After a brief bus and train journey we arrived in Brisbane and trekked up a huge hill to our bright orange hostel. The first day was spent getting our bearings and we have to say that we disagree with everyone who told us it wasn't worth seeing as it's such an amazing city! We had a great time checking out the shops and had a chilled out few hours sitting in Anzac Square. We got the Sea Cat which was very cool to Chinatown, before heading to Fortitude Valley where we spent the night listening to live bands and people watching. Probably the best people watching place on our whole trip.

On our last day in Brisbane we headed to Southbank, just across the river from our hostel where unbeknown to us they had a festival to celebrate Buddha's birthday. The festival had loads of interesting market stalls and food places, the decorations were amazing as well. Red lanterns lined the river and flowers adourned everything. There was also a hands-on craft tent where we tried to learn chinese calligraphy. Although everyone teaching was lovely and patient with us, it took us a while to get the hang of it. However by the end there were a few symbols which were recognisable!! We then explored the weekly Southbank markets which were full of interesting bits and pieces. We spent the rest of the day on the man-made beach next to the river. It was something you couldn't imagine doing, a beach in the middle of the city!! Although very random it was pretty cool!! Whilst sitting having a drink at one of the many cafes we spotted Lynda Robson and Jenny Eclair who are starring in Grumpy Old Women over here. Our last evening in OZ was mad!! It started on the roof terrace where we watched the fireworks from Southbank. It felt like Australias goodbye to us! We then went to the bar at the hostel for a farewell OZ drink.

Brisbane was really cool and a great place to end our australia leg of our adventure!! Fiji next!!!