Brisbane

Brisbane is the capital of Queensland and the third largest city in the country, famous for its laidback attitude and overall carefree lifestyle. This beautiful town, once thought of as sleepy, is emerging from its slumber and is now one of the most desirable places to live in Australia.

Boasting world-class museums and art galleries, a booming live music scene and a trendy urban cafe culture, Brisbane has transformed into a cosmopolitan paradise.

The drive to both the Gold and Sunshine coasts are under an hour and a half, with beautiful tourist drives along the way. If it's an all-rounder Australian experience you're looking for, Brisbane will knock your socks off!

If it's live music that you're looking for then you should head to The Zoo (Fortitude Valley) or The HiFi in West End for an array of local and international talent. There is usually a band playing every night so they've got you covered for the whole week!

Airport: Brisbane Domestic and International airports are just a short fifteen minute drive away from the CBD.

Attractions: Southbank Parklands, James Street Markets, Story Bridge Climb, Chinatown, Mount Cootha, North Stradbroke Island, Moreton Island, Queen Street Mall.

Transport around City: Brisbane's public transport system offers regular services within the CBD and to surrounding and regional suburbs. Translink offers CityTrain, CityCat, Bus, train and AirTrain services all running at regular intervals with extra services for major events and Friday and Saturday evenings.

Recommended Cafes: Java Lounge (Paddington), Pawpaw Cafe (Woolloongabba), Nodo (South Bank), Morning After (West End), Lady Marmalade (Stones Corner).

Recommended Restaurants: E'cco Bistro (Newstead), Continental Cafe (New Farm), Otto (South Bank), Same Same (Fortitude Valley), Essa (Fortitude Valley), Donna Chang (Brisbane CBD).

Recommended Bars: Brisbane is home to a fantastic nightlife culture, and offers something for everyone, whether you're into the nightclub scene or just want a lounge bar where you can have great cocktails and enjoy time with friends. Some popular Brisbane night spots include: Fridays (Brisbane), Normanby Hotel (Red Hill), Caxton Hotel (Petrie Terrace), and Lychee Lounge (West End).

If it's live music that you're looking for then you should head to The Zoo (Fortitude Valley) or The Triffid (Newstead) for an array of local and international talent.

Recommended Hotels: Stamford Plaza (Brisbane CBD), Novotel (South Bank), Hilton (Brisbane CBD), Marriott (Brisbane CBD), Limes Hotel (Fortitude Valley) Brisbane Backpackers (Brisbane CBD).