Seriously consider booking early over the Christmas and New Year period; prices tend to soar at this time.

Alternatively, consider booking with one of the so-called no-frills airlines.

Alternatively, consider booking with a no-frills airlines.

They question them about whether they have a following before they'll even consider booking them.

Visitors on a tighter budget should consider booking through the Medina Apartments group (00612 9356 5061; www.medina.com.au) which has four properties in central Sydney.

Agencies usually prefer weekly rentals at peak times; consider booking direct for shorter stays (www.holiday-rentals.co.uk).

If a healthy diet is uppermost in your mind, consider booking a flight with Delta Air Lines.

Or, if you're coming as part of a larger group, consider booking one of the two contemporary barn-conversion cottages within the grounds.

For families, consider booking for the week before Christmas in 2012.

Accommodation will be at a premium, so you may want to consider booking well in advance.