Action-packed Hostel (The Arts Factory Lodge (Byron Bay))

Member Name: TigerMystery

Product:	The Arts Factory Lodge (Byron Bay)
Date:	09/07/09 (17 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: So much to do!

Disadvantages: Can get busy, so book early.

Location:
Only a 5 minute walk to the centre of Byron Bay. The hostel provides a free shuttle service for those who are too lazy. This is a necessity at night though, as the streets are too dark to walk back on your own.

************************************************* ********
Staff:
Friendly and welcoming. The whole place has a very chilled-out vibe.

There is usually something organised for the evening. For example, whilst I was there it was Canada Day, and there was a talent show. Cockatoo Paul does a daily bushwalk round the hostel grounds, showing you all the different plants which are good for food, water, even moisturiser. We had to pay for this (about $5 I think), but got a free glass of wine at the end. He also did a performance later in the bar with his didjeridoo guitar and drums.

They do a bus trip to watch the sunrise at the Byron Bay lighthouse, which is the first place in Oz you can see the sunrise. In certain seasons, you can also see whales here.

There is also a guy who does didjeridoo lessons, but he wasn't there when I stayed, so can't comment.

************************************************* ********
Buddha Bar:
They were refurbishing whilst I was there, so I'm not sure what it's like now. They sometimes do cheap meals. I had spag bol in exchange for buying a drink.

************************************************* ********
Lounge Cinema:
The best cinematic experience of my life! So comfy, the seats are covered with cowprint fabric. I took my blanket from my room, and didn't want to leave afterwards!

************************************************* ********
There is also a beauty salon, although I didn't visit it. I believe they do facials, massages, eyelash tinting among others. Reasonably priced.

Summary: Highly recommended. There's so much to do you might not even make it out of the hostel!