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Brisbane Australia

INTRODUCTION

Australia's capital city, Brisbane is located in the southeast region of Queensland. An hour and twenty minute flight from Sydney, Brisbane is right near the the coast.

Once known among fellow Australians as the "big country town", Brisbane has emerged from its laid-back roots to reveal itself as a thriving, ever-evolving, cosmopolitan city. It can be argued that Brisbane's self-proclaimed reputation as "Australia's Most Livable City" is well-founded--the city is succeeding remarkably at combining the relaxed, easy-going nature of the country with the fast and fashionable personality of a city. With its tantalizing restaurants, excellent night-life, and the great outdoors right at its doorstep, Brisbane is sure to delight. Brisbane is conveniently located between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast--making it a perfect stop when traveling between the two world-renowned coastlines.

HISTORY

The original inhabitants of Brisbane were from the Jagera and Turrbal Aboriginal tribes. But in 1823, when English explorer John Oxley sailed up the coast past Sydney into Moreton Bay and was then guided up the river, the area was quickly turned into a convict settlement, and later, a free settlement. Because Oxley was under orders from Governor Thomas Brisbane of New South Wales, the city was named in his honor.

Newstead house is the oldest surviving residence in the city, and thus a very historical place to visit. Built in 1846, the homestead sits within a park right on the Brisbane River. Take a picnic, attend an event, join a tour, and explore this notable Brisbane landmark.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Climate: Summer in Brisbane is considered the wet season. Tropical thunderstorms are common, but pass through quickly. Expect the weather to be hot and humid and make sure to pack a hat, sunscreen, and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.

Winters are usually beautifully clear, with warm-mild temperatures during the day and cool, crisp temperatures at night. Specifically, winter temperatures usually range between 17-27C. In the summer temperatures range from 25-33C, with the humidity ranging between 70-95%.

ATTRACTIONS

Brisbane is the gateway to both the beautiful Sunshine Coast and the popular Gold Coast. The Sunshine Coast is an hour and a quarter north of Brisbane. If you'd rather go south, the Gold Coast is only an hour away.

Explore Lone Pine Koala Park and cuddle a koala. Take a stroll through China Town and try some authentic Chinese Cuisine. Visit the Treasury Casino in the CBD and catch a show, gamble a little, or just simply enjoy a bite to eat.

Moreton Bay is a playground in itself--try a kayaking tour and see the dugongs. If you have a spare day, a few nights, or even an entire free week, make sure to visit Moreton Island. Thirty-five km (21.7mi) from Brisbane, Moreton Island is the third largest sand island in the world and is certainly worth a visit. Check out seemoretonisland.com? for more information.

Visit St Helena Island and travel back to 1905 to experience the life of the islands inhabitants through stories told by prisoners and wardens. This harsh prison is known as "The Hell Hole of the South Pacific."

Visit the Queensland Museum and immerse yourself in history. The museum regularly holds free exhibitions and inexpensive musical performances.

One of the newest activities, for those willing, is to climb the Story Bridge. Whether at sunrise or sunset, the climb up the bridge offers a fantastic view of the city. Visit: for more information.

Brisbane is regarded as a thriving arts capital, with theatres, cinemas, concert halls, galleries, museums, festivals, and a progressive, avant-garde music scene. Check out Fortitude Valley (or the Valley, as locals call it) for live music every night of the week. Head over to the Tivoli for an engaging and intimate live musical performance, or slip into a cafe or bar in the West End, the Valley, Paddington, or New Farm for some live jazz and mellow tunes.

Care for a brewery tour? Castlemaine Perkins Brewery is located in Milton.

RESTAURANTS

Choosing a place to eat out in Brisbane can be a daunting task--there are a myriad of restaurants to consider and several areas to host your dining out experience.

The City:

If you choose to stay in the city for a bite, check out:

Jade Buddha: Eagle Street Pier, Brisbane. The Basics: This restaurant enjoys lovely views of Brisbane city, the Story Bridge, and the Brisbane river, as well as Asian fusion cuisine, excellent cocktails, tantalizing beef, creamy potatoes, and a great selection of wine (especially red).

Quick Tip: Definitely not the place for vegetarians. This restaurant is a very popular spot on Friday and Saturday nights, so be sure to make a reservation!

Cha Cha Chars Wine Bar and Grill: Eagle Street Pier, Brisbane.

Or leave the center of the city and follow the locals to:

West End: The Gun Shop Cafe, Three Monkeys, and Lychee Lounge.

New Farm: Anise, Gerties, The Alibi Room, The Powerhouse, and Cirque.

Paddington: Anouk, Simpatico Bar Bistro, The Lark, and Montrachet.

South Bank: Ahmet's Turkish Restaurant, and Beastie Burgers.

Fortitude Valley: The Bowery Bar, Hotel Bravo, and Tibetan Kitch.

Portside at Hamilton: Byblos and Gino's Restaurant.

Ascot: Baguette Restaurant, Lido, and Queenie's Traditional Tea House.

Teneriffe: Aqua Linea, Girder, and Salon.

LODGING

Novotel Brisbane: This 4 star hotel is located in the heart of Brisbane, within close proximity to public transport and awesome shopping.

Saville Southbank: A 4 star hotel conveniently located by the riverside suburb of Southbank--right across from the CBD, close to the museums, casino, and boutique shopping.

Oaks North Quay: This lovely hotel offers both 3.5 and 4 star accommodation, depending on your budget. It is located in the heart of Brisbane and has an in-house bar and restaurant.