Third Visit to Queensland: A Totally Different Experience! Capturing All the Thrills and Beauty!

After five years, I once again set foot on the land of Queensland, Australia. This is my third visit here. Every time, Queensland is like a mysterious old friend, always bringing unexpected surprises.

Five years have passed, and this land is full of new changes. Strolling down streets I've never walked before, the sea breeze feels both familiar and strange, with anticipation hidden in every corner.

This time, I dove headfirst into the Great Barrier Reef, dancing with vibrant corals and agile sea turtles, experiencing a dreamlike underwater world. On Moreton Island, I hand-fed adorable dolphins, watching them leap joyfully across the water, melting my heart. At a wildlife sanctuary, I had close encounters with kangaroos and koalas, touching the vitality of nature. I gathered the courage to climb a high bridge and eagerly tried surfing in the sea—the sense of achievement from challenging myself was beyond words. These new experiences deepened my love for Queensland, and I can't wait to share this amazing journey with everyone.

My first novel experience was conquering my fear of heights to climb the Story Bridge!

Once I strapped on the safety gear and took the first step, the city's magnificent scenery gradually unfolded beneath my feet.

Along the way, a professional and witty guide shared the bridge's history and architectural secrets, enriching me with knowledge while I tackled the physical challenge.

The climbing difficulty was moderate, so even ordinary people without professional climbing experience could complete the challenge safely under proper protection. From the shimmering river surface to the staggered buildings on both banks, the 360-degree panoramic view delivered an unparalleled visual impact.

After the climb, every one of us was filled with a strong sense of accomplishment, making it an unforgettable highlight of our lives.

If you're a romantic at heart, I sincerely recommend unlocking the familiar South Bank Parklands in a completely unprecedented way!

The Wheel of Brisbane at South Bank has many highlights—fast rotation, no boredom; a bird's-eye view of South Bank and the Brisbane River; transparent cabins with great visibility, and if you visit at night, the sparkling lights create a perfect atmosphere.

As the largest leisure park in central Brisbane, South Bank Parklands is located on the southern bank of the Brisbane River and was the site of the 1988 World Expo in Australia.

Here you'll find a crystal-clear artificial beach, lush shaded lawns, a stunning city skyline, and a fast-spinning Ferris wheel above. Besides international tourists, locals also love to spend their time here, utterly relaxed. This time, I had a brand-new experience—

We chose the creative services of Vintage Picnic Company.

The company was initially founded to plan a creative wedding for a Brisbane couple.

The couple didn't want a traditional reception; they wanted to hold their wedding as a picnic. So the picnic company decorated with beautiful willow baskets and luxurious wool carpets, and from there, Vintage Picnic Company began its unique business.

The menu included cheese, meats, fruits, cookies, and other traditional picnic foods. With exquisite presentation, ornate setups, high-quality meals paired with a unique vintage picnic style, plus Queensland's 360 days of bright sunshine and stunning views, this Chinese woman who loves taking photos was 100% satisfied.

When in Brisbane, you must visit the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) and the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA)! This is truly an art paradise, a perfect fusion of classical and modern art, with a rich collection that dazzles the eyes. Wandering through them feels like traveling through a tunnel of time in art.

Both galleries house 20,000 artworks, covering painting, sculpture, photography, film, multimedia, and more. There are traditional works as well as a large number of modern and contemporary pieces by emerging artists.

The exhibitions themselves are also full of highlights, like the irregularly held Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art, which is absolutely not to be missed. There's also a child-friendly Children's Art Centre, perfect for family visits.

This time, I stayed in Brisbane's newest trendy neighborhood, Queens Wharf. Here, classical architecture and modern high-rises complement each other, with restaurants, bars, hotels, and shopping malls—all within walking distance, satisfying every travel and living need.

The highly anticipated new landmark of Brisbane, Queens Wharf, which cost AU$3.6 billion, opened in phases from late August 2024. The newly completed pedestrian bridge—Neville Bonner Bridge—connects the two riverbanks, allowing pedestrians to walk from Queens Wharf to the South Bank cultural precinct, visiting landmarks like the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Performing Arts Centre, and Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.

The Star Grand Brisbane, a five-star hotel at Queens Wharf, just opened at the end of August 2024 and is part of the Queens Wharf project.

The hotel's entrance features floor-to-ceiling windows up to 35 meters high, creating an open view and excellent natural light. Inside, custom botanical artworks incorporate Brisbane's subtropical charm.

The hotel's rooftop crescent-shaped Sky Deck stretches 250 meters, creating a wonderful illusion of hovering above the Brisbane River. Several restaurants and bars are scattered across the deck, allowing you to enjoy the riverside views while tasting Australian food and wine.

It wasn't my first time in Brisbane, but every time I passed by Sofitel Brisbane Central, I wondered when I'd get the chance to be a guest there, since it's located on Queen Street in the heart of Brisbane, surrounded by famous shops, with a luxurious and elegant exterior that you can't ignore. And this time, my dream finally came true.

Stepping into Sofitel Brisbane Central is like being in romantic France. Exquisite French carvings, gorgeous crystal chandeliers, soft lighting, warm-toned furniture, and decorations create an elegant and cozy atmosphere. Art paintings on the walls, gentle French chansons, and the subtle lavender scent in the air all exude a strong French charm, making you deeply intoxicated.

This time, I specifically chose a suite for the experience. The spacious view and suitable layout swept away my travel fatigue. I especially loved the minibar right at the entrance in the foyer—who can resist the temptation of a little drink after a day's journey?

In the bathroom, the full set of French luxury brand BALMAIN amenities won my heart with their enchanting fragrance. Sitting by the window, overlooking Brisbane's scenery and tasting the welcome dessert delivered by the waiter, my mood brightened. Lying on the soft bed with fine linens, I relaxed both body and mind. Wearing a bathrobe embroidered with my name, I could truly feel the meticulous hospitality of Sofitel Brisbane Central—a perfect score for service.

At the foot of the Story Bridge, the most popular craft brewery is Felons Brewing Co.—you can sit on the deck or on a picnic blanket on the lawn, tasting freshly brewed ales and lagers while enjoying the sparkling Brisbane River.

Felons Brewing Co. has many delicious bar snacks worth recommending: seasonal fresh rock oysters, shrimp pizza with tender shrimp paired with cheese and dough—absolutely satisfying in every bite; various sausages, with firm, juicy meat and rich flavor, the classic beer partner.

Local oysters and Mexican shrimp cocktail are also not to be missed. The freshness of the shrimp combined with a spicy-sweet sauce is refreshing and appetizing.

Honestly, it's too easy to fall in love with the Gold Coast! Visit Sea World to see dolphins and feel the thrill of amusement rides; try surfing for the first time, feeling the impact of the waves; explore luxurious estates in nature reserves and experience the local vibe at a century-old artisan market. This trip refreshed my perception of the Gold Coast!

Even before arriving at the Gold Coast, I received a recommendation from a friend living in Australia: Sea World is a must-visit!

What first struck me were the amusement rides, which were really impressive. For example, there was the Viking's Revenge water slide, a wooden roller coaster called the Serpent, and drop towers and a high-altitude swing that all hit my thrill-seeking sweet spot. Seeing the Poseidon statue from the ground was already imposing, but flying up in the air to overlook it was even cooler.

Sea World also deeply connects people with marine life. In terms of marine animal conservation, the theme park's rescue team is on standby 24/7, and a non-profit foundation funds research projects. For visitor education and knowledge of the marine environment, interactive activities like dolphin and seal shows help visitors understand marine life and ecology.

Without a local guide, I would never have known that a hidden luxury retreat lies within a nature reserve about 40 minutes' drive from the Gold Coast: Beechmont Estate.

The estate's standalone wooden cabins are incredibly charming, with 22 in total. Some offer stunning views of the hinterland. The magic is that the terraces of each cabin cannot see each other, ensuring high privacy.

The interior of the cabin is warm and cozy, and you can even experience lighting a fireplace yourself—just like in European and American movies! Enjoy the comfort of home in nature's embrace, waking up to birdsong and falling asleep to the sound of insects and frogs.

The estate's restaurant, "the Paddock," is highly acclaimed. Its dishes follow a farm-to-table concept, meticulously crafted by Executive Chef Simon Furley. The menu changes weekly based on season and ingredient availability. The signature three-course set meal is not to be missed. Cooking uses open flames for a unique flavor, adhering to a zero-waste principle, making the most of every ingredient.

The cocktail-making experience was also unique. Under the guidance of a professional mixologist, we learned to make a signature sour-style cocktail and gained knowledge about different spirits and pairing techniques. After mixing, we sipped our drinks at the bar, enjoying the estate's scenery and chatting casually—a truly relaxing time.

Strolling around the estate, listening to the birds, you might also encounter wild kangaroos and a few indigenous residents—lovely cattle.

We visited the largest cabin suite at the highest point of the estate: it comes with its own pool, front and back courtyards, and a viewing deck overlooking the forest greenery—my favorite! Next time, I have to bring a group of friends and rent it out for an utterly carefree happiness vacation.

The Gold Coast is a world-renowned surfing destination, with a stretch of beach even named "Surfers Paradise." Since we're already here, wouldn't it be a shame not to experience the joy of surfing?

Beginners have no pressure at all! The two-hour premium surfing course at Get Wet Surf School starts with a safety briefing and basic technique instruction, including understanding the surfboard and equipment, learning how to pop up on the board, etc. Then we geared up and got into the water, practicing in the whitewash of the shallows with the coach's help, trying to catch a wave and ride it.

Get Wet Surf School is located behind the Seaway Kiosk at Doug Jennings Park, Seaworld Drive, Main Beach. The school's experienced instructors ensure safety, with low student-to-instructor ratios: 5:1 for adults and 4:1 for kids, so everyone can enjoy with confidence.

Miami Marketta on the Gold Coast is a trendy night market where retro meets new trends, featuring food stalls from around the world. There's also live band performances, and graffiti by well-known local artists adds an artistic touch to the market—a great place to experience local culture and have fun.

At Miami Marketta on the Gold Coast, the Mona Lisa Champagne Lounge offers a unique dining experience.

Stepping inside, the atmosphere is mysterious and elegant. Sitting on velvet sofas while tasting champagne, posing for great photos is also quite fun.

Our experience this time was unique: each dish on the menu was prepared by chefs from various market stalls, but then exquisitely plated by the restaurant's owner, giving it a "table-worthy" elegance. From delicate appetizers to main courses, the flavors were rich and delicious.

At the same time, a professional sommelier paired different cocktails and champagnes with the dishes—some refreshing, some rich and mellow—allowing the palate to indulge in the fusion of fine food and wine.

Toward the end of the meal, you can head to Miami Marketta to choose desserts. The dessert stalls are abundant, offering sweet cakes, smooth ice cream, and more. Enjoying desserts in the lively market atmosphere and feeling the local energy—the contrast and continuity of this experience from the elegant champagne lounge to the vibrant market is truly memorable.

The shopping experience at Pacific Fair Shopping Centre on the Gold Coast is fantastic! It features many Australian local brands like Zimmermann, Lorna Jane, Aesop, Jurlique, etc.

Major brands often have discount events, making it more affordable than elsewhere. International brands are also abundant, with Loewe among them.

Dining options: There are cuisines from all over the world to satisfy different tastes. Located by the Broadwater in Gold Coast, Queensland, it's the second-largest shopping center in the state, convenient with easy access to the beach.

Dorsett Gold Coast hotel opened on Boxing Day 2021. This 53-story 4.5-star hotel has a sky pool overlooking the city and a rooftop restaurant with sea views.

Whether exploring the Gold Coast city center or shopping, the transportation is very convenient here, within walking distance of the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre and Pacific Fair Shopping Centre.

The hotel is also very close to the beach, with a complete range of nearby restaurants and bars.

Queensland has a long coastline—how can you travel here without heading out to sea? Finding a beautiful island and experiencing authentic island life is the way to go. This Queensland trip took me to two very different but equally wonderful Australian islands. Let me detail them.

Let's go! To the Great Barrier Reef! This time, I visited a treasure island at the southernmost tip of the Great Barrier Reef—Lady Elliot Island. "Stunning" is the only word for it!

We departed from Brisbane. Because the island is far from the mainland, you can only reach it by plane—an 80-minute flight from Brisbane or a 100-minute flight from Gold Coast Airport.

Lady Elliot Island is a paradise for marine life enthusiasts. The best time to see turtles is from November to March each year, when the weather is warm and turtles appear frequently to breed. In the clear waters, you can see them swimming leisurely, their large bodies showing grace.

Manta rays are best seen from May to October, when they migrate here. Their huge wings flap elegantly, creating a spectacular scene. The manta ray is also the island's symbol and mascot—you'll even see its logo on staff uniforms! This shows how spectacular the manta ray season is here!

As day-trippers, we mainly experienced relaxed activities like snorkeling in the lagoon and coral reef, and taking a glass-bottom boat to see corals.

The glass-bottom boat really surprised me! This part of the Great Barrier Reef is far from cities, so it has an extremely large area of healthy coral reefs with astonishing underwater visibility! Even sitting on the boat through the glass, you can see the bottom clearly.

Additionally, the island has over 60 rare bird species for birdwatching, and you can also stroll on the white sand beaches or join nighttime animal tours.

As an island, seafood is a highlight. You can also enjoy Asian-fusion cuisine, such as Japanese and Chinese dishes.

Lady Elliot Island's unique ecology makes it popular with Australian domestic tourists. However, the resort has limited rooms and capacity, usually requiring booking 3 to 6 months in advance. If you plan to dive on the island, accommodation is a prerequisite, so travelers interested must plan their itineraries early.

Also, due to flight curfews, day-trip diving programs are not available. If you plan a trip, consider all aspects and prepare well in advance to avoid missing the opportunity to explore the underwater world of this charming island.

Moreton Island (also known as Tangalooma Island) in Queensland, Australia, is the world's third-largest sand island and a very diverse island that can meet the vacation needs of different types of travelers.

Moreton Island offers a rich variety of activities, with the most unique being wild dolphin feeding! As night falls, at the Dolphin Beach of Tangalooma Island Resort, visitors can hand-feed wild dolphins. These intelligent dolphins will approach the shore affectionately, interacting closely with humans. Their agile postures and gentle demeanor make you feel the wonder of harmony between humans and nature.

Although it's a feeding activity, the entire process strictly follows natural rules. The daily feeding amount for each dolphin is fixed, but since the dolphins are wild, there's no controlling when they "clock in." Therefore, the caretakers distribute "snacks" to registered participants based on the number of dolphins that come to the jetty each day—if fewer dolphins show up, each visitor gets fewer snacks (small fish) for the feeding experience, ensuring the dolphins never overeat and their natural habits remain unchanged.

Snorkeling enthusiasts can explore colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life in crystal-clear waters; or take a sunset cruise, enjoying fine food and drinks, swimming and sightseeing at sea, basking in leisure time.

The ATV off-road tour on Moreton Island is super exciting! Following a professional guide, ride a quad bike through the sand and dense bushland, exploring rainforest scenery. Along the way, you can enjoy stunning ocean views, feel the sea breeze, and experience the thrill of racing over dunes. The 60-minute tour delivers plenty of speed and excitement.

As the helicopter slowly rises, the entire view of Moreton Island unfolds below. The blue sea, white sand beaches, and lush vegetation interweave into a beautiful painting. Flying over the shipwrecks, those silently resting vessels contrast with the fish swimming around, as if time stops here. The 6-minute flight is a breathtaking visual feast.

Helicopter sightseeing reference price: Tangalooma route, AU$99 per person.

Accommodation: Tangalooma Island Resort is an excellent choice on the island. Hotel rates vary by room type and season, generally ranging from AU$300 to AU$800 per night, from cozy standard rooms to spacious luxury sea-view suites, meeting different needs.

The rooms are beautifully decorated and fully equipped, with some featuring private balconies where you can enjoy the sea or garden views without leaving your room.

The island's scenic restaurant, "Beach Cafe," gets full marks! It serves fresh seafood dishes like pan-seared salmon, fish and chips, all sourced from local waters for authentic flavor; there are also various Australian-style grilled meats and salads prepared by a Filipino chef, paired with local sauces that make your taste buds cheer.

There's also Chinese food on Moreton Island! The Fire & Stone restaurant specializes in Sichuan and Cantonese cuisine, rated by tourists as one of the best Chinese restaurants in Australia. Dishes like sour cabbage fish are amazingly good and can greatly comfort a Chinese stomach. It's a great place to enjoy Chinese food when visiting Moreton Island.

I recommend staying at least 2-3 days to fully experience the island's main activities and enjoy beach vacation time, truly relaxing during the holiday.

* Transfer from Brisbane to Moreton Island: Tangalooma Ferry

Depart from Brisbane's Holt Street Wharf, about 75 minutes. Return from Tangalooma Wharf on Moreton Island.

Reference price: AU$88 round trip for adults, AU$48 for children (3-14 years old), free for infants (0-2).

For this third trip to Queensland, I flew China Southern Airlines' direct flight from Guangzhou to Brisbane, Queensland. The outbound flight usually takes off from Guangzhou Baiyun Airport T2 at 21:05, so you can sleep all the way; the return flight is during the day, departing in the morning and arriving in the afternoon, just in time for dinner at home without staying up late!

As for the flying experience, the new aircraft has good hardware, and the "same language" service creates a comfortable atmosphere on board.

This trip to Queensland was an adventure into the unknown, a journey of self-challenge. The vibrant Great Barrier Reef, the lively dolphins of Moreton Island, the view from the top of the bridge, and the self-challenge of surfing will stay in my memory for a long time.

Queensland, a place you can visit 100 times and never get tired of, always brings new surprises. It's full of dynamic energy—I felt like I became a few years younger from the moment the plane landed. Just back, I'm already looking forward to our next reunion.

Travel directory:

1. 📍 Story Bridge Adventure Climb

2. 📍 The Channel Seven Wheel of Brisbane

3. 📍 Vintage lunch picnic at South Bank

4. 📍 Art immersion: Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)

5. 📍 Queen’s Wharf

6. 🛁 Hotel recommendation: The Star Grand Brisbane

7. 🛁 Hotel recommendation: Sofitel Brisbane Central

8. 🍤 Food recommendation: Felons Brewing Co

9. 📍 Sea World Gold Coast

10. 📍 Beechmont Estate

11. 📍 Get Wet Surf School 2-hour surf lesson

12. 📍 Miami Marketta

13. 🛍️ Must-visit for shopping: Pacific Fair Shopping Centre

14. 📍 Dorsett Gold Coast

15. 📍 Great Barrier Reef Day Trip to Lady Elliot Island - Hervey Bay & Bundaberg

16. 📍 Moreton Island

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