My husband and I needed to buy new curtains for our rental property, and between the two of us had very limited knowledge of how to choose the right size etc and were not very confident. Robyn, who served us in the Melville store, was extremely knowledgeable and patient, and was able to interpret my messy diagrams and measurements to guide us towards exactly what we needed. We ended up with great curtains at a fantastic price, as we had gone during a sale; the whole experience left us with a big smile on our face!

Approximate cost: $400 (roughly half price, due to the sale)

Set in beautiful gardens with, of course, plenty of lavender, this is a lovely place to settle down with a plate of scones or a hearty cooked breakfast. The birds will come to investigate if you sit outside, and you can have a stroll through the pretty gardens. The owners plan to open a bed and breakfast facility after Christmas. Tea rooms open Thursday to Saturday from 10 till 5, and Sunday from 8 till 5.

Sugar Bean is a cafe with a bit of a difference. They also have books, some DVDs and CDs for sale (both new and second hand), as well as a few gifts and some pieces of art. Great for a coffee and lunch, or a gigantic muffin or slice of cake.

Approximate cost: $5

Cottesloe is a beautiful place to stay and this is a great way to experience it! Cottesloe Beach Chalets are situated pretty much across the road from the beach, within walking distance to a corner shop, cafes, restaurants, pubs, a playground and a golf course; also near to the bus and train, and a 10 minute walk to the local shops. The units are self-contained and roomy, very comfortable and well-supplied with plenty of extra blankets and pillows. They also come with a portacot and high chair. Office staff were friendly and helpful.

Approximate cost: $from $170 in off season

Enter this place and you will NOT leave empty-handed. There is so much to choose from: pastries, slices, cakes, pies, lamingtons, danishes, and everything inbetween. Prices are very good and choice is amazing. This is one scenic location in Denmark not to be missed.

Delve deep and you never know what you might find. Not only second hand children's clothes, but also children's toys, shoes, books, nursery furniture, prams, maternity clothes, all "pre-loved."

We stayed in a two bedroom apartment which was gorgeous: spacious rooms and bathrooms, excellent facilities including kitchen and laundry all in the one apartment. We had a nice view looking across to a park, which came in very handy for our three year old. This is in a great location on the Gold Coast, right in the centre of restaurants, bars etc, close to shops, beach and public transport.

Situated 10 minutes from Sydney airport this is an especially handy place to stay if you have less than 24 hours to spend in Sydney. They will even pick you up from the airport if necessary. The accommodation is definitely not luxurious but so cheap, and it includes a help-yourself continental breakfast in the shared kitchen. They will do your washing for you for $6. It has quite a nice communal feel in which to share tips with your fellow travellers.

Approximate cost: $70 for a double

Get the EziBuy catalogue sent to you (or look them up on the web) then start working out your order. EziBuy provides many styles of women's and men's clothes, shoes and some accessories as well as gifts and homewares. The operators are always super friendly, efficient and helpful. There is a good range in price with the clothes too, and they do have a few sales throughout the year.

We stayed here for a week a couple of years ago in order to attend a conference at the Convention Centre and had a great time. The staff were very accommodating, the room was great and the pool was beautiful and surrounded by gorgeous gardens. There is a covered walkway all the way to the Convention Centre which is SO convenient when there is a light shower!