Shop. Bop. Drop

A Canadian friend of mine – who I met on a Contiki tour several years ago – emailed recently to let me know she was visiting the land down under and asked for my help in deciding whether to spend a few days in Brisbane or Perth on the way home.

Without a second thought I compiled this short and sweet low-down on Brisbane. I enjoyed writing it so much and seeing my town from someone else's point of view I thought I would share it with you too. Why not print it out and keep it handy for your friends and rellies in case they drop in one day.  Actually, if that does happen - eek! - you might just want this handy coffee listing too!

 

Shop

Many people (especially those who live outside Brisbane) will tell you to shop in Sydney or Melbourne because Queensland fashion is bare and boring. This might have been the case 10 years ago but Brissie has certainly come of age – not to mention fashion cred – in recent years. 

Brisbane’s Queen Street Mall is the best place to head if you’re short on time but want to shop hard and fast. The must-visits (in no particular order) are Queens Plaza for Tiffany & Co, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Saba, Alannah Hill, Mimco, Zimmerman, David Lawrence, David Jones etc... Walk a block to Edward Street and you’ll find Ralph Lauren, Oroton and Hermes. If you’re not in the mood for high-end you can’t miss the many boutiques spilling out across Fortitude Valley.

James Street could be considered a much shorter, less "showy" little sister to Melbourne's Chapel Street...and I love it! You’ll find excellent Aussie labels Sass & Bide, Scanlon & Theodore, Camilla, Gary Castles Sydney, ksubi and Easton Pearson to name a few. James Lane is a quaint section of the same street just one block away from the main 'hub' and is the place for many smaller, but no less, amazing designers. Keep your eyes peeled for Australia’s only retail space for online shopping mecca Frockshop. Over the road are several high street staples including French Connection, Witchery and Mimco. You’ll spy treasures created by Chelsea de Luca if you stroll east towards New Farm Park, plus Stone & Metal and Ivy + Bird.. Here you can pick up a statement jewellery piece or three – choosing just one is torture!

Bop

I know how much you love a tipple so wet your whistle at any of these decadent cocktail bars: The Laneway (Mary Street Brisbane City), The Bowery (Anne Street), La Ruche (also Anne Street, however beware of how many drinks you’ve had before going to this one otherwise you’ll swear you’ve fallen down the rabbit hole), and my personal fave Canvas in Woolloongabba. It’s over the bridge from the city but you could start the night here followed by dinner at either Pearl Cafe, Bristrot Bristro or The Crosstown Eating House. 

Depending on the type of night you’re after - dancing, casual drinks, both? - I’d stay on the south-side and mix it up with the locals in West End (a less try-hard version of the Valley which is now a slave to the cashed up uni-crowd) with drinks at Sling, Archive Beer Bar or The Rumpus Room. Be sure to drop in at The Boundary, one of the suburb’s last remaining ‘old-man’ pubs and lock stocked full of character. The free live music on Friday and Saturday nights is second to none and a real hoot! Your hubby will love it too. 

Drop

Check in at either Emporium Hotel (Brisbane’s most awarded boutique hotel with a delectable cocktail bar and rooftop pool) or The LimesHotel for it’s designer appeal and outdoor cinema. Both are in great proximity to the city so you can easily drop off your shopping bags and keep going. If you’re after something a little grander, with views of the water and our sparkling Story Bridge, the Stamford Plaza Hotel is one of the best (it should be, HRH Betty II stayed here as well as most visiting celebs including Kylie Minogue, Taylor Swift, Gwen Stefani and Pink). On-site you’ve got several restaurants and cafes to recharge your batteries, but I'd have dinner by the water at EagleStreet Pier which boasts some of the city’s best restaurants including Sake, Aria and Jellyfish. I'm drooling just thinking about it.

P.S. Unfortunately my mate went with Perth because it was easier to fly back to Canada from WA than QLD. Oh well. Maybe next time.

Time in Timaru

The Lighthouse overlooking Caroline Bay, Timaru.

Teach, E and I returned home on Monday after three fabulous days (plus two days of travelling) in New Zealand. We flew across the Tasman to witness two wonderful friends tie the knot in Timaru, the Groom's birth place.

Brisbane's Hot Coffee Spots

A fix from Jamie's Espresso Bar

In anticipation of my brother's arrival from Melbourne last week, I decided to update my knowledge of Brisbane's coffee scene. Let's just say in the 15 years he's lived in Australia's coffee capital he never misses an opportunity to declare he's yet to find a half-decent Long Macchiato in "your town" to stir his little sis.

This time I was prepared to prove to him once and for all that Brisbane knows coffee. Plus, any excuse I have to get back on my old stomping ground of inner-city cafes and I'm there with more than bells on.

I started off slowly and took him to the usual, trustworthy coffee spots (intelligent) locals have come to know and love.  We buzzed from Campos Coffee (Fortitude Valley), to Flamingo Cafe (Fortitude Valley), then down the laneway to Brew (Brisbane City).

The down-to-earth aesthetic of each venue had him feeling at home, but it was the obvious respect the staff had for their jobs, the coffee and the brewing process that won him over. Now can you see what I was working with?

Unfortunately we didn't get a chance to try out the new PUK Espresso (Kangaroo Point), but we did make time to drop by The Rabbit Hole Ideation Cafe (West End) before he jumped on his flight home.

Love, love, love it! It's cosy, quaint, groovy and down right funk-tastic! If I still worked in the area Rabbit Hole would definitley be my daily go-to place for my early morning, mid-morning and afternoon caffeine fix.

Got family and friends visiting for Christmas or just sick of your local cafe serving sewage water as coffee? Here are a few more must-visit hot coffee spots I highly recommend:

Jamie's Espresso Bar (Robertson Street, Fortitude Valley): One of Brisbane's original hole-in-the-wall coffee spots. Pick up a great cuppa to enjoy as you walk around the James Street fashion precinct.

The Birds Nest Coffee and Collectables (Montague Street, South Brisbane): Stop here either before or after your day at the Gallery of Modern Art. Talking and walking? If you hit The Joynt you've gone to far.

D&D: Delectable

Dandelion & Driftwood (Gerler Road, Hendra): An adorable cafe for both tea and coffee lovers. It's one to keep up your sleeve for afternoon tea with your ladies.

Clarence Corner Bookshop & Cafe (Stanely Street, Woolloongabba): This is another personal fave. Who could possibly go past coffee and books? Plus you can text them your order, your ETA and it'll be ready for your arrival. If only it was my corner shop.

I recommend you bunker down with a brew here

Bunker (Railway Terrace, Milton): Named after the World War II bunker it now calls home, this cafe is home to the best brew on the West Side.

Do you agree? Please let me know if I've missed the one you love.

Have Prize Will Travel

Three days ago I started drafting a post about the importance of 'Being Optimistic' but found the words were MIA.

I was hoping the post would inspire me to stop dragging my heels on a personal business venture, but no matter how hard I tried or how many times I'd make a cuppa to spark inspiration, the delightful, witty and insightful post did not magically appear. Optimistic, I was not. 

Today, however, is slightly different because optimism found me in the most unlikely situation.

It all started when my mobile rang at 7.30am. The phone number wasn't blocked and I recognised it as a Brisbane number, but who would call me at this hour?

It couldn't be my bank. They appear as BLOCKED. Actually, my brain registers any blocked number as a warning signal that screams DO NOT ANSWER.  

It couldn't be Optus. I remembered to pay my overdue phone bill two days ago, plus they're based in Sydney so the area code doesn't match.

Surely it's not Greenpeace asking for another donation. I'm almost broke people. You should donate cash to me to put an end to this hungry mammal feeding her family on cans of tuna. You know, two birds, one stone. Now bugger off!

It's definitely not Mum because I haven't telepathically asked her to call me yet. I was planning on thinking about her tomorrow night after we both watch Neighbours and before I put E to bed.  She never fails to call within an hour of me thinking 'I haven't spoken to Mum this week.'

Maybe it's the Lotto people? Hang on, I don't play lotto. Oh well, best answer it.

'Hello, Sian speaking.' I said excitedly.

'Hi Sian, It's Bianca here from Peekaboo Magazine.' The cogs in my brain go into overdrive. Bianca from Peekaboo? Nope, nothing.

'You entered a competition for a trip to Fiji,' she started slowly. Did I? Oh, that must of happened the day I spent five hours on the Internet looking for a way to escape a teething, screaming child that never wanted to be put down.

'Yes, I sure did...' I was waiting with breathe that was bated.

'Congratulations. You won!'

I couldn't believe it. 'Really? Wow, thank you so much.'

After several weeks of waiting for the world to open up and swallow me whole, I suddenly felt it's weight lift. My self-imposed gloomy outlook changed instantly.


Teach, E and I have won a five-night holiday at the five-star Outrigger on the Lagoon in Fiji. Prize includes return airport transfers, breakfast each day, two one-hour spa treatments and child care. Fan-bloody-tastic! 

Not only did optimism find me thanks to a very welcomed phone call, but it carried me through the rest of the day and allowed me to get so much else done.

I got to thinking, if something this magical can happen when I least expect it, what else can life bless me with if I am open enough to let it?

My simple change in mindset impacted the rest of my day, week and maybe my month. The more positive energy I put into my day the more finally happened that I'd been waiting for. Talk about a great chain reaction.

So finally, I must say a very big thank you to Peekaboo Magazine and Outrigger on the Lagoon for a wonderful prize. We are greatly appreciative and can't wait to take full advantage of it in 2012.

Yippee!

My Summer Essentials

The balmy weather I enjoyed in Townsville last week has me counting down to summer in Brisbane; the long hot days, time at the beach with my beautiful boys, jugs of cold Sangria and picnics in the park. Pure bliss!

In an attempt to hurry my favourite season along, here is a quick wrap up of the things I'm looking forward to this summer. It never hurts to daydream...

A new summer outfit

A treat for my feet!

No matter how I'm feeling, jewelled sandals are a great pick me up and perfect for all occassions. These are from Witchery. I think they'll look gorgeous with this Beach Dress. So adorable! Golf clap for Country Road's new summer collection.

Drinks with a view

Brisbane Powerhouse - one of my favourite spots in Brissie.

With my new outfit on, I'll head down to Brisbane Powerhouse for a few vinos with friends. I go for the views of the river and Teach goes for the free live music on Sunday afternoons. We always have a great time because everyone is happy and relaxed, it's a cool atmosphere and the tunes are groovy baby!


Good coffee and fresh food

I heart the big Fig Trees providing shade at the markets.

Nothing beats a saturday morning at the West End Markets located at Davies Park on Montague Street (it's official title is 'Davies Park Market' but locals refer to it as the West End Markets). We take E down there nice and early, enjoy a great coffee, pick up fresh groceries for the week then have a play before its time to head home and put the little man down for his nap.  If you're after a few quirky Chrissie presents too, I highly recommend these markets for vintage finds and one-off pieces. These markets are on all year round, but who wants to leave the house when it's cold out? Not me!!

Picnic in a park

The Jacarandas are in full bloom at New Farm Park - here comes summer!!

The other summer essential I lust-after during winter is a picnic in the park. E is now getting to the age where he can enjoy time outdoors too, so I'm sure we'll be spending lots of time at New Farm Park or Kangaroo Point. Both have spots to grab a coffee and shady trees to allow you to while away the day in peace and quiet. Mmmmm heaven!


What are some of your favourite things to do during summer?

My Five Fave Spots In Townsville

E and I arrived in Townsville, my home town, yesterday to celebrate my parents' 40th wedding annniversary on the weekend.

I left 'The Ville' (as it's commonly called) more than ten years ago and have  no real desire to return. Not out of any dislike for the city, I should add, it's just that it reminds me of my teenage years. Each time I come back I remember the mischief, the late drunken nights, the first dates and the clubbing years. While some of those memories are fantastic, others I'd prefer to leave here, where they belong, not see them again at the shopping centre or in the queue at the pub. Eeek!

This town, in my opinion, is my parents town. Their life is here. I love coming back for a week to see them, but at 18 I knew I'd leave to create a home elsewhere. I did. I have.

All that aside, whenever I venture north of the equator, sorry I mean, to Townsville, these are the five things I always do, because to me they are an essential part of The Ville experience.

1. Have a beer at The Brewery:

Developed in Townsville's historic Post Office Building, this Restaurant/Bar is a great spot for a coldie. The onsite Brew House is visible to all patrons which adds a sense of participation to the brewing process, but it's the seven locally owned and made beers that have the beer connoisseurs coming back for more.  The pub grub isn't bad either, but the bar snacks will satisfy most. I enjoy a pint or two of the Belgian Blonde.

2. Have a BBQ on The Strand:

Arguably the most popular and well known city attraction, the Strand is home to free BBQ areas, a water park (pictured), a surf life saving club, a man-made rockpool and landscaped parklands. Several restaurants and cafes are located on the headlands with gorgeous views to Magnetic Island, but it's the space to have a picnic with friends and the afternoon sea breezes that gets me everytime. 

3. Walk up Castle Hill:

Many locals use Castle Hill as their daily source of exercise, hiking up and down before they go off to work. Once you reach the top stay for a moment to enjoy the panaromic views of the town and nearby islands. Insider's tip: if you plan to walk it, allow approx 1 hour for the return walk and do it either first thing in the morning before the heat of the day (approx 6am) or early evening (approx 6pm) - it could save you from severe dehydration and/or sun stroke. There is a goat track, but everyone generally sticks to the main road.

4. Enjoy dinner at A Touch of Salt:

This waterside venue (pictured above) has been my family's favourite restaurant since it opened several years ago. The menu is simple and elegant, the food is divine and the wine list is second to none. It is so popular that its sister property The Salt Cellar opened a couple of years back to keep demanding foodies fed. It's five stars for this top nosh!!

5. Swim at Balgal Beach:

Balgal Beach is approximately 40 minutes drive north of Townsville past several other beaches that remain well known to locals but hidden gems to visitors. Those keen for a dip in the big blue will have to swim in the netted enclosure during stinger season (October to May) however the laidback atmosphere and refreshing waters will make up for it. I know Teach can't wait to take E here for his first swim in the ocean.

Any other recommendations?
For further information go to Queensland Holidays.

A whale of a time at Cabarita

Each year two of my favourite girlfriends and I catch up for a fun-filled weekend of gossip, shopping and wine tasting half way between Coffs Harbour and Brisbane. Typically this means a weekend in Byron Bay, however this year, we all agreed Byron was too expensive, busy and seriously overrated, so we decided to explore further afield and set up camp at Cabarita. 

Awww...Paradise at Cabarita Beach!

Only 40 minutes drive north of Byron Bay on the Tweed Coast, Cabarita (the original name for the town is Bogangar, an Aboriginal word meaning 'place of many pippies') is a quaint seaside village young (in tourism terms) enough to be a family friendly, affordable destination but still old-fashioned enough to provide its visitors a warm, hospitable retreat. 

Despite our growing displeasure with the Bay, we were slightly anxious to venture away from the comfort of its well known beaches and cafes for a place we’d never heard of, let alone been too. We soon discovered our worries were unfounded.  

My girlfriend Ed had booked a two-bedroom family unit at The Hideaway, a clean low-key hotel located less than a five minute stroll to the beach and the centre of town. The six of us (Ange and her two daughters, Ed, myself and E) settled in to our rooms before getting our feet in the water - we knew if the beach was up to scratch we’d struck gold! 

One foot on the pure white sand had us praising the heavens for this hidden treasure. The beach is everything you’d want and more. Long as far as the eye could see, pristine waters, clean uncluttered sand with hardly any people on it AND lifeguards so you knew you’d be looked after. We made our way to Norries Headland for a few happy snaps before making our way back to the hotel via the main road to double check that our dream find was true. 

I’m proud to say Cabarita has it all. Restaurants, cafes, shops, a surf club, walking tracks and a lookout over the ocean...sound familiar? The rest of the afternoon was very relaxed. E slept while the big-girls shared a bottle of bubbles and the little-girls made arts and crafts by the pool. 

Several other guests at the hotel said Hello as they walked by our patio to the beach and made small talk about the weather. One couple and their four-year old told us they lived in Cabarita but needed a little getaway. The Mum explained, “everything is in walking distance from here and the views are so good you automatically feel like you’re on holiday. We don’t need to go anywhere else.” I couldn’t agree more.  

We’d found paradise - a spot yet to be over populated with holiday makers from all corners of the globe and a beach not spoilt by developers selling its picturesque lifestyle only to destroy it in the process...again, sound familiar? 

Sunday came all too soon and it was time to say goodbye. Procrastinating the inevitable, we watched surfers and swimmers take to the water over a coffee before our final walk along the beach. The younger girls collected shells while the rest of us admired the views of a pod of whales playing in the distance, obviously delighted with their holiday destination too. 

E having a little quiet time

Our weekend was all to brief, but we agreed Cabarita would be the destination for our annual catch-ups from now on – just as long as one of us could wrangle a few whales to show up again too!

IN BRIEF:

Cabarita Beach is between Byron Bay (40 mins north) and the Gold Coast (20 mins south). Follow the Cabarita Beach exits from the highway.

The Hideaway is located at 21 Cypress Cresent, Cabarita, NSW. Phone 02 6676 1444

*Cabarita Beach image originally from The Age

Darwin or Bust

Our holiday was not going well and we hadn’t even left the airport yet.

Teach, E and I were off to Darwin for five days to celebrate a friends wedding. We’d been looking forward to our little getaway since the couple announced their engagement six months earlier. I’d been to the top end once before and knew what to expect, but for Teach and E this was a new adventure, plus it was our first family holiday.

Yep, it was going to be great. A trip we’d always remember and have fond memories of. The gorgeous weather, pictures of a happy family living it up with friends away from home. Oh, how we’d laugh and share memorable moments when we returned....