Joanna James
As one of the sunniest states Down Under, Brisbane welcomes countless visitors from around the world. Regardless of the duration of the stay, here are five simple activities every visitor should experience during a tour of the city.
Tipped to be among the most popular attractions and activity bases in Brisbane, no holiday in the sunshine state would be complete without spending time at the iconic Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Home to the world's most beloved furry marsupials, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary has attracted everyone from Nicki Minaj to Taylor Swift in its many decades of operation. Ranked among the country's top conservation hubs, the sanctuary is home to a plethora of other animals aside from its main attractions including kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Visitors can not only snap Polaroids with the sanctuary's adorable inhabitants but also learn about the natural habitat and feeding habits of koalas.
Although Brisbane is home to its fair share of plush malls and department stores, there's no precinct quite as popular among high-end shoppers as the decidedly trendy James Street. Considered by many to be Brisbane's equivalent of Bond Street in London or Fifth Avenue in New York City, James Street is lined with some of the city's most exclusive designer shops and boutiques. And outlets such as St.Barts are the main reasons why fashion-conscious locals head to this part of town while other hotspots include Carla Zampatti, Assembly Label, and Dion Lee.
Those who are in Brisbane for a short weekend getaway or a business trip should sign up for a river cruise on the Brisbane River. Regarded as the perfect way to take stock of the city's major landmarks and attractions, the relaxing and informative cruise along the river allows one to marvel at the city's architectural heritage including its towering skyscrapers, stunning bridges, and even Ferris wheels. Accessible via City Cat Ride tours, these scenic excursions can be enjoyed by day and in the evening hours.
Once the sun goes down, head to Brisbane's finest beer garden, Triffid, to listen to some of the best live music the city has to offer. Considered a patron of Brisbane's emerging new artists and bands, tourists can sit back and relax with a cocktail or beer while a fresh new act from the local music scene takes centre stage. Some of those who made their debuts at Triffid have gone on to gain international recognition, so tourists should not miss the opportunity to catch these would-be pop stars young.
As one of Australia's top art galleries, the Gallery of Modern Art is a highlight that visitors based at Oaks Brisbane Lexicon Suites or any other hotel apartments in Brisbane must visit at least once. Displaying the work of locals as well as international artists, the GOMA, as it is locally known also houses interactive exhibition hubs.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
