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You can count on rooms being spick and span at this reliable budget motel chain. All accommodate three people for the flat room rate, most with a queen and single bunk bed. There’s a TV but not much else.

This small island was once named “Pinchgut” due to the meagre rations doled out to its recidivist convicts. The body of a criminal, Francis Morgan, who was executed in 1796, was left to rot out on the gallows for three years as a warning to new convicts who sailed past the island upon their arrival.

Only accessible down stairs through the bush, and worth it for the peace and views of Manly. Tidal harbour pool.

Great for a breakfast stop before or after the Saturday markets opposite.

You’ll be able to spot this superbly-located high-rise hotel from many vantages. Inside, the higher the floor number, the better the view. Corner rooms have a full harbour panorama. The marble-clad lobby leads to lovely lounge areas and two fine restaurants.

Since opening in 1998 these studios have created Moulin Rouge , The Matrix series, Mission Impossible II and Star Wars: Episode II . The massive entertainment complex houses 15 restaurants, bars and cafés serving everything from Asian to Mediterranean fare. For the kids there’s mini golf, cinemas, bungy trampolines, seasonal ice skating, an interactive TV studio, an indoor playgound, bowling and electronic games. There are also four live performance venues and numerous shopping options. The Farmers Market offers gourmet delights from the country, and the Weekend Market has gifts, clothes, movie memorabilia and crafts.

His early stories focused on middle-class, small-town Australia, demonstrating his affinity with the “new journalism” of Americans such as Tom Wolfe. Grand Days and Dark Palace trace the aspirations and disappointments of the League of Nations through the eyes of an Australian woman.

Another haunt of the style set, this time with a distinct Melbourne twist. Servings of the Italian food are small, so make sure to order some homemade bread.

A tiny, excellent Chinese noodle bar with good vegetarian options.

Find overseas labels and streetwear at this futuristic centre. The giant Kinokuniya bookshop stocks Japanese, Chinese and English titles.