DESTINATIONS QUEENSLAND AUSTRALASIA


ASK THE EXPERTS


John Pyrah, Austravel “It has been around 10 years since I was last in Brisbane and it has changed into a really cool, cosmopolitan destination in its own right, not just a gateway to get further north. Recent plans for development mean even more exciting things for Queensland as a whole.”


Caroline Hetherington, Freedom Australia “Cairns is the main hub for activities, as most tours and excursions depart from here. Whether you snorkel or dive the reef, visit the amazing World Heritage rainforest or learn about the aboriginal culture at Tjapukai, this area of Australia has it covered.”


Tessa McMinn, Flight Centre “Queensland has something for everyone, from backpackers on a budget to five-star honeymooners. The highlight was the sunrises and sunsets. I would highly recommend getting up early to experience a Queensland sunrise. It’s completely free and you will treasure the photographs forever!”


82 travelweekly.co.uk 13 September 2018


a half-day island visit). As we bounced over the waves, my


first glimpse of this tropical haven appeared: luminous greens punctuated only by a few colourful kayaks leaning against a boat shed, while a tempting ocean trampoline stood in the impossibly clear water. Available to visit either as a day trip


or for a longer stay, the island resort is also a national park and offers a range of four-star accommodation including ocean suites, studios, beach cabins and apartments. When not kayaking, snorkelling,


boating or visiting the turtle sanctuary, clients can experience one of several walking trails. I embarked on a hike to ‘Australia’s best beach’ and on arrival, understood exactly why it had pulled in the votes. Instead of the classic white powdery sand I had imagined, treasures of the reef carpeted the ground. Ancient shells and rocks in vivid hues glittered in the sun, while hypnotic fish elegantly danced through the clear waters.


w BRIGHT CITY LIGHTS The natural surroundings of Tropical North Queensland were a sharp contrast to shiny Brisbane, our gateway to the region thanks to a flight


with Philippine Airlines via Manila. Formerly in the shadow of booming


Ancient shells and rocks in vivid hues glittered in the sun, while hypnotic fish elegantly danced through the clear waters


tourist hubs such as Sydney, the city is experiencing a rebirth, with a host of new hotels and development focusing on leisure, rather than business, travellers. With its sparkling skyline and river


that lazily wraps itself around the city, it is a good option for families, who can expect a relaxed and unhurried pace. It is an ideal base for touring destinations such as the Gold Coast and for clients en route to Tropical North Queensland, which can be reached in a short flight of about two and a half hours. Boutique breweries, Bohemian


coffee houses and a diverse restaurant and bar scene fill the city. South Bank is the centre of the action and features parkland, attractions and several festivals throughout the year. A bike tour along the river is a particularly enjoyable way to see the city. Brisbane by Bicycle has guided bike tours from £39. The city has certainly emerged from


its cocoon to celebrate what makes it unique in its own right. If the goal is for visitors to leave feeling they have had an authentic Australian city experience, then it’s right on track. As I boarded the aircraft back home,


ABOVE: Colour Me Brisbane sign


LEFT: Agents on the fam trip


after reef and rainforest, resort island and riverside bike ride, it was clear Queensland has more going for it than just the Sunshine Coast. queensland.com, visitbrisbane.com.au


PICTURE: DOMINIKA LIS/G20 AUSTRALIA


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