Brisbane

Smaller than its West coast sister cities but no less interesting, Queensland’s riverside capital is as cool as its climate is not. A student city at heart, Brisbane doesn’t lack for galleries, dining and nightlife options, with hip cafes, high-end restaurants and rooftop bars lining the tropical waterfront. A trip to South Bank, the city’s premier cultural, social and recreational neighbourhood — is a must, and families will rejoice at the free public swimming pools, man-made beaches and bike-friendly boardwalks. If these aren’t enough, the beautiful beaches of Gold Coast and Surfers Paradise are just an hour’s drive away, a short hop in Australian terms.

Cricket-lovers shouldn’t miss a trip to the Gabba (Brisbane’s Cricket Ground) which is notorious for its intense and raucous atmosphere. Extremely popular, but for good reason, is a trip to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, where visitors can cuddle Australia’s most endearing marsupial.