Joanna James
Located on the east of Brisbane, the Gold Coast is all about the surf, sun, rainforests, theme parks and great food. Check out some handy hints to get the best out of your time there.
Stretch your limbs at Burleigh's promenade as the locals do before going round the hill. The path adjoins a dense rainforest from one end and striking panoramas from the north towards Surfers Paradise. On the south, catch a glimpse of Tallebudgera Creek. The walkway will take about 45-minutes to complete, and it is only 2.3km, but a stunning walk nevertheless.
Want to do something different? Then head out to the Infinity Maze. This maze of mirrors has hip music, striking lights, cool sound effects, and mirror illusions to keep you howling with laughter. It almost has the carnival vibe but is more high-tech and interactive. It is a fun way to spend time with kids. Tickets are priced at 25.90 AUD (USD 20) and can be booked online.
It is only a short trip from Surfers Paradise. The Lost World Valley is an off-grid, jungle hiking path in Lamington National Park. There are plenty of hikes to do here, and you will also find natural swimming holes and waterfalls to bathe.
Miami Marketta is a diverse food market and features just about every known cuisine out there. Find yummy Thai food, Indian, tapas, Aussie staples, and so much more. The market hosts events such as live music for a fun-filled atmosphere. You can visit it on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. It's open from 5 pm till late in the night.
The Gold Coast is expensive, but you can find a range of options as well. The dorms available at hostels are priced at 20-25 AUD, and a private room would be around 70 AUD. Budget hotels will cost at least 100 AUD per night. Airbnb might be cheaper, on average, per night expect to pay around 75 AUD for a private room. An entire place can be rented for a minimum of 150 AUD. If money is not a problem, you can splurge at many of the Broadbeach hotels and apartments, such as the Avani Broadbeach Residences.
The end of April until May is the best time to visit, although it can be visited any time of the year. During this time, the daily temperature will average 17-25 C, and it won't be as crowded as other seasons. A huge plus is the accommodation prices are on the lower side.
Buses are a great way to get about and will take you to almost all of the significant locations. TransLink is the biggest public bus operator, there is also Surfside Buslines which is the local one. NightLink operates after midnight hours. Bus fare is capped at 2.40 AUD and will depend on the extent of travel. The Go Card is the transportation card in the Gold Coast and is worth purchasing as it will save you some money.
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.
