Go all out when you visit Australia’s Brisbane

Beautiful weather, tantalising dishes and a plethora of activities to choose from – what more can you ask for when you’re on holiday? Whether it’s an action-packed vacation or one where you can just kick back and relax, the city of Brisbane in Queensland, Australia has plenty to offer.

Visitors will note that its strategic location opens up the options of indulging in days spent by the coast, biking up the nearby Mount Coot-tha or simply enjoying the city offerings.

After a short visit there, here are some of our favourite places and activities to do in and around the city.

Cuddle a koala
Great for adults and kids alike, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a must visit when you’re in Brisbane. First established in 1927 with only two koalas, the sanctuary is now the oldest koala sanctuary in the world and is home to 130 koalas.

While Lone Pine is largely popular for their koalas, it also features other Australian fauna such as kangaroos, wombats, tasmanian devils, platypuses and raptors.

At the sanctuary, you can do more than just observe the animals – you’re encouraged to connect and learn about them too. There are educational shows, keeper talks and other chances to interact with the animals there.

Brisbane
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is where you can cuddle and take a photo with a cute koala.

There’s also a large kangaroo reserve where visitors can get up close and personal with kangaroos, wallabies and the occasional emu. While you’re feeding the kangaroos, don’t forget to pet them – you’ll find that they are surprisingly soft.

After you’ve had your fun at the zoo, instead of just hopping on to a bus or car, get on a boat for a ride back to the city from Mirimar Cruises.

Foodie heaven
We Malaysians take our food very seriously and the same can be said for Australians. You’ll find many a good restaurant in Brisbane but one place you should visit is Eat Street Northshore.

Eat Street used to be a container wharf but it now houses restaurants and cafes of international fare. Take your time to wander around and let yourself be tempted by the pleasant aromas wafting from the restaurants set in colourful shipping containers.

Look out for the fresh seafood: A must try is a basket of the Moreton Bay Bugs (don’t worry, they’re not insects!). The bugs, aka slipper lobsters, are so delicious – one basket might not be enough.

While you’re at it, grab a plate of fresh oysters too. The lively atmosphere at Eat Street (there are live band shows too) makes the place a great spot to hang out with with friends and family.

Challenging heights
Want to tick something off your bucket list? The Story Bridge Climb might just be what you’re looking for.

The Story Bridge is one of a handful of bridges worldwide that allows visitors to test their mettle with a hike to the top. The climb is approximately 80m high and is an exhilarating experience that will get your heart racing.

Before you start the climb, the climb leader assigned to your group will provide the compulsory climb suits. If you’re wearing any loose accessories like bracelets, or sunglasses, don’t worry worry about losing them. There are lockers for you to store your things, or if needed, the staff can help secure them onto your suit or body before starting the journey. However, the general advice is to bring as few personal items as possible.

It is also very important to take note of and follow the medical advisory, too, as folks with particular medical conditions are not advised to join in the activity.

During the climb, the leaders will be there to guide you up the bridge. For those who have a fear of heights (like this writer!), fret not as they’ll help assuage your fears with interesting stories and facts about the bridge and Brisbane as you ascend.

There are several types of climbs throughout the day, but the twilight climb comes highly recommended. Be awed as you watch the sunset from the top and as you descend, you just might catch the bridge lighting up.