So you’re coming to ASCILITE 2017! Have you found somewhere to stay?
Toowoomba and its surroundings won’t disappoint with plenty of accommodation options – motels, apartments, bed and breakfasts and caravan parks.
For starters, the conference committee has secured discounted accommodation rates at Toowoomba Central Plaza Apartments, The City Golf Club Motel and the Potter’s Motel. See the accommodation page for pricing and room facilities. Catch the complimentary bus service from these accommodation options for hassle free travel to the conference venue daily.
Accommodation with old world charm
For many, a visit to Toowoomba is not complete without a stay in one of the impressive, grand old homes.
Top of the traveller’s list in 2016 (TripAdvisor) was Wanulla, a superb bed and breakfast in the heritage Caledonian Estate. Wanulla provides guests with an extra level of comfort in an elegant setting. Guests can enjoy snuggling up in large ensuited bedrooms, as well as relaxing in the extensive lounge and dining room furnished with classic antique pieces. Wanulla is only a few minutes walk from Toowoomba’s CBD, Queen’s Park with its magnificent gardens, and numerous nearby cafes.
Another all-time favourite is Vacy Hall, the only heritage-listed accommodation in Toowoomba’s quiet inner city. This 12 roomed, classically decorated guesthouse boasts large luxury rooms as well as more modest quarters. Vacy Hall is set on over an acre of landscaped gardens with large 140 year old trees. If a country style breakfast is on your to-do list, you can have it served to your room or on the colonial verandah. TripAdvisor describes Vacy Hall as “Tranquility, peace with history”.
Banksia Cottage may fit your needs perfectly if bringing your family or coming to the conference as a group. Rented as an entire cottage, you will have privacy and freedom. This accommodation is even pet friendly. Built in 1898, Banksia Cottage combines historic charm with modern day comforts and is located in tree-lined Norwood Street on the doorstep of the City.
If you are interested in immersing yourself in history then perhaps check out Augusta’s Cottage located in historic Mort Estate. This conveniently located cottage with its high ceilings and double brick walls nestled in beautiful gardens, is perfect for couples, families or small groups.
Having a car will allow you to stay a little further afield to experience a truly unique Australian experience. Rudd’s historic pub at Nobby, winner of Queensland and Australian Hotel’s Association Best Pub Style Accommodation Awards can provide just that. For something totally different, choose a queen room with a shower under a rain water tank or maybe the family room with an old fashioned claw foot bath to relax in. A complimentary traditional Australian country breakfast completes the package.
Apartments
Renting a whole apartment instead of hotel room, may sound extravagant but I think you will be pleasantly surprised how cost effective furnished apartments can be in Toowoomba. Coupled with the extra space, is the added bonus of being able to cook and eat just like at home, if desired. Just a few of your options are…
Laguna: stylish, comfortable, two bedroom contemporary apartments located close to Toowoomba’s CBD, and within walking distance to many of the city’s glorious gardens, restaurants and the Empire Theatre. Laguna is a perfect choice for business and leisure trips. Apartments include fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities. Come home from a day at the conference and relax on the balcony taking in the views of the city.
Athena provides the choice of premium two or three bedroom apartments, or the popular studio suite. All apartments are equipped with self-contained kitchens in an open plan living design. But, there is so much more to Athena – a 24 hour gym, restaurant, pool, bar and games as well as access to the shuttle from the Toowoomba Wellcamp airport. Whether your trip is purely to attend ASCILITE or combine a family holiday in Toowoomba, Athena will provide a luxurious stay. Athena is a “sensational stay” (TripAdvisor).
21 On Hursley: luxury, spacious quiet one or two bedroom ensuited apartment accommodation just 10 minutes by car from the University. Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, microwave and full size fridge as well as modern furnishings, spa baths, lock up garage and Foxtel. These apartments won’t disappoint – quality abounds from the towels to the kitchen equipment. HotelsCombined awarded 21 On Hursley, the 2017 Recognition of Excellence award while guests rate the apartments 9.9.
Motels
When it comes to motels, Toowoomba caters for all budgets and tastes with a plethora of clean, comfortable and quiet motels within easy commute of the conference venue and all that is on offer in the city.
Comfort Inn Glenfield ticks the boxes if you looking for a comfortable, economical stay located close to the University, shopping centre and eateries.
Applegum Inn, situated in a beautiful east Toowoomba tree lined street close to Queen’s Park and the Empire theatre is another economical option offering easy access with all units on the ground floor and undercover parking. Choose to have breakfast and dinner delivered to your room or sample the food on offer at the onsite restaurant. Guest laundry facilities complete the package.
Best Western Plus Ambassador on Ruthven Motor Inn is hard to beat as a quality, newly renovated eco-friendly motel. Winner of TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence awards in 2014, 2015 and 2016, this 4 star motel provides clean, comfortable rooms for couples, singles, families and groups, as well as spa suites. For stress free dining try Seasons, the licensed onsite restaurant and wine bar.
Platinum International is an exclusive, stylish 4 star accommodation located in a perfect location for conference delegates. Consecutive winner of TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence awards and renown for immaculate presentation with up to date furnishings and coverings, quiet rooms, kitchenettes, friendly, professional staff and a quality buffet breakfast. For a fine dining experience, onsite Images Restaurant and Lounge Bar should be on your ‘must try’ list while in town.
Caravan park
The BIG4 Toowoomba Garden City Holiday Park is a perfect base for the ASCILITE conference being easy walking distance from a great little shopping centre, and just over 2 kilometres from USQ. The park has a wide selection of fully self-contained modern cabin accommodation to suit all budgets and needs, as well as catering for wide range of caravans, motorhomes and campervans.
Airbnb
Toowoomba has many Airbnb properties, from private rooms to guest houses to entire properties. Check out the local Superhosts or see the whole range of properties on offer in Toowoomba.
Other options
For other accommodation options, check out these websites: