Posts Tagged ‘Brisbane’
The Best Bed And Breakfast Stays In Brisbane
February 17, 2010
When one is planning a vacation they mainly search for five star luxury accommodations and tend to overlook the quaint experience of a Bed and Breakfast. These accommodations are a unique choice in stay, but unless you are searching directly for one, they will not appear while searching for a luxury or five star vacation destination.
There are many incredible Bed & Breakfasts to stay at in Brisbane and it can be a nice break from that metropolitan feel of things when you are staying in an antique styled room with a comfy quilt on the bed, almost allowing you to feel as if you have stepped away from city life for a bit, but still allowing you the convenience of staying right in the heart of the city.
Although many think of a Bed and Breakfast as a backpacks hostel, this is not the case of the ones that are found in the Brisbane region. The Bed and Breakfast accommodations that are found throughout Brisbane are much more elaborate than those that are found around the country. Some of the top Bed and Breakfast accommodations in Brisbane include Elton B&B, the Kensington B&B, and the Fern Cottage B&B. All of these accommodations offer cottages and cabins that are wonderfully designed at a price affordable for a low budget vacation.
Whether you are searching for a Bed and Breakfast, a five star luxury resort or a backpackers hostel one of the best sites on the internet to visit is Wotif.com. On wotif.com you can choose what type of accommodation you are wanting to stay at and find one at the budgeted price you have set for yourself.
So when you are looking to book your Brisbane accommodation be sure to check out Wotif.com. You will be surprised at all the wonderful accommodations that you can find at some wonderfully, amazing prices.
If you are looking for a cheap brisbane accommodation log onto www.brisbaneinformation.com.au . They offer everything from accommodation information to local events.
Gambling at the Conrad Hotel in Brisbane
February 6, 2010
One of the best places that you can stay if you are considering going to Brisbane, Australia is the Conrad. This is an amazing hotel and you will probably not even want to leave the room once you get there. On site they have a ton of great places to eat and also pubs right there. You don’t have to leave. . ever.
One of the greatest parts though about the Conrad is that they have an amazing casino right there and there is so much entertainment that will keep you going. You have a gym and also a fitness area and sauna that you can use on your trip and also relax there. The whole place is very spacious and has a great view.
No matter the event, you will want to celebrate here. If you are having a wedding, your guests will love everything about this hotel and you will get that amazing feeling that is perfect for your big day. It is elegant but also fun and hip.
Love at first sight is definitely something that will be experienced here. Everyone loves the high ceilings that run throughout the entire hotel and the dark wood bar. It has an antique and also updated feeling to it that makes you never want to leave.
While this is an amazing place, you might want to reserve it for a more adults only event. The casino and night life and restaurants are amazing but really cater more to the older set compared to children. It is classic and luxurious and you will not be sorry that you booked for stay here.
For the very best discounts and a huge variety of hotels in brisbane, go to brisbaneinformation.com.au. Whether you are looking for a brisbane accomodation or local information, you will find what you want here.
You Will Never Be Bored In Brisbane, Australia
January 30, 2010
With a perfect climate, Brisbane is a perfect destination for outdoor activities. The city is relatively flat and has numerous parks to enable you to walk, cycle, and skate to your hearts content!
Cycling: With over 5,000 kms of cycle ways across Brisbane there are many rides to choose from. If you like you can take a ride around the river, explore the suburbs or even cycle around Moreton Bay. There is a booklet, Brisbane Bicycle Experience Guide, in the tourist information centres that will give you details on the numerous paths. Their are some scenic routes that follow the river, from 5 to 20 kms, or you can start off easy at the City Botanic Gardens and cross the Goodwill Bridge to the University of Queensland. Bikes are allowed on the City trains, with the exception of peak hours, City Cats and Ferries for free.
In-Line Skating: Cycle tracks are also great for skating. Skatebiz, on Albert Street, offers skate rentals and any safety equipment you may need for your day. Other great places to cycle are Southbank Parklands, City Botanic Gardens and Brisbane River paths.
Rock-Climbing: This is a very popular pastime in Brisbane .Head to the Cliffs Rock-Climbing area on the southern banks of the Brisbane River at Kangaroo Point. The pink Volcanic cliffs ,allegedly 200 million years old now are home to a climbing wall .This is suitable for all levels of expertise and the cliffs are floodlit until midnight. Several clubs such as K2 Extreme and Torre Mountain Craft offer climbing and abseiling classes here.Indoor climbing is also available at the Urban Climb, in West End or Rock sports, Fortitude Valley.
Swimming: Everyone’s favourite place, including my own, for a nice day of outdoor swimming is the artificial lagoon at Southbank Parklands. Although this is a great place other wonderful pool areas include, Centenary Pool, which has an attached fitness center. This is a 50 metre pool that offers high diving and a toddler wading pool. Spring Hill Baths is a heated pool and is opened year round, here you can take lessons in aqua aerobics and a dip into history, as it is the first Brisbane public bath established in 1886. When enjoying the day here you must try the quirky historic changing cubicles!
Skydiving and Ballooning: The Brisbane Skydiving Centre picks up from the CBD and offers tandem skydives over the city during a 30 minute scenic flight. Balloon Flight are breathtaking and can be arranged through companies such as Fly Me to the Moon, taking off after daybreak and traveling 10 to 15 kms, for about an hours time. Your flight will take you over a river and the views extend north beyond the Glass House Mountains and south to the Border Ranges. The whole time you are followed by a 4WD to the landing site and then taking back to your starting location.
When visiting Australia, a good place to stay is at a brisbane accommodation. Reserve your brisbane hotel through brisbaneinformation.com.au for the best deals available.
Places To Visit In Brisbane
January 26, 2010
Named after the 19th century ship, SS Fortitude, this suburb retains much of its heritage. At one time Fortitude Valley was known for its brothels, gambling dens and questionable people. Today you can now find renovated Queenslander style houses and brand new high-rise apartment blocks amongst the old buildings. The warehouses and wool stores are being converted into trendy inner-city residences and it is now one of Brisbane’s most popular destinations.
Fortitude Valley is a place for those who want to get away from suburbia and live in a fashionable new apartment close to a lot of nightlife. This is not a place for those who want to relax in a quite environment. Fortitude Valley is full of nightclubs, bars and cafes especially in Brunswick Street.
The Valley, as it is referred to, is also home to many private art galleries and artists studios. Judith Wrights Centre of Contemporary Art is at the center of it all. Running across Brunswick Street you will find Ann Street. Ann Street offers cutting-edge fashion and new pubs and bars such as the GPO, a bar in the former Fortitude Valley Post Office.
The “Valley” is popular with the younger generation because of its thriving Chinatown and fabulous restaurants. 70% of all households, being only 1 km from Brisbane’s city center, consist of couples without children. You will find that the accommodations they live in are apartments, as there are very few detached houses left in the area.
Dining out here is a must however for young or old and five of the best restaurants are :
Garuva Hidden Tranquility restaurant and Bar- a fabulous rainforest foyer leading to private tables with delicacies such as Shark fin and Chinese Roast Beef
Vietnamese restaurant- a no-nonsense restaurant offering exquisite food
Monsoon- a modern style restaurant offering Asian and Australian fusion
Sunbar Restaurant and Lounge- A sophisticated and fashionable place to enjoy your evening
Mellinos- The best pizza and pasta around.
For a complete list of Brisbane hotels check out http://brisbaneinformation.com.au. Here you can also view information about Brisbane accomodations and areas of leisure activity.
Interest Tropical North History
January 26, 2010
Northern Queensland was first visited by Europeans when Captain Cook was forced to berth his damaged ship, the Endeavor, on the coast. The area remained a mystery for almost another 100 years, however until other intrepid Europeans ventured north. These expeditions were perilous and explorers were faced with harsh conditions and hostile Aboriginal tribes. In 1844 Ludwig Leichardt and his group set out from Brisbane to Port Essington but most of the men were killed or wounded by Aborigines. In 1848, Edmund Kennedy led an expedition from Cairns to the top of Cape York. All but two of this party perished including Kennedy who was speared by Aborigines.
In the late 19th century, Northern Queensland found sudden prosperity when gold was discovered in the region. The population rose and grew up to service the mines but by the beginning of the 20th century much of the gold had dried up. These once thriving cities are now little more than one-street towns, lined with 19th century architecture as a reminder of their glory days. Today, much of the areas wealth stems from its booming tourist trade. Luxury resorts line the stunning coastline and tourists flock to experience the spectacular natural wonders of the Great Barrier Reef.
Today the Queensland’s Outback is mostly associated with agriculture as well as gold, silver and iron mining. There is also a lot of Australia’s national heritage here such as the Tree of Knowledge, which was the first meeting place for the Australian Labor Party in 1891. You can also find the town, Winston, that Banjo Paterson wrote Australians national song “Waltzing Matilda” in 1895.
Australians sugar producing fields are just north of Cairns. Cairns is the only city in this area, most are just small towns like Port Douglas and Mossman. In this region you can also find the Cape York Peninsula, one of the last untouched wildernesses, at 200,000sq kms. In the wet season this area is green and the rivers are full, but the opposite can be said for the dry seasons.
When traveling North of Port Douglas and the outback region a four wheel drive car is the best option, unless you decide to take a formal tour. Cairns, on the other hand, offer various forms of public with regular air, train and coach connections. They also have an international airport.
If you are looking for information on Port Douglas accomodations or Cairns accommodations you should go to www.TropicalNorthQueensland.com.au. They have everything you are looking for from hotels to areas of interest your whle family will enjoy.
Australian Safari Adventure
January 19, 2010
The world largest sand island, Fraser Island, looks like a scene right out of the Star Wars movie. It is just a drive along the east coast beach or through the inland forests, where you will be awed by the rainforest’s and sand dunes.
Due to the numerous amounts of sand dunes, it is a very populated area for Sand Safaris. In order to travel around the terrain however, you must have a four wheel drive, as the lack of paved roads will destroy any normal car.
Self Drive tours are becoming really popular especially with backpackers as they are unbeatable on price. Nine new friends are given a vehicle, some 4WD instructions and then they head off in a convoy for a three day, two night camping adventure. There are advantages and disadvantages to this way of touring: It’s cheap , you can choose what and where you want to go and see and you could make great friends. The disadvantages are that it could be a very long three days if your group doesn’t get on. If you get an inexperienced driver, it is very frustrating if you spend most of your safari bogged in sand all the time. Also there have been a small amount of fatal crashes too.
If you don’t fancy sharing your safari with a bunch of strangers then it is possible to hire your own 4WD from Hervey Bay, Rainbow Beach or even on Fraser Island itself. All companies require a large deposit, usually a credit card imprint and you WILL lose it if you drive in salt water (so don’t even think about driving through those waves!!) A driving instruction video is normally shown and when planning your trip then driving about twenty kilometers in an hour on inland tracks and fifty an hour on the eastern beach would be about right. Be careful to resist the urge to speed as there have been many accidents and also, when driving on the beach, watch out for sunbathers on the Beach Highway.
Fraser Island is also home to an array of wildlife including the purest strain of Dingo. Although the Dingo may appear to be tame, you still must be careful as their only interest in people is the food they leave. It is not encouraged that food is left or that the Dingos are fed. Back in April of 2001 a nine year old boy, on Fraser Island, was killed by a Dingo, this event could have been avoided if the Dingos were not being feed, therefore encouraging them to come around the camp.
It can become difficult when trying to find a suitable car rental Queensland. If you log on to www.budget.com.au they have expert staff that can help you with making this choice. No matter if you are looking in Queensland or car rental Coolangatta, you are sure to get just what you want!
Myths About Australia Travels
January 19, 2010
YOU ARE GOING TO BE A SWEATING MESS: It is easy to this that since the highest temperatures that Australia see is 84 degrees this is one large misunderstanding. In fact, Australia has wonderful moderate temperature, year round, almost never going above 84 or under 70 degrees. This makes it an excellent vacation destination for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities and sigh seeing.
AUSTRALIAN’S DON’T LIKE TOURISTS: This is absolutely false. Australian’s tend to be some of the friendliest people. They welcome tourists into the region with open arms. You will find that they are extremely friendly and hospitable to tourists from all regions of the world. The Aussie’s will make you feel right at home.
AUSTRALIA LACKS ANYTHING OF INTEREST: Although many feel that all Australia has to offer is tours of the rainforest, this is not an accurate statement. Over the past few years Australia has created many attractions across their regions to make it attractive to tourists. Brisbane is the third largest region in Australia and has all that you would expect for a city. There are arts, musics and shopping as well as so much entertainment and night life that you will find that you are unable to take in all in with one short trip.
YOU ARE NOT SAFE WHEN TRAVELING INTERNATIONALLY: Although, there have been some terrorist issues on international flights, the good news is that flights from Australia seem to be the exception. You probably have a much bigger chance of having a problem if you are traveling back and forth to Australia than you will on a trip to and from Australia . It is just as safe as domestic travel is these days.
AUSTRALIA IS VERY PRIMITIVE: With some of the most luxurious accommodations and some of the finest dining establishments around you will find that the Australian culture is first class all the way. There are many fine boutiques, art exhibits and concerts that will delight even the most cultured person. Australia is a first rate place for a holiday and one that will create a truly memorable experience.
For the greatest deals and a wide variety of hotels in brisbane, go to brisbaneinformation.com.au. Whether you are looking for a brisbane accomodation or local information, you will find what you need here.
Take In A Little Brisbane History While You Visit
January 13, 2010
High tea is a practice that dates back to the late 1700′s. The Duchess of Bedford is said to be the originator of this custom. In that period, it was customary to only serve two meals a day, making it very hard to go from breakfast to dinner without eating. The dutchess began inviting friends over for high tea which included dainty sandwiches and breads. This practice became very popular and is still used today as we know it. High Tea is alive and well in Brisbane and below are a few favorite spots to enjoy this custom.
Experience old world tradition at Joseph Alexander’s at Milton. This is a one hundred and twenty year old historic house that offers some of the most amazing views of the Brisbane river and skyline. On top of that they also offer some of the most amazing assortments of tea, baked goods, finger sandwiches, coffee, juices and much much more.
In Clayfield you can visit High Societea. This is a great location and is often used for bridal showers, baby showers and birthday parties. Since it’s opening in May ’04 their emphasis on detail and presentation has made them a favorite for high tea.
Located on the river at Stamford Plaza is the Brasserie. The several high tea options here include an all chocolate infused buffet. Traditional high tea is served all day featuring baked goods, pastries, coffee and tea.
Queenies Traditional Tea house in Nundah is an intimate old style building and has a seating capacity of around 30m people. All the cakes are baked on the premises and include delicious and tempting cakes such as Chocolate Guinness Cake, Passion fruit Sponge (Queenies signature cake) and Cheery and Almond Cake. High Tea is served with a glass of Pimms, decadent deserts including chocolate creme brulee, Champagne and berry jelly and a traditional Tea cake.
If you are in the process of researching Brisbane hotels check out www.brisbaneinformation.com.au for the best information on the web. This site offers the most complete information online for all Brisbane accommodation, area attractions and events.
Top Brisbane Adventures That Everyone Will Enjoy
December 31, 2009
In between the mainland and North Stradbroke Island, Moreton’s most famous, are smaller islands laid out across the bay. These islands are close enough to Brisbane that many of the residents commute to the city on a daily basis.
Coochie Mudlo Island has red cliffs and beautiful sandy beaches. With its village feel and calm waters it is a perfect swimming and boating area for the family. While dining at Matthew Flinders Caf you can appreciate the bay views from any table. If you are visiting in July you will also enjoy a re-enactment festival of Matthew Flinders landing on the island 200 years ago. You can catch passenger ferries and barge services from Victoria Point.
With a population of over 3000, and growing, Russell Island is the largest of the Moreton bay Islands. It is the popular place for a weekend getaway and retired living. The island has shops, a supermarket, cafe, a hotel, and homes to rent for your holiday. the smallest of the islands is Lamb Island, although this is a small island, 2km by 1km, it has the biggest view. Other islands include Macleay Island, population 2500, Kangarra Island, smallest of the inhabited islands. Kangarra Island is a quiet spot without shops so when visiting be sure to bring your picnic.
Historically, St Helena Island is the most interesting. The island was once hunting grounds for local tribes. In 1828, Napoleon Bonaparte was sent to St. Helena after becoming troublesome for the jail at Dunwich, on the North Stradbroke Island.
St. Helena was turned into a penal colony, forty years later, when the mainland prison became overcrowded. The Reforests were cleared for lumber and to prevent escapes, gardens were planted, and houses were built. Prisoners were taught trades and paid for the work they did. In 1933 the last of the inmates left. During it’s 65 year run only 3 prisoners had escaped. Today, you can tour the Island and visit the Deputy Superintendents home, as well as the stone houses that once belonged to the prisoners. These homes have been turned into museums filled with photographs from the prison era.
If you are looking for a brisbane accommodation at a fair price, go to brisbaneinfromation.com.au. You will find information on various brisbane hotels and any amenities they may include.
Getting A Closer Look At The Underwater World
December 23, 2009
There are numerous PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) operated centers throughout Brisbane that offer dive services in Moreton Bay. Moreton Bay is a great place to have your diving adventure as the temperatures allow for diving year round.
One of the better known dive sites in the Brisbane area is the collection of 15 vessels at the Tangalooma Wrecks on the western or landward side of Moreton Island where dives range in depth from 2 to 10 meter with an average of about eight meters. The wreck attracts an amazing amount of marine life, including wobbegings, trevally, king fish and lots of tropical fish, they also make excellent drift dive because of the strong currents in the area.
Curtin Artificial Reef is located north of Moreton Bay, and is another popular diving destination. This area is particularly favored by those with intermediate qualifications and has much to see and explore. Since 1968 the underwater Research Group of Queensland has been sinking large vessels, cars, tires and pontoons for divers to explore. Much like Tangalooma Wrecks, there is also a wide range of marine life for you to observe during your dive.
The next dive, that is worth noting, is the Mantra Ray Bommie. The dives in this area are anywhere from five to fifteen meters deep. During your underwater exploration if this area you will get a chance to observe manta ray, leopard sharks, shovel nose rays, and much more.
Other areas that are great for diving fun include: Flinders Reef, Brisbane only true coral reef; Flat Rock, just of of the north east tip of Stradbroke Island. It’s a great place to see turtle, eagle rays reef fish and more. This location is also know as “Shark Alley” since it is most famous for the grey nurse shark that gather in the winter time.
In order to find the best value in a brisbane accommodation,go to brisbaneinformation.com.au right away. We provide the best variety in brisbane hotels that you can find.