Brisbane

If it weren't for Brisbane's tall office buildings and sleek commuter ferries, you might expect to see cows grazing on the city's carefully manicured lawns. Although Bris¬bane (pop. 1-1.5 million, according to varied estimates) is the capital of Queensland and Australia's third largest city, its recent growth has not obliterated its deliciously relaxed country-town feel, and the city seems like a ruddy-cheeked farmboy who's suddenly outgrown his britches. Originally a penal colony for recidivists, Brisbane today is neither glamorous nor industrial, but it's practical, clean, and full of energy.

Brisbane Highlights

• Relaxing anywhere in the tranquil South Bank Parklands
• An eating experience straight from a daydream at Garuva
• Thumping techno and a funky crowd at the Beat in Fortitude Valley
• Picnicking in the gardens at Mt. Coot-tha Park, then climbing to the summit for a great view of the city
• Daytrip to North Stradbroke Island for first-rate diving and sunbathing along miles of snow-white beach
• Art galleries aplenty at the Queensland Cultural Centre

The Brisbane River lends an easygoing grace to the metropolis it bisects. River transportation is simple and enjoyable; hulking ferries and slim kayaks glide between Chinatown and the South Bank Parklands, between investment banks and the trendy West End. Always a good bet for temporary employment, Brisbane earned a reputa¬tion as a tourist and holiday destination only recently, after hosting the 1988 World Expo and the 1992 Commonwealth Games. The sunny, warm climate has attracted artistic emigres, eager to shed winter jumpers and rev up the city's cultural institu¬tions. Today, visitors to Brisbane enjoy the gorgeous, modern Cultural Centre, 19th-century historic buildings, corner cafes, rocking nightclubs, extensive parklands, and a serene waterfront.

Featured Destinations from Australia

Australia : The South of Tasmania

The South of Tasmania Anchored by capital Hobart, a beautiful city of good food and good people, the southern end of Australia welcomes travelers to its towns, forests, and coast. Ninety minutes east of Hobart lies historic Port Arthur, the most significant remaining testament to Tassie's colonial history; 90 minutes west

Australia : The Top End

The Top End A lush tropical crown atop a vast interior desert, the winterless Top End enjoys per¬petually warm weather; seasons here are divided only into the Wet and the Dry. Dur¬ing the May-to-October dry season, backpack-toting pilgrims descend on the city of Darwin to worship its twin deities: a

Jenolan Caves

Jenolan Caves The amazing limestone and crystal formations of Jenolan (Je-NO-lan) Caves, on Jeno¬lan Caves Rd, 45km south of the Great Western Hwy from Hartley, have beguiled vis¬itors since they were first introduced to the general public in 1838. One can reach the caves by bus from Katoomba. The cave system

Australia : Sunshine and Fbaser Coasts

Sunshine and Fbaser Coasts The pastel yellow that permeates the Sunshine Coast contrasts sharply with the Gold Coast's pulsating neon. The Sunshine Coast, in many ways, is a kinder, gentler version of vacationland. The crowds are fewer, but expert surfers still dot the waves. Beaches still envelop well-established towns, and waters

Australia : Great Southern

GREAT SOUTHERN Stretching from the karri and tingle forests of Pemberton and Walpole, through the rugged Porongurup and Stirling Ranges, to the vast scrubland at the beginning of the Nullarbor Plain, the Great Southern region possesses an expansive beauty. The char¬acter of the land and people changes as one follows die

Taronga Park Zoo

Taronga Park Zoo Taronga Zoo is the Australia's leading zoological garden. It features Australia's finest collection of native animals and a diverse collection of exotic species. The Taronga Zoo has its own jetty and you are able step off the boat and walk directly into the zoo. It nestles

Goldfields War Museum, Kalgoorlie

Goldfields War Museum, Kalgoorlie Military history enthusiasts will definitely find the Goldfields War Museum worth a visit for an hour or two. Exhibits within the museum include a large number of armoured vehicles, weapons, uniforms and an extensive collection of wartime relics and memorabilia. Of particular interest is the photographic collection

Armadale Reptile Centre

Armadale Reptile Centre Over 200 reptiles with snakes, lizards turtles and lots more just off the South Western Highway in Armadale.

Melbourne Zoo

Melbourne Zoo Opened on this site in 1862, Melbourne Zoo is the oldest zoo in Australia. It is believed to be the eleventh oldest zoo in the world. It offers more than 350 animal species from Australia and around the world are on view just 4 km from the centre of

Kalgoorlie

Kalgoorlie Kalgoorlie is located 40 kilometres east of Coolgardie, 595 kilometres east of Perth and 200 kilometres north of Norseman. The traditional landowners of the Kalgoorlie area are the Maduwangka people and the name Kalgoorlie is said to mean "Silky Pear Bush" in the local aboriginal language. European settlement of Kalgoorlie