Brisbane Travel Guide

Founded in 1823 on the banks of the wide, meandering Brisbane River, the former penal colony of Brisbane was for many years regarded as just a big country town. Many beautiful timber Queenslander homes, built in the 1800s, still dot the riverbanks and suburbs, and in spring the city's numerous parks erupt in a riot of colorful jacaranda, flame tree, and bougainvillea blossoms. Today the Queensland capital is one of Australia's up-and-coming cities: glittering high-rises mark its polished business center, and numerous outdoor attractions beckon. In summer, temperatures here are broilingly hot and days are often humid, a reminder that this city is part of a subtropical region: wear SPF 15+ sunscreen and a broad-brimmed hat outdoors even on overcast days.