Flighthacker

Now that Lance Armstrong has confirmed that he’s racing in the Tour Down Under, I’ve started seriously thinking about attending the first leg of the world’s greatest cycling series, the UCI ProTour, in Adelaide, South Australia. If you’re planning to cheer on the world’s greatest cyclists at the tour during 17 – 24 January, 2010, here are some tips on how to get there and stay like a fan should… On a bike-chain budget!

Flying to Adelaide

Adelaide is more accessible than ever, as it is serviced by all of Australia’s major low-cost carriers (Jetstar, Tiger Airways and Virgin Blue) at very affordable fares. For example, Tiger Airways flies Sydney to Adelaide twice-daily for $49 and Melbourne to Adelaide for $39 each way for the duration of the Tour. For international guests, Adelaide also entertains discount flights from a handful of Asian and Pacific cities.

As of August, Adioso has not indexed fares to Adelaide, however if you’re planning to book a ticket closer to the date, do check Adioso for details.

Staying in Adelaide

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The great news – Adelaide’s CBD is relatively compact, so staying in the city will keep you near all the action during the first (Tour Down Under Classic, Rymill Park) and final stages of the tour. The bad news – affordable accommodation currently seems to be in short supply, so here’s a shortlist of hotels that won’t break the budget:

• Hostel 109 – 109 Carrington St, Adelaide – from $25 (dorm)
• Majestic Minima – 146 Melbourne Street, North Adelaide - from $99
• Breakfree Directors Studio – 259 Gouger Street, Adelaide - from $118
• Quest Mansions Apartments – 21 Pulteney Street, Adelaide - from $145

Make sure you also check TripAdvisor for hotel reviews before you book. Enjoy the Tour before Le Tour!

For more information:

• Tour Down Under Official Website – http://www.tourdownunder.com.au/
• South Australia Official Website – http://www.southaustralia.com/
• Lance Armstrong on Twitter – http://twitter.com/lancearmstronG

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