With an unbelievable strip of sandy beaches under the harsh sun, nothing screams relaxation in Australia more than a trip to the Gold Coast in Queensland.

 

The "Sunshine State" is definitely not promoted enough when it comes to the travel media, so it served as a surprise for me. There's more to the country than just the Sydney Opera House or the kangaroo, so frankly, a trip down under without visiting the Gold Coast seems a little wasteful.

 

The shocking part of my booking with the Comfort Inn Mermaid Beach was the fact that I reserved my room on such short notice. I continue to stress that booking hotels within a reasonable amount of time is important, but no one told me I'd be driven down to the Gold Coast until the last minute.

 

It took a few phone calls (including one to a bar - "mate, hotel's just part of the name"), "dumb blonde" me had to go to an internet cafe within a tourist strip in Surfers Paradise to find out about this accommodation.

 

Relief was felt when I found out that this Comfort Inn establishment had a vacancy, in the middle of Schoolies Week out of all holidays. "Schoolies Week" is an Australian version of Spring Break, so mountains of teenagers were destined to party and procreate. I still wonder how I was able to get a reservation during such an important teenage holiday.

 

The room is in line with all the other establishments that are reasonably priced. Although they lacked free breakfast served in other Comfort Inns I've stayed in, their complimentary wireless internet and Austar satellite television lineup definitely helped in my quest to keep in touch. It's not the cable you would get in North America but I didn't expect it.

 

With coffee and tea set, this hotel rounds out with a pool within the property. I don't swim as I'm saving the public from my hideous figure, but it was a nice touch for a country with aquatic citizens.

 

It would've been a bit more pleasant if there wasn't a teenage couple making out inside the pool. They kind of remind me of my own early romances.

 

Since the Gold Coast was built for its beach front, you can reach the white sands within a quick stroll through a neighbourhood. The bicycle lanes and the fact that the ocean is one straight walk down the street adds to the value I got by staying in this hotel.

 

There is an Asian supermarket and Hooters sits across the street. Many restaurants and stores line the long street in which this hotel is located. The local extravagant casino, shopping mall and the Gold Coast Convention Centre are a short drive away.

 

Check-in and checkout was simple, and the staff are very charming people. Relating to my existence as a Canadian in Australia, a lovely kiwi (New Zealander) gentleman made sure my painful search for a hotel had a happy ending.

 

And thus, I recommend the Comfort Inn Mermaid Beach for budget travellers and those who are not fussy, wanting frills.