We stayed two nights at the Kondari resort (one before heading to Fraser Island and one after…read morecoming back). Rating the hotel is pretty difficult since we did have very low expectations (considering the price and that we read the reviews before booking) but we also had many problems while at the hotel but most of these were solved (some better than others). Starting with the easy part - location. The hotel is located close to the Urangan marina which is convenient if you are heading over to Fraser but is far from where most restaurants are (sure there are a few in the marina but most are at the other end of the esplanade). The proximity to the marina is not really that important since all tour companies have pick-up from the hotel. The hotel runs a free shuttle service to/from the airport and buss terminal (book in advance) but it only runs from morning to 3pm on weekdays so it is not that useful. The first room we were given when we checked in for the first night was already occupied. Small mistake which can easily be forgiven. The next room seemed ok, a bit run-down but still surprisingly roomy. It was a corner room which we first thought was good (less noise) but which later would mean some problems. The room had a queen size bed, one single bed and a bunk bed so it would have been possible to stay five people in the room. There was also a very old TV (poor reception), fridge, hair dryer, iron and kettle so most things were there. The bathroom seemed ok as well with a shower (no tub). Upon returning to the room after grabbing a bite to eat we noticed hundreds of ants on one of the walls. Called reception that simply explained it was nothing to worry about since it always happens when it rains. They asked us to leave the room for a few minutes while they took care of the problem (which meant spraying the ants). Not really an ideal solution but still worked. Checked out the morning after to head to Fraser Island. Returning from Fraser we were first given a room that had not been cleaned. After a few apologizes we got a new room (same type as first one) and settled in there. At this time it just started pouring down outside. We felt a bit worried that we may get ants (but it is apparently mainly a problem for the corner rooms) but this time we had another problem. When opening the door to the bathroom we realized that there was water on the floor coming from the toilet. Quick walk up to the front desk and the response was that this often happens when it rains a lot. They did however relocate us to a newer fresher room (that did not at all feel as run-down). We were a bit lucky since the problem with the toilets affected all lakeside rooms so we heard other people complaining after us and they were told to wait for the plumber to get there. The hotel also had a restaurant serving cheap pub grub (nothing fancy but rather filling) and they have a bottle shop. To summarize the hotel is pretty run-down so do not expect anything new and fancy. The staff is helpful and friendly. Location is not very good so there must be better options.

I've been to this place called a few times. They have a breakfast buffet but it can be a bit bland…read morebut there sure is plenty of food. The other day I had a chicken Snitz off the seniors menu. It was beautiful. Made from Panko breadcrumbs and the gravy was freshly made. Lovely roast veggies. For $10

G20 weekend, the closest accomodation we could find to Brisbane was up in Hervey Bay…read more Barooga on Pier is just that. Right on Pier street, and a very short walk to the famous Hervey Bay pier that stretches nearly a kilometre out into the bay. On the weekends there's some charming markets and there's the local sports club, Sporties, right up the road, ready for you to get stuck into some good, cheap pub food. (We paid $17 in total for 2 parmas and dessert) So the location is right. Barooga is a little B&B, they only have 2 rooms that are actually separate from the main house, attached via a little deck. There's a lovely garden, and out the back you'll find a little shed designated for the smokers out there. Don't smoke in your room if you are one of the addicts, you'll cop a huge cleaning fee. You're greeted by the owners on arrival, a very friendly couple who grab you your key, show you into your room and offer to carry things from the car. They'll also recommend places to eat and things to do. Sweet! The room is immaculate. Lovely, comfy bed, and a 2 person spa in the corner. Yes, the spa is in the bedroom. In fact... the shower and toilet is too, in a little nook behind the kitchenette and cupboard area. I hope you're comfortable with whoever you stay with, because you're pretty much going to see them on the toilet at some point. Breakfast is cereal and fruit, which did us fine. I guess we could have taken off down to Sporties for something hot. The fridge is stocked with juice, soft drink, beers and wines. While they don't have a licence and can't charge you, there is an honesty box and for $2 for soft drinks, $2.50 for beers, and $10 a bottle of wine, it doesn't hurt to be honest. The toilet factor aside, I'd very happily stay here again.

Came to stay for the night for my 30th birthday, to watch the whales migrate to the warmer waters…read more The apartment we hired was incredible and extremely spacious. Self contained kitchen and laundry with breathtaking ocean views. Staff were lovely and accommodating! Would stay again if ever in the area and recommend to family and friends!