h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

This is a great article, and while it provides the right overview of the city, Newcastle has changed a lot over the past 10 years so naturally the entry needs to be kept up to date. While Newcastle is still a fantastic place to live and visit - which is being recognised more and more around the world, making it into the 2011 top 10 most liveable cities in the world, as judged by an inferior, terrestrial guidebook), the nature of the city is changed, feeling more and more uncertain of its future.

While blessed with many natural advantages, Newcastle is suffering from a lack of identity, and remains at an historical crossroads, which sadly looks to leaning away from preservation towards "re-envisioning" and "revitalisation" which means destruction. Many of the aforementioned corner pubs have now shut down due to severe operating restrictions and heavy regulations imposed, and the nightlife has suffered a sharp souring, with party-goers "locked out" of (unable to enter) pubs and clubs after 1am and all night spots closed at 3am. This was to reduce alcohol-fuelled violence. On the other hand, there have never been so many coffee shops before, especially on the thriving Darby St and along Hunter St to Scott St, as well as local designers, artists and vintage enthusiasts enjoying a great surge in opportunities thanks to the Renew Newcastle initiative. However, there constantly seems to be a battle between the artistic community and the Vogonic bureaucracy of the local council (who most recently destroyed 14 beautiful war memorial trees that lined Laman St) in a shockingly undemocratic display) and State Government. Despite the challenges, and the implementation of idiotic "revitalisation" schemes, Newcastle is a thriving city which, while not yet perfect, looks to enjoy a wonderful future (Bob willing).

The Food section is in desperate need of expansion, making particular mention of restaurants such as Subo on Hunter St, as well as Jonah's, Rustica, Bacchus, or Scottie's which are all near or on Newcastle Beach. Not to mention the many, many coffee shops that ought to be galaxy famous (especially One Penny Black in Hunter St Mall).
The Shopping has changed so drastically over the past decade that the current entry needs to be scrapped and re-written.
Sport is pretty much the same, though Rugby League should be mentioned explicitly.
Meanwhile, along with the food, there is much more accommodation available throughout the city and in the surrounding suburbs, and beyond nestled in the internationally recognised Hunter Valley wine region.
Funnily enough the internet section doesn't need to be changed at all, though for the sake of accuracy it could be mentioned that all McDonald's have free wifi.

Hope the suggestions are taken on board! It's not meant as criticism of the original, just an update for the New castle.

Hi Palfie,

Welcome to h2g2.com and thank you for your wonderful suggestions, and perhaps you might consider updating this Entry yourself??

I have left you a greeting in your Personal Space which will help you find your way around your new home. I hope you find it useful

lil xx