tour booking desk, telephones, a cafe at the side entrance. My staff and I were very pleased with our stay at this unique hostel. If you come to Sydney, even if you don't stay at the Wake Up, at least check it out. It is well worth it. The bar gets packed, so come early and be prepared to have a good time. The Wake Up and it's staff receive our highest recommendation. They are quality people and have a very unique hostel. Give my wishes to the owners, Margaret and Warren Millet. *Note; Wake Up is rated as Sydney's best hostel with an ideal location (opposite the city’s major transport hub and a short walk to the CBD and major tourist hot spots). It’s independently run - so there’s no rules, memberships, curfews or restrictions. Click here for Rates, Reservations, or just Inquiries! Review written by the touring editor; Mike Smith. This editorial in its entirety is the sole property of Travelers Digest and may not be distributed, sold or copied without prior written permission of Travelers Digest and/or its licensed representatives.
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