"Dreaming Over the Water on a Koala-Filled Island The sound of the ocean's waves lapping the shore greets you when you wake up at Base Backpackers Magnetic Island. As if that's not enough, this Australian hostel is located on Magnetic Island National Park, just a short ferry ride from Townsville, which is inhabited by koala bears living in their natural environment. The hostel's accommodations are standard, but the location is unprecedented. It will run you only $30 a night for a standard dorm accommodation with shared facilities, and private rooms with a double bed and ensuites are also available. In addition to the location of the hostel, Magnetic Island is a magical place that contains snuggly, sleepy koala bears nestled up in tree tops for you to discover as you hike. They blend in with the Eucalyptus trees they slumber in, so look carefully as you go through the trails: I saw 8 perched in trees (most of the time they're sleeping, as they sleep for over 18 hours each day) on my hike, including a mother with a sleeping joey on its back. If you're looking for a beautiful stay with an incredible experience in nature and are traveling on a budget, this is an amazing place to be."