www.wotif.com

www.stayz.com.au

Thanks Mikey36, www.stayz.com.au looks very promising for weekly/monthly rates. I have narrowed it down to two properties in Newtown and one above a pub in Darlinghurst. I am a bit concerned about the noise at the "pub" location. Does anyone know anything about the accommodation at the Royal Sovereign Hotel?

I like the idea of staying in a funky/artistic/off-the-beaten-track area so I might go for Newtown.

I appreciate you assistance. This forum contains a wealth of information.

Yes, Excentrus, I'm with you... Newtown would be a far more interesting place to stay than above a pub in Darlinghurst, though I can't comment specifically on the Sovereign Hotel. Since you want to be near good restaurants, Newtown would be unbeatable: Asian, African, Indian, Greek, Moroccan, you name it. And you're quite near Leichhardt, which is Sydney's "little Italy". Public transport is ideal.... just eight minutes in the train, and almost as quick by bus... and around Newtown the buses come every couple of minutes. You could walk to the city if you'd a mind to.... a pleasant forty-five minute stroll past parks and Sydney University. And the antique and second-hand shops of Newtown are a treasure trove.

I think you're making a splendid choice; Newtown is not exactly "typical" Sydney, as there's not all that much left to remind you of Australia's English heritage, but it sure is interesting!

Glebe is another suburb - closer to CBD with lots of students living in area, slight bohemian area with great saturday markets & cafes. close to Sydney Uni & could walk into CBD in 20 mins. But I think Newton has lots more cafes etc. & would still be a good choice. Maybe try some real estate agents eg LJ Hooker, Ray White to see if they have any short term lets.

Totally agree with others regarding Newtown. Its a fabulous bohemian suburb with heaps of interesting people, shops and restaurants.

Thanks for the feedback folks. Mission accomplished - three weeks in February 2009 in Newtown on Australia Street :-) My one cyber-friend who lives in Potts Point says that he will come and visit me when he feels like slumming HAHA ! I have been researching Newtown and I think it sounds fabulous. I am bohemian by nature. Can't wait. Now I just have to figure out the rest of Australia.