In a nation bordered by beaches, Brisbane is the only place where you can find one in the city.  Skyscrapers and swimmers come together at South Bank Parkland, a popular local haunt, containing an artificial swimming beach, weekend markets and cheerful cafes. Recent development within the city has resulted in an explosion of exceptional theaters, galleries and concert halls, earning Brisbane the title of arts capital of Queensland. 

Although Brisbane has experienced a boom in the past decade, it hasn’t lost sight of its country town roots.  Classic Queensland houses, encircled by bougainvillea-clad verandahs, are scattered throughout the suburbs.  Brisbane’s top attraction, The Australian Woolshed, pays homage to Australia’s agricultural heritage with hilarious hands on demonstrations, while evening dinner cruises down the tranquil Brisbane River highlight the city’s role as a river port.

It is no coincidence that fashion mogul, Gianni Versace, chose the Gold Coast as the site for his flagship hotel, Palazzo Versace.  With its 26 miles of sun-drenched beaches and Mardi Gras atmosphere, the “coast with the most” compliments the Versace vision of finery and fun.  Pamper yourself in this miniature Miami with a visit to a holistic spa, dine at a gourmet restaurant or tee off at one of the areas 40 championship golf courses.

For those who are more comfortable in flip flops than in Fendi, the Gold Coast will not disappoint.  Head inland and hike Australia’s beautiful Lamington National Park.  Fish a canal in Venice-like South Stradbroke Island, or ride the Tower of Terror at Dreamworld amusement park.  Travel to the Gold Coast and discover why it’s Australia’s family fun park.

No vacation to Australia is complete with out a trip to Cairns. Built on Trinity Inlet, the Coral Sea calls from the east whilst the rainforest-clad Atherton Tableland serenades from the west, making Cairns an enchanting nature lovers Nirvana. To reach the Atherton Tableland you can drive, but to truly appreciate the changing landscape from waving cane fields to walls of rainforest, you should travel the scenic railway to the mountain town of Kuranda. Famed for its vibrant markets and stunning views, Kuranda is a charming hideaway and a good place to mingle with the locals selling regional arts and crafts. 

Make your way down the mountain by gliding above the rainforest canopy on the Skyrail gondola.  Adjacent to the Skyrail station at the valley floor is Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park.  Here, visitors are treated to a taste of Aboriginal culture with origin tales of the Dreaming, festive, native dances, and instruction on how to throw a boomerang and spear. 

Head to the heart of the city, the Esplanade, and enjoy a café latte before catching a catamaran to Cairns’ underwater rainforest, the Great Barrier Reef.  The only living organism visible from space, the Great Barrier Reef is 1,240 miles of memories that will last a lifetime.  Snorkel with sea turtles, dive the rich waters off Green Island or birdwatch on Michelmas Cay.  No fancy photograph or travel documentary will prepare you for the perpetual paradise that awaits you at the spectacular Great Barrier Reef.

A mere 20-minute drive from Cairns, Palm Cove is miles away from the hustle and bustle of its popular neighbor.  Escape to a forest-fringed oasis where you will find peace and plenty instead of people and plans.

If you need an Australian wildlife fix, head to Wild World, a 10-acre tropical zoo.  Along with kangaroos and cassowaries, you can get up close and personal with snakes and race giant North-Queensland cane-toads.  King of the mountain is a 1,540 pound crocodile – the largest in captivity.  With her 17ft long frame, you can understand why they call this little lady “Sarge.”