Looks like Dave has joined the team for a while and will be contributing quite a bit – so I decided he should have a running feature, so welcome to the “Dave Diaries”, ramblings from the Packman himself!
This weeks focus is the gem of the west coast – Margaret River.
Having spent a large period of time in Byron Bay (where I met Chris) as a bus tout for the YHA I decided to explore Oz before being permanently trapped in the hippie mecca!
I wanted something of a similar vibe after falling in love with the laid back beach lifestyle, so I jumped on a flight to Perth and made my way to Margaret River; the Byron of the west coast!
After a 2 day trip around the region I was set on wanting to experience this place in a bit more depth and find out what it has to offer – plus I couldn’t resist the opportunity to fall back into another bubble!
There was a healthy choice of accommodation to choose from in the area but I opted for the Margaret River Backpackers (an in in depth review of which will be coming soon). Its only 2 years old, right in the centre of town, 2 minutes from the supermarket and boast all the modern amenities.
From here its easy to explore the town itself and meet heaps of travellers. The population is mainly made up of vineyard workers – backpackers who are squeezing in the hours to gain that illusive second year visa. So to say the place is quiet during the week is an understatement.
But when the weekend hits the town comes alive – with “The Settlers” pub appearing to be the backpacker hangout of choice. It’s an eccentric mix of travellers and friendly locals, with lots of entertainment and live bands, the perfect way to party and let off steam.
Benji - passionate about Margaret River
Tuesday 30th of November 2010
Hi Dave. Great to hear you made the trip over here. Not everyone makes it and I think that is one of the beauties of Margaret River. I have heard nothting but good things about the Margaret River Backpackers and as you say Settlers seems to be the place of choice on a Saturday night and on a Sunday afternoon for blues on the veranda. For those seeking their hours for their visas there are so many options from vinyards, to olive groves to the hospitality trade. As Margaret River is rural even working at a winery serving tables or bar work will qualify you for your second year visas. I look forward to reading your full review of the backpackers and hearing of the rest of your stay in