My background of working for many years as a holiday planner inevitably has an influence on my holidays these days. When someone was recently planning a trip to Queensland, it was only natural to suggest destinations such as the tropical rainforests near Cairns and the pristine waters of the Whitsundays’ coast. Having delved a little deeper into my research, I realised that the state’s capital demanded inclusion into the itinerary.

Brisbane may have earned a reputation as something of a Gen Y urban playground, but while there is a growing number of flagship boutiques and Melbourne-inspired laneways, there is more to it than inner city bravado. Basing the trip from CBD, close to the lush botanical gardens, the first morning of the plan takes you to Cleveland, gateway to North Stradbroke Island. ‘Minjerribah’ to its indigenous Quandamooka people and ‘Straddie’ to other locals, the island is a favourite getaway for many city dwellers wishing to explore the native wildlife.

Having arrived by ferry at the main port of Dunwich, one heads along Nazi Road to the Blue Lake area, in the Naree Budjong Djara (‘My Mother Earth’) National Park, the base for two walking tracks, Neembeeba and Karboora. Given the often-high temperatures, it’s usually best to opt for the easier 5km return trip through the banksias and eucalypts of the Karboora trail. The area is home to birds such as honeyeaters and lorikeets as well as many freshwater fish and the golden wallaby. Venturing north by car to the popular Point Lookout, you can cast your eye out towards the migrating humpbacks and playful dolphins, all the while soaking up the stunning coastal views.

Returning at dusk you can still catch a bus up to the renowned Caxton Street precinct for a well-earned cocktail at the kitsch Statler & Waldorf. Across the road is the newly-established Brewski, which specialises in craft beer and gourmet pizza. While the next day’s plans demand a sensible bedtime, you may find it hard to prise yourself away from the lively atmosphere of the strip.

Whilst the well-known and nearby Mt Cootha provides hikers and cyclists with rewarding city views for the physical challenges they present, you can also take an early morning drive north towards the volcanic peaks of the Glass House Mountains NP. If you feel guilty about taking the easy option, try taking a hike up Mt Tibrogargan’s summit route, at the end of which you will find yourself a satisfying 364m above sea level. For the less experienced, the Tibrogargan or Trachyte walking circuits would be a safer option. After that, there’s time for a quick lunch before setting off to Mt Beerwah, the highest of the four peaks in the range and home to many birds including peregrine falcons, kookaburras and cockatoos as well as koalas, goannas, echidnas and well-camouflaged kangaroos.

If you have an interest in such things, the rapidly growing alternative and vegan culture of the West End, one of Brisbane’s most multiciltural of suburbs should be your next stop. Enjoy the raucous live music of the Lock ‘N Load Bistro. Enter the narrow, bustling bar that possesses a lush beer garden, an unusual rarity in Brisbane. Among the vegan offerings on the menu are the spiced sweet potato falafels with quinoa salad, a wholesome and delicious choice. If you’re in the party mood, head on over to ‘the valley’, where locals go to party into the wee hours. More live music is usually on offer at the New Orleans-themed Papa Jacks, where the attentive staff will whip up a cocktail from scratch based on your tastes and budget (as long as it stretches over $15, that is).

After partying at the Family nightclub, it may be time to call it an evening (a rather late evening, all the same) and retire to reflect on the two extremes of this amazing and unique city. From its invigorating natural beauty to a hip and happening urban scene, Brisbane caters for many and disappoints few.

Author Bio
Mary Ann Keeling is a travel planner from Brisbane. She is still in love with her home town and always in the mood to talk about life in the city. In her free time she likes to drive her bike through the Brisbane suburbs.

It’s the summer school holidays here in Australia. Christmas and New Year celebrations are done for another year and it’s time for some R&R with friends and family before we get going for the 2014 work year! Yesterday I caught up with a friend from the other side of town (Melbourne). Studley Park Boathouse was a good half way point to meet. We scored a pleasant summer day to enjoy a gorgeous lunch and a glass of wine on the verandah of the cafe. Families were picnicing by the Yarra River and some were out boating enjoying their holiday time. As you can see from the photos you would never think this little spot is only 6km from Melbourne’s CBD!

Studley Park Boathouse Cafe and Restaurant

Boats at Studley Park Boathouse

The Yarra River at Studley Park Boathouse

Australian Bush at Studley Park Boathouse

A magpie enjoying a drink

Perhaps unsurprisingly, visitors to Germany often head for the country’s three largest cities, Berlin, Hamburg and Munich. While all three offer access to important historical and heritage sites and a range of interesting tourist attractions, there is a very different experience awaiting those who decide to explore Frankfurt am Main, more commonly known simply as Frankfurt.

This is the sixth largest city in Germany, with a population of around 704,449 in 2012, while a further 2.3 million live in the urban area. Frankfurt is also at the center of the Frankfurt Rhine-Main Metropolitan Region, the country’s second largest metropolitan region, which has a population of 5.6 million.

Known for its futuristic high-rise skyline, Frankfurt is the business and financial nucleus of the country and also the financial center of continental Europe. A truly global city and a major air, highway and rail transport hub, Frankfurt has Germany’s busiest airport, serving all parts of Europe and further afield. Air France flights operate from other parts of Europe and the US, as well as Russia. Frankfurt also has a diverse population and a rich cultural scene, as evidenced by its many theaters, museums and world-class opera performances.

The city is now becoming more popular with tourists and its central attractions, including the square at Römer, Frankfurt Cathedral, St. Paul’s Church and the museums at the River Main, attract the most sightseers.  However, there are quite a few neighborhoods, such as Bornheim, Bockenheim, Nordend and Old Sachsenhausen that are not on the regular tourist routes and are easily overlooked by visitors. Some of Frankfurt’s best-kept secrets are the beautiful 19th century streets and parks where many of the traditional local eating and drinking places, so beloved by the locals, are to be found.

Getting to know Frankfurt

Unlike other German cities, Frankfurt has a large multicultural population; some 180 nationalities live there. Almost 25 per cent of people living in the city are foreign nationals and 40 per cent of residents have an immigrant background.

Apart from the city center attractions, other popular attractions include the peaceful botanical gardens at Palmengarten, the Mediterranean flora at the River Main in the “Gardens of Nice” and Frankfurt Zoo, which is a particular favorite with local families. With such a compact city center, the best way to get around is on foot. In fact part of the fun of exploring the city is to get off the beaten track, away from the usual tourist haunts.

Palmengarten Botanical Gardens

For example, in Old Sachsenhausen locals gather in authentic and unspoiled pubs in the area around Wallstrasse (Wall Street) and Affentorplatz to enjoy one of Frankfurt’s specialties, Ebbelwol or apple wine; this is not a sweet cider and is something of an acquired taste. Food in Frankfurt is also a serious business and there are several local dishes worth a try beyond the famous frankfurter. There are other sausages, made from beef known as Rindswurst, and a special green sauce containing herbs that is served with meat known as Grie Soss or Grüne Sosse.

Why not take a trip to view the impressive skyline of Frankfurt am Main, to see if it truly does deserve the portmanteau title of “Mainhattan”?

From exploring geological mysteries to ogling gold at the Perth Mint, there are numerous attractions in Perth you can do with the family even on a tight budget. If you’ve been able to score some inexpensive airline flights to Perth, here are 10 fun, family-friendly things to do for under $50.

Aviation Heritage Museum

Aircraft on display include a Spitfire, Lancaster Bomber, DeHavilland Tiger Moth and an Avro Ansen. Apart from display aircraft, the Aviation Heritage Museum also features books, photographs and other types of memorabilia and aviation heritage artefacts. The collection is extensive, making the museum a great destination for all the family.

Cottesloe Beach

Probably the most popular beach in Perth, Cottesloe beach is easy to get to by train or car. You can choose to spend your time on the sand and in the water, perch on the grassed terrace or sitting in comfort in one of the many Cottesloe cafes and restaurants. If you want some peace and quiet, then just head a little way down either end of the beach.

The Swan River

Meandering right through central Perth, the Swan River is a great place to bring the family for a day’s fun. Whether you prefer to be on or off the water, there’s a lot to do along the Swan River. Take a boat ride or fishing trip, bike along the open, flat cycle tracks or picnic along the river bank under the trees.

Kings Park and Botanical Gardens

Only a short walk from the city centre, Kings Park is set on 400 acres of beautiful recreational and bush land. It offers views of the city and Swan River, and various restaurants and cafes to sit back and relax. If you’re feeling up to it, you can take a climb up the DNA Tower. The Botanical Gardens, with thousands of native plants and wildlife to explore, are not to be missed. A day at Kings Park and the Botanical Gardens will surely satisfy your whole family.

Western Australian Museum

With a great selection of artefacts, from dinosaurs to Aboriginal art, the Western Australian Museum easily fits in our top 10 list. The museum has regular travelling exhibitions that will keep you wanting to come back for more. Best of all, admission is free, making a day at the museum a bargain for your family.

Mettam’s Pool

If you happen to be visiting Perth in the summer, you’ll certainly be looking for somewhere to cool off. Mettam’s Pool is a great beach, located about 15 minutes from central Perth. A natural pool protected by a reef, Mettam’s Pool is a great place for young kids to swim safely. Also of interest is the abundant ocean life around the reef, making it a great place for the kids to learn to snorkel.

Fraser Avenue Lookout

Not far from the city, Fraser Avenue Lookout offers spectacular views of the Perth city centre and the meandering Swan River. This is a great place for a picnic during the day or head up in early evening to see the sunset and the city lights. If you want, you can always combine the sightseeing view with a meal at nearby Fraser’s Restaurant.

Kings Park War Memorial

Located in Kings Park, the War Memorial is an impressive structure dedicated to those who have fought and died in war. With beautiful views overlooking the Swan River, Kings Park War Memorial is a great place for a relaxing picnic or a walk through the park grounds.

Perth Mint

The Perth Mint is a stunning architectural building where you can spend an entire day with your family. With a range of exhibitions, demonstrations and activities for everyone to enjoy, the Perth Mint has guided talks, Australia’s largest natural nugget collection on display and the largest collection of gold bars to view. You can even watch gold being poured.

St George’s Cathedral

Situated in the heart of the city, St George’s Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral, and one of the few constructed using handmade bricks. With its beautiful jarrah roof trusses and arches, the use of Fremantle limestone, bluestone pillars and gorgeous stained-glass windows, this cathedral doesn’t disappoint. Whether you’re here for a tour or a service, St George’s Cathedral has a very peaceful and reverent feel to it.

About the Author: Born and bred in Perth, Janet Moore works as a travel guide for one of Perth’s popular city tour companies. She often contributes articles about the best ways to experience all that Perth has to offer.