The capital of quality of life

[highlight]Leia em Português[/highlight]

The third largest city in Australia is one of the cities I most liked. It is beautiful, well-kept, with historical buildings and modern architecture. It has large green areas, full of parks, gardens and even an artificial beach. The capital of Queensland is between the mountains and the sea, just a few hours from Gold Coast by train. I was at the beach and went to Brisbane to spend the day, a great choice.

As I had only a few hours, I decided to go for a walk and observe the routine of the locals. I suggest that you go downtown, on Queen Street, Ann Street and surroundings. Sit at a Café, watch people going by and take a look at the souvenir stores. After that, go for a walk along BRISBANE RIVER, which flows through the city and holds nice spots for practicing sports or just relaxing.

Viaducts do not make the city ugly but improve the traffic

Almost everything happens near the river, especially in SOUTH BANK (across from Victoria Bridge). There you can find bars, museums, a temple and the beach, that is, a huge pool with sand, changing rooms, showers and life guards, surrounded by charming tours: a flower tunnel walkway or a group of kinetic art sculptures that play with water. I spent hours there, saw groups of friends and families hanging out and having fun, it is very pleasant. There is a public boat on the river; it is a great way to visit the main tourist points.

Take Note

Nightlife is in South Bank and there is a street fair on weekends, besides several events during the year. I chose to walk in the city, but I wish I had had one more day to visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, people say it is the best place to see these cute animals. It is on the outskirts of the city, and you can go by bus or boat. It may be a good opportunity to get closer to them, after all Queensland is the only state where it is allowed to hold the koalas. How to get there: there is an international airport near the city, or you can get a train at Varsity Lake Station in Gold Coast – the workers are really helpful. On the last floor at Rome Train Station there is the Tourist Information Bureau with maps.