The capital city of Australia’s State of Queensland, Brisbane sure does pull out all the stops when it comes to entertaining and leaving travelers with feelings of intrigue and satisfaction. What’s more? The 283 days of sunshine with which the city is blessed annually make for quite the thrilling escape indeed. From shopping, dining, and fine accommodation to plenty of places to go on casual strolls within its charming streets and past corners and sections; here is a take on what it feels like to step into the shoes of a local when in Brisbane.

The city’s breakfast culture is one of the highlights that not only draws in locals but also foreign nationals, easily coaxed into calling by the slew of bakeries and cafes that dot the area. An easy way to pinpoint your nearest eatery will be the lines of patrons who queue up in anticipation of munching on flavourful pastry and scrambled eggs before sipping on specialty coffee to kick-start their day. If sustainable produce is high on your list of priorities, then beeline towards King Arthur which is found just off James Street. In turn, for the bagel fan, why not check out Scout Café on Petrie Terrace? However, for the perfect beginning, do make time to Albion’s Brew Bakers or Crust & Co. in Newmarket for one amazing selection of freshly baked goodness and a sugary blast!

The concept of a boutique brewery is not foreign to Brisbane as the city is well served by a range of breweries, each with its flair and spread of beverages worth tapping into. An ideal means of spending a hot afternoon after a day out exploring will be to pause by such facilities that will ensure one is in good spirits from the moment one steps inside. Home to 6 brews and ciders housed within a tin shed underneath the Story Bridge, Felons in Howard Smith Wharves is where one ought to be headed should waterside seating and strong beer be to your fancy. On the flip side, for novel creations that see the light of day with considerable regularity, do have a look at the value on offer at Newstead’s Range Brewing.

Street shopping in Brisbane Queen Street Mall | Image via unsplash

Well, there is no absolute rule that you need to purchase anything but then again, what’s a trip to Brisbane minus the odd memento or gift to take back home? Against such a thought, Brisbane boasts variety in every sense of the word which trickles through to its retail scene affording one with plenty to choose from and be awed by. For starters, the Central Business District and Folio Books will be a pleasant experience where your favorite authors are bound to be available. Next up, consider West End and Bent Books which comes complete with second-hand novels and several genres to pour over. Queen Street Mall is Brisbane’s best pedestrian shopping mall where time can be invested across its 6 leading retail centers inclusive of well over 700 brands and a fashion identity that encompasses both local and international tastes. For those thinking of residing at holiday apartments, Brisbane offers the well-equipped Oaks Brisbane Aurora Suites which is a short 10-minute walk from the Mall and makes for a good lodging option.

Why pause at food, drink, and shopping when you can have so much in return for being in Brisbane? For example, sport is one of the best activities that unite communities and when in the city, one will definitely be spoilt for choice. Suncorp Stadium, the cathedral of sport in the State and home to Rugby League side the Brisbane Broncos and Rugby Union team the Queensland Reds will provide quite the thrill, especially if you happen to be holidaying in Australia during the beginning of the year as this is when the NRL and Super Rugby seasons play out. Catch the bone-crunching tackles, high flyers and that too with a beer in hand. Conclude your time in the city with a trip to the lifestyle and dining hub of Howard Smith Wharves which is a mere 10-minute stroll from the CBD. From the Aussie-Cantonese restaurant of Stanley which features elaborate Hong Kong-themed décor to Polpetta and its inspired Italian menu found against the backdrop of Brisbane River, this part of the metropolis is well worth penning down and journeying to sign off in style.