W Brisbane
We take the guesswork out of local travel with our tips on where to stay, eat, drink and play. This month, GT hits Queensland’s capital.
Rather than shy away from the BrisVegas nickname cast on the capital of the Sunshine State, the W Brisbane has unabashedly embraced it. The first of the W Hotel series to open in Australia since W Sydney closed its doors more than a decade ago, the Queensland incarnation, which nuzzles the Brisbane River in the CBD, has upheld the group’s reputation for quirk and colour. An eclectic concoction of sweeping water views, Australiana paraphernalia and a psychedelic colour palette welcomes guests to each of the 312 rooms (including 32 luxury suites) – think oversized pineapples, neon lighting, and fixtures plucked from traditional Queenslander homes. An army of facilities will further tempt you to linger a while, from the spa and gym to an outdoor pool, nestled next to the all-important WET Deck bar. It’s certainly tongue-in-cheek, but this vivacious addition is as vibrant and sunny as its new hometown, and (refreshingly) doesn’t take itself too seriously. wbrisbane.com.au
CULTURE
With Brisbane’s burgeoning cultural precinct just a short stroll away, take advantage of the W’s handy location and head for the Victoria Bridge, towards the cluster of buildings that houses the creative pursuits of the River City. On the south side of the river, among a gaggle of theatres and museums, you’ll find the creative power couple, QAGOMA. Consisting of the Queensland Art Gallery and the celebrated Gallery of Modern Art, the duo offers a number of compelling exhibitions. qagoma.qld.gov.au
EXPERIENCE
Get better acquainted with Brisbane’s most famous resident – the river – with a ride aboard one of the 22-strong fleet of high-speed CityCats transporting residents from one bank to the next. Commence your cruise from the city terminal (one sits just outside the W Brisbane), winding your way around the waterway’s famous curves until you greet the iconic New Farm Park. Make like the locals and spend a leisurely day picnicking on the grass in the rose garden, while snacking on treats gathered at the Saturday morning markets, held at the nearby Brisbane Powerhouse.