The Real Deal: This land-only tour includes three nights at the Railway Square hostel in Sydney, three nights at not-yet-finalized hostels in Byron Bay, and one night at the Brisbane City hostel in Brisbane; orientation tours of Sydney, Byron Bay, and Brisbane; transportation by train and bus; and the services of an Intrepid Travel group leader, for $1,310 per person—including all taxes and fees.
When: Depart Sundays April 25, May 16, June 27, July 18, Aug. 8, 29, Sept. 19, Oct. 10, 31, Nov. 21, Dec. 12, 2010, Jan. 2, 23, Feb. 13, March 6, 27, April 17, May 8, June 19, 2011.
The fine print: Airfare is not included. Meals not covered; allow $404 for meals and beverages. One-way transfers from the airport to the hotel in Sydney are $9–$11 per person by shuttle bus or $36 by taxi. In Brisbane, transfers are $22–$27 by taxi or $13 per person by Airtrain. Based on double occupancy; solo travelers will be paired up with someone of the same sex. Group sizes range from four to 16 participants. Refer to trip code PRB at the time of booking. Read these guidelines before you book any Real Deal.
Book by: No deadline; based on availability.
Contact: 800/970-7299, intrepidtravel.com.
Why it's a deal: The cost of this Eastern Explorer package breaks down to about $187 a day and includes accommodations, three sightseeing tours, transportation by train and bus, and hotel taxes. Plus, you'll benefit from the services of an Intrepid Travel group leader.
More: Optional activities include a bridge climb ($144–$224) depending on the time of day and the season), a bike tour ($49–$67), or a tour of the Opera House in Sydney ($24); surfing lessons in Byron Bay ($54); and a visit to a brewery in Brisbane ($16); all prices are per person. Additional nights start at $52 per person per night at the Railway Square in Sydney and from $48 per person per night at the Brisbane City in Brisbane.