Brisbane, Queensland's capital offers a warm welcome all year round. Glass skysrapers shouldering sandstone heritage landmarks cool their toes in the Brisbane River as it snakes its way under the picturesque Story Bridge, past subtropical parklands, walkways, cycleways and riverside eateries. Locals and visitors can also cool off at South Bank's unique man made beach overlooking the CBD. Meanwhile, the colourful urban villages of New Farm, Fortitude Valey, Milton and Paddington showcase some of Brisbane's coolest cafes and hottest designer boutiques.

Head South from the city and you will be spoilt for choice ! The Gold Coast buzzes with waterside restaurants, designer shopping, championship golf courses, endless surf beaches, exciting theme parks and luxury accommodation. Only minutes away, far from the bright lights and glamour of these golden sands, the lush green hinterland reveals a a contrasting world of enchanting mountain villages, boutique wineries, rainforest walking trails, stunning lookouts and an impressive array of native birds and animals.

One and a half hour's drive North from Brisbane brings you to the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Watching the world go by from one of Noosa's trendy Hastings Street eateries, you will have to make the difficult decision of whether to indulge in a little retail therapy along the strip's upmarket fashion boutiques or venture a few steps further to swim in the azure waters of Laguna Bay, stretch out on the white sands of Main Beach or take a stroll along the maginificent coastal trail through the Noosa National Park to spot a koala or two. Alternatively, you could jump in the car to visit the lush hinterland national parks, browse the funky Eumundi artisan's markets or swing a club at one of the region's prestigious golf courses.

An hour or so further North, Hervey Bay is one of the best whale watching destinations in Australia (Humpback whales visit the waters between July and October) and the gateway to Fraser Island, the World's largest sand island. Far from a desert however, the ancient dunes are alternately covered by magnificent rainforests, dissected by tranquil streams and studded with stunning freshwater lakes. Dramatic shipwrecks and beautiful rock formations greet the waves as they crash along 75 Mile Beach, which doubles as the Island's main "highway" (4WD vehicles are essential). With excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, wildlife watching, four wheel driving and bushwalking, Fraser Island is an accessible nature lover's paradise.