An improving city with lots to offer!
Written: Jul 03 '03
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Very livable.
Cons: Lacks attractions of other big cities.
The Bottom Line: A city with a lot to offer without the headaches that come with a larger, busier city.
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| lil_kanga77's Full Review: Brisbane |
I've lived in Brisbane for over 15 years however, I have shown numerous friends and family around the city and surrounds over that time.
Most of their comments have been that it's a laid-back city with friendly people and a great night-life atmosphere.
I'd have to agree with them.
Unlike the other major cities in Australia such as Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane is a smaller and younger city with still a lot to offer.
The biggest positive about Brisbane is its location on the Brisbane River.
If arriving via the airport to the north-east of the city and staying in the city, you'll drive in along the river with great city views. In my opinion, a great first impression.
Navigating your way around Brisbane is relatively easy with many freeways leading into the city, however they do not give the place a concrete-jungle feel at all.
The actual city center has seen many changes over recent years with the main mall area renovated to encompass a very modern, steel feel. I, personally, don't like it and don't think it suits the warm climate and outdoor-sy feel the city has going for it.
Again, unlike Melbourne and Sydney you wouldn't go to Brisbane to shop. The array of shops is not as vast as in other cities and if that's a main past-time of yours, don't count on spending too much, other than on souvenirs.
Directly across the river from the city is Southbank Parklands, the site of the World Expo'88. It's a large parkland with a beach/pool area, numerous bbq's, restaurants and shops. They hold outdoor markets each weekend and they're a must if visiting. Numerous events are also held here with many positive reviews.
Mt Coot-tha is the nearest peak to the west of the city and provides you with a great view of the city with extensive views also available to the south-west. There is a cafe and restaurant too, however finding a park during the weekends can pose a problem. The view shows you just how much parkland and vegetation the city has.
Another attraction for tourists within 15 minutes of the city center is Lone Pine Sanctuary. There, you can see many of Australia's animals. I'd suggest taking the cruise from the city center down the Brisbane River there. It's a wonderful outing.
The weather is Brisbane can be quite humid in Summer however, winters aren't nearly as cold as other places and shorts and a t-shirt aren't a rarity.
Theme parks and beaches, if that's your liking, are about 45 - 60 minutes south of Brisbane however, the new five-land freeway makes the trip relatively painless. This, I would have to say, is a negative - not having major attractions closer to the city center.
Traveling north you've got more beaches and numerous mountains and national parks along with the world famous Australia Zoo - Steve Irwin's crocodile park.
Brisbane has a wonderful night-life, in regards to restaurants with eating out a very in-vogue thing to be done - so be sure to check out such areas as Park Road, West End and New Farm, just to name a few.
Public transport is relatively good with trains traveling to the beaches to the south with a bus connection. The ferries along the river are pleasant but not exactly cheap.
Brisbane mightn't be as busy, big and active as Sydney but that's what makes it appeal to me.
Recommended:
Yes
Best Suited For: Families
Best Time to Travel Here: Anytime
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Epinions.com ID:
lil_kanga77
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Reviews written: 8
Trusted by: 0 members
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