Backpacker Buzz

A pair of YHA/HI hostels down south have picked up some prestigious awards this fall (well, spring for them), proving again that New Zealand and Australia are powerhouses in the hostelling world. Australia's YHA Sydney Central picked up an award for Best Backpacker Accommodation in New South Wales this month. Meanwhile over in New Zealand, Wellington City YHA was named Best Large Hotel/Accommodation at the Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards 2009, held in London this month.

Find out more about these award winners after the jump.

Sydney Central YHA
Sydney, Australia
This mega-hostel in downtown Sydney, next to Central Station, has been filled with the oohs and aahs of travellers for over a decade. Today's savvy backpackers are spoilt for choice at Sydney Central YHA with WiFi and fast internet, a pool and sauna on the roof, weekly activities, an in-house cinema, 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.

YHA Wellington City
Wellington, New Zealand
The folks at YHA Wellington City have been thinking green for years and have been working on sustainable initiatives since the mid-nineties. The hostel encourages recycling and composting in the kitchens, as well as a number of other sustainable initiatives, which have earned the hostel the gold standard in Qualmark's environmental accreditation. The hostel is right downtown, with small dorms and two spacious kitchens.