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Queensland

Destination guide

Brisbane

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International students and tourists are returning to Brisbane as occupancy rates reflect the rise.
Maleny’s lush Botanic Gardens.

No theme parks, but Queensland’s other coast is just as great for a family escape

While the Gold Coast is renowned as a family holiday destination, Queensland’s other major holiday coast is also a great option for families – particularly those seeking a more low-key escape.

  • Craig Platt
Cairns lagoon, free for anyone to swim in, is a highlight of the city.

Stuck in a northern tropical city, my workday routine became a dream

After breakfast at a cafe, I’d work a few hours at the local library before heading to the lagoon for a swim. It wasn’t long before I started wondering if I could live here.

  • Tim Richards
The Via Ferrata course includes an 80-metre-long suspension bridge walk over an abyss.

New ‘world first’ Gold Coast attraction wants to freak you out. It works on me

You don’t need any special skills to enjoy the thrills and views of this new park, just some common sense.

  • Craig Tansley
The Avani Mooloolaba Beach is the first new full-service hotel to hit the Sunshine Coast in 40 years.

Inside the Sunshine Coast’s first new hotel in almost 40 years

The $250 million property is luxurious but restrained, in keeping with the sun, sand and surf vibes of its surroundings.

  • Julietta Jameson
The Federation-style timber Yungaburra Hotel.

The unexpectedly cool Queensland town you’ve probably never heard of

We came for the waterfalls. We stayed for the passionate locals who make this heritage-listed rural town a destination worth detouring for.

  • Riley Wilson
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The Calile Hotel Brisbane – a frequent award-winner.

An insider guide to the best places to stay in Brisbane

If you haven’t been recently, you won’t recognise Brisbane – this former big country town is now one of Australia’s most sophisticated cities.

  • Craig Tansley
The resort’s pool has been refreshed, but the popular swim-up bar remains.

Noosa’s landmark hotel has a brand-new look (and a great restaurant)

This iconic Queensland hotel has had a makeover, and its new Italian trattoria is a key attraction.

  • Trudi Jenkins
Evening light in the courtyard at Balfour Kitchen & Bar in Brisbane.

This sublime, boutique Brisbane stay is well worth discovering

There’s a dual personality here, but as much as they contrast, here at Spicers Balfour Brisbane, the two sides complement each other.

  • Jim Darby
Opera Queensland’s 2026 Festival of Outback Opera.

Forget the Opera House, this outback festival is the real deal

Once a year, this unpretentious Queensland town plays host to global opera superstars.

  • Katrina Lobley
Mondrian Gold Coast’s seafood diner, Haven.

The Gold Coast’s best places eat and drink

The Gold Coast’s dining scene used to revolve around surf clubs. Now a throng of talented chefs has turned the region into a genuine foodie hot-spot.

  • Craig Tansley