Once overshadowed by Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane is finally enjoying its day in the sun. Hop on and off the city ferries that ply the Brisbane River to explore the myriad neighbourhoods along its banks. Hire a Maui campervan from Brisbane for a road trip in true Aussie style, stopping to hit the white-sand beaches, al fresco restaurants and hiking trails up the coast.
Well-equipped campsites offer reasonably priced stays along the route to cosmopolitan Noosa, 90 miles north, where beautiful bays, boutique shops and stylish, shore-side restaurants await. Indicative pricing only, varies by travel date, subject to change.
Ultra-modern suites, some with spa baths, have Bose audio and HD mirror-finish TVs, plus a pillow menu for guaranteed beauty sleeps. For the ultimate Insta-prize, head to the rooftop infinity pool where palm trees, sunshine and skyline views await. Choose a private spa room to watch TV in the balcony hot tub while sinking a beer as the city comes alive below. Had your fill of the city? Lunch in style under a shady tree, with a selection of elegant treats from the Vintage Picnic Company.
Shipping containers, food carts and stalls offer everything from Japanese pizza to Peruvian paella, while bands play in the warehouses and bars of the riverside site. Take the CityCat to Northshore Hamilton ferry terminal. But one of the best coffee joints is Blackstar , a boutique roaster in West End, the bohemian district south of the river.
Stylish and relaxed, James Street is the perfect place for fashionistas who like to mash up a shopping trip with a stroll and a graze. Straddling New Farm and Fortitude Valley, smart boutiques sit next to equally chic bars and cafes — power up mid-shop with a juice from Pineapple Express.
