Something fresh, something new - 1-4-2012

"One always begins to forgive a place as soon as it's left behind." -Charles Dickens
 

On the flight out I was reminded of how incredible the layout and sprawling dominance of Sydney truly is; solidifying it as one of the coolest flying approaches I have ever seen. Already can't wait to get back and explore more of the city. Here and now, however, time to head north to Brisbane.

I have heard from everyone I have talked to whom have been to both cities, and the general consensus seems to be they are largely similar and most prefer Sydney. We shall see about that. So far it seems pretty incredible. Refreshingly slower pace of life, friendlier more outgoing people, and great proximity to everything one may need. No more sleeping with the bugs and rats either. The Woolloongabba Hotel is a prime time accommodation with a ridiculous name (something that is starting to become evidently prevalent in the Australian "language"). A short walk to the river we settle briefly into our rooms and start off on a walk to the riverboat tour we are slated for.

Public climbing wall right on the river. Righteous.

The thing that immediately strikes me about Brisbane is the genuinely outdoorsy attitude and extremely accommodating design of the city to active sports. All along the river there is a wide walkway punctuated by parks, swimming pools, playgrounds, cookout pavilions, naturally formed rock climbing walls (need to look for equipment to hire), and, most uniquely, several public bike repair stands. This city really seems to promote active lifestyles, something I would really look for in a city I may settle down in. Very reminiscent of some of the best outdoorsy cities back in the states. Really good stuff.

Public bike repair stand

Unfortunately, the river cruise left without us, and we were forced to adjust. There was a London Eye-esque ferris wheel that seemed to give a great view of the city. Why not? Went for a few loops and rocked it a good bit to make Reel freak out just for laughs. Ended up being a pretty good time and an even better view. Sprawling, similar to Sydney but much more quaint. As cities go anyways.

Grill Meister.

After a redundant walk back to the hotel, we decided to all have a cookout to save a little money and try out some barramundi, Australia's tilapia, so I'm told. Fired up the grill at the rooftop patio with a view of the cricket and Australian rules football stadium. Extremely picturesque. Food wasn't near as good as the company, but we had a great time making it with what we were provided, anyways. Barramundi certainly needs a professional touch, not an amateur's tipsy take on fish grilling. Not giving up on it just yet.

After a very late previous night, early morning and day of travel, we all hesitantly called it an early night. Still itching to see the rest of the city, we knew the next day would be a full one, and we can reluctantly wait until then.

Cheers.

Freaking Reel out on Brisbane's wannabe London Eye.

Dinner...haha.

Man vs. Food watch out, Andrew is in the house.