Go surfing/bodyboarding....
by AussieKitten
Go surfing/bodyboarding, bungee jumping, hike through the Hinterland, visit the theme parks for your dose of rides, eat plenty of seafood and tropical fruit, chill out on your balcony and watch an amazing sunset, purchase a few goodies from the local markets, and hit Cavill Mall and Orchid Avenue for the nightlife. Having stayed on the Gold Coast ever since I was 4, this place has become my 2nd home, and so for me the fondest memories include the apartment we had in Surfers Paradise, the friends I had made, the deep tan I developed, hitting the surf with my boards, and totally chilling the senses.
Prepare for the climate
by Jez79
The luggage you bring will depend on the type of trave you want to do. Anything goes, but if you plan to go hiking, bring at least a small day pack, as you will need lots of water, insect repellant and a first aid kit. Summer on the coast is very hot and humid, though the sea breeze can bring some relief. Bring swimwear, sleeveless tops or t'shirts, shorts, skirts and long pants for when it's cooler. Sweat shirts or jackets a necessary in winter, and some summer nights. Closed in shoes are compulsory in some restaurants and clubs, though eating places are fairly laid back. Sandals and thongs are a must on hot summer days. If you're hiking, cool sandals, boots or sneakers are reccommended, as it is sometimes wet and slippery. Make sure you bring a rain coat or umbrella, as there is days of rain throughout the year, though summer tends to bring more thunderstorms. Lots of sunblock, insect repellant and a first aid kit. I'd also reccommend moisturiser or aloe vera cream, as the sun often fries unsuspecting tourists. Sunburn can take a number of hours to appear, so you often don't know you're really burnt until you gor red and get a few degrees hotter that night. I know the Queensland climate and it still gets me, so be prepared. The other obvious toiletries apply, and things such as condoms and tampons are readily availale.
Nimbin - home of alternative lifestyle
by aussirose
Nimbin is about 40min out of Murwillumbah - south-west of Gold Coast. Nimbin is a real cultural experience. We lived on a community (share land) for a while and enjoyed the natural lifestyle. The scenery is beautiful. Check out when the markets are on - it's a nice way to spend the day.
Fantastic Martini's
by fifitrix72 about Blue Onion
A lovely relaxed restaurant, which clean bright decor VERY pleasant staff and VERY reasonable. Its one of those places that you can sit and just watch the world go by for hours and no one will think of moving you on !! They do great platters ($12) to share here and they are great value - Also dont forget to try a bottle of Goundrey, one of the best Australian wines I have tasted !!! (about $15) oh and most important of all the martini's here are .....well you will have to see for yourself !!!
Get lost in a little bit of fantasy. Movie World
by rosie235
This theme park was my husbands favourite. He got to snuggle up with Catwoman, Wonderwoman and Marilyn. Every mans fantasy, maybe but lucky for us women they always come back to us real women.
Warner Brothers Movie World will have something to please everyone. From the 4d Shrek adventure, Police Academy Stunt show or the Matrix Action Show to The Austin Powers Groovy Movie show . The kids will love the Looney Tunes musical review, the All Stars parade or Aerobics Looney Tunes Style. Don't forget all the rides aswell. All aiming at getting the adrenalin pumping. The new ride, Superman Escape looked so totally scary. Atleast I had an excuse not to wimp out by not getting on.. It didn't open till the 26th of December.
There are photo opportunities galore so have your cameras at the ready and snap some pic of yourself with your favourite characters or stars.
The theme park is open from 10 am to 5pm and believe me , you need all that time to see it properly.
If you buy a 3 park super pass you have unlimited access to Movie World, Wet and Wild and Sea World once you have visited the 3 parks once each and had your pass validated. This is the best value for money option all round if you intend on visiting them all and numerous times.
Public transport is available , with bus stops right out the front. You can also prebook a transfer with one of the may coaches for a very reasonable cost. This usually includes pick up and drop off to your accomodation.
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Gold Coast Bus Map (South)
What a SHOPPER DOCKET looks like
Our little hired Hyundai
Wow! what scenery
