'''Canberra''' [http://www.visitcanberra.com.au/]is the capital city of Australia, located in the Australian Capital Territory (which is surrounded by the state of New South Wales), southwest of Australia's largest city Sydney. It has a population of about 325,000 people.
Understand
History
Canberra was established in 1913 as a purpose-built capital for the newly federated Australian nation - this brought the rivalry between Sydney and Melbourne for national capital status to an end. The artificial creation of the city was not without critics however - many said that it was a "waste of a good sheep pasture". Canberra is a highly planned city, its primary design conceived by the American architect Walter Burley Griffin, built on the shores of an artificial lake (Lake Burley Griffin). Populated at first largely by politicians and public servants, it has taken several decades to develop its own identity and culture. A building spree in the late 20th century and a concerted effort to develop public institutions in the city have made it a viable destination for the traveller.
Geography
Lake Burley Griffin divides central Canberra. The central shopping and commercial area, known as "Civic", on the north side and the parliamentary and embassy area is on the south side. National institutions are likewise divided, examples being the National Museum of Australia and the Australian War Memorial on the north side and the National Library and National Gallery of Australia on the south side.
There are suburbs surrounding central Canberra, and also suburbs surrounding several outlying town centres. These town centres are Belconnen and Gungahlin to the north, and Tuggeranong and Woden to the south.
Time zone
'''Australian Capital Territory''' has the same timezone and daylight savings periods as New South Wales, which surrounds it.
People
Many people who live in Canberra are not originally from Canberra, having usually moved there to study or take up employment with the Australian Government. A common pattern is that people from other parts of Australia move to Canberra, study or work for a few years and then return to their place of origin or move on to elsewhere. As this means a constant influx of new arrivals to Canberra, you should not be reluctant to ask for directions etc. from locals - they are more than used to it and usually only too happy to help.
Canberrans on the whole are easygoing, friendly and tolerant people who have the highest levels of education and income in Australia.
Ethnically, Canberra's population is more diverse than most regional areas of Australia, but nowhere near as culturally and linguistically varied as Sydney and Melbourne.
Climate
Canberra can get just as hot as anywhere else in Australia during the summer months (November-March), with temperatures above 35oC a regular occurrence from December through to March. In winter it can get bitterly cold during the winter months (June-August) owing to its altitude and proximity to the Snowy Mountains. Overnight temperatures in winter frequently drop below zero and tend to hover around 10oC during the day. However, it is usually a clear, brisk cold, and rarely a dull, damp cold. It rarely snows in Canberra, and when it does it does not stick on the ground for more than a few hours.
Canberra is less humid than Australian coastal cities. The hottest days are often mitigated by welcome, cooling, mountain breezes, particularly towards the end of the day, and the temperature drops overnight.
Visitors Centre
The comprehensive visitors centre is on the Northbourne Avenue, on the main road into Canberra [http://www.visitcanberra.com.au/] +61 2 6205 0044.
Get in
By plane
'''Canberra International Airport''' ({{IATA|CBR}}), [http://www.canberraairport.com.au/] is well served by flights from other Australian capital cities. The following airlines fly to Canberra daily:
Virgin Blue [http://www.virginblue.com.au/] flies to and from Sydney, Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Melbourne and Adelaide
Qantas [http://www.qantas.com.au/] flies to and from Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth
Tiger Airways [http://tigerairways.com] flies to and from Melbourne and Adelaide
Brindabella Airlines [http://www.brindabellaairlines.com.au/] flies to and from Newcastle, Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour and Albury-Wodonga
From other cities you can fly to one of the above cities and then to Canberra. International visitors would normally fly to Sydney or Melbourne and transfer to a domestic flight to Canberra. Flying time is 50 minutes from Sydney, 1 hour from Melbourne, 2 hours from Brisbane and Adelaide, and 4 hours from Perth.
Although the airport is international, there are no scheduled commercial international flights.
A shuttle [http://www.airliner.com.au] runs between Canberra airport and the bus interchange in Civic every half an hour weekdays, and every hour on weekends. The fare is $9.
ACTION buses service Brindabella Business Park, which is immediately adjacent to the airport. They have direct services from there to Belconnen via Civic. The service is somewhat erratic, so best to check the timetable. Tickets are only $3.00, including a transfer.
Taxis are available in front of the terminal towards the Qantas end of the terminal. Fares are around $25 to Civic.
It is almost possible to use Canberra's offroad cycleway network to access the airport. Follow the cycleway along the north side of the lake. Cross on the cycleway over the Monaro Highway Bridge. At this point you are only 2km from the airport. If you have thick tyres, you can follow the south bank of the river and then over the Dairy Road Bridge. Take the dirt track following the road to the right, over the footbridge. It will take you to the start of the airport precinct, from where you can make your way to the terminal.
There is a long stay and short stay car park, both within walking distance of the terminal. Expect to pay around $17 per day to park at the long stay. The long stay is only cheaper than the short stay if you are parking for a day or more.
By train
'''NSW Countrylink''' [http://countrylink.info/] runs services from Sydney to Canberra twice a day. The trip takes just over 4 hours, which is slower than a bus or driving, but the train takes a very scenic route through the Molongolo Gorge, compared to an unexciting freeway journey by road. The train arrives in Kingston on the south side of Canberra, which is 20 minutes walk from most of the attractions on the south side of Lake Burley Griffin. On some days it is possible to do a day trip by train from Sydney and get 5-6 hours to spend in Canberra. To get to Civic (the Canberra CBD) on the northern side of the lake, however, will require further transport, ACTION buses service the station to Civic every hour or so for $3.00. The economy train fare is $56 in peak season (the Christmas/New Year period and school holidays) and $40 in off-peak, discounts may be available depending on the day or for advance purchase. Countrylink also runs a once-daily train/bus between Melbourne and Canberra: the bus runs from the centre of Canberra to the small town of Cootamundra, where travellers switch to the train to Melbourne's Southern Cross Station; tickets cost $91 in off-peak and $107 in peak season.
If you have all day, you can catch a Cityrail service between Sydney and Goulburn, and then change to/from the Countrylink services at Goulburn. This may be cheaper than the direct train from Sydney, and allows a break of journey, but it is much slower. Many Cityrail services now require you to switch to a bus south of Moss Vale.
Bicycles can be taken on the Cityrail trains, but must be boxed and checked as luggage on Countrylink services and cost $12.10 per bicycle, and there is only room for three on any train. It is possible for a fit cyclist to cycle from Goulburn to Canberra in a day, it is around about 100km, and there is a hard shoulder on the road that allows cyclists. The ride is roughly one third down to Lake George, one third flat along the lake, and the next third uphill into Canberra. As above, some Cityrail services require a change to buses beyond Moss Vale. There is no charge to take your bicycle on the Cityrail bus.
By bus
Coaches to Canberra terminate at the Jolimont Centre, which is in the city centre. It is immediately across the road from the Canberra local bus (ACTION) interchange
'''Murray's Coaches''' [http://www.murrays.com.au/], tel 132251, operate a bus service between Sydney and Canberra five times a day. Be sure to book an express service - it will knock an hour and a half off your trip. Cost is $36 and there are a limited number of 2-week advance fares for $15 (or $28 discount tickets also available). The bus takes you right into the centre of Canberra city (Civic). Murrays also run a daily service from Wollongong.
'''Greyhound Pioneer''' [http://www.greyhound.com.au/], tel 131499, operate a bus service competing with Murray's. Fares seem to be either $15 or $36, so you might get lucky and get a cheap ride. Note that it may not be possible to get the $15 fares when booking a return journey; if so, you probably need to book each leg separately. They also offer a direct service to Melbourne.
'''NSW Countrylink''' also run daily buses to and from Eden on the South Coast, via Bega and Cooma.
'''V/Line''' [http://www.vline.com.au/], tel 136196. V/Line have two services which connect Canberra to Melbourne. The fastest option is a bus from Canberra to Albury with a connecting train from Albury to Melbourne. This takes around 8 hours. The more scenic option is to travel to Melbourne via Cooma, Sale & Bairnesdale. Likewise, this service connects with a train at Bairnesdale allowing you to continue your journey west towards Melbourne.
By car
The drive from Sydney to Canberra is 290km and takes just over three hours. The road is dual-carriageway, mostly freeway-like conditions from the Harbour Bridge all the way to Canberra, mostly with a 110km/h speed limit, via the M5, Hume and Federal Highways. There on 5 sets of on-road services located on the highway, as well as well maintained and often scenic rest stops with toilets and picnic tables ideal for a picnic. Take drinks, as the rest areas have no water, or tank water which is not recommended for drinking. The services at Sutton Forest are at the half way point, at the Bundanoon exit. It is rare to make the entire trip between Canberra and Sydney without at least one police speed trap, usually near Goulburn section of the Hume Highway.
The drive from Melbourne to Canberra is 650km and takes roughly eight hours on the Hume and Barton Highways, again mostly on dual-carriageway roads.
Get around
By bus
ACTION buses [http://www.action.act.gov.au] cover the majority of Canberra. As of March 2009, fares are $3.00 for adults and $1.50 for concessions (have your student or concession card ready to show the driver; for international students, it's always good to have an ISIC Card because many drivers -- although not strictly supposed to -- will accept these). There are also all-day, weekly monthly and 10-ride-faresaver tickets available. An off-peak all-day ticket costs $4.10 and is valid for travel on weekdays between 9am & 4.30pm and after 6pm, as well as all day on weekends and holidays. 10 ride faresavers offer a significant discount on single fares at $8.20 for students (school term weekdays only) $11 concession and $22 for adults.<br>
There has been increasing criticism of ACTION, as services have decreased in number and prices have increased. Many residents will tell you not to use ACTION services. During peak hours, ACTION buses, especially inter-town routes, can be extremely crowded. However, for those dependant on public transport there is no other option within Canberra.
Tips for riding the buses:
If you need to change buses to get somewhere, ask for a ''transfer'' ticket; it'll let you on to as many buses as you need within 90 minutes of getting on the first bus.
Tell the driver where you need to get to (and how quickly if that's important) and ask them what your options are. Some buses snake through the suburbs and can take a while to cover a relatively short distance while others may be more direct or express services.
To travel between the interchanges (i.e. Belconnen, Civic, Woden and Tuggeranong) catch any bus in the 300 series (300, 312, 313, 314, 315, 318 or 319) as these are far quicker then other bus with your intended location as its destination.
Buses do not operate between midnight and 6am, and after 7pm on Sundays and public holidays. There is however a 'flexibus' or 'nightrider' system with certain routes running at these times -- for a flat fare of $10 -- that operates on weekends in early summer, but not throughout the year.
Many buses have a push-bike rack on the front, and the passenger can put the bike there to get to another bike-friendly destination. Free travel on the bus is available when using the bike rack (too bad if there are already two bikes on it).
By bike
Bicycles are a practical way to get around Canberra while visiting, and will get you to most attractions using a well developed network of off-road cycle paths.
Canberra also has generally well developed on-road cycle facilities but the on-road cycle lanes do sometimes end and start in inexplicable places. The grade can be a little steep as away from central Canberra is fairly hilly, but all the attractions around the lake are accessible on fairly flat paths. Pedal Power [http://www.pedalpower.org.au/services/rides_library/act.asp] has a list of commuter and other routes. Bicycles are also permitted on footpaths in the ACT.
There are bike racks to lock your bike up at most shopping centres and points of interest. Bike helmets are compulsory.
The intertown buses will carry two bikes on bike racks on the front of the buses. The bike racks have clips, so no additional equipment is necessary. Only 20" tyres or larger bikes are carried. There is no charge for using the bike rack, and the cyclist gets their bus trip free. Kids must be accompanied by adults, and child seats and other accessories must be removed from the bike.
A bicycle path map bought from a visitor information, petrol station or newsagent also shows bike paths and on-road cycle lanes. The map is also online at the ACT Department of Planning [http://apps.actpla.act.gov.au/plandev/tp-intro/projects/walk_cycle/cyclemap/canberra_path_map3.swf].
By car
Most attractions in Canberra provide parking, and Canberra roads are generally good quality and relatively uncongested.
Speed signs clearly show the posted speed, generally 80km/h for multi-lane roads between major centres, 60km/h for significant roads within suburbs, and 50km/h for suburban roads. Also watch for 40km/h school zones which in Canberra are active throughout the school day, and rigorously policed. Several major north-south roads are 100km/h.
Drivers unfamiliar with Canberra are often confused by the "Town Centre" signs that direct you to the commercial centre of the nearest Canberra "town", which you can consider to be a regional centre. The towns are Belconnen, Woden, Tuggeranong, Gungahlin etc. You will see signs directing you to these centres by name, but as you get close the sign will simply direct you to the "town centre". You are expected to know which town centre it is you are approaching. Each of these towns contain many suburbs, which are always signposted by the suburb name.
The main shopping and commercial area of Canberra is known as Civic, but you will never see a signpost to Civic. It is signposted as as "City".
Take change for parking meters in Civic if you want to park on the streets, or in the government parking lots. Parking in the CBD can be difficult on weekdays, due to development of carparks and encouragement to take public transport. There are several multi-level carparks near the Canberra Centre with ticket pay-stations and pay-booths.
Fixed police speed traps in Canberra are highly visible with multiple signs informing motorists that they are approaching a speed trap. However, mobile police speed traps are set up in large, highly visible white vans with police signage informing motorists that their speed has been checked. The ACT Government also has "red light" cameras on some intersections; if in doubt, stop on the yellow light.
'''Petrol/fuel'''. There are remarkably few fuel stations on the main roads. Instead they tend to be located near local shops, off the main roads. Look for the small blue fuel pump signs pointing off the main roads. Start looking well before you run too low. There are several petrol stations just east of Northbourne Avenue at Civic.
See
'''Australian War Memorial''', Treloar Crescent (''top of ANZAC Parade, at the other end from Parliament House''), ph 02 6243 4211 or 02 6243 4598 (for recorded information), fax 02 6243 4325, [http://www.awm.gov.au/]. Daily 10am-5pm. Not just a memorial, this is one of Australia's premier museums, covering Australian military history from Federation to the present day and including fascinating exhibits of equipment, memorabilia and battle dioramas. You could easily spend a full day here (it has a cafe, or bring a picnic lunch if the weather is nice and sit on the lawns at the front). Anzac Parade, leading up to the War Memorial has a number of memorials to different wars and those involved in wars. Free entry, allow 4-7 hours.
'''Parliament House of Australia''', across the lake from ANZAC Parade, ph 02 6277 5399 or 02 6277 2727 (for recorded information), [http://www.aph.gov.au/]. The seat of Australia's federal government and legislature and a remarkable piece of modern architecture. Usually takes 2-4 hours.
'''Old Parliament House''', King George Terrace, ph 02 6270 8222, fax 02 6270 8111, [http://www.oph.gov.au]. The headquarters of Australian government from the 1920s to 1988, this building is a must for political and/or historical junkies. The building gives a real feel of what it was like when it was in use and has regularly rotating exhibitions on the controversies and scandals that rocked Australian politics. Most of the main rooms - the Prime Minister's office, the Cabinet Room, the various party rooms, the two houses - are open to visitors, as are many smaller rooms like the whips' offices and the broadcasting area. There are also historical photos of Canberra as it used to be, including the times prior to the creation of the artificial lake that show Canberra under snow during winter (the lake warmed up the city and snow falls rarely on the city now). The gift store has decent souvenirs. Parking is free, admission is A$2 for adults, A$1 concession. Allow 2-3 hours.
'''National Museum of Australia''', Lawson Crescent, ph 02 6208 5000, fax 02 6208 5099, [http://www.nma.gov.au/]. This controversial museum has lots of interactive exhibits and groups items by concept rather than era. Free admission except for special exhibits. Allow 2-7 hours.
'''National Gallery of Australia''', Parkes Place, Parkes, ph 02 6240 6502, [http://www.nga.gov.au/]. 10am?5pm. Located by Lake Burley Griffin, this modern structure is one of the country's largest art galleries. It has a vast collection of paintings and sculptures collected from Australia and the rest of the world and has excellent Aboriginal artwork. A nice gift store and a large bookstore on the ground level. Free except for special exhibits. The Gallery offers free public one-hour tours: Australian and International art at 11 am and 2 pm daily, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art at 11 am on Thursdays and Sundays. Allow 1-7 hours.
National Portrait Gallery. ing Edward Terrace, Parkes. djacent to High Court and National Gallery of Australia. 61 2 6102 7000. ttp://www.portrait.gov.au. 0am-5pm, except Christmas Day. ree except for major exhibitions. 5.3005S. 49.134E. The Gallery opened to the public on the 4 December 2008, and displays some 400 portraits of people who have shaped and who continue to shape the nation. There are gallery spaces for the collection and temporary exhibitions, public areas including a cafe, shop, function room, theatrette, education and school group areas, and basement car parking. Portraits are in various media, depending on the era. Galleries are themed by era. The web site gives a good idea of the content.
'''National Library of Australia''', ph 02 6262 1111, fax 02 6257 1703, [http://www.nla.gov.au/]. The library is primarily a research centre, but normally has one exhibition showing parts of the collection. Also notable for its neo-classical architecture.
Australian Institute of Sport. IS. everrier Crescent, Bruce. 2 6214 1111. 2 6251 2680. ttp://www.ausport.gov.au/ais/visit/tours. 15.00. The AIS runs tours a couple of times a day. The tours are usually run by in-residence athletes. See the training areas and find out about the development and strategy of the facility. At the end of the tour there are interactive exhibits to try various sports. The pool here is open for public access certain hours
'''Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre''', King Edward Terrace, Parkes, ph 02 6270 2800 or 1800 020 603 (free call, recorded information), [http://www.questacon.edu.au/]. 9am-5pm. Questacon is an interactive museum of science with exhibits illustrating scientific ideas from the principles of physics to the motion of an earthquake. Great for kids and excellent science books can be picked up here. (Oct 06) $15.50 adults, $10.50 concessions, $9 children, and $46 for a family of 2 adults and 3 children. Allow 3-7 hours.
'''Royal Australian Mint''', [http://www.ramint.gov.au/]. Take a tour of the mint and see how coins are made. You will even get the chance to mint your own souvenir coin. Look for the pudding coins as a souvenir (not always available). The mint is currently being refurbished, so as of October '07, there is only the coin shop, mint your own dollar and an exhibition on the history of Australian coins for viewing by the general public. Admission is free, allow 1-2 hours.
'''Australian National Botanic Gardens''', [http://www.anbg.gov.au/anbg/]. Located at the base of Black Mountain, the ANBG has the largest collection of Australian native flora in the country. It also has some interesting water dragons that live in the water features around the gardens. A delightful place for a picnic, try to grab some food from the city centre first to take with you for lunch. If you are there during summer, call and ask about the jazz evenings. These are held on the weekend and many families attend with evening picnic and champagne in tow, to chill out to the sounds of jazz in the balmy evening temperatures. Entry is free, however parking is $1.40/hr or $7 all day at ticket machines, with proceeds going towards the gardens.
Black Mountain Tower. elstra Tower. lack Mountain Drive, Acton. km from the city centre. 61 2 6219 6111. 61 2 6257 6600. pen daily 9am-10pm. 7.50 adult, $3.00 aged pensioner, $3.00 child 4-16 yrs, free for children under 4 years; a family pass (2 adults, 2 children) costs $17.00.. This functional communications tower rises 195 m above the summit of Black Mountain, providing 360 degree views of Canberra and the countryside around it from a viewing platform 60m up the tower. Well worth a visit, day or night, for the fantastic views - look for the cork tree plantation and Parliament House. It has a revolving restaurant and telecommunications history display. Above the restaurant there is a two level viewing platform: the bottom level is indoor and has a souvenir shop and refreshments; the upper level is an open air area. Its a nice view, but the mountain is already already 260m above the lake, and the viewing platform is only another 60m above the mountain. You can decide if that is worth the price of admission.
'''Prime Minister's Lodge''' (Official Residence). Generally closed to the public and one can only see part of the garden from behind the wall. There are open days about once a year and if you are lucky to be in Canberra then, it shouldn't be missed.
'''Government House'''. The main official residence of the Governor-General, representative of the Queen. Closed to the public except for open days. There is a viewing platform off the Scrivener Dam Rd, or glimpses can be seen from the main gate at Dunrossil Drive, Yarralumla, or Weston Park, Yarralumla. Distant views from Black Mountain (not necessarily from the Tower). Often kangaroos are to be spotted munching grass on the lawns, so be careful driving along the ride that gets to the viewpoint, especially at dusk.
'''Embassies'''. As the national capital, Canberra hosts the embassies of most countries, listed below in Embassies. Some of them are architecturally interesting and worth looking at, particularly:
*The Embassy of China
*The Embassy of Papua New Guinea
*The whole 'Embassy district' in leafy Yarralumla suburb. It is best to have a car or bicycle for touring.
Blundell's Cottage. A historic cottage of some of the earliest settlers of the area. Guided tours and school tours.
Lanyon Homested. anyon Drive. ttp://www.museumsandgalleries.act.gov.au/lanyon/. uesday - Sunday 10am-4pm. 7 Adult $5 Concession. Historic homestead of early Canberra settlers, guided tours, walks and a maintained garden. Cafe for lunch, coffee and cake.
Kangaroos in the wild. ampbell Park Offices, Northcott Drive (north), Campbell. ff Fairbairn Avenue (between the Australian War Memorial and the airport, at the roundabout go the opposite direction from the Australian Defence Force Academy along what appears to be a road into the bush (forest). After about 250m, a massive building will appear. This office complex is used by the Department of Defence. Veering left (up-hill) there will be occasional free parking spaces on weekdays; veering right (down-hill) there is an extensive, free car park.. ornings until around 8-9am; afternoons after 4.30pm in winter, or else from a hour before sunset. ree. 5.281S. 49.172E. Kangaroos form family social groups (a 'mob') with a dominant male, a group of females, and their offspring. Babies (joeys) may be carried in the mother's pouch, or be hopping with the mob. Larger juniors will be with the mob. At Campbell Park Offices (at almost 1km in length, in four joined sections, reputedly he longest building in the southern hemisphere -- and seven stories tall), the local mobs come to the semi-irrigated grassland from the adjacent nature park and graze the grass from evening until mid-morning. During the day they return to the nature park reserve and lie in the shade of the trees. Observe the kangaroos on the grass areas in the car park or near the building. During the day, you can park and walk along paths to the up-hill side of the building, even cross the fence, and look for kangaroos in the reserve. Security guards are not concerned by tour groups in coaches, or people in/from cars. Do not attempt to approach the kangaroos at more than a very slow walking speed. These are wild animals and they will startle and leave the area as a mob if you approach closer than 10m. Remain still and see whether they will approach you. A weekday cafeteria is situated on the ground level at the centre of the building, approached from the up-hill side, operating from breakfast until mid-afternoon. The public can use this to buy meals and drinks.
Events
'''Floriade''' [http://www.floriadeaustralia.com/] festival of flowers, a yearly event held in spring (September-October), not to be missed. Tulips are the main feature but many other colourful flowers and floral displays are featured. There are also sculptures, garden stalls, makeshift restaurants, activities, live music by local performers and sometimes there is even a gnome or scarecrow festival where children (and some adults) paint gnomes or make scarecrows and enter a competition to choose the best. Great for a photo opportunity!
'''Summernats''' [http://www.summernats.com.au] is a festival of modified cars, car cruising, burnouts, etc, which takes place first thing in the new year. If you are not into this culture, this is a good time not to be in Canberra, as even the most civilised hotels are overtaken by drunken 'nats'.
The Multicultural Festival. ttp://www.multiculturalfestival.com.au. a must to visit, has many events, such as concerts, performances and an '''International Food Fare''' with over 200 stalls selling original food of different countries. Happens every year in February.
'''Thai Embassy Food Fair''' - once a year - do not miss this! The Philippines, Sri Lanka and some other embassies do similar events sometimes.
'''Diplomatic Charity Bazaar''' - held occasionally. Great place to buy original things specific to various countries, sold by staff of the embassies.
'''The National Folk Festival''' - held every Easter over 5 days, featuring local, national and international folk musicians, dancers and craftspeople.
'''The Canberra show''' [http://www.rncas.org.au/showwebsite/site/index.php] held in February featuring shows, amusement park rides and agricultural competitions. Has most of the features of the Sydney Royal Easter Show, but on a smaller scale with less crowds.
Check out the ''Canberra Times'' [http://canberra.yourguide.com.au] newspaper on Saturday for upcoming events.
Do
Hire a '''paddle boat''', canoe or kayak and mess around on Lake Burley Griffin. Hire is available from:
*'''Lake Burley Griffin Boat Hire''', Acton Jetty Acton. ph 02 6249 6861.
*'''Row'n'Ride''', Canberrra Avenue, Fyshwick. ph 0410 547 838, [http://www.realfun.com.au/rownride]
Hire a Hobbie '''Yacht''' for an hour or learn to sail from the Southern Cross Yacht Club.
'''Walk''', '''cycle''' or '''skate''' around the lake. Hire is available from:
*'''Capital Bicycle Hire''' [http://www.capitalbicyclehire.com.au/], which rents high quality mountain bikes and runs tours around Canberra's extensive bicycle path network and off-road trail system. Phone 0412 547 387.
*'''Mr Spokes Bike Hire''', [http://www.mrspokes.com.au] Barrine Drive, Acton. ph 02 6257 1188.
*'''Row'n'Ride''', Canberrra Avenue, Fyshwick. ph 0410 547 838, [http://www.realfun.com.au/rownride]
'''Mountain Biking'''. Canberra offers a large number of Mountain Biking locations around Canberra, many of which are considered some of the best in Australia. See Canberra Off Road Cyclists (CORC [http://www.corc.asn.au]) for locations. Canberra is also home to the largest 24 hour Mountain Bike Race in the world (Scott 24hr [http://www.scott24hr.com.au]), held in early October each year.
Take a cruise on the lake with skipper Garnett. Offers 4 different vessels, depending on your needs, one vessels moves around the lake spontaneously, so either hope for good luck or give a call on 0 431 646 723 and make arrangements.
Explore '''Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve''' [http://www.environment.act.gov.au/bushparksandreserves/parksandreserves/tidbinbilla] is about a 40 minute drive from Canberra. It forms the northern part of the Australian Alps. You can take Ranger guided walks or have fun with the hands on displays such as the interactive computer program on Tidbinbilla's bird species and look at the live animal displays. The gift shop sells an interesting range of clothes, toys, books, cards and souvenirs. Coffee and light refreshments are also available.
Visit the '''Australian Reptile Centre''', O'Hanlon Place, Gold Creek Village, Nicholls ACT; ph 02 6253 8533 [http://www.anbg.gov.au]. Open daily 10am - 5pm. Adults $7.50, children $6, concession $7, family tickets (2 adults & 3 or more children) $29, discounts available for group bookings. Located about 13km north of City.
'''Dendy''' Canberra Centre Upper Level. A movie theatre with a difference. Open late and screening world movies as well as some Hollywood flicks, Alcohol and a large array of hot food makes this cinema more of a cross between a restaurant and a movie theatre than your traditional popcorn and coke style cinema. Although popcorn and coke are both sold here as well. Regular admission is similar to most theatres, VIP screenings have special seating and wait-service.
Corin Forest. ourist Drive 5. 61-2-6235-7333. eekends, ACT school & public holidays, 10am - 4pm. ree entry, rides from $7, all day pass $35. ttp://www.corin.com.au/. This alpine recreation facility features a '''bobsled ride''' in summer, and '''snowplay and tobogganing''' in winter. Is is high enough to receive natural snowfalls. Check before heading up that the road is open, and that there is snow.
'''Mount Stromlo Observatory''' [http://www.mso.anu.edu.au/], Cotter road, Weston Creek. ph 02 6125 0230. Mount Stromlo is Australia's premier astronomical observatory. Badly damaged in 2003 bushfires, the partially rebuilt observatory reopened in October 2004. They run a Saturday night star gazing event for the public, call Natalie on 02 6125 0232.
Visit the '''Wineries''' around Canberra. They are described as cool climate wines and some are very well known and regarded. Try Jeir Creek, Gallagher, Clonakilla and Lark Hill, just to name a few. There are '33 wineries within 35 minutes of Canberra'. Visit the Canberra Wineries website for more information [http://www.canberrawines.com.au/].
"Out of the way places to see" - tips from a local which you won't find in the guide book. Head south to Tharwa, and then take the road to Adaminaby. The road is very good for all of what I describe, any car can go on it, but further south than what I describe requires a 4WD. Take the road out of Tharwa, and remain on the road for about 10km. Take the signed road to Honey Suckle Creek. Very important historical site, this is where the signals from the Apollo 11 space landing were received, and then beamed around the world. Also a nice drive, and a very good camp ground. On the same road, not far off the Adaminaby Road is a walking (Fire ranger)trail to the top of Mount Tennant. About a 5 hour round hike, but worth every step. Go back onto the Adaminaby road, and head south. Another site of a space centre on the right down the road, worth a look, but not as interesting, but remaining on the road for another ten kilometers, entering the Namadgi National park, and two hundred meters after a single lane bridge is a signed turn off to Yankee's Hat. This is a four km drive, any car can take it, and look for Kangaroos. Hundreds either side of the road. The walk to Yankee's hat will take you to see aboriginal art.
Road to Adaminaby. If you have a robust vehicle, take the road south. The country is magnificent!!! It takes about an hour from Yankee's hat.
Learn
Four universities are based in Canberra: The Australian National University (ANU) [http://www.anu.edu.au/] located in Acton, relatively close to the city centre. It is highly regarded internationally and one of the top 20 universities in the world. Locally known for its expansive green campus. The University of Canberra (UC) [http://www.canberra.edu.au/] in the suburb of Bruce (about 8 km (5 miles) NW of the CBD)and the Australian Catholic University [http://www.acu.edu.au/] at Watson (about 5km NE of the CBD). The Australian International Hotel School (AIHS) [http://www.aihs.edu.au/] awards undergraduate and graduate degrees in business and hospitality fields, and is well regarded internationally. The Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) [http://www.defence.gov.au/adfa/], a faculty of The University of NSW [http://www.unsw.edu.au/], provides teaching for military and civilian undergraduates and postgraduates.
Buy
Markets
'''Canberra Antiques Centre''', Ph/Fax: (02) 61623737, [http://www.canberraantiques.com/]. 10am - 5pm seven days at 37 Townsville Street, Fyshwick. Over a dozen professional dealers, both local and interstate, offer a top variety of antique and retro furniture, funky vintage clothing, vintage fabrics, militaria, numismatics, pottery, vintage needlework tools & accessories, electricals, silver, art glass, quality bric-a-brac and designer items. Well presented with great music playing and a nice vibe throughout.
'''Jamison market''' - every Sunday near Jamison centre, in Belconnen. Fresh produce stalls and flea market. Come and get your bargain. Vinyl records, second hand clothing, furniture, bric-a-brac.
'''Old Bus Depot Market''', every Sunday. Arts and crafts ? all of a high standard. Food stalls, including fresh produce and live music. Theme days such as international food held occasionally.
'''Gorman House market''' - every Saturday in Braddon, just north of the city (easy walk). Crafts, second-hand items, antiques, international food in a lovely, grassy setting.
'''Tuggeranong Market''' - First Sunday of every month in the lovely Tuggeranong Homestead opposite the Calwell Shops. Lots of stalls, selling amazing stuff.
'''Trash and Treasure Market''' in Woden is hosted by Rotary and held every Sunday morning. Expect a mixed bag of books, plants, and assorted household junk.
'''Fyshwick Market''', Dalby St (Cnr Mildura St) Fyshwick, tel 02 6295 0606. - Fresh produce, including fruit, vegetables, meat and fish. Open Thursday to Sunday. Sunday afternoons are a good time to pick up some bargains.
'''Belconnen Market''', ''Lathlain St, Belconnen (off Benjamin Way), ACT | Telephone: +61 2 6251 1680 | Fax: +61 2 6251 7721'', [http://www.belconnenmarkets.com.au/]. The Markets are open from 8:00am to 6:00pm Wednesday to Sunday. Some stores now open 7 days a week. Thursday's is senior's day with 10% discounts.
'''Capital Region Farmer's Market''', [http://www.capitalregionfarmersmarket.com.au/]. ''EPIC - Saturday mornings 8AM to 11AM''. Sellers are the producers. Stalls are all food related.
Gold Creek Village. arton Highway, Gungahlin. rom the city, take Northbourne avenue to the Barton Highway (left) then follow about 5km to a major roundabout; go straight on about 2km and follow signs to turn right. . hopping hours. This is a 'village' of specialty shops, attractions, hotels (for drinks), coffee shops, a native reptile 'museum', a butterfly enclosure, and garden supplies, in a group of separate buildings in a strip about 1km long. Locals and visitors alike use the area, especially on weekends.
Shopping Centres
'''Canberra Centre''' [http://canberracentre.com.au] is a large shopping mall in Civic, covering a large section of the central Canberra shopping district. It has department stores, food hall and eateries, specialty shops for adults and kids fashion both upmarket and basic. There are also electronics, books, CDs, souvenirs and Australian made products.
'''City Walk''' is an outdoor mall area in Civic. There is alfresco eating and shopping.
'''Belconnen Mall''' is the name of the enclosed shopping centre owned by Westfield located within the Belconnen Town Centre to the north. Although it does not have as many clothes stores, it features a 'Myer' department store and a 'K-mart', as well as two supermarkets and a food court. It is located over three levels.
'''Woden Westfield''' and '''Tuggeranong Hyperdome''' are the two major enclosed shopping centres to the south, located within the Woden and Tuggeranong town centres respectively. Woden Plaza features a 'David Jones' department store, a 'BIG W', two supermarkets, as well as approximately 200 specialty stores and a food court. The Tuggeranong Hyperdome (further south) features a small 'Myer' department store, a 'K-mart' and a 'Target', as well as supermarkets and a food court plus specialty clothing stores.
'''Fyshwick''' is the suburb to shop for appliances and technical stuff, along with furniture and homewares. It is also Canberra's 'red-light' district. Most of Canberra's antique shops can also be found here.
Boutique
'''Lonsdale St in Braddon''' (close to Civic) houses a handful of boutiques, specialising in independent clothing labels and other designer objects.
'''Manuka''' is another area that has boutiques and restaurants. Millers of Manuka boutique sells leading women's fashion brands like Max Mara and others. For less expensive women's clothing try Witchery. Booklovers would do well to check out Paperchain bookstore.
'''Kingston''' is yet another shopping and restaurant area not far from Manuka.
Specialty
Many of the most interesting shopping experiences are at the national institutions, almost all of which have specialist shops inside. The National Gallery has a superb range of art books, both overseas and indigenous. Likewise the National Library, the Questacon Science Museum, the War Memorial, the National Museum at Acton, the Film and Sound Archive, and so on - if you're looking for unique Australian items, these are the places to go.
Eat
Canberra has many fine eateries, but beware - most will be closed on Sundays. All public buildings in Canberra are smoke free.
Budget
'''Griffith Vietnamese Restaurant''', Griffith Shops. Cheap, no frills place with little/no decor and ordinary 'Australianised' Vietnamese food.
'''Cornucopia Bakery''', 40 Mort Street, Braddon, ph 6249 1494. Wide range of traditional bakery products, meat pies and sandwiches, prepared on the premises. (However, for a bakery it is fairly expensive)
'''Pide House''', 2 Lawry Place, Jamison Group Centre, Macquarie (near Belconnen T/C) and Woden Plaza, Corinna Street, Woden. tel 02 6251 3325 (Jamison) and 02 6260 3016 (Woden), [http://www.turkishpidehouse.com]. Nice, inexpensive Turkish food in a proper restaurant (not a takeaway outlet). The Woden location is open all day (one of the very few in Canberra).
'''The Front Gallery and Cafe''', Lyneham Shops, Wattle Street, Lyneham. Enjoy a coffee and explore an art exhibition. Comfy couches. 8am ? 10pm Tues - Sat & 8am ? 6pm Sun - Mon.
'''Hansel & Gretel''' 42 Townsend St. Philip. Great European style shop and cafe. Canberra's best coffee is roasted and sold on the premises. Also great selection of nuts, chocolates, and Easter and Christmas treats. The cafe serves healthy light lunches and a selection of cakes and biscuits.
'''Yarralumla Halal Pide House''' 45 Novar St Yarralumla. ''+61'' 2 6281 1991. High quality Turkish at a reasonable price, no alcohol allowed on premises. Take away available.
'''Kismet''', Flinders Way Manuka. Another wonderful Turkish eatery at easy on the pocket prices, Kabak and Falafel are easily one of the best in Canberra if not Australia.
Mid-range
Tosolini's. nr London Circuit and East Row, Civic. 61-2-6247-4317. ttp://www.tosolinis.com.au. AM until late, 7 days. Great breakfast, good lunch and brilliant dinner. Traditional and experimental Italian cuisine, with a fine list of local and imported liquor. Very friendly and warm atmosphere, with professional staff.
'''Silo Bakery and Cafe''', 36 Giles St, Kingston. tel 02 6260 6060, [http://www.silobakery.com.au/]. Good breakfast, however almost always very crowded - expect 'attitude' instead of service. They also have a dedicated cheese room.
'''Cafe D'Lish''', Shop 3, Duff Place, Deakin. tel 02 6281 3533. fax 02 6281 3450. Swiss owner, nice pastries made on premises.
'''Bruno's Truffels''', Unit 2, 106 Mawson Place, Mawson. tel 02 6286 6377. Nice cafe and shop for locally made chocolates and pastries. Although the manager has a tendency to scare off customers and the staff are incompetent.
'''Belluci's Restaurant''', Cape St (cnr Woolley St), Dickson. tel 02 6257 7788. Popular Italian serving mediocre food at inflated prices.
'''New Asia Chinese Restaurant''', Unit 75, The Coventry Apartments, 2 Cape Street, Dickson, 02 6262 8860. - Offer authentic Shanghai, Sichuan, Cantonese, and some Malaysian cuisines. Some of the signature dishes include: Crispy Fragrant Duck, Yu Xiang Pork and Egg Plant Hot Pot, Shantung Lamb and Shantung Chicken. The food is fresh and the service is friendly. Very popular with Chinese oversea students and local communities. Open 7 days a week (except Saturday and Sunday lunches). Fully licenced. BYO for bottled wines only. Setting capacity: 34 people.
'''Four Rivers Sichuan Chinese Restaurant''', Unit 66, The Coventry Apartments, 12 Challis Street, Dickson, 02 6162 0666. - Very tasty, authentic Sichuan cuisine. Yum-cha lunches.
'''Sukothai''', 27 Bentham Street, Yarralumla. tel ''+61'' 2 6281 1092. Inexpensive non-authentic Thai food. Eat in and takeaway.
'''Maestral Seafood Restaurant''', 13 Trenerry Street, Weston Creek. tel ''+61'' 2 6287 3930.. Mediterranean/Croatian, lots of fresh seafood and steak. Prime Minister John Howard has eaten here! (Don't worry, whatever your political views, it's still great food!)
'''Tu Do''', 7 Sargood St, O'Connor. tel ''+61'' 2 6248 6030. Cheap and tasty Vietnamese, very popular with the local Vietnamese community. Good bar nearby too.
'''Rama's''', Shop 6, Pearce Shopping Centre, Hodgson Crescent, Pearce. tel ''+61'' 2 6286 1964 or ''+61'' 2 6286 9437. Fijian/Indian, best (and hottest - no joke) curries in town. Can be very noisy.
'''Dickson shops:''' This is the Canberra equivalent of Chinatown. Lots of great Asian food and a few pubs/clubs to have a beer at. This shopping centre is located a 10 minute bus ride north of Civic, just off Northbourne Avenue, and has a fantastic eat street, with everything from Thai to Turkish to Vietnamese at reasonable prices. Turk Oz has a delicious spinach and feta pide. Dickson Noodle House makes a terrific Laksa and is quite cheap. Au Lac is an excellent vegetarian Vietnamese place with delicious soy-based versions of everything.
'''Ginseng''', 15 Flinders Way, Manuka. tel ''+61'' 2 6260 8346 or ''+61'' 2 6260 8347. Try either the traditional or vegetarian Singapore noodle and the Laksa. Book in advance and ask for a table on the second floor, you will get the best view of the Manuka tree tops!!
'''Wagamama''', Canberra Centre (North Quarter) Bunda St Canberra City. ''61'' 2 6248 7955. Japanese chain restaurant in a funky and not at all intimate atmosphere. '''Strongly''' recommend the Ramen and Moyashi Soba. (Another customer's recommendation: go somewhere else!)
'''CREAM''', Cnr Bunda and Genge Sts Civic (Canberra Centre North Quarter) ''+61'' 2 6162 1448. Cool, Hip and extremely funky! Lunch and dinner served as well as coffee and a wonderful array of cakes and sweets. Food is ordinary and overpriced.
'''Red Belly Black''', located near the ACT law courts in Hobart Place. '''Excellent coffee''', good breakfast menu, mid priced lunch menu, great cakes. Only open Mon - Fri from 7:30am until 4pm. A good way to start the weekday morning.
'''Koko Black''' Bunda St Canberra Centre North Quarter. Warm and tasty Chocolate shop with a second to none chocolate selection as well as a innovative and interesting Hot Chocolate and Drink Menu. Nice, welcoming decor.
'''Sammy's Kitchen''' Bunda St Canberra Centre North Quarter. Serving a menu inspired mainly by Malaysian but also Cantonese flavoures. Another restaurant with cool and sometimes almost yuppy feel.
'''Italo-Australian Club''' Franlin St, Forrest. You can obtain a temporary 28 day membership for $1 upon entry. You can get a hearty Italian pasta dish for around $15, with drinks both alcoholic and non-alcoholic reasonably priced.
Splurge
'''Rubicon''' 6A Barker St, Griffith. Tel 6295 9919. Consistently excellent food, extensive winelist and BYO (bring your own) are accepted. Great atmosphere, romantic rear indoor courtyard.
'''Aubergine Restaurant''', 18 Barker St, Griffith. tel 02 6260 8666. Food is very good, but beware the cancellations policy when changing a booking - you could be charged for the meals your party did not eat.
'''Courgette Restaurant''', 54 Marcus Clarke St, Acton. tel 02 6247 4042. Sister restaurant to Aubergine Restaurant, fine dining. Fantastic weekday 4-course lunch for under $45.
The Chairman & Yip. 08 Bunda Street, Civic. 61-2-6248-7109" url="http://www.thechairmanandyip.com/html/index.html. unch noon-2:30 Tue-Fri. Dinner 6-10:30 Mon-Sat. East/West fusion of great repute.
'''Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant''', Cnr Broughton & Blackall St Barton. tel 02 6273 6111. Consistently awarded best Turkish in Australia, great atmosphere..
'''The Promenade Cafe''' at the Hyatt hotel, Commonwealth Ave, offers daily buffet dinners in its restaurant from 6pm and high teas from 3 to 5pm.
'''The Ginger Room''', located in Old Parliament House, the Ginger Room offers fine dining, in either a two course, or three course meal option. Food offerings can be inconsistent in quality but if it is good, it's really good.
Drink
Canberra's many bars and clubs will be closed on Sunday nights and early into the week. Civic can appear to be a ghost town but there are areas such as Bunda Street where you will always find some happening funky bars.
'''King O'Malleys''' in Civic (inside City Walk Hotel building, Ground floor). Large Irish pub with a relaxed atmosphere, does pub-style meals lunch and dinner and a home for all types.
'''The Wig and Pen''' [http://www.wigandpen.com.au/] Canberra House Arcade, Alinga St Civic, 6248 0171, [http://www.wigandpen.com.au ]. Serves a wide range of award winning beers brewed on the premises, as well as a selection of other boutique and independent brews.
'''The Phoenix''', 21 East Row Canberra City, 6247 1606. About as rustic and dingy as a Canberra establishment is likely to get, this pub attracts a varied crowd, with more than its fair share of bohemian types.
'''Trinity Bar''' (Just behind the Turkish Pide House in Dickson). This is a great lounge bar with impressive cocktail menu and jazz/DJs playing each evening Thurs-Saturday. Also in Tuggeranong on Anketel St.
'''Hippo Lounge''' (Upstairs, Garema Place, Civic). Cocktail bar with an intimate setting amidst Baroque-meets-student-digs decor. There's also live Jazz on Wednesday nights.
'''Old Parliament House'''. Every Friday afternoon (5pm to 7pm), the court yards of Old Parliament House have DJs and reasonably priced cocktails. It is very popular with graduates after work, before heading off to other places.
'''Academy''' [http://www.academyclub.com.au/] (Bunda St Civic). Two-tiered nightclub, Canberra's largest, is a converted movie theatre which retains the old projection screen. Enjoy the dance floor downstairs or sit back in the cosier cocktail bar upstairs.
Cube. 3 Petrie Plaza, Civic. ownstairs from Antigo's cafe. 61-2-6257-1110. ttp://www.cubenightclub.com.au/index-2.php. pens Thu 8PM, Fri 9PM, Sat 10PM, Sun 9PM. Closes 5am. Canberra's only gay nightclub with a variety of theme nights. Fridays and Saturdays are busiest.
'''Uni Pub''' (University Ave). Multistory bar with levels dedicated to various activities including Pool and a Restaurant. Fridays and Saturdays are busiest.
'''Filthy McFaddens''' (Kinston). Tucked away in a corner of Kingston Green a slate floored Irish pub opened by the owners of The Phoenix. Catch folk music most Friday/Saturday nights.
'''PJ O'Reilly's''' (West Row - City). Another Irish themed bar like King O'Malley's.
'''Mooseheads''' [http://www.mooseheads.com.au/Welcome.html] (East Row - London Cct - City). A bar with local history. Recently burnt down and restored, Mooseheads is famous as an Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) hangout.
'''Tilly's''' (Lyneham Shops). Formerly a "female only" establishment (in theory) it now opens it's doors to everyone and is a fantastic venue for acoustic local and international acts. Large range of alcoholic drinks available.
'''All Bar Nun''' (O'Connor Shops). Recently expanded bar in a suburban shop setting. Great for pre-dinner drinks before moving on to one of the small restaurants in the area.
'''Kremlin Bar''' (Northbourne Ave - City). Lounge bar with a good cocktail list. Find a DJ there most weekends.
'''Shooters''' (East Row - City). Rough and tumble reputation.
'''Das Kapital''' (Narrabundah Shops). Intimate lounge bar, $5 Homemade Pizza and $10 jugs of Beer Wednesday-Thursday. DJ's and Bands most weekends.
'''ICBM''' (Northbourn Ave - City) No Cover Charge! Awsome if you like simple and not "mixed up music", can get very busy on Friday and Saturday nights.
'''Northbar''' (Northbourn Ave - City) A great place to start the night, cool, chic decor is a great setting to sip on a famous Vodka infusions.
Sleep
Serviced apartments
Serviced, short-term apartments are widely available throughout Canberra and are available for stays as short as one night. Amenities typically include kitchen, washer and dryer, and separate bedrooms. A full range of properties exist from budget to 5 star.
Southern Cross Apartment Rentals [http://www.sthrncross.com/] offers a wide range of serviced apartments throughout Canberra.
Budget
'''Canberra City YHA''', 7 Akuna Street, Canberra City, tel 02 6248 9155 (''canberracity@yhansw.org.au, fax 02 6249 1731''), [http://www.yha.com.au/hostels/details.cfm?hostelid=240]. Beds in a shared dormitory from $26 per night. Double or twin rooms from $76 per night. Family rooms $96 per night.
'''Victor Lodge''', 29 Dawes St, Kingston, +61 02 6295 7777 (''contact@victorlodge.com.au, fax +61 02 6295 2466''), [http://www.victorlodge.com.au/]. Reception 7:30am-9pm. Kitchen is only open from 11am-9pm but breakfast is provided and included in the rates. Free parking. Shops, cafes and grocery store are nearby. Dorm beds from $27.
Mid-range
'''Rydges Eagle Hawk Resort''', Federal Highway. ph 02 6241 6033. fax 02 6241 3691. email reservations_eaglehawk@rydges.com, [http://www.rydges.com/locations/RydgesAbout.asp?hotel=RAEAGL]. This large resort, a few kilometers from the outskirts of Canberra, has motel-style accommodation. Rooms include small kitchenettes, and it is possible to get two rooms with an adjoining door for families or groups. The resort has a large pool, a breakfast room and restaurant, and a small spa and sauna area. Double rooms $140 per night without breakfast and $170 with breakfast. Rates may be as low as $110 if you pay in advance and agree to a 48 hour cancellation period via the Rydges Direct system.
'''Novotel Canberra Hotel''', 65 Northbourne Avenue, Canberra ACT 2600 - Ph: 02 6245 5000 Fax: 6245 5100 E: H2796-RE@accor.com, [http://www.novotelcanberrahotel.com.au/]. In Canberra's Civic Centre on Northbourne Ave, Novotel Canberra accommodates business and convention visitors, and families travelling with children. Directly above the Canberra Coach Terminal. Rate range $150 - 250.
'''Rydges Lakeside Canberra''' [http://rydges.com/hotel/0/RACANB/Rydges-Lakeside-Canberra.htm], London Circuit, ph 1300 857 922 - Rydges Lakeside Canberra is located on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, walking distance to Civic.
'''Rydges Capital Hill''' [http://rydges.com/hotel/0/RACAPH/Rydges-Capital-Hill-Canberra.htm], Cnr Canberra Avenue & National Circuit Forest, ph 1300 857 922 - Located across the lake from Civic, close to Parliament House.
'''Golden Chain Motels''' [http://www.goldenchainmotels.com.au/act] has 2 locations in Canberra.
Splurge
'''Hyatt Hotel Canberra''' [http://canberra.park.hyatt.com/], Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla. tel 13 1234 (local call within Australia) or 02 6270 1234. fax 02 6281 5998. email canberra@hyatt.com.au. Double room from $190 per night.
'''Hotel Kurrajong''' [http://www.hotelkurrajong.com.au/kurrajong.html]. Address: National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600 Australia. Tel: +61 2 6234 4444. Fax:+61 2 6234 4466. Each of the Kurrajong_fs 26 rooms have King size beds, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, in-room safe, free in-house movies.
Bed and Breakfast
There are a number of Bed and Breakfast places just off Northbourne Avenue, in Canberra's inner north. These tend to be mid-range, cost-wise, but are comfortable and refreshing if you are looking for a 'home away from home'.
Contact
The National Library of Australia provides free WiFi and free internet access from its 40 computer terminals (webmail is blocked on some computers, so ask the staff to show you which ones you can access webmail from). The library is located adjacent to Commonwealth Avenue Bridge on the southern side of Lake Burley Griffin near the National Gallery of Australia and Questacon. It is open 9am-9pm Monday-Thursday, 9am-5pm Friday-Saturday and 1.30pm-5pm on Sundays.
There is also free internet available at all of the public libraries in Canberra, though the terminals at Tuggeranong may be occupied during school hours by students of the college next door since it is a dual-use library. Membership is not required, but you may have to book a few hours in advance due to high demand.
McDonald's restaurants in the ACT offer free WiFi, no purchase required. Full list of participating restaurants available at [http://www.maccasfreewifi.com/]; the closest to Civic is the Bradden store, corner Cooyong & Mort Streets. There is content filtering and session download limits.
Stay safe
Canberra is a very safe city and enjoys one of the lowest crime rates in all of Australia. However, it is wise to be cautious at night (and sometimes during off-peak hours), especially around the bus interchanges at Civic, Woden, Tuggeranong and Belconnen as some youths may tend to be hostile.
Despite apparent afluence, Canberra has people who live 'rough'. Particularly around Civic, it is common to be asked for money "for a bus" or some other purpose. This is a well-organised activity targeting both visitors and locals alike; simply decline and the "begger" will usually move on to the next available person. Occasionally, Civic's late-night party-goers will have over-spent and ask for bus-money; these people are easily seen for who they are.
Cope
Embassies
This is a list of foreign missions in Canberra. Some countries may have their representative in other cities, and Department of Foreign Affairs keeps a complete list [http://protocol.dfat.gov.au/].
<listing name="Afganistan" address="4 Beale Crescent, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6282-7311" url="http://www.afghanembassy.net/"></listing>
<listing name="Algeria" address="9 Terrigal Crescent, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-7355" url="http://www.algeriaemb.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Argentina" address="John McEwen House, Level 2, 7 National Circuit, Canberra" phone="+61-2-6273-9111" url="http://www.argentina.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Austria" address="12 Talbot Street, Forrest" phone="+61-2-6295-1533" url="http://www.austria.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Bangladesh" address="43 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-0511" url="http://www.bangladoot-canberra.org/"></listing>
<listing name="Belgium" address="19 Arkana Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-2501" url="http://www.diplomatie.be/canberra/"></listing>
<listing name="Bosnia and Herzegovina" address="5 Beale Crescent, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6232-5490" url="http://www.bosnia.webone.com.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Botswana" address="52 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-7500" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Brazil" address="19 Forster Crescent, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-2372" url="http://www.brazil.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Brunei Darussalam" address="10 Beale Crescent, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6285 4500" email="bruneihc@netspeed.com.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Bulgaria" address="33 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-9711" url="http://www.bulgaria.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Cambodia" address="5 Canterbury Crescent, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6273-1154" url="http://www.embassyofcambodia.org.nz/au.htm"></listing>
<listing name="Canada" address="Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6270-4000" url="http://geo.international.gc.ca/asia/australia//"></listing>
<listing name="Chile" address="10 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-2430" url="http://www.embachile-australia.com/"></listing>
<listing name="China" address="15 Coronation Drive, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-4780" url="http://au.china-embassy.org/eng/"></listing>
<listing name="Colombia" address="Level 2, 161 London Circuit, Canberra" phone="+61-2-6230-4203" email="embassyofcolombia@bigpond.com" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Croatia" address="14 Jindalee Crescent, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-6988" email="croemb@bigpond.net.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Cuba" address="1 Gerogery Place, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-2151" email="embaus@bigpond.com" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Cyprus" address="30 Beale Crescent, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6281-0832" email="info@cyprus.org.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Czech Republic" address="8 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-1386" email="canberra@embassy.mzv.cz" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Denmark" address="15 Hunter Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6270-5333" email="" url="http://www.canberra.um.dk/en"></listing>
<listing name="Egypt" address="1 Darwin Avenue, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-4437" email="" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Eritrea" address="16 Bulwarra Close, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-1991" email="embassy_of_eritrea@bigpond.com" url=""></listing>
<listing name="European Union" address="18 Arkana Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6271-2777" email="" url="http://www.delaus.ec.europa.eu/"></listing>
<listing name="Fiji" address="19 Beale Crescent, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6260-5115" email="admin@aus-fhc.org" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Finland" address="12 Darwin Avenue, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3800" email="sanomat.can@formin.fi" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" address="74 Banks Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6282-6220" email="" url="http://www.macedonianemb.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="France" address="6 Perth Avenue, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6216-0100" email="" url="http://www.ambafrance-au.org/"></listing>
<listing name="Germany" address="119 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6270-1911" email="" url="http://www.canberra.diplo.de/"></listing>
<listing name="Ghana" address="13 Numeralla Street, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-2110" email="" url="http://www.ghanahighcom.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Great Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya" address="50 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-7900" email="" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Greece" address="9 Turrana Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3011" email="gremb.can@mfa.gr" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Holy See" address="2 Vancouver Street, Red Hill" phone="+61-2-6295-3876" email="nuntius@cyberone.com.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Hungary" address="17 Beale Crescent, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6282-3226" email="cbr.missions@kum.hu" url=""></listing>
<listing name="India" address="3-5 Moonah Place, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3999" email="" url="http://www.hcindia-au.org/"></listing>
<listing name="Indonesia" address="8 Darwin Avenue, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6250-8600" email="" url="http://www.kbri-canberra.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Iran" address="25 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-2427" email="" url="http://www.mfa.gov.ir/"></listing>
<listing name="Iraq" address="48 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-2744" email="" url="http://www.iraqembassyaustralia.org"></listing>
<listing name="Ireland" address="20 Arkana Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3022" email="canberraembassy@dfa.ie" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Israel" address="6 Turrana Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6215-4500" email="" url="http://canberra.mfa.gov.il/"></listing>
<listing name="Italy" address="12 Grey Street, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6273-3333" email="" url="http://www.ambcanberra.esteri.it/"></listing>
<listing name="Japan" address="112 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3244" email="" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Jordan" address="20 Roebuck Street, Red Hill" phone="+61-2-6295-9951" email="" url="http://www.jordanembassy.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Kenya" address="Level 3, Manpower Building 33/35 Ainslie Avenue, Canberra" phone="+61-2-6247-4788" email="khc-canberra@kenya.asn.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Kuwait" address="5 Callemonda Rise, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-7777" email="" url="http://www.kuwaitemb-australia.com/"></listing>
<listing name="Laos" address="1 Dalman Crescent, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-4595" email="" url="http://www.laosembassy.net/"></listing>
<listing name="Lebanon" address="27 Endeavour Street, Red Hill" phone="+61-2-6295-7378" email="" url="http://www.lebanemb.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Malaysia" address="7 Perth Avenue, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273 1543" email="" url="http://www.malaysia.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Malta" address="38 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-1724" email="maltahighcommission.canberra@gov.mt" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Mauritius" address="2 Beale Crescent, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6281-1203" email="mhccan@cyberone.com.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Mexico" address="14 Perth Avenue, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3963" email="" url="http://www.mexico.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Mongolia" address="29 Cobbadah Street, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-2947" email="mngemb@bigpond.com" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Morocco" address="17 Terrigal Crescent, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-0755" email="" url="http://www.moroccoembassy.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Myanmar" address="22 Arkana Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3811" email="" url="http://www.myanmarembassycanberra.com/"></listing>
<listing name="Nepal" address="Suite 2.02, AAPT Building 24 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra" phone="+61-2-6162-1554" email="" url="http://www.necan.gov.np/"></listing>
<listing name="Netherlands" address="120 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6220-9400" email="" url="http://www.netherlands.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="New Zealand" address="Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6270-4211" email="" url="http://www.nzembassy.com/home.cfm?c=18"></listing>
<listing name="Nigeria" address="26 Guilfoyle Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6282-7411" email="" url="http://www.nigeria-can.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Norway" address="17 Hunter Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3444" email="" url="http://www.norway.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Pakistan" address="4 Timbarra Crescent, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-1676" email="" url="http://www.pakistan.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Papua New Guinea" address="39-41 Forster Crescent, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3322" email="" url="http://www.pngcanberra.org/"></listing>
<listing name="Peru" address="40 Brisbane Avenue, Barton" phone="+61-2-6273-7351" email="" url="http://www.embaperu.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Philippines" address="1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-2535" email="" url="http://www.philembassy.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Poland" address="7 Turrana Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6272-1000" email="" url="http://www.canberra.polemb.net/"></listing>
<listing name="Portugal" address="23 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-1733" email="embportcanb@internode.on.net" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Republic of Korea" address="113 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6270-4100" email="" url="http://aus-act.mofat.go.kr/eng/index.jsp"></listing>
<listing name="Romania" address="4 Dalman Crescent, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-2343" email="" url="http://canberra.mae.ro/"></listing>
<listing name="Russia" address="78 Canberra Avenue, Griffith" phone="+61-2-6295-9033" email="" url="http://www.australia.mid.ru/"></listing>
<listing name="Samoa" address="13 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-5505" email="samoahcaussi@netspeed.com.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Saudi Arabia" address="38 Guilfoyle Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6250-7000" email="" url="http://www.saudiembassy.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Serbia" address="4 Bulwarra Close, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-2630" email="serbembau@optusnet.com.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Singapore" address="17 Forster Crescent, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6271-2000" email="singhc_cbr@sgmfa.gov.sg" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Slovakia" address="47 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-1516" email="" url="http://www.slovakemb-aust.org/"></listing>
<listing name="Slovenia" address="Level 6, St George's Building 60 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra" phone="+61-2-6243-4830" email="vca@gov.si" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Solomon Islands" address="Suite 3 18 Napier Close, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6282-7030" email="info@solomonemb.org.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="South Africa" address="Corner State Circle and Rhodes Place, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6272-7300" email="" url="http://www.sahc.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Spain" address="15 Arkana Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6273-3555" email="" url="http://www.maec.es/subwebs/Embajadas/Canberra/en/home/Paginas/home.aspx"></listing>
<listing name="Sri Lanka" address="35 Empire Circuit, Forrest" phone="+61-2-6239-7041" email="" url="http://www.slhcaust.org/"></listing>
<listing name="Sweden" address="5 Turrana Street, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6270-2700" email="" url="http://www.swedenabroad.com/canberra"></listing>
<listing name="Switzerland" address="7 Melbourne Avenue, Forrest" phone="+61-2-6162-8400" email="" url="http://www.eda.admin.ch/australia"></listing>
<listing name="Syria" address="41 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6218-5200" email="" url="http://www.syrianembassy.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Thailand" address="111 Empire Circuit, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6206-0100" email="thaican@mfa.go.th" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Timor-Leste" address="25 Blaxland Crescent, Griffith" phone="+61-2-6260-8800" email="TL_Emb.Canberra@bigpond.com" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Tonga" address="7 Newdegate Street, Deakin" phone="+61-2-6232-4806" email="info@tongahighcom.com.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Turkey" address="6 Moonah Place, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6234-0000" email="" url="http://www.turkishembassy.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Uganda" address="7 Dunoon Street, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-1234" email="" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Ukraine" address="Level 12, St George Centre 60 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra" phone="+61-2-6230-5789" email="" url="http://www.mfa.gov.ua/australia"></listing>
<listing name="United Arab Emirates" address="12 Bulwarra Close, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-8802" email="" url="http://www.uaeembassy.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="United Kingdom" address="Commonwealth Avenue, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6270-6666" email="" url="http://ukinaustralia.fco.gov.uk/"></listing>
<listing name="United States of America" address="1 Moonah Place, Yarralumla" phone="+61-2-6214-5600" email="" url="http://canberra.usembassy.gov/"></listing>
<listing name="Uruguay" address="24 Brisbane Avenue, Barton" phone="+61-2-6273-9100" email="urucan@iimetro.com.au" url=""></listing>
<listing name="Venezuela" address="7 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-2968" email="" url="http://www.venezuela-emb.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Vietnam" address="6 Timbarra Crescent, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6290-1549" email="" url="http://www.vietnamembassy.org.au/"></listing>
<listing name="Zimbabwe" address="11 Culgoa Circuit, O'Malley" phone="+61-2-6286-2281" email="zimbabwe1@iimetro.com.au" url=""></listing>
Get out
NSW regions:
Queanbeyan - located just across the NSW border
Yass - Service town, near the road to Melbourne
Goulburn - Country town, worth a visit if you are travelling onward to Sydney.
Snowy Mountains - its possibly to spend a day skiing from Canberra, leaving early, and returning late.
Batemans Bay - the closest ocean beaches to Canberra - 115 minutes away.
Collector - a small historic town 30 minutes drive north of Canberra ideal for a day trip. Famous for a kidnap and murder by bushrangers.
Gundaroo - a small historic town north of Canberrra, you can follow the range from Gundaroo through to Collector as an scenic alternative to the federal highway. Some dirt roads involved.
Bungendore - a small historic town 20 minutes drive from central Canberra, via Queanbeyan. It has an award winning wood gallery [http://www.bungendorewoodworks.com.au/] and associated cafe and many interesting places to eat, shop or stay.