Australia and New Zealand: Livin' a Down Under dream!

Australia – just hearing its name has you bristing with excitement. You've been looking forward to this day for so long, and now you're finally standing at the airport. It's time to board the plane that's soon to bring you closer to the other side of the world. So sit back, close your eyes and have one last dream about all the adventures that await you before they finally come true!

You lift the blind and realise you're beginning the descent into Brisbane. Totally surprised, you notice how leafy the city is, and you're instantly hyped.  

Put your feet up or start exploring? You're spoilt for choice! Take a stroll across Story Bridge, which is something of an iconic landmark in Brisbane and boasts an impressive 3,281 feet in length and 243 feet in height. A visit at dusk, when it's lit up in brilliant colours, is also definitely worthwhile. And there's no better place to spend your evening than Eagle Street Pier, tucked right at the foot of the city's skyscrapers, which sparkle in the light of the setting sun. You'll find loads of restaurants and bars here. And what better way to celebrate the start of your exciting journey than with a view of the Brisbane River? 

Want to experience Brisbane's natural side? Grab a coffee (optional, payable on site) and head to the Botanic Gardens right by the Brisbane River first thing in the morning. Stroll through the dense greenery between bamboo groves, ornamental ponds and cute turtles and be captivated by the magic of the tress covered in fairy lights. And try not to get distracted by the flying foxes; there's more to discover! The free ferry will take you directly from North Quay to South Bank, and a short time later, you can dive into the parkland between Nepalese temples and tropical rainforest. Then in South Bank, you'll find a very special highlight: Streets Beach, an artificial lagoon with a perfect view of the city skyline. Go on and enjoy a nice swim!

Fortitude Valley's calling! This neighbourhood looks as if someone has poured buckets of paint, chill beats and good vibes into all the alleys. Between street art, indie boutiques and record shops, you feel like you're in a little world of your own. A cappuccino in a tiny café with latte art to fall in love with is an absolute must. And there are plenty of second-hand shops to stumble into, which you won't want to leave! Towards the afternoon, you head to James Street and soak up the stylish and relaxed energy. And when sunset rolls around, it's time to find a rooftop bar and watch Brisbane glow in the evening light – the perfect mix of city buzz and chilled vibes.