Staying at 790 on George puts you right in the pulse of Sydney’s most vibrant cultural hub. Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or looking for that perfect Instagram shot, Haymarket and Chinatown have something happening 24/7.

Forget the expensive tourist traps—here are the top 5 local experiences you can reach in less than a 5-minute walk from our front door.

1. Get a Bargain at Paddy’s Markets

Distance from 790: 3-minute walk

No trip to Sydney is complete without a wander through the iconic Paddy’s Markets. Open Wednesday to Sunday, it’s the ultimate place to snag cheap souvenirs, quirky gadgets, and budget-friendly Aussie gear.

• Pro Tip: If you’re cooking in our communal kitchen, head to the back section for some of the cheapest fresh fruit and veg in the city!

2. Feast at the Chinatown Friday Night Markets

Distance from 790: 4-minute walk

Every Friday from 5:00 PM, Dixon Street transforms into a neon-lit street food paradise. From sizzling wagyu skewers and dragon beard candy to the famous “Emperor’s Puffs” (custard-filled goodness), it’s the best way to eat your way through Asia without leaving Sydney.

3. Discover “The Exchange” at Darling Square

Distance from 790: 5-minute walk

Just behind Chinatown is Sydney’s newest precinct, Darling Square. You can’t miss The Exchange—it’s the circular building wrapped in 20km of wood that looks like a giant bird’s nest. It’s home to a library with free high-speed tech and “Maker’s Dozen,” a food hall filled with everything from spicy ramen to bubble tea.

4. Find Zen at the Chinese Garden of Friendship

Distance from 790: 6-minute walk

Need a break from the city noise? Step inside this secret walled garden. For a small entry fee, you can wander past waterfalls, koi ponds, and traditional pagodas. It’s the ultimate spot to relax with a book or enjoy a traditional tea service while feeling miles away from the George Street bustle.

5. Explore Thaitown & Koreatown (Right Next Door!)

Distance from 790: 0-minute walk (You’re already there!)

Haymarket isn’t just about Chinatown. Our hostel is situated in the “Golden Triangle” of Asian cuisine.

• Late Night: We are located right above Five Star Kebabs, but if you turn the corner, you’ll find late-night Korean BBQ and authentic Thai spots like Chat Thai that stay open until the early hours.

Bonus Tip for May 2026: Vivid Sydney is Coming!

Starting May 22, 2026, the Vivid Sydney light festival will take over Darling Harbour (just a short stroll away). Expect massive light projections, drone shows, and free outdoor music. Staying at 790 on George means you can walk to the shows and avoid the nightmare of event-day public transport!

Why Stay Anywhere Else? > At 790 on George, you aren’t just booking a bed; you’re booking a front-row seat to the best of Sydney.

[Check Availability & Book Direct for the Lowest Rates]

Are you a globetrotter currently enjoying the backpacker life in Australia? As you soak in the sun and explore Sydney from your base at 790 on George, it’s essential to stay on top of your “admin”—including taxes.

If you’re working on a 417 or 462 visa, the rules have changed recently. Let’s break down your 2026 obligations in simple terms.

1. Tax Residency: The “Secret” Benefit

Most working holiday makers are classified as non-residents for tax purposes. However, following a major court ruling (Addy v Commissioner of Taxation), you might be taxed as a Resident if you are from a “Tax Treaty” country.

Are you from one of these countries?

• UK, Germany, Israel, Japan, Norway, Finland, Chile, or Turkey.

If you are from one of these countries and you stay in one place (like our hostel!) for more than 6 months, you may be eligible for the $18,200 tax-free threshold. This could mean thousands of dollars back in your pocket.

2. Updated 2026 Tax Rates

For most backpackers, the Australian government uses a “stepped” tax rate. As of the 2025-26 financial year, the rates are:

• $0 – $45,000: 15%

• $45,001 – $135,000: 30% (This was recently lowered from 32.5%!)

• $135,001+: 37% to 45%

3. Tax File Number (TFN) & “Registered Employers”

To get that lower 15% rate, your employer must be registered with the ATO as a “Working Holiday Maker Employer.” If they aren’t, they might accidentally tax you at the higher foreign resident rate (32.5%). Always double-check your first payslip!

4. What Income to Declare

You must declare all Australian-sourced income, including:

• Wages from your jobs.

• Tips and commissions.

• Superannuation: Your employer must pay into a super fund for you. You can claim this back when you leave Australia, but be aware: it is taxed at 65% for WHMs upon withdrawal.

5. Claiming Your Tax Refund

The Australian financial year ends on June 30. You can lodge your return from July 1st.

• Deductions: You can often claim back money spent on work-related gear (like your F&B uniform or tools), and even a portion of your phone bill if you use it for work.

• Deadline: You must lodge your return by October 31, 2026.

6. How to Lodge

The easiest way is via myTax on the ATO website. You’ll need a myGov account linked to the ATO. If your taxes are complicated (especially if you’re claiming residency under a tax treaty), it’s often worth paying a professional to ensure you get the maximum refund.

7. Keeping Records

Take photos of your receipts! Use the ATO app’s “myDeductions” tool to snap photos of work-related expenses as you go so you don’t lose them during your travels.

Need help? If you’re feeling overwhelmed, chat with our friends at taxback.com or visit the ATO website. Staying compliant ensures you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your Aussie adventure!

Disclaimer: This information is a general guide for 2026. For personalized advice, consult with a registered tax professional or visit the ATO website.

Now the speed is 22Mbps upload and download which is much better than free internet we used to provide before. Just come to reception and get the code to access the premium wifi at 790 on George Backpackers.

This offer is for the month of October right now.

**Note: Terms and Conditions applied**

1. Can I live without it?
2. Do I really care if it gets stolen or damaged?
3. Is it something I can buy when I get there?

Your backpack will be home to all of your belongings for the next couple of weeks or months, so choose carefully – 10–12 kg is ideal. The bigger the backpack, the more tempting it is to keep adding things in there.

Seasoned travellers work on the “wear one, wash one” theory. While this might seem a little extreme for your first backpacking trip, try to think about whether you really need to bring 10 pairs of shorts and 15 t-shirts.

Remember that whatever you bring with you could be stolen or damaged, so avoid packing your favourite t-shirt you’ve had for years or that dress you saved up for weeks to buy.

Here’s the checklist for those you need:

Essentials

1. Passport
2. Debit/credit card (Have you notified your bank you are going abroad?)
3. Travel insurance documents
4. Photocopies of passport (if you lose your passport-this can be helpful)
5. Driving license (if you’re planning on hiring a campervan or car while you’re out in Australia you will definitely need this).
6. Mobile phone (preferably unlocked so you can use it with an Aussie SIM card)
7. Student card – get access to some great discounts on tourist attractions

Clothing

Pro travellers work on the “wear one, wash one” theory. Laundry is regularly lost, damaged or taken at hostels and launderettes, so don’t pack your favourite items of clothing.

1. Short sleeve t-shirts/Long sleeve t-shirt (cover up from the sun)
2. Swimwear – a couple of bikini’s or swimming trunks
3. Socks and underwear
4. Shorts / pair of trousers / leggings
5. Hoodie
6. Flip Flop (Thongs)
7. A thin water/wind resistant jacket (for cooler nights or the air-con during bus or plane journeys)

Personal Items

1. 2 x Microfiber travel towels (1 for showering and 1 for the beach)
2. Prescription medicine you need from home
3. Small travel mirror
4. Earplugs and eye mask
5. Sunglasses
6. Spare glasses or contacts if you wear them
7. Brush or comb
8. Don’t bother to bring any heavy bottles of shampoos or shower gels, you can easily and cheaply pick these up from all Chemists warehouse in Australia.

Things you may need to pick up when you arrive:

1. Insect repellent
2. Antihistamine cream or tablets
3. Sun cream is very affordable in Australia
4. Baby wipes and hand sanitizer

With all that being said, you should be all ready for your Aussie adventure to begin!

Thanks for reading and remember…
‘There’s the whole world at your feet’ – Marry Poppins

1. Visit around Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay

2. Take a free City Tour

3. Walk along George Street.

4. View iconic Opera and walk across Harbour Bridge.

5. Tour Royal Botanical Garden.

6. Explore The Rocks and Darling Harbour

7. Visit Government House

8. Stay in 790 on George Backpackers – Sydney’s friendly and cheap hostel located near Central Station

9. Visit Museum of Contemporary Art

10. Surf at Manly, Bondi or Palm Beach

11. Don’t miss Sydney’s iconic Olympic Park

12. Spend some time around Hyde Park

13. Hit Different Markets around like Paddington Market, Sydney Fish Market, Bondi Market, Paddy’s Market, etc

14. Make new friends while staying in 790 on George Backpackers

15. Explore Nightclubs and pubs

Apart from these places, there are lots of other spots which are not mentioned above. Moreover, we will provide detailed information about the places and things to do in Sydney in future.

If you want to know more or need any help just pop up to the reception, someone will be there. We are 24/7 and we provide free WIFI and maps as well. We are one of the best backpacker hostel located in Sydney CBD near Central Station.

Here is the contact information:

790 on George Backpackers

790 George St, Sydney 2000

P: 9080 1155

www.790onGeorge.com.au

Costs by Experience

• BridgeClimb Summit: The original experience scaling the upper arch to the peak. Prices range from $298 to $424. 

• BridgeClimb Summit Insider: Includes a journey through the bridge’s heart (lower arch) before ascending to the Summit. Prices range from $344 to $394. 

• BridgeClimb Burrawa Aboriginal Climb: A 3-hour cultural experience led by an Aboriginal storyteller, including an ochre ceremony. Prices range from $364 to $384. 

• BridgeClimb Ultimate: The most adventurous option, covering the entire breadth of the “Coat hanger” (South to North and back). Price is $364. 

• Vivid Sydney Climb: A seasonal climb during the Vivid Sydney festival. Prices range from $354 to $364. 

• UnderBridge Walk: A 2-hour guided walk under the arches (not a climb). Price starts from $167. 

You can find more from the official site here: BridgeClimb Sydney

1.Cantina OK! in the CBD, Door Knock on Pitt Street, and Eau de Vie near Wynyard. Cantina OK!is a tiny garage-style venue renowned for its exceptional mezcal and experimental cocktails
Address: Pitt Street, and Eau de Vie near Wynyard

2. The Rook – This rooftop bar is one of the best kept secrets among Sydneysiders. Walking into a seemingly plain lobby, go to the lift and press “R”. The big reveal at the top is worth the surprise! This place is all about cocktails, burgers & lobster.
Address: 56-58 York Street, 2000.

3. PS40 – Love Tiki? Hate tacky? OPS40 is the one for you! After going down the laneway a bit, this one is a bit tricky to find but so worth it for the cocktails. Not into cocktails you say?  Don’t worry, 790’s got your back on this one because PS40 is also a soda brewery and makes its own house sodas!
Address: 40 King Street, 2000

4. The Baxter Inn – Actually rated one of the world’s best bars, this underground whiskey joint will have you a malt expert in no time. Make sure you try the apple sour (made with fresh apple juice and whiskey) it’s one of the more popular drinks on the menu. Oh and did we mention you get free pretzels? Because you get FREE pretzels!
Address: 156 Clarence Street, 2000

5. The Soda Factory – Ready for some retro vibes & cheap eats? Soda Factory has got you covered! I mean, as long as you can figure out how to get in (psssst, open the vending machine).
Address: 16 Wentworth Ave, 2010

Happy hunting!

First things first, RELAX.
It can all be a bit overwhelming at times, but let’s break it down for all you intrepid explorers. There are 3 main things you got to get sorted. An Aussie phone number, a Tax File Number (aka TFN, but more on that later) & finally, a bank account for all your precious dollaridoo’s to go into.

Call Me Maybe?

When it comes to picking a phone provider, it really depends on your budget, your needs & the type of trip you want to have in Australia. You probably realised this from flying over it, but it’s HUGE! So coverage can be a bit spotty in the outback.
The main providers are Optus, Telstra & Vodafone.
TELSTRA: Is the biggest provider in Australia and subsequently has the best coverage especially on if you’re planning to rent a van and head into the outback away from any metro areas. Because of this Telstra tends to be a little bit more expensive but it’s worth it if you’re travelling around quite a bit.
OPTUS:  Want more bang for your buck? Optus gives you just that with more data options and cheaper talk/text rates. But they also have a lot of plans available so we advise going in store and chatting to a sales assistant to get the best deal.
VODAFONE:  Vodafone offer great international roaming fee’s if you’re planning to hop in and out of Australia during your visa you can get $5 roaming in 55 countries!
There are more companies available that keep popping up in recent years so if the main companies aren’t doing it for you try; TPG, Amaysim & Lebara. Occasionally there are sim cards for these companies available at reception so don’t hesitate to ask our friendly staff!

Tax File Number

A TFN is super easy to get! You do it online, & the ATO (Australian Tax Office) will send you one! *link to ATO* Granted you need to allow up to two weeks for it to be processed, but you can still apply for jobs and work in Australia once you have applied.

About Tax: From January 2016, anyone on a working holiday visa will no longer be able to claim the tax free threshold. So unlike workers on other visa’s you will be taxed from the very first dollar you earn.
The financial year in Australia starts in July and runs until June, & to claim your tax back you need to make sure you have payment summaries from all your employers. If you’re having trouble with your taxback, we recommend a company called taxback.com that specialise in backpacker tax returns!

Superannuation!

So you got a TFN, you landed your dream job? Perfect! Now let’s talk Superannuation. Australia’s answer to a pension. It’s essentially a retirement fund used by your employer to deposit a certain percentage of your income. Superannuation is a pretty sweet deal for backpackers because you can claim it back once you leave Australia for the last time!
So, setting up a fund is easy as. Your first employer should be able to help you set it up  & because there are hundreds of companies that deal with supers and the major banks have started to manage them too it can be a hard choice. The important thing to remember is to try and stick to one super otherwise fees and admin costs will eat into any money accumulated in your accounts!
A word of advice? Cancel any default insurances that come up setup with your Superfund and get cover from an insurance provider instead. You’ll save up to 300 dollars a year by doing this!

What a smooth transition into insurance, eh? It’s always a gamble with insurance? Do you spend the money to possibly not need the cover? Or save the cash and fork out thousands in unexpected accidents?
Let’s save you the turmoil, GET THE INSUIRENCE! Travel is so unpredictable (the main reason we love it) & while you do save money by not getting the insurance, we’ve been doing this backpacking thing for a while now and can’t tell you how many times we hear the words “we should have gotten insurance!”
There are all kinds of options available for all kind of budgets, & let’s just say that the healthcare system here is amazing, it isn’t cheap at all if you have an unexpected trip to hospital from a dropbear attack.

Banks!

When it comes to banks, Australia has no limit to choose from. Most backpackers tend to choose Commonwealth, ANZ, Westpac or St. George.
These banks all have a monthly charge of about $4 – $5 dollars & allow you uncapped transactions at each of their own ATMS.
Planning on heading to New Zealand after your Australian adventure? Westpac is the best choice!
Want the lowest fee? Commonwealth is $4 dollars for a smart access account!
ANZ have the most choice for ATM’s meaning you’ll never be stuck for cash. & even if you are ANZ supports Apple Pay!
To open a bank account, just pop into the one you decide on with your Passport & proof of address. We can print you a receipt of your stay at 790 to prove you’re here with us & we keep mail for 3 weeks from delivery, meaning you won’t miss your shiny new back card once it arrives!

Medicare!

So, by now I assume you read our handy tips and tricks about getting started in Australia. Let’s move on to the nitty and gritty, the adult things that no one wants to actually face, but let’s be honest, it’s better that you get these things sorted at the start of your trip.

Medicare is invaluable to you as a backpacker. & I know I’m going to sound like your Mum right now, but you never know what’s going to happen that needs a trip to the doctor!
Backpackers from certain countries like the U.K. can apply for Medicare & you can find the full list here. However, some countries like the Republic of Ireland aren’t eligible for Medicare but do have a reciprocal agreement in place for hospital cover.

How to apply? Just print off the application form, fill it out & pop into the Medicare center with your Passport. Easy as pie! Oh, but maybe bring a book, the office can be quite busy!

1. Single Origin – Minutes away from the hostel is possibly the best coffee in Sydney.  Located in Surry Hills, just ask any of our staff for directions to Surry Hills & sit back, relax and smell the beans!

2. Boon – Boon is a quirky little café/ Asian grocers. With a contemporary menu and $2 afternoon coffee this café is a bargain and a half!

3. Joe & the Juice – On Pitt Street this is actually a chain of café’s that has gained much popularity in the past year. Offering coffee’s and juices (duh, it’s in the name) you’re literally spoiled for choice!

4. In Café – This one is literally right next door! It’s got a chilled out vibe, fab coffee and an amazing breakfast menu that won’t break the bank!

5. 7/11 – It may seem like a joke, but 7/11 have coffee’s starting from $1 . You can get iced coffee’s in summer and to be honest for a caffeine kick on a budget it’s Sydney’s best option, because they are everywhere!

6. Cafe Organik – Literally just around the corner from 790 this Colombian Cafe offers guests of 790 a massive deal! for $7 you get two hours free WIFI plus, a small coffee and breakfast item like a muffin or croissant. If that isn’t the deal of the century, I don’t know what is!

7. Pablo & Rusty’s Coffee Roasters – Like your coffee served with a smile and a side if instagrammable latte art? Pablo’s is your place! Its located in the CBD and serves coffee, lunch and brekkie from 6.30am to 5pm.

8. Starbucks –  I know, I know this is a cop out, but sometimes you just need that late night fix of coffee, or a sweet frappuccino to get you through that ,long hot Aussie summer! Starbucks have so many locations in the CBD so really, we’ve spoiled you for choice with this one!

9. Kingswood Coffee – Located in World Square Shopping Centre, which is an easy 10 minute walk down George Street, serves amazing coffee & an even more amazing bacon and egg roll. You just have to take our word and go try it because words cannot describe how amazing it is!

10. Grounds of the City – Ever feel like you were born in the wrong time? Take a step back to the 1920’s with some old school hospitality, cake trolleys and even a shoe shine while you wait to be seated! Even if that’s not your thing, the coffee is amazing and the lunch is even better!

Here are a few things to remember:
Plan everything before you leave! Make sure you find out long it will take you to get from A to B, the best route to take, making sure you have enough petrol and where the next petrol station is & all that good stuff.
ALWAYS HAVE A BACKUP. Google is amazing, we know that but you can and should plan ahead for areas of no coverage, a dead battery or plain and simple losing your phone. Have an actual map with you and spare a thought for all the travellers before you who didn’t have google maps!
Make sure you check Australian driving laws. Most states and territories allow international drivers to use their current overseas licence however if yours isn’t in English then you’ll have to get an approved translation.
Read up on the rules of the road, speed limits
Check and see if you need to pay any tolls on your journey, you can get an electronic tag that will save you time and money!

Road conditions in Oz change constantly, one minute you’re cruising down a highway the next you’re avoiding kangaroo’s on a dirt road. (Seriously though be careful at night! They’re attracted to the headlights!)
Do’s & Don’ts of travelling Oz!

DO:

• Tell people where you’re going and when you’re expecting to arrive there!
• Share the load of driving if you have other people who can take the wheel!
• Take breaks! Many motorways have inlets that you can pull over and have a rest.
• They recommend you take a break every two hours.
• Stay hydrated! Make sure you stock up on lots of water to bring with you in the car.
• Double & triple check your spare tyres.
• Going to the outback? GPS coordinates are super useful & maybe consider renting a satellite phone for areas with ZERO cell service.
• Again, be careful about wildlife! Kangaroos especially will jump in front of cars and cause serious accidents.
• If your car or van does break down in a remote area, stay inside! It provides you with shelter and is safer. Also, it’s so much easier for roadside assistance to find you.
• DRIVE ON THE LEFT!

DON’T:

• Drive under the influence!
• Pick up hitchhikers.
• Use your phone when driving.
• Drive overnight (where possible).
• Drive when you’re sleepy! Always pull over and take breaks, never push yourself because it’s not just your life on the line.

Hostel Safety

If it’s your first time staying in a hostel the whole thought of it can be daunting, don’t worry we get it. That’s why we wanted to give you some tips and tricks for staying safe while travelling.

1. Always choose a hostel with security features. For example a hostel that’s 24 hours, that needs keys to access the rooms/ common areas and even keys or a code to enter the front door.
2. Always check reviews for the places your considering, if you use trip advisor you can even ask the reviewer specific questions relating to their experiences.
3. Don’t forget a padlock, it seems super simple but not all hostels will provide the locks you need to lock your lockers. It’s better to be prepared than to leave valuables lying around.
4. Make sure you room door actually locks and if it doesn’t tell the reception staff straight away so they can fix it.
5. Make copies of all your documents, like visa info, photograph ID etc. & always save a digital copy.
6. Don’t carry too much cash, credit cards are a safer option as you have the power to stop all transitions and block the card if it’s stolen.
7. Trust your gut, if you’re not comfortable in the room you’ve been given speak to reception and see how they can help.