Brisbane

Brisbane is home to over 2 million people, but maintains a relaxed atmosphere thanks to the warm weather and easygoing locals. “Brissie” has plenty of nightlife and art galleries, but with its location on the banks of a major river in beautiful sunny Queensland, the biggest attraction is definitely the outdoors.

During the humid summers, catch a cooling breeze along the waterfront. Rent a kayak to paddle along the Kangaroo Point cliffs or spot dolphins and turtles around Moreton Island National Park. Enjoy a balmy night with “fish ‘n chips” and locally brewed XXXX beer along the Brisbane River.

The cooler, dry winters are good for whale watching and fitness activities, such as climbing the Story Bridge or the Glass House Mountains. The winter days are short, but the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the Brisbane Powerhouse and the bars in Fortitude Valley keep you entertained at night.

Brisbane offers many free facilities such as pools, barbecues, playgrounds and frequent cultural festivals. You don’t have to pay for the government-funded attractions and nature reserves either, including the Roma Street Parkland, Gallery of Modern Art, Museum of Brisbane, Botanic Gardens, and Mount Coot-tha.

Apart from walking, the public transport and bike-share systems are convenient ways to get around. Start at South Bank, Brisbane’s attractive cultural riverfront area. From the Maritime Museum, follow the bougainvillea archway past streams with ibis and water dragons, palm tree-lined swimming lagoons, markets, food venues and street performers, all the way to the Ferris wheel, with wooden a Nepalese temple nearby.

Take the public ferry downstream to New Farm Park or book a scenic cruise upstream to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Alternatively, continue along South Bank to the state’s major museums, including the Queensland Museum and art galleries.

Brisbane is surrounded by stunning nature, so book a tour or rent a car to explore. Nothing is rushed here, so relax and take your time to enjoy the cultural displays and natural beauty in the capital of the Sunshine State.