TOURISM AWARDS WIN MAKES LUCKY 13 FOR YHA

Sydney Central YHA has shown 13 is lucky for some, winning Best Backpacker Accommodation honours at the 2009 NSW Tourism Awards last night. The award marks the 13th straight win for YHA and second year in a row for the hostel, which took out the award for tourism excellence ahead of regional winner Port Stephens YHA – Samurai Beach Bungalows.

“It’s fantastic to have both city and regional YHAs nominated for the state industry’s top accolade,” said Janet McGarry, YHA NSW. “At YHA, we are not only about quality accommodation but ensuring a great travel experience by providing regular activities such as pub crawls, movie nights and BBQs that help to foster great memories and life-long friends.”

The only hostel to boast an in-house cinema, plus panoramic city views from the rooftop and outdoor area which includes a heated pool and sauna, it’s no wonder Sydney Central YHA took out the top gong. The hostel is housed in a heritage-listed building opposite Central Station in the heart of the backpacker precinct.

Australia’s only 5-star rated hostel, today’s savvy backpackers are spoilt for choice at Sydney Central YHA with WiFi and fast internet, weekly activities, licensed travel agency, supermarket, games and TV rooms, plus on-site bar and café just a few of the YHA’s added extras. A range of room options are also available, from spacious multi-share rooms to twin and double ensuite rooms.

The recent win shows Sydney Central YHA continues to set the standards in exceptional services and facilities for backpackers. The hostel has previously won both the NSW and Australian Tourism Awards in 2008 and a decade earlier in 1998. 

Around 700 guests attended the 2009 NSW Tourism Award gala ceremony and dinner, held at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour. Sydney Central YHA will now vie for the top award at the National Tourism Awards to be held in February 2010. 

2009 has been a golden year for YHA, celebrating 100 years of hostelling. Bucking the tourism trend, the non-profit organisation has celebrated in style with the opening of three new YHAs in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney. YHA is part of the world’s largest backpacker accommodation network, Hostelling International, with 4,000 places to stay across 60 countries worldwide, including 120 in Australia.

For more information about Sydney Central YHA visit www.yha.com.au