Things to see in Brisbane

Hellloooo my people. Hope you are well. This blog that I give to you today is about the lovely Brisvegas. Brisbane is beautiful and one of my favorite cities in the world. Its colourful, vibrant and full of life. Brisbane is famous for its Brisbane River. Most of the year the river is murky brown but is still amazing to go for a walk beside, take a cruise or long or dine beside. Below is my list of favouirte things to see in this great city.


XXXX Brewery-http://www.xxxxalehouse.com.au/ Cost: Free Entrance Tour: Adult $27.00 Non Drinking Adult: $23.00 Child $16.00. Tour include 4 complementary beers which you get to try in the famous XXXX Ale house Bar. The tour takes a bit over an hour. Beer and BBQ tours runs a few times every Saturday and Wednesday nights. These beer and bbq tours cost around the $40.00 mark. When booking your tour make sure you book in advance as these tours book up fast and only take 20 guests at a time. This tour is full of history and information and is one of Queensland's iconic landmarks. If you are not going to go on the tour they also have a fantastic restaurant that runs Monday to Friday for lunch or for the famous beers. Another great reason to go to the brewery is to try beer out of a wooden keg. There is only two places in Queensland where you can try this and the brewery is one of them. The XXXX Brewery is located in Milton which is in central CBD. The Brewery is accessible by train and bus. The Milton train station is directly across the road. You can book either by ringing the XXXX Ale house office or on line.  Larger groups may receive discount.

XXXX Brewery

Sirromet winery http://www.sirromet.com Cost to visit: Free Tour and Tasting: $20.00 Sirromet winery is magnificent. The views over the vine yard are beautiful. The winery boast 5 star gourmet restaurant which is open 7 days a week and looks over the mountains. You can visit for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a tour and wine tasting. Tours taking about 30mins and go behind the scenes of where and how the delicious wine is made. And after the tour you can taste some for your self. Sirromet is very popular. Not only for its restaurant but for its tours. Make sure if you book in advance. Either by the website or by the phone. To get to Sirromet you should take a car. They have plenty of parking.

                                                                   Sirromet Winery

Southbank: http://www.visitsouthbank.com.au/ Cost: Free. South Bank is the Crown Jewel of Brisbane. South Bank has it all. A fake beach over looking the Brisbane River and City, fantastic restaurants and markets. Chocolate shops to street performers, swimming and sun baking South bank has something for everyone. South Bank is located in the middle of Brisbane City. It will take 5mins walk to get to South Bank.

South Bank

Ride the City Cat:http://jp.translink.com.au/travel-information/network-information/ferries/citycat Cost: $5.00-$10.00 The City Cat is Brisbane version of a Ferry. City Cat rides are very cheap to ride and are a great way to see some scenic views of Brisbane. Terminals can be found all the way along the Brisbane River.

Ride The City Cat

Mount Cootha & Botanic gardens: http://www.brisbanelookout.com/ Cost: Free. Mount Cootha has fantastic views as well an amazing restaurant. You can get there by a bus or car. Mount Cootha and the Botanic Gardens are located about 5mins from the city. The views are spectacular and the food is fantastic. The Botanic gardens are located at the bottom of Mount Cootha. The Gardens hold a planetarium, a restaurant and magnificence gardens.

Mount Cootha

Museum, Queensland and Science Centre  http://www.southbank.qm.qld.gov.au/ Cost Museum: Free Science Centre: Adult $14.50 Child: $12.00 The museum is fantastic for all ages. From Dinosaur exhibitions to animal exhibitions there is alot of things to see and do. The Science Centre is exactly what it sounds like. The centre is aimed at children to help make science fun. I'm not a child but the science centre is great fun.  The are open from 9:30am-5pm. To get to either its a 5min walk from the city it is located at Southbank.

Queensland Museum

Queen Street Mall: http://www.bnecity.com.au/ Cost: Free Restaurants, great shopping, night clubs, live performances and fashion. They Queen Street Mall is fabulous. In there is so much to do.  Queen Street Mall is located in the middle of the city.

Queen Street Mall 

Treasury Casino http://www.treasurybrisbane.com.au/Pages/default.aspx Cost: Free Entry. Treasury casino is located in the middle of Brisbane city over looking the river. The Treasury Casino not only host black jack tables and also restaurants but has live gigs and djs every weekend and fantastic accommodation. The Casino is located in the centre in the city on  Queens Street Mall. 

Treasury Casino

Foot ball game at Suncorp Stadium: http://www.suncorpstadium.com.au/ Cost: Varies depending on the game. Watching the football is one of Australia's favourite past times. Cheap beer and joining in yelling and cheering at the teams on the fields all part of the fun. Suncorp Stadium is located in Milton and you can get there by train, bus and car. It is 5mins away from the centre of the city. If you do have a football ticket there are buses that run to the stadium that you can catch for free. The best way to get there would be by bus or train. There is restricted parking around the stadium and they do tow so beware. To book to go to a game you will have to make sure a game is on on the above website as they only run a few months of the year. You can book tickets on line at www.ticketek.com.au or sometimes if they are not sold out they sometimes sell them at the gate. Park Road is close by where you van have some dinner or drinks before the game.

Suncorp Stadium 

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary: http://www.koala.net/ Cost: Adult $33.00 Child $22.00 Open: 9:00am- 5:00pm.  You can hold a Koala, hold a Snake, feed a lorikett, feed a kangaroo and interact with other wildlife and watch other animal shows. You can get to Lone Pine by city cat, bus and car. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary 13km from the city.

Lone Pine Wild Life

Tangalooma: http://www.tangalooma.com/info/home/  Cost: Adult return ferry: $80.00 Child return ferry: $45.00. Tangalooma is 40km of the coast of Brisbane. Tangalooma is accessible by boat only. Dolphin Feeding is one of the best activity on the island.  Water Based activities: Whale watching, scuba diving, sun set cruises, snorkeling the ship wrecks and para sailing. Land Based activities: Sand dune tobogganing,
4wheel driving, helicopter joy rides, island tours and day spa visits. There is too much to do in just one day. They have fantastic accommodation which amazing views. Ferries run 4 times a day and have car parks back on land.

Tangalooma Island

Story Bridge Climb: http://www.sbac.net.au/ Climb Tickets: Adult: $99.00 During the day Adult Twilight: $119.00 Adult: $84.15 Adult Twilight Climb: $101.15. The story bridge climb is a fantastic experience. The view of Brisbane and the Brisbane river is indescribable. If you want to see something magical climb the bridge at Twilight seeing the sunset set is so beautiful and you wont regret it. The Story Bridge Climb also offers a Climb and Dine package or a Climb and Stay package.

Story Bridge Climb

Please feel free to contact me or comment if you would like any more tips on what to see in Brisvegas.

Things to see in Melbourne

Good morning readers.

Today I am going to give you a few pointers and tips on things to see and do in Melbourne.

Melbourne is a city situated down the bottom of Australia. Melbourne is known for its fashion, food, art and is crazy weather. Melbourne is one of those cities that it can be hot, cold, rainy, windy and as well as storm in the one day. When you head to Melbourne you should make sure you come prepared a bring an umbrella and a jacket even in summer.

The 12 Apostles http://visit12apostles.com.au/ Cost: Free. The 12 Apostles are one of natures most strangest but beautiful creations. To get to the 12 Apostles from Melbourne City it will take a 2.5 to 3 hour drive depending on traffic. The drive which takes you along the Great Ocean Road is very scenic, with indescribable views of the Ocean and rain forest. There are plenty of beaches that you can stop at on the way. When you get to the 12 Apostles you will feel like you are in the middle of no where. But on your right there is the car park and on your left they have board walks so you can walk out to get a better view. The best way to get to the 12 Apostles is to hire a car or book a day trip from Melbourne. Some tour companies also offer accommodation.

The 12 Apostles

Crown Casino: http://www.crownmelbourne.com.au/ Cost: Entry Free. Crown Casino is located in the middle of Melbourne City along South Bank. The Casino has so many things to do from restaurants, bars and clubs, to gambling (lots of it), accommodation and day spas, high end shopping to Shows. When I saw Crown Casino for the 1st time I was in awe. I could not believe how huge it was. Out side of Crown on the side by the river they have a fire show in the evening. The fire comes out of the pillars that are beside the water. I would highly recommend going to Crown it is worth a look. And if you have the money you can stay in its luxurious hotel. (Bare in mind staying at Crown isnt cheap). Crown Casino is accessible by bus, car, walking and a short walk from the train station. If you are driving and are going to park your car at Crown you will need to pay for parking. Crown Casino is open 24hours a day.

Crown Casion- Melbourne

South Bank- http://www.southbankrestaurants.com.au/ Cost: Free. To walk along SouthBank in Melbourne it is free. South Bank is home to some of Melbourne's best restaurants which have views of the river.  

Eureka Skydeck:http://www.eurekaskydeck.com.au/ Cost: $18.00 Adult Child (4-16years old) $10.00.

Eureka Skydeck is a really unique experience with amazing views which is open 10am-10pm. It is a platform at the top of the building made completely of glass which boasts the best views in Melbourne. It is located a short walk away from the Casino and Southbank.

Eureka Skydeck- Melbourne

Queen Victoria Market http://www.qvm.com.au/ Cost: Free. Fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood, deli meats, food, fresh produce, jewelry and many other market stall. The Queen Victoria Market is a short walk from Melbourne Central Station. The markets are open Tuesday & Thursday 6am-2pm, Friday 6am-5pm, Saturday 6am-3pm and Sunday 9am-4pm. If you feel a little bit overwhelmed or you would like a bit more information the Queen Victoria Markets offer tour. Tours include Foodie Dream, Heritage & Culture or Market Insider Tour. The reason you should pay a visit is the amazingly fresh food and the cheap shopping.

Queen Victoria Market- Elizabeth Street Melbourne

Saint Kilda-http://www.stkildamelbourne.com.au/ Cost: Free. Saint Kilda is an area of Melbourne filled with restaurants, bars, theatre's, live music and views of the beach. Luna Park is located in the heart of Saint Kilda right on the beach. A small theme park but worth a look. Saint Kilda is accessible by tram, train, bus and walking.

Saint Kilda 

Luna Park :http://www.lunapark.com.au/ Cost: Free. Luna Park entry is free. All you have to pay for is your rides. I wouldn't bother with the food. Realistically you can do Luna Park in a few hours and then go down the road to one of the many fantastic restaurants and bars for lunch. Or you can take a dip at Saint Kilda Beach. 9am-5pm

Luna Park- Saint Kilda

Chapel Street http://www.chapelstreet.com.au/ Cost Free. Chapel Street is a high end shopping strip which is full of trendy bars and restaurants. Chapel Street doesnt have alot of discounts but has alot of high priced items. Trams, Trains and Cars are the best way to get to Chapel Street. 9am-5pm

Chapel Street - Melbourne

Bridge Road http://www.bridgerd.com.au/ Cost: Free. Bridge Road is a Road full of factory outlet shops. Really cheap shopping and great restaurants. Don't let the factory outlet shops fool you there is great brand name clothes for cheap prices. You can get here by car, tram or bus. Parking is paid parking. Coming from the city you can catch any east bound route.The 75 tram in Flinders Street or the 48 tram from Collins Street to take you down Bridge Road. 9am-5pm

Bridge Road Shopping Strip- Melbourne

Melbourne zoo http://www.zoo.org.au/melbourne Cost: $20.70 Adult Child (4-15) $13.20. The Melbourne zoo is open 9am-5pm. The Melbourne Zoo is located just out side the city but is easy to get to. Some hotels will be able to organise transfers to the Zoo for you. But it is also easy accessible by bus.
 The Zoo has shows and exhibitions for the whole family. From a Butter Fly house to behind the scenes tours of with the Elephants it will not disappoint the animal lovers.

Melbourne Zoo

Tram Car Restaurant thttp://www.tramrestaurant.com.au/ Cost:Lunch: $82.50 3 Course Early Dinner: $77.00 5 Course late dinner (Sun-Thu) $121.00 5 Course Late Dinner (Fri-Sat) $137.50 The Tram Car Restaurant is something really and different and unique. It is an old tram which has been made into a restaurant.  This is fine dining experience that not only offers 5 star food but takes you on a journey around the city as you dine. This unique dining experience is very popular and if you would like to book it make sure you book in advance. The wait staff pamper you with. This experience is something I would recommend for.

Tram Car Restaurant Melbourne

Phillip Island- http://www.penguins.org.au/ Phillip Island is located 90mins from Melbourne City. Phillip Island has alot of things to do from a race track, Churchill Island farm land (where you can milk a cow) the Kola Centre and the Penguins Parade. The Penguin Parade happens at Sunset every night of the year. The Penguin Parade cost $22.60 per person for general viewing or an upclose and personal experience with the penguins starts at $44.00. There are discounts if you would like to go to all 3 parks (the Kola Centre, Penguin Parade and Churchill Island Farm). They also offer guided tours. Hiring a car or train is the best way to get to Phillip Island. There is also accommodation that you can book if you would like to extend your stay. Note: You cannot take photos of the penguins. Flash hurts there eyes and they want the penguins to keep coming back.

Penguin Parade- Phillip Island Victoria

Melbourne Cup: http://melbournecup.com/ Cost: General Admission $74.00. If you are heading to Melbourne in November your in for a treat. November is horse racing season. They love horse racing so much they dedicated a public holiday to a race. This race called the "Melbourne Cup" stops the nation.  The first Tuesday of November every year thousands of people flock to Flemmington Race Course to drink, put money on the horses, look at the fashions and celebrity spot. This event books up fast. If you do want to secure your spot make sure you book your tickets early. 

Melbourne Cup

There is an endless list of things to do in Melbourne. Please feel free to contact me or comment below if you would like any other information or you have any feedback.

Things you should check before you leave on your holiday

Hello again,

Going on an overseas holiday especially a long one can be daunting. Especially when you start to think about packing, visas, passports, what needles you will need to get. So I have made a little cheat sheet to help you with your holiday preparations.

Preparations

Something's are very import to have ticked off your list before you travel overseas. You would hate to land at your dream destination and be denied entrance. Before you go you should check the follow things

-Do you have your passport? And is it still in date? If it expires while you are on your trip it's going to be a headache trying to get back to your home country.

-Will you be driving a car while you are overseas? If so you will need o organise your overseas drivers permit before you leave.

- Do you need a visa to enter the country? If so you will need o make sure you apply and receive your visa before you leave. Some visas take months to process. 

- Do you need any vaccinations before you leave? If you are going to some where exotic you may. Check with your doctor just to be sure. Also some countries need you to produce a HIV statement. Check with the counties embassy just in case.

Book and confirm 

- Make sure that you confirm that your flights are booked and the times and dates you will be leaving are correct.

-If you have booked through a travel agency, make sure the have given you your itinerary and any vouchers for your tours that you will need.

-That you accommodation is booked and paid for

-That any transfer or tours that you want to do are booked and paid for

- Any cars that you will be hiring are arranged.

- That you have brought travel insurance

Organise

- Any travellers cheques or travellers credit cards that you will be taking

- That you have made a copy of your passport and credit cards and given the copy to a loved one just in case your originals get stolen.

- Change any money over to your destination or destinations currency

- Get some cash out for your destination or for any stop overs. You never know where you will need o buy something.

- When you have made an itinerary of your trip give a copy to your loved ones so they can get in contact with you if they need to.

- If your phone is on a plan and you are planning on taking that phone and SIM card over seas make sure our phone is unlocked. If it is not it will not allow you to pick up any reception.

-If you are not taking over your phone which is on a plane organise to get a travel SIM card. This can be a cheaper option. As making calls on your normal SIM card can be expensive.

-Organise any medicine that you need to take over. Some medicine is illegal in some states. Check on the countries embassy website.

- Check what time of year it is and what clothes you will need to bring. Some countries in particular do not allow women to wear skirts above there knees. It's a good idea to check if this is going to be offensive at your destination.

-If you do have pets make organise them to be looked after.

Notify 

- If you are going away for a few months make sure you arrange your mail to be redirected or to be picked up by a loved one. You never know what bills may come up

- cancel or get any home deliveries held while you are away (magazines, newspaper, milk)

- Put a hold or cancel your gym membership

- Make sure the if there is a election when you are away that you let the electoral office know.

To do around the home

- Turn off all electrical items, gas items and lights

- Pay all your due bills

- Make sure your pets are going to be looked after. Even give a key to your house to a family member or a neighbour. (Obviously a trusted one)

- Make sure all your windows and doors are locked.

Other 

- Read up on where your going such as weather, season, language, time differences

- Book into your flight the night before to avoid lines

- Register your trip with your countries embassy 

- Make sure you have your travel agencies phone number

- Take with you addresses and phone numbers of loved ones. So you can send 'aren't you jealous post cards'

- Arrange a first aid kit to take over with you ( ban aids, panadol, sickness tablets, sleeping pills, flu tablets) finding brands or even medication similar to what you have at home can be sometimes hard.

Hope this helps :)

Things to see in Sydney

Hello boys and girls,

Sydney is a wonderful place. Plenty of things to see and do. Eat and Drink. Be pampered and some amazing views. Sydney is one of those places that you could happily spend a week site seeing. Sydney is fast paced and famous for bad traffic and terrific food.

On my trip to Sydney I saw the following things and also picked up a few tips.

Sydney opera house http://www.sydneyoperahouse.com/ The Sydney Opera House is the iconic symbol and landmark of Sydney. Walking up the steps of the Opera house or doing a tour through the Opera House this iconic landmark is a must see.  Sydney Opera house is located in the centre of Sydney along with the Sydney Harbor Bridge and Darling Harbor. Tours can be very busy make sure you book in advance.

My Trip to Sydney- Sydney Opera House

Sydney Harbor Bridge: http://www.bridgeclimb.com/ The Bridge in Sydney harbor is another iconic landmark. You can either walk over it or do the story bridge climb. The climb is indescribable and the views are breathtaking. You can either do the climb at night which prices start from $198.00 or if you want to see something spectacular go at dawn or dusk which prices are a bit more expensive at $308.00

 Sydney Harbor Bridge

Darling Harbor: http://www.darlingharbour.com/
Darling harbor is not only beautiful and has views of the harbor but also has fantastic shopping, restaurants and bars. In darling harbor there are alot of river boat cruises and boat cruises around the harbor and over to the zoo. The aquarium is also in Darling Harbor. The best place I en-counted in Darling Harbor was the Lindt Chocolate Shop.  http://www.lindt.com.au Every food in this place is based on Lindt Chocolate. Ice Cream, Milk Shakes, cakes and desserts. If you don't go for you go for your taste buds. You wont be disappointed.

Darling Harbor

Bondi beach:http://www.bondibeach.com/ Cost: Free. Bondi Beach is the most famous of Sydney beaches. It is located 7km from the centre of Sydney. It is accessible by train, bus or car, it will take roughly 30-45mins from the centre of Sydney. The show 'Bondi Rescue' is filmed here. You may even see a celebrity. Bondi beach is very busy. The time of year to go is in the spring- summer from September to May.

Bondi Beach 

 

Bondi junction http://www.westfield.com.au/bondijunction/ Bondi junction is about a 10min walk from Bondi beach. It is a major upper class Westfield shopping centre. If you are in the area it is worth a look.

Sea Life Sydney Aquarium: http://www.sydneyaquarium.com.au/ Cost: $38.00 Adult $22.00 Children's ticket. Book online and get a cheaper price. The aquarium is beautiful and is situated in Sydney Harbor there is also a butterfly house beside it.  You could do the Sydney Aquarium in a couple of hours

Luna park: www.lunaparksydney.com  Cost: $45.00 If you book on line you will save $10.00. Luna Park is one of Sydney's main theme park which is located directly across from Darling Harbor. You can get there by bus, car, train or ferry. Food isn't fantastic. But the park it self is worth a look.

Luna Park Sydney

Taronga Zoo: http://taronga.org.au/taronga-zoo Cost: $44.00 for a Adult $22.00 for Children. The best way to get to Taronga Zoo from Darling Harbor is by ferry. Taronga Zoo is fantastic. It has daily animal shows, tours and you can even stay the night. This is a must if you go to Sydney. The views from the zoo are amazing also. You could spend all day at Taronga Zoo.

Taronga Zoo Sydney

Hunter valley:  http://www.winecountry.com.au/ Hunter Valley is Wine Country an is a 2 hour drive from Sydney. The Hunter Valley is amazing they have wine and cheese tours, cooking schools, day spas, horse riding, hot air ballooning and golf. There is an endless things to do in the Hunter Valley. If you would like to just relax drink wine and eat cheese they have some lovely accommodation with spectacular views and roaring fire places. There are tour companies that run daily tours to the Hunter Valley or transfers to the hotels.

Hunter Valley- NSW

Blue mountains: http://www.bluemts.com.au/ The Blue Mountains are beautiful and very scenic. Roughly 1hr away from Sydney. You can travel to the Blue Mountains by train, bus or car. There are plenty of things to do including day spas, 4 wheel driving, hiking, horse riding, rock climbing, galleries and great places to eat and drink. 

Hope these tips help. Please let me know if I can help with anything else.

How to avoid jet lag

Hello lovely readers,

I know I'm not the only one who worries about jet lag.  How to avoid jet lag

What is jet lag and how does it happen

Jet lag happens to your body when traveling across time lines and when your body clock is having trouble syncing up with your destination time.

Jet Lag Symptoms:

• Sleep disturbance 
• Sleep disruption
• Fatigue
• Problems with digesting food
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Difficulty concentration  

Your itinerary 

When planning your itinerary it it is a good idea to have your first day when you get to your destination to be not a full on day. By keeping this day free you will be able to have a day spare just in case you do have jet lag. You should also do the same on the way back. Make sure you have a few days to relax and get over potential jet lag before you go to work.


Before you leave

You can start to get your body time clock ready before you leave by  trying to go to bed an hour earlier than you usually would and get up an hour earlier than you usually would. This will help adjust your body clock.

On the plane

• Most international flights have large amounts of free alcohol. Which is awesome, Right? Well not if you want to avoid jet lag. Alcohol will cause you to be dehydrated. 
• Drink plenty of water keep hydrated on the flight. This will decrease jet lag.
• Change your watch over to the time of your destination when you get on the plane. This way you can start to adjust your body clock to the time of your destination. If the time of your destination is night time when you get on the plane try and sleep. The cabin will be dim for most of the flight which will make sleep easier. 
• Walking around and stretching you legs. When you do this it will keep the blood moving through your body and will prevent blood clots. 

Sleeping on the plane

Sleeping can be hard on a plane. Especially when you are travelling in economy class sitting up straight for 13 hours for one way. A few tips to help you sleep on the plane

• Bring ear plugs onto the plane
• Bring a face mask onto the plane
• Taking a sleeping tablet
• Its cold on the plane make sure you either have a jacket or use the blanket they give you to keep your self warm
• When booking onto the plane on a long flight ask the attendant before you get on to the plane if there is any seats where you have no one beside you. This can work to your advance if you have a spare seat beside you, you can lift up the arm rest and lay across the seats. Much more comfortable than sitting up.
• If you are unlucky enough to not to get a empty seat beside you make sure you bring a neck pillow. Another tip is if you don't have an empty seat beside you try and get a window seat. You can use your neck pillow as a pillow when you lean against the window.

When you get to your destination

Do what the locals are doing. If the locals are sleeping go to sleep if its the morning go out and play. If you have had a long flight or flights and you arrive in the morning don't go to sleep. Try and go to your hotel and have a shower before you go on your adventure. If you land at night time at your destination have dinner and go to sleep.

These little tips will help you to avoid jet lag.  I hope.

Keep safe xx

Tips on what to see in Europe

Hello again boys and girls.

My feet are starting to itch again. And I'm starting to think about my next trip. Below is a list I have compiled of ideas you should try and do when you are in Europe. These ideas come from what I have done and what I will be doing on my next trip.

1. Norway-If you are going to Europe between September and March try and stop by Norway. I know your probably thinking that I am crazy because it would be freezing but stay with me. In between late September and early March the Northern lights are most visible. This is a once in a life time experiences that you will remember for the rest of your life.  To see the lights you need to be in Northern Norway on a clear night. It may take a couple of days to see the lights or a couple of weeks. 

2. London- oh London how I love you so much. So many things to do. To name a few which are must are: stone hedge (this is about a 3 hour drive out of London) to skip the lines per purchase your ticket or book a group tour, Warner Brothers Studio Tour Harry Potter: wow.., if you are a fan or even if you are not you have got to go to this one. I have personally been and it was one of my favourite things I saw in London. A show.... Please go see a show. You won't regret it. (Depending on which one you see and your tastes). For those on a budget go to the British Musuem, Buckingham palace changing of the guards, window shopping at Harrods, Sherlock Musuem, MnM world, parliament, west minster Abby and Big Ben.

3. Scotland- search for Nessie. The loch ness monster has been a tale that has been told for years which is located in Scotland's Highland.

4. Ireland- kiss the blarney stone if you are not scared of cooties. The blarney stone is located 8km from Cork in Ireland.

Blarney Stone

5. Paris- one thing people do not tell you about Paris is that is a dirty city. City of love... I think they mean the city that smells like poo in the summer and people spit and urinate on the streets. But in saying that if you are going to Europe you must must must see the Effiel Tower. Lets face it, it's why most of us go to Paris in the first place. In winter they have an ice skating rink on the 2nd floor of the Effiel tour. Go to the champ n eyeless. They have these fantastic markets and shops all along the streets. Make sure you have a or some macaroons. At the end of the street you will see the Arch De Triumph. Which is pretty much smack bang in the centre of Paris. Moulin rouge is a little bit out of Paris but you can get there by bus or train. You must dress up or you will get dirty looks. The girls will love the costumes and the guys will love the dancers.

6. Rome- Ahhh Rome. If Rome had another of name it should be called the city of amazing mouthwatering food which will most definitely make you put on a few kilos.Hands down go to Rome. Loved it. See the colosseum( per buy your tickets to avoid the huge line), the the mouth of truth (a gold coin donation), the Trevi fountain ( you cannot miss this). And eat lots of spaghetti, pizza and gelato :) yummmmm. The side streets that have little restaurants have the best food... And are cheap.

Food in Rome

7. Pompeii- which is close to Naples in Italy. Where this moody volcano which exploded and covered a city preserving every thing as it was that night. You can jump on a tour bus from  Rome and head there it's a 15 hour day or stay in Naples and go from there.

8. Pisa- the learning tower of Pisa is really unimpressive and only on the slightest of leans. But it's one of those things that you have got to see like the Effiel tower. You can get bus towers from Rome or jump on a train and be there in a few hours.

9. The Greek islands- water sports, crystal clear blue water and cocktails need I say more? The white houses on the cliffs are an amazing to see. Especially when you are made to ride a donkey up the very step hills to your hotel. Hold on tight my friends or you will fall off... Ouchies. But in all seriousness the Greek islands shut down in winter. If you want to venture out and drink and swim and drink some more make sure you head there in spring summer or early autumn.

Greek Islands 

10. Venice- get lost in Venice. Indulge in the food, shop go on romantic gondola rides but bare in mind Venice is not made for swimming. The water is full of rubbish and is filthy. But who cares right your in Venice. 

11. Sweden-  if you are going in the colder months Sweden is a must!!!! The alps. The snow capped mountains the roaring fires. But if you are like me and you like something a little bit different and cool (pun intended) you should try the ice hotel. Only a few months of the year this ice hotel stands. If not implied by the name everything is made of ice. The floor, walls, bed, doors and if that wasn't cool enough you get to sleep in a bed made of ice in a bear skin rug. June 8th to August 25th. And you guessed it it fills up fast so remember to book in advance.

Ice Hotel- Sweden

12. Tuscany- Wine tasting, cooking classes and fields of sunflowers :) 

13. Germany- Booze and food. Germany is like all of Europe where they want you to drink and eat until your heart is content. And for those lucky few that travel there in September will be joined by millions more people for Oktoberfest. A festival that the dedicate to drinking, eating and drinking some more.

14. Spain- the 2 times of year to go is either in July or August. Why... The worlds biggest tomato throwing competition and seeing stupid people get run over by bulls. 

 15. Amsterdam- the name says it all. I don't have to explain why people go there. Sex, drugs and rock n roll or so I've heard. But one thing that you don't hear is that Amsterdam is beyond beautiful in the summer.

Hope this has given you some tips to help you plan your next holiday. Please ask questions or ask anything if you would like some more tips.

Things to do at the Gold Coast Australia

Hey boys and girls.

The Gold Coast in Australia is a beautiful place and has millions of things to do. I have complied a list of activities that you could do for all ages when you get to the GC.

Theme Parks:

Queensland has more theme parks then any other state in Australia. If you are staying in Brisbane City or the Gold Coast it is a short drive to any of them. When you book your ticket to which ever theme park you decide to go to some companies will arrange



Movie World- http://movieworld.com.au/  Cost: $85.00 Movie world is one of the smaller theme parks on the gold coast but in saying alot of their rides are aimed at children. They still have a few thrill rides for the adrenaline junkies. Such as the Superman coaster, the Green Latin Coaster and the Bat Man Ride. They also have a indoor roller coaster which all your family will enjoy the Scobby Doo Coaster. This is a haunted house ride which ends with a roller coaster. This theme park can be really busy but it is also one of the theme parks which you can go to all year round.

Movie World- Gold Coast

Wet n Wild-http://wetnwild.com.au/ Cost: $60.00 Wet n Wild is a water park situated right next door to Movie World. Wet n Wild is by far the best and largest Water park on the Gold Coast. They have a mixture of rides aimed at adults and children.  They also have a wave pool and calypso beach which children and adults can both enjoy. The best time of year to go to this park is in September- March. This is Australia's spring and summer period. To avoid lines go after the school holidays in October to November or February to March.

Wet N Wild Gold Coast

Sea World- http://seaworld.com.au/ Cost: $85.00 Sea World is a marine life based theme park and is located about 10 minutes out of Surfers Paradise. Sea World target market is families and children. Alot of their rides, shows and attractions the whole family can enjoy. You can even get a photo of a seal kissing your cheek if your game. You can arrange to swim with the dolphins or even the sharks. For the adrenaline junkies they do have an older rollercoaster. This theme park you can go to all year round. The quietest time to go would be in February- May as the school children are back at school.

Sea World- Gold Coast Australia

The above 3 parks are owned by the same company and they always have a 3 park pass available. This is alot cheaper then buying the tickets for the parks individually.

Dream World and White Water World- http://www.dreamworld.com.au/ Cost: $95.00 Adults and $75.00 for children. These prices include access to both parks. Dreamworld is by far the best theme park on the Gold Coast for thrill seekers and children. It caters to all ages. They have animal shows, attractions, wiggles world and rides from Shrek and Kung Fu Panda. They also have 7 big thrill rides including the giant drop, cyclone roller coasters, the wipeout just to name a few. But by far the best thrill ride is the tower of terror 2. Which goes from 0 to 160km per hour in a matter of seconds. The best seat in the ride is in the front row. They have a number of shows that happen during the day such as a crocodile feeding show. You can also hold a Kola or feed the Kangaroos.

Dreamworld- Gold Coast

  White Water World http://www.whitewaterworld.com.au/ Is a water park attached to Dreamworld. It is honestly not as large as Wet n Wild but it does have some allright rides and is aimed at children. They have a version of the wave pool that Wet n Wild has and a children's section with small slides. White water world also does cater to thrill seekers by having a few rides that you will want to ride again and again.

White Water World- Gold Coast

Transport to the parks:The best way to get to either Wet n Wild, Dreamworld, White Water World or Movie World is by Bus or Car. If you are staying in Surfers Paradise a taxi will cost you more than $100.00 to get to the theme parks. If you are booking any of the theme parks check if they have a coach service going out to them. The local bus service does have buses that travel out to the theme parks a few times a day. All of these 4 parks have alot of free parking and are located about 30-40 minutes away from Surfers Paradise. Sea World is located about 10 minutes away from Surfers Paradise. They have buses that run from Surfers straight to Sea World all day. Sea World also has alot of free parking and accommodation.


Food at all the theme parks: The food is expensive and not the best tasting. I went to dream world and brought a sushi roll which was $12.00. They all have burgers, fries, chips, pizza ect roughly costing $10.00 plus for a meal. The good thing about the theme parks is that you can bring your own food. If you book in advance you can hire a bbq area at Wet n Wild or a Hut with a refrigerator from either Wet n Wild or White water world. They do allow you to bring your own food into the park but they would prefer if you did not.

Total time you should spend at the theme parks; All of the theme parks open 9am. Most of the rides in each theme park open at 10:00am. You could spend all day at either one of these theme parks. Parks close at 5pm. In summer Wet n Wild shows a dive in movie in its wave pool and closes at 9pm.


Activities/Shows:

Infinity-http://www.infinitygc.com.au/ Adults $25.00 Children $17.00 Infinity is a walk in attraction which is fun for all ages. The best way to describe is that it is like a futuristic maze. It takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour to walk through it. It is located in the heart of Surfers Paradise it is about a 5minute walk from Cavil Avenue. They cheapest way to get tickets is buying them off the infinity website. It something a little different to do on the Gold Coast.

Infinity- Surfers Paradise 

Currumbin Wildlife-http://www.cws.org.au/ Cost: $33.00 Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Currumbin which is about 20-30mins from Surfers Paradise. When you buy a ticket you can also book on to a bus transfer from your hotel or their pick up spot around the area that you are staying in. Here you can see the wildlife of Australia, feed the lorikeets, do a ropes course and go on a segway tour. 8am-5pm. Feeding the lorikeets is something that you do not want to miss. Very fun. Wear long sleeves as they have sharp claws.

Lorikeets at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary

Honey World- http://www.superbee.com.au/tour-currumbin.php Cost: Free. Honey world is located directly across from the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Its worth a look if you are in the area. You get to try all types of different honey for free. Your not missing too much if you don't get to go there but it is free and has some bee keeping shows.


Timezone: Time zone is located in the heart of Surfers in Cavil Avenue. It has an arrange of things to do like a shooting range, mini golf, olden day photo's, bowling, laser force and arcade games. If you want to go to the shooting range book in advance and it also can be quite expensive. 

Q1 sky deck: http://www.skypoint.com.au/ Cost: $21.00 The Q1 sky deck is amazing. It has a bar and a cafe at the top of tower. They also have group tours where you can climb the outside of the Q1 building. The views are beautiful and worth a look. If you would like to climb the Q1 building book in advance.

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View from the Q1 sky deck

Out Back Spectacular: http://outbackspectacular.com.au/ Cost: $90.00 Out back spectacular is a dinner and a show. Really fun and great food. Booking online will get you cheaper deals on tickets. The show goes for 3 hours and includes a 3 course meal. If you want to experience some Australian culture go to the Out Back Spectacular. I would definitely recommend this. Book in advance.

Dracula's: https://draculas6-px.rtrk.com.au/ Cost: $95.00 per person. Dracula's is fantastic. It is also a 3 course dinner and a show. Its starts at about 7pm and goes until late. The best way to describe Dracula's is a vampire cabaret show. No nothing like Twilight, its more of a comedy. They change their shows occasionally also. The best bit apart from the show is dessert. It is a coffin made of chocolate. YUM. I would definitely recommend this show.  Make sure you book in advance.

Dracula's dessert

Websites with cheap deals: The two websites below has vouchers and cheap deals for attractions on the Gold Coast.

http://www.adrenalin.com.au/
http://www.redballoon.com.au/

Beaches-  There are a number of faboulus beaches at the Gold Coast. Surfers Paradise beache is the most popular beach on the Gold Coast. Main beach and the Spit are fantastic beaches.

Hinterland-

Tambourine Mountain Park particularly Cedar Creek Falls is a fantastic place to visit. Its full of hiking trails and waterfalls. The best time to visit is in summer and you can go swimming in the waterfalls.

Cedar Creek Falls- Mt Tambourine

Night Life

Night Club List -http://www.barsandnightclubs.com.au/gold-coast/

Pub Hopping tours: Below are some club hopping tours. These tours take you to some of the main clubs and pubs in surfers paradise. They start at 6pm and go to 12pm which include alcohol, food and club entry.

Plan B tours: http://www.planbpartytours.com.au/ Plan B tours are a lot of fun and a great way to meet other travellers and locals. They play lots of party games. You get given a green sticker if you are single and a red sticker if you are taken.
Wicked Tours:http://www.wickedclubcrawl.com.au/

Shopping: 
Harbor Town- Is a shopping centre full of discounts. ( buses run all day to hour town from Surfers. Roughly about 20mins drive)
Surfers Paradise- Cavil Ave Is shopping mall strip of mildly price shops
Pacific Fair- Is a large shopping centre. Relatively medium priced. (10mins drive from Surfers)

Hope this gives you a better insite into the Gold Coast. Please feel free to contact me if you have any other questions or comments.