I had the opportunity to do a solo backpacking trip even if I am in a relationship. Joel had been to Hobart, Tasmania before and had work to do over the weekend therefore, he easily agreed for me to go on my own. It is rare for me to have a weekend off so I grabbed the chance. Here's how I did my Hobart 2019 trip.
1. Flights - it is easy to score cheap flights to Hobart as it is near to Melbourne. Tigerair, Jetstar and Virgin Air would sometimes put up a sale for their flights. Sometimes it could be as low as $35 (USD 25). For my trip, I used the credits that I had from Tigerair for my flight going there and I purchased a flight from Virgin Air just because I haven't ridden with them before.
2. Accommodations - there are lots to choose from but I finally decided on YHA Hobart Central. I wanted to stay in the heart of the city and I booked for a 4 share female room with private bathroom for $42 (USD 30) per night. On the first night, the room was full but on the second night there was only one lady with me. The place is very near to the visitor center, Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and Salamanca Place. The room was clean and the staff were helpful so I was happy with my choice.
Places I visited in Hobart:
1. Mona (Museum of Old and New Art)
From the airport, I booked the bus trip that would take me to Mona Museum from the airport and drop me back to the city after. It cost me $22. The museum ticket was $28. I booked all this while at Hobart Airport. The bus getting me from the airport cannot be missed and goes through the city before going into Mona. I was the only passenger on the bus from the airport. 3 ladies later joined me in the bus when we stopped in the city.
I preferred the bus ride than the ferry ride to Mona. The driver, Heather, was quick to point out things along the way. In Mona, I had to put my bag to a free locker before going in. Then I had to collect the O app. It was fun walking through the halls and discovering quirky and interesting things in display. I will write a separate blog about it pretty soon!
Mona's wall of vaginas
2. Docks and The Parliament House
The constitutional dock was pretty close to where I stayed. I had an amazing late lunch at one of the stores near the dock as recommended by the Mona bus driver, Heather.
The Parliament House was also pretty near. I loved that there were flowers in front of it. As per wikipedia, it was originally designed as a customs house but changed use in 1841 when Tasmania acheived self- government. I've heard that this is the meeting place of most people in Hobart. They would usually meet up at the grounds of the Parliament House and go somewhere else after.
3. Parks- There were about 3 parks in the CBD that I've been to. Franklin Park, Parliament Park and Princes Park. The beautiful scenery along with the wonderful weather when I was down there added to my awesome time hanging out at the parks.
4. Salamanca Market and Salamanca Place- this was just a few blocks from me. On Saturdays, a road is blocked to make way for the Salamanca Market. Local produce, Tasmanian souvenirs and lots of other things can be found here. I enjoyed walking through the market and stayed for almost 3 hours. I love to support local products and so bought locally produced apples, chocolates and a massage oil.
Since it was a week away from Chinese New Year, there was also a mini presentation showcasing Chinese talent at the Salamance grounds. At first, there were ladies dancing in colorful costumes, then a group of kids proud of their taekwando skills, Chinese ladies showing their rapping skills and of course the highlight was the dragon dance.
5. Battery Point - Very near to Salamanca Market. I watched the boats make their way to the dock while I was in here. I walked around and found old houses and some shops as well.
As it was summer, I found a lot of nice flowers growing at the sides of the street or in the parks.
6. Kunanyi/Mt. Wellington - booked my tour from the visitor center. Cost was $30 and the duration was 2 hours. The bus picked us up from just outside the visitor center. The driver served as the tour guide as well. We were given 20 minutes to roam around the pinnacle of Mt Wellington and about 20 minutes to get coffee from the Springs. I will write a separate blog about it soon, too!
8. Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
This is just across the street from where I stayed in Hobart. The admission is free but you have to pay for entry to their featured gallery. When I was there, the featured gallery was about Dinosaurs.
The place is interesting as well. I learned about the Thylacine or Tasmanian Tiger which is now extinct due to environmental pressure and hunting.
I saw a collection of coins, paintings a lot more including different kinds of chairs.
I particularly liked this colorful and unique painting of Australia as Treasure Island.
During my short stint in Hobart, I ate whatever I want. I had fish and chips which was one of the best ones I had. My mouth waters every time I see this photo.
Another must try is their Scallop Pie. After my trip to Mt. Wellington, I hurried up back to Salamanca Market to buy some but most of the shops have already closed. I decided to walk around and found a bakery that advertised it. I went in and got lucky that they still have one more left. I've never tried nor heard about one before. It was pretty good and it was slightly curried. I was so full that it served as my dinner.
If I stayed longer, I would have wanted to go to other places outside Hobart such as Port Arthur. But since I had to go back to work, I'll just wish I can find time to visit Hobart again in the future.
Thank you for reading and 'til next blog!
