People walk along the riverfront. Photo / Getty Images
People walk along the riverfront. Photo / Getty Images
Brisbane is often ignored by those eyeing larger Australian cities — Kristin Macfarlane says it shouldn't be.
Soak up culture and history, be enthralled by adventure, or surround yourself with creative spaces, picturesque views and dining experiences that will satisfy the most critical foodie — Brisbane has it all.
Queensland's capital city, Brisbane, is often overlooked for the bigger locations of Melbourne or Sydney, and though each is appealing, Brisbane is just as interesting, packed with culture, art and adventure, and also offers world-class shopping and eateries.
A lively rooftop bar. Photo / Supplied
Admittedly, before a few weeks ago, I had never spent any quality time in Brisbane.
Given the chance, however, Brisbane gave me so much more than I had expected and I struggle to find anything bad to say.
The only thing Brisbane lacks is a nearby beach, but the city caters to that need with its man-made, beach-style lagoon in the middle of the city.
Called Street Beach at South Bank, it's located — not surprisingly — on the southern bank of the Brisbane River. It really is a beach, with lifeguards, where you can lay your towel on the sand and enjoy the sun with a backdrop of skyscrapers.
Now that we've moved on from the fact the nearest natural beach is about an hour away, we can sample everything else on the menu.
You can navigate with ease. The public transport options are top-notch and there are countless riverside tracks that allow you to walk or grab one of the many hire bikes scattered around the city.
The CityHopper ferry will take you along the river at no cost, or jump on the CityCat for a faster journey.
The locals are active and friendly. I met up with a friend and we took an early morning walk around the botanical gardens: many others had the same idea. People make the most of the Riverwalk, Goodwill Bridge, South Bank paths or other tracks, running, walking and biking, and it's motivating.
The city's different precincts are packed with personality.
On my first day, I took part in a walking Brisbane HerStory Tour, which was an eye-opening introduction to the city. I found out about some amazing women, who were recognised on Brisbane's streets, while also learning to navigate my way around.
HerStory Tour. Photo / Supplied
The city is filled with historic buildings, and even if you're not someone who values the detail, you can't help but appreciate it.
I stayed in Fortitude Valley, an area with a questionable reputation, but its nightlife — rooftop bars and laneways with a view of the colourful Story Bridge — was lively.
If a quieter spot is what you're after, there are a multitude that cater to every need, from trendy areas to those filled with art deco, to those boasting five and six-star accommodation and have higher tourist numbers.
Speaking of tourists, if you haven't yet held a koala or petted a kangaroo, there is nowhere better to have your first experience than Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary.
It is the world's oldest koala sanctuary and has 130 koalas. You can also hand-feed kangaroos and see Australian wildlife in a natural setting.
It has Wi-Fi all around the sanctuary — actually so does Brisbane city, winning!
Another tourist must-do is the Story Bridge Adventure Climb. It's a two-hour journey over the landmark cantilever bridge and suitable for all fitness levels.
Kristin Macfarlane on top of Story Bridge. Photo / Kristin Macfarlane
You'll get uninterrupted views of the city, river, mountain ranges and islands, and also learn about the history and heritage of the bridge and city from the informative guides.
Brisbane has quirk, class, character and adventure — what more could you want in a destination?
My favourite spots
TO STAY:Ovolo Incholm Brisbane — a boutique hotel with amazing artwork of Prince and David Bowie. The best things about this place are that it boasts a free daily mini bar, in-room snacks, breakfast and a free happy hour for guests. Amazing!
TO EAT: For Japanese, head to Sake Restaurant and Bar on Eagle St Pier. It has great food in an intimate setting — despite it being a large restaurant — and serves premium Japanese sake and shochu. Foodies will love Ovolo Incholm's restaurant Salon de Co, which has a great chef's menu.
TO DO: Find the colourful Brisbane sign at South Bank. After you've taken a snap, chill out and enjoy the atmosphere — there are plenty of spots to relax, enjoy live music and eat great food.
TO SEE: For an amazing view of Brisbane take a gondola ride on The Wheel of Brisbane in South Bank. You'll get 360-degree view of the city from the heart of Brisbane's cultural, lifestyle and entertainment precinct. Even better, you can enjoy a picnic with a cheese platter and wine if you want to upgrade the experience.
TO VISIT: Head to Chocolate Moments in Albert St for handmade truffles, fudge chocolate liqueur shots and more. You may meet chocolate maker and owner Gerrard Gosens — the inspirational blind Paralympian — and his guide dog Boss. Gosens' story is amazing.
Checklist
GETTING THERE Qantas flies from Auckland to Brisbane daily, with return Economy Class flights starting from $554.
