In Brisbane, we stayed in a shared Airbnb for the first time. The selling point? View from 62nd floor in city center, for an unbeatable price. The family that rented us a room had two small kids. And let’s face it, our Baby Boy needs some other company also. The view was everything that was promised, although a bit noisy (who would have guessed so high up?), and the kids were very sweet. Baby had an amazing time, running around with a huge grin on his face. It still felt a bit intrusive to prepare dinner in someone else’s kitchen. Homework is being done, laundry is being put out, and there we are, heating up pasta as silent observers. Still, 62nd floor view is worth the awkwardness.
Brisbane is an interesting place. Not as pretty as Sydney, but much more livable. And what it lacks in harbors and operas, it makes up in unbelievable South Bank park. Used to be Expo 88 spot, but the city decided to keep the area living. We were amazed. Galleries, playgrounds, sandy beach, swimming pools, herb garden, free fitness classes, wifi connection, you name it. Everything spotless clean, and completely free. It was awesome. As Baby had a blast in one of the baby swimming pools, we forgave Brisbane the lack of ocean. Anyhow, it is a short drive to some amazing beaches (as anywhere on the Aussie’s coast).
TIP:
City Hopper Ferries: a great way to get around and see the city while cruising it’s river. These ferries are for free, and very convenient. Babies and strollers are allowed (and very common), just make sure to hold the little ones tight:)
Mt. Coot-tha: in a 15min drive, you can get great views over the city. You can just drive up the mountain, or you can take an easy 30min hike (not suitable for strollers). Other walk we did kind of sucked: JC Slaughter Falls had no water (dry season, duh) and the detour to see Aboriginal Art is a waste of time. There are Botanical Gardens just below the mountain, it’s very pretty (children’s playground is very basic though).
