Trouser clips? A travel writer on how to make budget hotels feel luxe

If you do find yourself in underwhelming accommodation, there are things you can do to make your stay feel a little more luxe.

• by Ute Junker

This in-demand region’s airport got an upgrade. It may need another soon

Fresh from a $20 million upgrade, this is a great regional hub. But given the growing popularity of all things Byron, the terminal might need to grow.

• by Shaney Hudson

This budget airline has a poor reputation and it’s justified

Tiny seats, meagre food and fee-gouging – this European low-cost carrier has it all.

• by David Whitley

A wretched-looking child begged me for money. Here’s why I refused

Giving her money will not make one bit of difference to what she eats, where she sleeps or what she wears.

• by Michael Gebicki

With serenity and comforts aplenty, this restored retreat is superb

Hobart luxurious Lumiere Lodge is near enough to the centre and waterfront for all the attractions, but far enough afield to enjoy the peace of suburbia.

• by Jim Darby

Your questions: How should I spend a six-hour layover in Tokyo?

“I’m visiting France for three weeks and visiting Paris, Marseille and Lyon. Any suggestions for the rest of the time?”

The tropical paradise you can have (almost) all to yourself

Aitutaki is wonderfully unspoiled compared to certain other island hotspots, and this adults-only resort takes the fantasy a step further.

• by Trudi Jenkins

Not every hotel has a grand history, so some are just making one up

The Ritz and Raffles might be historic and storied, but what about a new hotel? How does it quickly get a personality?

• by Lee Tulloch

Paying $50 to choose my seat on this Qantas A380 was money well spent

Although I’m surprised at having to pay up to choose my seat, the space on a superjumbo remains unsurpassed.

• by Julietta Jameson

The 10 rules of plane toilet etiquette

Earlier this month, Qantas passengers on a nine-hour flight to Hong Kong were warned that three of the five toilets wouldn’t be working.

• by Michael Gebicki