Another Jolly busy week at the Jolly Swagman, which has been enjoying all the blessings of full occupancy in high season- always remember to let reception know if you wish to extend your stay, and always book ahead to avoid disappointment.

Guests have been enjoying the new activities provided by our newly inducted entertainment managers Nikki and Charlotte, including a free sausage sizzle every Friday night! (even when it is pouring down with rain); as well as nights out to Empire hotel, O'Malleys and the Sugarmill where guests can enjoy free entry and often a free drink on arrival. Contact reception or your entertainment manager for a run down of the nightly excursions!

THIS WEEK IN SYDNEY:

Highlights of the week couldn't top the Spencer Tunick exhibition, as part of the 2010 Mardi Gras festivities. Over 5200 people from all walks of Sydney life: young and old, bald and beautiful, man and woman, gay and straight; eccentrics and down right creeps packed the Sydney opera house forecourt to strip completely nude for a series of photographs at 4am. What an event it was! Many of the Swagman's guests and even staff took part in this momentous occasion.

SYDNEY WEATHER:

Showers are finally easing, looking forward to sunshine after a few cloudy days early in the week. Top temperature 32 degrees celcius.

SYDNEY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Have you purchased a VIP card yet? Available at reception for only $38, this card is a must for any serious backpacker. It includes hostel discounts at thousands of premises across Australia, Fiji and NZ as well as a points reward scheme, a concession pass for coaches and non-local trains as well as a FREE 500KM GREYHOUND BUS PASS!

Get yours today!

DID YOU KNOW?:

The kangaroo and emu are featured on the Australian Coat of Arms as a symbolism for prosperity as neither of them can walk backwards. Ironically, they can both be eaten and their meets feature in the delicacy known as "coat of arms sausages".

Jolly Swagman Backpackers Sydney Hostel, 27 Orwell Street, Kings Cross, NSW 2011
SKYPE: Jolly.swagman.backpackers | E: stay@jollyswagman.com.au | PH:  (02) 9358 6400
FREECALL: 1800 805 870

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THIS WEEK IN SYDNEY:

A very VERY busy week Sydney has just enjoyed- festivities included the awesome Good Vibrations music festival in Centennial Park which apparently ended up more like Glastonbury with the hectic constant downpour of rain (!) that has disappointed most of us this week. Other attractions not to be missed include the Chinese New Year Markets near central in Belmore Park.

SYDNEY SPORTS:

Dragon Boat racing will take place in Darling Harbour this year as part of the Chinese new year festivities, contact reception for a free brochure that details all the event times and information.

SYDNEY WEATEHR:

Rainy, humid, not pleasant....but clearing midweek, tops 36 degrees.

SYDNEY TIP OF THE WEEK:

To celebrate the Chinese New Year and its heralding of the Year of the Tiger, schooners of Tiger beer are at a rock-bottom celebratory (and thus slightly illegal) price of $5 each at the clock hotel, Surry Hills. Similar to the Swagman's weekly discount, its something like 7 for the price of six... why not??

DID YOU KNOW?:

Sydney's Chinese New Year is the largest Chinese New Year celebrations outside of Asia!

Jolly Swagman Backpackers Sydney Hostel, 27 Orwell Street, Kings Cross, NSW 2011
SKYPE: Jolly.swagman.backpackers | E: stay@jollyswagman.com.au | PH:  (02) 9358 6400
FREECALL: 1800 805 870

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The Jolly Swagman has been enjoying sabbatical post-new-year period with most guests staying on for an extra week or two to wind down after the hectic party that was Christmas and New Year! The holiday period went down a roaring success with most guests congregating at Rushcutter's Bay Park to watch the famous Sydney New Year's Eve fireworks!

THIS WEEK IN SYDNEY:

As always in Sydney after the New Year period, early January brings about the world class Sydney Festival; with a massive host of cultural performances; many for free (including Al Green!). The most famous this week was arguably the sublimely transcending production of Hamlet. Despite being entirely in German, critics have hailed it one of the best productions of Shakespeare ever to grace a stage. For more information about the Sydney Festival's season and events, feel free to contact our friendly 24 hour reception. And don't forget to stay tuned for updates on the Hostel's Australia Day festivities!

SYDNEY SPORTS:

In spite of New Years resolutions, most of us would agree holiday mode is still the way to go until at least mid-February.... Especially when such fabulous outings can be had to the various moonlight cinemas around Sydney, including those at Centennial Park and in the domain. Its all part of the January summer festivities of Sydney that make it a special time in a truly special city. And with these locations being just minutes away from the famous Jolly Swagman Sydney Hostel, there's no excuse not to make the most of your Summer Sydney experience. Contact reception for more information and flyers depicting cinema times.

SYDNEY WEATHER:

Gentle showers on Monday and Tuesday that will clear mid-week. Top temperature of 32 degrees, minimum 21 degrees.

SYDNEY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Fancy a break from the city? Escape to the Blue Mountains on one of the Swagman's tried and true day trips offered by the Happy Coach. At a bargain rate of just $60 per person, the tour picks you up from the Swagman, operates everyday and includes lunch! Book at any time from reception.

 

New Years Eve 09/10 bookings are open

Jolly Swagman Backpackers Sydney Hostel, 27 Orwell Street, Kings Cross, NSW 2011
SKYPE: Jolly.swagman.backpackers | E: stay@jollyswagman.com.au | PH:  (02) 9358 6400
FREECALL: 1800 805 870

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Christmas has come and gone and what a ‘Jolly' (sorry) one it was! Despite the torrential down pour, most guests still managed to party hard at the Bondi Pavilion festive style! Now enjoying a few days of rest, recovery and brain-cell recuperation, guests will be all charged up for the New Years Eve celebration when Sydney shows off its best to the world! Remember that the hostel is still under minimum stay conditions until 3^rd January. All guests were treated to a lovely bottle of bubbly from the staff as a token of our Jolly Season's Greetings! Nice one!

THIS WEEK IN SYDNEY:

Sydney was relatively quiet this week with most families gathering at home to celebrate Christmas day with traditional lunches and church- for some. The weather man copped the brunt of bad news with rain forecasted for much of the time; hopefully he won't take the fireworks away!

SYDNEY SPORTS:

Undoubtedly an Australian sporting highlight, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race is set to sail very soon. Watch the tall yachts sail out of Sydney Harbour on their daring adventure to Tasmania- Swagmen will have idyllic views due to their proximity to Rushcutters Bay Park from where the boats will depart.

SYDNEY WEATHER:

Gentle showers on Monday and Tuesday that will clear mid-week. Top temperature of 32 degrees, minimum 21 degrees.

SYDNEY TIP OF THE WEEK:

It is indeed an experience to have New Years Eve in Sydney, as it arguably has the most spectacular fireworks display in the world. But you will need to get in early to secure a possie with a good view. Contact reception for the best places, the nearest being the end of Victoria St at the end of Potts Point, just minutes away on foot. And don't forget to organize your take away grog early; the lines are a killer!

New Years Eve 09/10 bookings are open

Jolly Swagman Backpackers Sydney Hostel, 27 Orwell Street, Kings Cross, NSW 2011
SKYPE: Jolly.swagman.backpackers | E: stay@jollyswagman.com.au | PH:  (02) 9358 6400
FREECALL: 1800 805 870

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Christmas is fast approaching as guests can tell by the swagman being decorated in its traditional yule-tide decorations! And we are getting FULL, FULL FULL! If you haven't already booked your bed for the Christmas and New Year period (remember- from the 19^th December!) BOOK NOW!

THIS WEEK IN SYDNEY:

The weather is getting hotter by the day and the Christmas trees and decorations are popping up all over Sydney, despite an apparently over-secularised mayor. Sounds like an Aussie Christmas is on the way! Some of our favourites include the electric Christmas tree at Taylor Square, QVB, town hall as well as the lights in Hyde Park. Extremely hot weather of recent will certainly give our northern-hemisphere-guests an interesting cultural perspective on how Christmas can be celebrated!

SYDNEY SPORTS:

Let's face it: it's hardly the weather for Bikram Yoga. Why not give cycling a go- Sydney is a great place for it with many beautiful parks, coastline and harbour shoreline to keep even the rookiest content. For hire, try centennial park cycle hire or if you're game head over to the bike auction ware-house in the Sydney suburb of Alexandria. Remember the Swagman's friendly 24 hr reception are always happy to give suggestions and advice on possible routes should you have the itch to know at 4 in the morning.

SYDNEY WEATHER:

Gentle showers on Monday and Tuesday that will clear mid-week. Top temperature of 32 degrees, minimum 21 degrees.

SYDNEY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Next time you get that urge to kick up your heels why not take advantage of the Jolly Swagman's awesome party location in Sydney and take a trip down to World Bar! Just minutes away from the Swagman in Bayswater Rd, Kings Cross, it's a guaranteed ticket to a great night out. Remember any nightlife suggestions you have and give a mention to the Swagman's new entertainment manager, Travis. Don't worry- her attitude is all show.

Swagmen just flash their key ring to get free entry (normally $10) and a drink!

New Years Eve 09/10 bookings are open

Jolly Swagman Backpackers Sydney Hostel, 27 Orwell Street, Kings Cross, NSW 2011
SKYPE: Jolly.swagman.backpackers | E: stay@jollyswagman.com.au | PH:  (02) 9358 6400
FREECALL: 1800 805 870

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THIS WEEK AT THE JOLLY SWAGMAN BACKAPCKERS SYDNEY HOSTEL:

Another jam packed week at the Jolly Swagman Sydney Hostel! We apologise for the recent closure of the Kitchen, but please bear with us as we revamp the kitchen facilities with new tile work and paint, and a servicing of the stoves and bench tops. In the mean time, swagmen were treated to a compensation of copious amount of free pizza and beer! Nice one!

THIS WEEK IN SYDNEY:

The weather is getting hotter by the day and the Christmas trees and decorations are popping up all over Sydney, despite an apparently over-secularised mayor. Sounds like an Aussie Christmas is on the way! Some of our favourites include the electric Christmas tree at Taylor Square, QVB, town hall as well as the lights in Hyde Park. Extremely hot weather of recent will certainly give our northern-hemisphere-guests an interesting cultural perspective on how Christmas can be celebrated!

SYDNEY SPORTS:

If such anaerobic activities such as golf and cricket can be considered sports, so too should arguing. And to witness the fight of the century, why not head down to Canberra where you can witness the current debate on climate change in the Australian parliament. What a show it will be to watch the politicians, especially on the opposition side, as they continue to castrate themselves over issues such as ‘green witch craft'. Should you like to see this play out in Parliament House or any other of the top attractions our nations capita Canberra have to offer, come on down to reception at anytime to book tours, accommodation, transport and more!

SYDNEY WEATHER:

BLOODY HOT HOT HOT! Tops 43 degrees celcius (!), minimums of 12 degrees.

SYDNEY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Next time you get that urge to kick up your heels why not take advantage of the Jolly Swagman's awesome party location in Sydney and take a trip down to World Bar! Just minutes away from the Swagman in Bayswater Rd, Kings Cross, it's a guaranteed ticket to a great night out.

Swagmen just flash their key ring to get free entry (normally $10) and a drink!

The Jolly is gradually implementing and renovating its creature comforts and amenities, this week saw the unveiling of an awesome new X-Box station in the common area complete with a flat screen, as well as a new drinks machine for those into water and red bull!

THIS WEEK IN SYDNEY:

If you haven't already been you'll be bitterly disappointed you didn't: sculpture by the sea concludes this weekend, and won't be back for another year.  A spectacular event showcasing a wide variety of sculptures from all over the world, the event is free and a great way to experience the cliff walk along Sydney's eastern coast. Concludes Sunday.

SYDNEY SPORTS:

You wouldn't pick it at first, but many travellers keen to experience the Blue Mountains, one of Sydney's most popular attractions, inadvertedly opt themselves in for the Wentworth Falls walk, which as stunning as it is remains QUITE a trek. Its so worth it though, and the fact that such an amazing trek can count towards a fitness work out is a golden bonus. Get your Blue Mountains tour from reception at any time from as little as $60 with lunch!

SYDNEY WEATHER:

After last week's dreadful storms, this week will see some more thunderstorms on Monday and Tuesday before clearing later in the week. Min. 16 Max. 32 (!) degrees celcius.

SYDNEY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Next time you get that urge to kick up your heels why not take advantage of the Jolly Swagman's awesome party location in Sydney and take a trip down to World Bar! Just minutes away from the Swagman in Bayswater Rd, Kings Cross, it's a guaranteed ticket to a great night out.

Swagmen just flash their key ring to get free entry (normally $10) and a drink!

Jolly Swagman Backpackers Sydney Hostel, 27 Orwell Street, Kings Cross, NSW 2011
SKYPE: Jolly.swagman.backpackers | E: stay@jollyswagman.com.au | PH:  (02) 9358 6400
FREECALL: 1800 805 870

November is upon us and the increase of backpackers striding through the Swagman's doors continues each and every day! Rates are starting to increase slightly so as a little insider tip to our dear readers, extend now to take advantage of the current one! Remember the Jolly reception is open 24 hours and extensions or anything else can be done at any time!

THIS WEEK IN SYDNEY:

It would certainly be a shame for travellers to miss the Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Month with lots of events throughout Sydney showing off its gastronomic flair. Head to the website as these special food fairs are not on for much longer! Did you know that Taronga Zoo recently welcomed a new baby elephant? The gorgeous Luk Chai from China, only 98 kilos (well, its small for an elephant) is still a flower of youth greeting guests each day. Ask at reception for details on how to get the ferry from circular key. Definitely an attraction not to be missed!

SYDNEY SPORTS:

Never forget that reception can also book surfing trips/ lessons and the ocean waters are now warm enough to swim comfortably. If you still find it too cold, why not opt for the cliff walk instead!

SYDNEY WEATHER:

Some light but clearing showers predicted for the latter days of the week; Min 16 degrees Max 35. Tuesday despite thunderstorms is set to be a scoarcher!

SYDNEY TIP OF THE WEEK:

Next time you get that urge to kick up your heels why not take advantage of the Jolly Swagman's awesome party location in Sydney and take a trip down to World Bar! Just minutes away from the Swagman in Bayswater Rd, Kings Cross, it's a guaranteed ticket to a great night out.

Swagmen just flash their key ring to get free entry (normally $10) and a drink!

Jolly Swagman Backpackers Sydney Hostel, 27 Orwell Street, Kings Cross, NSW 2011
SKYPE: Jolly.swagman.backpackers | E: stay@jollyswagman.com.au | PH:  (02) 9358 6400
FREECALL: 1800 805 870

SYDNEY SPORTS:
We are thrilled to report that the warm sea currents have come again, and it's about time! The sea temperature is now a balmy 20 degrees which makes it ideal for swimming and surfing, and with daylight savings you have many more hours to indulge in the luxury waters of our famous Sydney beaches. Don't forget the cliff walk aswell.

SYDNEY WEATHER:
Showers are scheduled to continue until Tuesday, clearer skies can be look forward to from Wednesday onwards. Minimum 15 degrees, Maximum 25.

SYDNEY TIP OF THE WEEK:
Heading up to Cairns and want to see all the coastal stops on the way? Why not purchase a premier bus pass, for only $282 from reception. Unlimited stops along the way for 45days, amazing value. Contact reception for more details.