BRISBANE

Contents: The City, Do & See, Eating, Cafes, Bars & Nightlife, Shopping, Sleeping,Essential Information, Maps

Brisbane is a lively, cosmopolitan city with excellent restaurants, beautiful riversideparks, a busy cultural calendar and a great nightlife. Its fantastic weather year-round has allowed outdoor activities to thrive and develop a vibrant café culture.The city is surrounded by some of the state’s major tourist attractions, and there isan abundant choice of daytrips whether it be to the coast for the golden beaches, or

inland for some of Queensland’s serene bushland, there is something for everybody

the city 

The capital of the “Sunshine State,” Brisbane, could verywell be the world’s most laidback city: its residents arefriendly and optimistic in a way rarely seen in big city life.But with such a fantastic lifestyle, who can blame them forsmiling?Brisbane has a world of experience to oer, from thehustle and bustle of the Central Business District (CBD),you can escape to the creative ambiance of thecontemporary arts centre - The Brisbane Powerhouse inNew Farm. Perhaps you’d prefer dinner with sights of thecity at South Bank? Afterwards, if you’d like a sti drink,head towards the trendy bars of Fortitude Valley and West

End.If you don’t dance the night away, you might be up earlyenough to watch the sun rise as you kayak on theBrisbane River. Or perhaps you’d prefer relaxing atAustralia’s only inner city beach at South Bank. If you stillhave the energy, you can try rock climbing and take in theviews of the Story Bridge and the city skyline from theKangaroo Point Clis.When you’re ready to relax, head down to Woolloongabbato enjoy some of the spectator sports that Queensland isfamed for!League fan.-"The Gabba is one of eight major sporting and entertainment facilities owned and operated by StadiumsQueensland

Tangalooma Island Resort

Tangalooma Island Resort has a wide array of excursionson oer, and quite a few of them are for free. This is one ofonly a few places in the world where it’s possible tohand-feed dolphins in the wild. They come swimming up along side the jetty at dusk for their nightly feed.

Underwater World and Dolphin Lagoon

Queensland’s largest oceanarium/aquarium with 25.000sea animals and a multi award winning tourist attraction.Take the opportunity to walk with thousands of marine animals without getting your feet wet.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

This sanctuary gives you the opportunity to touch andhold koalas in the world’s largest koala enclosure. The siteis easily accessible by bus from the CBD, or via MiramarCruises who do daily trips from South Bank’s Cultural Centre pontoon at 10am League fan.-"The Gabba is one of eight major sporting and

entertainment facilities owned and operated by Stadiums Queensland".

Brisbane is scattered with great pubs, you’ll realise this themoment you learn that most of the “hotels” which you seeare actually drinking establishments. Beers are served inpots, schooners, pints and jugs and the beer taps in manybars will be specially chilled, causing the condensation tofreeze on the outside. Most hotels are open 10:30am-3am,and the traditional “Sunday Session” runs from 11am tomidnight.

Norman Hotel

The Norman is a good place to meet a cross-section ofBrisbane society, it’s tradition for those attending matchesat The Gabba to get a pre-match steak here. There aretwo bars here, the new Norman’s Bar and the traditional Sports Bar.

The Queen Street Mall is Queensland’s premiere shoppingdestination with over 700 shops doing business sevendays a week and independent designers as well as aplethora of cafés abound.Queens Plaza is where a host of home-grown talents suchas Herringbone of Sydney and Alannah Hill take pride of

place. Take a short stroll and you’ll also find the likes ofMax Mara, Vuitton, and Tiany & Co, proving that Brisbaneisn’t too small for the big names.The assortment of logos and brands available in this

stretch between Edward Street and George Street is mind-boggling, but of note are the legendary departmentstores David Jones and The Myer Centre. You may alsowant to take a peek in the boutique of local designer Bora,whose creation graced the body of Miss Universe in 2004.If you leave the Queen Street Mall and head down EdwardStreet towards the river, you’ll find more Australiandesigners and if you continue up Elizabeth Street, you’llfind many of the up-and-coming.Beyond the CBD, it’s worth taking a look at Ann Street andJames Street in Fortitude Valley where you’ll find a mixtureof boho chic and ultra-trendy style. Come back at theweekend and you’ll find the Valley Markets: fashion on

Brunswick Street where you can buy one-o items and owers and fresh produce on James Street.

Back at the South Bank Lifestyle Markets, you’ll findeverything from local crafts to unique artworks at the

weekend. Every second and fourth Sunday at thePowerhouse in New Farm, check out the Farmers Markets

where you can pick up Queensland’s fnest pineapples andmangos, freshly caught seafood or just-picked vegetables.The farmers bring their goods to the markets literally onthe back of their trucks. Open from dawn till aroundlunchtime but, for the best experience, be early to get thebest produce and avoid the heat 

LISBON

Lisbon basks in the sun refecting o the Tejo River and quickly seduces mostvisitors. The mixture of history and modernity, of small town and metropolis, of theantiquated and the shining new is irresistible. Add excellent shopping, late but safenight life and restaurants with Europe’s best fish, and you have the city in a nutshell

Lisbon’s heart is beside the river, even if the city hasgrown in all directions. Sit down at a pavement café on

Rossio Square and you will see the Baiza, the at citycentre, that dates from the 18th-century, between yourselfand the river bank. Look up in one direction and you willsee the São Jorge on the top of a hill. Look in the otherdirection and you will see the ruin of the Carmo Church onanother hill. Walk, or take a tram to one of them and youwill discover the quarters of old Lisbon, most of them with

a magnicent view of the rest of the city and the river Wander north from Rossio, you will soon end up onastately 19th-century avenue, in the part of the city which isstill called "Avenidas Novas." Even further north, thebuildings become really new, with the city’s two largefootball grounds, Luz and Alvalade, and lastly the airportwhich is twenty trac-jam-free minutes in a car fromRossi. Most of the best sights, restaurants and nightlife aresituated along the river. There is good shopping along theAvenidas Novas, but otherwise the rule is to keep close tothe river to get the best out of your visit.

Venice

There is no other city like Venice. It has 180 canals, 450 bridges and magnificentpalaces. It is a city rich in museums and historical buildings of great artistic and cultural importance. Add to that the transient feeling and the quiet everyday life. The

beauty of it all is truly apparen

thecity

Refugees founded Venice. When Germanic tribes ravaged northern Italy in the 5th-century, many people escaped tothis dicult-to-access area on the Adriatic Sea. Over the centuries the refugee community grew in to the most powerful trading port in the Mediterranean. At its peak, Venice had 3.000 trade ships and 300 navy vessels.After the fall of Napoleon, Venice was ruled by theAustrians, but after the 1848 uprising, the city once againgained itsindependence. Shortly after, in 1866, Venicebecame part of Italy. 1932 saw the opening of the motorand rail bridge between Venice and the mainland, that wasto be the start of Venice as a tourist destination.It is hard to navigate around the city, but don’t let that put you of , as this is part of Venice’s charm. Leave the other tourists at St Mark’s square and the Rialto Bridge and explore the labyrinth of little neighbourhoods instead. Themost interesting areas and islands are Cannaregio,San  Polo /Santa Croce,    Dorsoduro, San Marco and Caste

 DO & SEE

The whole city is a unique sight in itself, there is nothinglike it anywhere else in the world. The best way to exploreVenice is by foot.

 Cicchetti of Venice Tour

Discover where the locals unwind on this tour of Venice’sbackstreets and hidden Bacari wine bars. Sample famouscicchetti, small local dishes like fried olives, cheesy polenta, and spicy meatballsTours run Tues - Sun. More walking tours are available from Urban Adventures  

Piazza San Marco

Piazza San Marco, aka Mark’s Square, is the biggestsquare in Venice, and the most faous one too. If you truly

want to understand the might of the former Venetianempire this is the place to visit. The square is full of

interesting and impressive sights, one of the being thecampanile - bell tower - from where you can get a splendid

view of Venice

BARS & NIGHTLIFE

Venice has many good bars, primarily in the Dorsoduro district, but there’s no "party scene." The city’s youth travel to Venice’s modern sister city, Mestre, on the main land. In

the summer, they go to the seaside town of Jesolo

Harry’s Bar
This is the original, the bar that all other "Harry’s" around he world are modelled after. The Bellini, the champagnand peach drink was invented here. Harry’s Bar focuses ont creating an inviting atmosphere that welcomes everybody with open arms. 

SHOPPING

If you are after high fashion shops they are located at Via XXII Marzo and neighbouring streets. Via XXII Marzstretches from San Mark Square towards Academia and here you will find brands like Prada, Valentino, Etro, Chanand Gucci. There are also several banks and currenc exchange oces in this area. Browse Venice’s boutiqueand take in the atmosphere of the ci

Venice Picture Gallery

Our Venice picture gallery is a general overview of Venice. You'll see photos of Venice canals, gondolas, San Marco, the arsenale gate, and other Venice attractions

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it up to four people. However, if you are looking for larger spaces, or if you have large family then Florida Vill

Minneapolis

Minneapolis is a city on the rise. Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, it’s

rumoured iconic American writer Mark Twain was the first to assign the name

United States, and one of the few to still oer free

admission (except for special exhibits). The impressive

permanent collection features 20th century arts and

photography, US and European painters of all genres and

one genre the US is particularly famous for – pop art.‘Twin Cities’ to Minneapolis and neighbouring city St Pauls

State Park

Also known as the ‘City of Lakes’, Minneapolis is far from

a concrete jungle. With beautiful parks and outdoor areas,

the Fort Snelling State Park is only one of the many in the

region. Situated where the Mississippi and Minnesota

Rivers meet, the historic Fort is the State’s oldest

structure. Enjoy a tour from knowledgeable guides

complete with period dress.

Minnesota

With 18.3 million visitors to the city’s metro area each

year, Minneapolis has become one of the most visited US

destinations thanks to attractions such as world-class

museums and galleries, a vibrant night-life and a shopping

mall so large it even has its own postcode Fort Snelling

Zoo

Explore Minnesota’s exciting zoo, and see over 2,700

animals for yourself – in their ‘natural’environment. Be

sure to experience the Discovery Bay aquarium centre,

which is made up of a maze of underground tunnels and

walkways, where you’ll be able to see some of the greatest

wonders of the deep close-up.

North East Art District

As in most citys, the worn down industrial areas sooner or

later become the new hot spot after they´ve been

established by the creative crew. Minneapolis is no

exception.

The Northeast Minneapolis Art District is home to a great

number of artist studios, art galleries and performance

spaces. Walk around this unique neighborhood

distinguished by picturesque, family-run businesses, rail

yards and industry, kitchy watering holes and a wide range

of restaurants. Many of the area’s old industrial buildings

have been re-purposed as working spaces for over 400

artists.

St Paul Curling Club

This winter sport is popular in the Twin Cities. Visit the St

Paul Curling Club and watch how the players slide the

hubcap-sized ‘puck’ down the ice, aiming for the target.

While the intricacies of the game may seem a bit foreign

at rst, it’ll denitely be a unique experience to see the

‘pitcher’ shouting at the ice brushers

Atlas Grill & Clubroom

An elegant downtown restaurant that oers re-roasted

meats and seafood. Here you can have both lunch and

dinner. They oer global cuisine and a wonderful wine list

in a beautiful surrounding which makes this a perfect

place for an evening out.

D’Amico and Sons

D’Amico and Sons is a growing family restaurant who has

a passion for Italian food. Specialties include wood-red

pizzas, gourmet sandwiches, salads and pastas. They also

serve good desserts.

District del Sol

The heart of Saint Paul’s Mexican community is where

you’ll nd the most authentic and delectable burritos,

tamales and chilli – it’s not called the ‘spicy

neighbourhood’ for nothing!

Salsa a La Salsa Mexican Grill

A Mexican restaurant with tequila bar. They serve

delicious, authentic and relatively cheap food. From the

menu you can nd dishes like chile Rolleno, pork carnitas,

burritos and enchiladas.

District del Sol

The heart of Saint Paul’s Mexican community is where

you’ll nd the most authentic and delectable burritos,

tamales and chilli – it’s not called the ‘spicy

neighbourhood’ for nothing!

Address: District del Sol, Minneapolis

Nicollet Avenue

Spanning 17 blocks with more than 50 restaurants and

cafés with oerings as diverse as Vietnamese to traditional

German meals and trendy fusion restaurants.

Address: Nicollet Avenue, Minneapolis

Manny’s Steakhouse

This is a steakhouse where the menu reects the local

produce like chops, chicken and fresh vegetables. They

also serve great side dishes like hashbrowns and dessert

like whisky bread pudding, hot fudge and caramel-covered

macadamia nut brownies. Open daily for breakfast, lunch

and dinner

you can enjoy good and fresh food. They also use organic

and fair trade ingredients. Serving breakfast, brunch, lunch,

dinner and desserts

!

Minneapolis has 11 km of enclosed pedestrian bridges,

they're called "skyways". This system links 80 blocks

downtown and there are second oor restaurants

connected to these skyways.

Mickey’s Dining Car

For a ‘traditional’ American dining experience, you can’t

go past Mickey’s Dining Car. It was originally designed to

resemble the railroad dining cars and has been shipped

here by rail from New Jersey.

Address: 36 W. 7th Street, St. Paul

Northeast Minneapolis

Northeast Minneapolis is one of the oldest neighbourhoods

in Minneapolis and the area is overowing with inuences

from eastern Europe.

Wilde Roast Cafe

The Wilde Roast Cafe is named after Oscar Wilde and is

not your typical café. It is a comfortable place where you

can enjoy latte or a glass of wine. They serve breakfast,

lunch and dinner

BARS & NIGHTLIFE

Minneapolis nightlife could be everything from a cordial

dinner combined with an entertaining cabaret to a wild and

crazy night on the town.

First Avenue & 7th St Entry

The epitome of a rock and roll bar – some of the most

legendary musicians and bands in history have played

-"Your Downtown Danceteria Since 1970"

Address: First Avenue, 701 1st Ave North, Minneapolis, MN 55403

French Meadow Bakery & Café

French Meadow claim to be one of the leading cafés when

it comes to thinking and acting organic. They´ve been on

the case since 1985 so they know what they´re doing.

Promoting sustainable agriculture making and serving

slow foods and generally providing a tasty little oasis of

thoughtful and healthy living is the mission. Here you will

get organic and natural foods, grown locally from farmers

known and trusted by the owners, paying attention to the

changes of seasons. Serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and

kids meny. There is also a great selection of gluten free

options

400 Soundbar

Every friday the 400 Soundbar presents guest DJ’s

playing the best in House, Hip-Hop & RNB with two

danceoors. This is the only 21+ party in the city. Ladies,

free entrance till 11:30.

Aqua Nightclub & Lounge

Aqua Nightclub & Lounge is highly popular and oers the

possibility to party like a rock star. Dress to impress, as

you might bump into a celebrity here, Josh Hartnett,

Mandy Moore and Timbaland have been spotted partying

it up here.

Mall of America

This place is so enormous, it has it’s very own postcode!

With over 500 stores, 70 restaurants, 14 movie screens,

an 18 hole mini golf course and even an amusement park,

the Mall of America is the US’ fth-most visited attraction.

Just try to remember where you parked

First Avenue & 7th St Entry

The epitome of a rock and roll bar – some of the most

legendary musicians and bands in history have played

here.

-"Your Downtown Danceteria Since 1970"

North East Art District

There are numerous of boutiques and shops around this

area. Stroll down the streets and let yourselt get carried

away by the tranquile athmosphere and inspirational aire

Via´s Vintage

2,000 square feet of FUN! That´s the promise made by

Via´s Vintage. Roam around to nd that special garment,

jewlery or accessorie you won´t nd anywhere else.

Clothing and shoes and everything inbetween for both

men and women

Ramada Plaza Minneapolis

With gorgeous views over the city’s skyline, Ramada Plaza

Minneapolis is supremely positioned within close walking

distance of downtown Minneapolis

Hyatt Regency Minneapolis

In the very heart of the downtown business and shopping

districts, the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis is close to the

Walker Arts Center, the Target Center and the Metrodome.

Mall of America is only 20 minutes away, and the

Minneapolis Convention Center is connected to the hotel

via a climate-controlled skywalk

Hyatt Place Minneapolis Airport South

If you’re in Minneapolis for shopping, you can’t stay any

closer to the action than the Hyatt Place Minneapolis

Airport South. Only one mile from the Mall of America, the

hotel is also close to Underwater World and the

Minneapolis Zoo

.

Uptown

This is where you’ll nd the hippest of the hip. Stroll

amongst stores featuring the hottest fashion and edgy

designs – all in a picturesque setting, within walking

distance to Lake Calhoun.

North East Art District

There are numerous of boutiques and shops around this

area. Stroll down the streets and let yourselt get carried

away by the tranquile athmosphere and inspirational aire.

Via´s Vintage

2,000 square feet of FUN! That´s the promise made by

Via´s Vintage. Roam around to nd that special garment,

jewlery or accessorie you won´t nd anywhere else.

Clothing and shoes and everything inbetween for both

men and women.

Downtown

The downtown area of Minneapolis has it all –the Nicollet

Mall with high-end boutiques and department stores, the

‘Warehouse’district which features designer homewares

and art galleries

Doubletree Guest Suites Minneapolis

The Doubletree Guest Suites Minneapolis can be found

across the street from Target Corporate headquarters in

downtown Minneapolis. The hotel amenities include a

sauna, tness center, Starbucks Coee and all guests will

receive chocolate chip cookies upon check-in.

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Country Inn and Suites at Mall of America

The Country Inn and Suites is so close to the Mall of

America, they even oer a shuttle bus service to and from

the Mall. A complimentary ‘healthy’breakfast is included.

Crowne Plaza Bloomington

The Crowne Plaza operates a complimentary shuttle bus

to the nearby Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport and

the Mall of America. The Minneapolis Zoo and downtown

area are also close by.

Airport

The Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport. 20-minute

drive to downtown Minneapolis