Brisbane: Slapping the Goon

When we got off the plane the difference in temperature hit us. Its crazy that its the same country, yet weather differs so much. Brisbane's city centre was quite compact and could be walked easily. It actually reminded us a bit of Leeds. The big Brisbane River snakes through the city and separates the different parts. We were staying in Fortitude Valley which was the main area for nightlife. Our first few nights involved 'slapping the goon'. A goon is basically a box of cheap wine and slapping it basically means, drink as much as you can. We had a very messy night with a load of Irish guys and a Swedish couple.

Brisbane's south bank was cool and had a nicely laid out river side park area, bars, restaurants and a man made beach and lake. One day it was quite warm so we stayed here most of the day. The beach was a great retreat from the city, and although the water tasted of chlorine and the bottom of the 'sea' was concrete, it still almost felt like a real beach.

Brisbane has its own smaller version of the harbour bridge, called Story Bridge that connects Fortitude Valley and Kangaroo Point. In the nighttime it is lit up and looks magnificent spanning the Brisbane river.

Whilst we were in Brisbane, they were holding their annual multicultural festival. We though we would check it out and it was actually quite good with a great party atmosphere. There was seven stages with music and dance from all over the world.