According to forum posts, popular coastal driving routes in New South Wales include the drive from Sydney to Melbourne, often referred to as the coastal drive, despite the highway mostly running slightly inland. Travelers have highlighted that detours are necessary to truly experience the coast, suggesting stops at coastal towns like Jervis Bay, Batemans Bay, and Eden. Another recommended route is the drive from Sydney to Brisbane, which, although largely inland, can include coastal detours to places like Crescent Head, Sawtell, and Yamba.

Some travelers said that the drive offers not just scenic views but also a variety of activities along the way. The route from Sydney to Brisbane via the coastal and inland mix allows for nature exploration, visiting small towns, and enjoying wildlife. The inclusion of Waterfall Way as part of the journey has been particularly noted for its beautiful views and natural settings.

For those looking for a change from coastal scenery, forum users have suggested taking inland routes that offer a different landscape and less humidity, particularly during February. One such route is the drive through Waterfall Way, extending to the Granite Belt where travelers can enjoy wine and scenic hikes. This route provides a mix of mountain and coastal experiences, making it a diverse choice for road trippers in New South Wales.

According to forum posts, travelers planning trips to the Snowy Mountains should be mindful of seasonal closures and restrictions due to weather conditions or events like bushfires. For instance, Mount Selwyn is a popular destination for economical snow play but was closed for the 2020 season due to damage from bushfires and the pandemic.

Some travelers mentioned that access to certain areas like Thredbo or Perisher requires a valid lift/ski pass, and during certain times, even entry to the National Park can be restricted. It's recommended to check current conditions and access requirements before planning activities in these areas.

From user suggestions, Cooma is mentioned as a potential base for visiting the Snowy Mountains, though it's less ideal for reaching places like Corin Forest due to road conditions and the requirement of snow chains in snowy weather. Accommodations in Jindabyne are closer to recreational activities but book up quickly during peak seasons.

For those looking for snow play without resort fees, some users recommended Corin Forest near Canberra or checking out areas like Kiandra, where natural snowfall allows for some free play areas away from the more commercial resorts.

According to forum posts, travelers have various preferences depending on their interests. For those looking to explore Sydney and its attractions, staying in the CBD is recommended due to its proximity to major sights and excellent transport links. The Sebel Quay West Suites is highlighted for its harbor views, ample space, and convenient location. For a more budget-friendly option, the Coastal Bay Motel in Coffs Harbour and the Motel 359 in Tamworth are mentioned as satisfactory accommodations.

For travelers seeking scenic beauty and quieter areas, the Blue Mountains and areas like Byron Bay and Jervis Bay are popular. The Leura area in the Blue Mountains offers charming stays and is convenient for hiking and enjoying natural scenery. Some users have suggested staying in regional towns like Orange for a taste of local vineyards and countryside.

For beach lovers, staying near Bondi Beach or Manly is recommended. These areas provide easy access to beautiful beaches and vibrant local life. Accommodations such as Ravesis Hotel near Bondi Beach offer a unique experience though it might stretch the budget slightly.

According to forum posts, one transportation option from Sydney Airport to the city center is by train and metro. Travelers can take a train from the airport to Central Station, then transfer to the North Shore line, and if needed, switch to the new metro line at Chatswood to reach further destinations. This method typically involves tapping in and out with an Opal card or a contactless credit/debit card, which can also be used to pay for the fare.

Some travelers mentioned that taxis and Ubers are readily available at Sydney Airport. The taxi fare to the city center can vary depending on factors like the time of day and the use of toll roads, with estimates ranging approximately from $48 to $96. Uber can be an alternative, with variable pricing that might be influenced by traffic conditions and tolls. For a group of four, a maxi taxi or station wagon is recommended to accommodate all passengers and their luggage.

Forum users also discussed more economical options such as taking a bus from the airport to nearby stations like Rockdale or Bexley North and then catching a train to the city. Another cost-saving strategy mentioned is walking from the airport to stations like Mascot or Wolli Creek, though this is less advisable for those with heavy luggage or after long flights due to the distance and potential for discomfort.

Some travelers recommended exploring the Waterfall Way, which links Coffs Harbour and Armidale, passing through rainforests, river valleys, and notable waterfalls. This route includes attractions within the New England and Dorrigo national parks. Another suggested route is the scenic drive from Sydney to Coolangatta, focusing on regional towns rich in landscapes and hiking opportunities.

For scenic views and outdoor activities, forum users have suggested stopping at places like Ebor Falls, which, although it was temporarily closed for construction, is generally a highlight. The route along the New England Highway through towns like Glen Innes, known for its Celtic heritage, and Tamworth, famous for its country music scene, was also recommended as a worthwhile inland journey.

For those interested in coastal scenery, driving from Melbourne to Sydney along the coast was discussed, with stops recommended at Lakes Entrance, Eden, and Merimbula. This coastal drive is noted for its beautiful towns and the opportunity to explore less-touristy areas.

According to forum posts, New South Wales offers a variety of train travel options. The posts highlight both regional and intercity train services, such as the XPT express service, which connects major regional centers to Sydney. The XPT services are known for their express speeds and require advance booking.

Travelers have called out regular commuter trains that connect cities like Newcastle, Katoomba, and Sydney. These trains are accessible with the Opal card system, allowing easy tap-on and tap-off services. Most commuter trains do not offer food services or luggage check-ins, but provide areas where luggage can be kept close to passengers.

Some users specifically noted the scenic quality of train routes in NSW. For instance, the Blue Mountains Line was mentioned for its unique configuration and scenic routes, which are different from typical suburban lines in Sydney. This line also includes designated luggage racks in most carriages, making it convenient for travelers with more baggage.

For those planning extensive train travel in NSW, forum contributors suggest staying updated on service schedules and any track work updates that might affect travel plans, especially on weekends when maintenance is more frequent.

According to forum posts, travelers can use the intercity trains which operate on the Blue Mountains Line to travel from Sydney to Katoomba. These trains are part of the regular commuter services and use the Opal card system, allowing travelers to simply tap on and off without needing pre-booked tickets. The trains are equipped with designated luggage racks, catering to those carrying more items.

Some users have suggested driving as a viable option to reach the Blue Mountains. The travel time by car from Sydney to Katoomba is approximately 90 minutes. This allows for a flexible schedule and the opportunity to explore the area at one's own pace.

Travelers have noted that weekend traffic can be heavy, and it's advisable to check for any scheduled track work if planning to use train services, as this could affect travel plans.