Brisbane
This lively city in the southeastern corner of Queensland boasts hot summers and pleasant winters, and is often the first stop on any Australian holiday. Affectionately known as the "River City," Brisbane’s laid-back, holiday atmosphere is immediately apparent in everything from the architecture to the fashion on the streets. Brisbane’s architecture suits its subtropical climate with wide verandas and houses built on stilts. Visitors will be pleased to know much of the accommodation offers air-conditioning to escape the heat, and balconies where you can catch a cool afternoon breeze. Brisbane provides a wide range of centrally located accommodation options, only a short walk or drive from the city business and shopping districts.
Central Business District
With just over a million residents in greater Brisbane, the city center is small by comparison to Sydney or Melbourne. Nevertheless, at the heart of the city is the thriving and bustling Queen Street Mall, one of the most successful pedestrian malls in Australia. Overlooking the Mall, the Hilton Hotel and Lennons Hotel are central to just about everything. North of the Mall is the financial district, and south is the legal and government district.
If you are looking for luxury, few hotels surpass the magnificent Stamford Plaza with its old-world charm and unencumbered views of the Brisbane River and Botanical Gardens.
Another option for luxury accommodation is the Conrad Treasury, housed in the refurbished 1905 heritage building that was formerly the Land Administration Building. The hotel acts as the accommodation section of the Conrad Treasury Casino, across the park in the former Government Treasury Building.
Four and five star apartments are also found throughout downtown. One of the best is Quay West, a short walk from the central business district, opposite the Botanical Gardens.
Heading west from downtown, you will discover a number of smaller, moderately priced hotels, such as the Explorers Inn. There is also the YMCA-owned Hotel George Williams. Backpacker-style accommodations are available in Upper Roma Street at several establishments including the Brisbane City YHA.
Spring Hill
Charming workers’ cottages, 1860s stone terrace houses, and historic sites, such as the Old Windmill, combine to give the suburb of Spring Hill a unique appeal. A picturesque district brimming with inexpensive motel rooms and executive apartments, Spring Hill is a series of steep streets overlooking Brisbane, a short walk from downtown.
For the business traveler looking for luxury accommodation for a long-term stay, Sedgebrook on Leichardt is a great choice. Corporate travelers requiring more moderately priced accommodation with some meeting facilities will find the Metropolitan Motor Inn ideal for their needs. Gay and lesbian guests will feel welcome at the Sportsman Hotel.
South Bank
World Expo '88 was the catalyst for the amazing transformation of Brisbane’s South Bank area. Queensland’s Cultural Centre, Art Gallery, Museum, Conservatorium of Music, South Bank parklands and the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre make this a must-see area.
Rydges is the first of a number of new hotels built to take advantage of everything this unique area has to offer. For apartment-style accommodation within walking distance of South Bank, try the Diana Plaza Hotel, boasting the only traditional Asian-style bath house in Brisbane.
Kangaroo Point/Dockside
Directly across the river, a short ferry ride from downtown, is Kangaroo Point and Dockside. It's within close proximity to the central business district and spectacular views of the city skyline and river have seen commercial accommodation and private housing in this area develop rapidly in recent years. Apartment and suite-style accommodation is abundant with venues such as Bridgewater, featuring facilities more akin to a holiday resort than a city hotel. A refreshing change from the standard hotel décor can be found at Il Mondo, a boutique hotel where each room has been individually decorated in its own style.
Outside the City
For lodging that is easily accessible to downtown but is away from its bustling streets, look a little further afield. A short distance away is the famous Breakfast Creek Wharf with shops and restaurants and the well known Breakfast Creek Hotel.
Traveling west along the river from the city takes you to the Inn on the Park, a popular wedding venue where many a bride has been carried over the threshold of the honeymoon suite. Also, try the Inn for family apartment accommodation. A short distance away is the grand Regatta Hotel, a popular "watering-hole" in Toowong.
When you visit Brisbane, you are sure to find the right accommodation, regardless of your budget or travel needs. Be sure to take full advantage of all that this beautiful city has to offer. In particular, enjoy the outdoor lifestyle and wonderful climate!
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