Middle market endures tourism's volatile times

Middle market endures tourism's volatile times

Yet evidence points to other longer-running hostels suffering occupancy drops recently and margins being squeezed on massive tour package discounts.

The rest of Queensland's tourist sector this summer also forms a mixed picture.

Visitors are increasing at Gold Coast theme parks, and areas close to discount airline operations appear strong. But occupancy rates at five-star hotels have been down and travellers might be spending less in some places.

Tourists, meanwhile, are praising the Great Barrier Reef and the friendliness of locals. Yet gripes emerge about bed-bugs, bad tours and even parking hassles.