Other attractions

While in Gold Coast, do make time for other attractions besides theme parks. Walk along Surfers Paradise to step on powder soft sands and dip your feet in warm blue waters. Not far from the beach is a hedonistic strip filled with cafes, restaurants and bars. Catch the sunrise from a hot air balloon, courtesy of a company aptly named Hot Air Balloon (www.hotair.com.au). The balloon floats gently over Gold Coast hinterland. Breathe in the wide, open spaces while looking down at the lush fields or at other colourful balloons floating in the air. The scenic ride also comes with champagne breakfast at a serene vineyard.

For some retail therapy, head over to the Marina Mirage which comes with over 70 designer boutiques, cafes and restaurants. To get your pulse on the local fashion scene, check out Adrenalin, a store that has the best of Aussie designer labels. Bring back the national gemstone from Mariora, a jewellery store that sets the colourful stone in gold and diamond. If shopping tires you out then head for tea at the nearby Palazzo Versace, one of the first seven star properties in the world and the first fashion branded hotel on the globe.