Under $100: Brisbane

The third most populous city of Australia is also one of the fastest growing places in the country, with plenty of things to do for the day, keeping it under 136 AUD, of course.

Central Business District © Rafael Ben-ari | Dreamstime

Brisbane’s Central Business District is walk-able, but sites in the outer neighborhoods can be spread too far, so best to get a Go Card which links the city’s trains, ferries and busses. Be warned, Brisbane has the most expensive public transportation in Australia and third highest in the world behind Oslo and London, so a Go Card will set you back about 30 AUD. There is also CityCycle, which is a bike-share program that costs 2 AUD for 24 hours.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary © Kamonrutm | Dreamstime

Being in the land Down Under, the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is a great place to start your day. It’s the world’s first and biggest koala reserve, containing more than 130. Visitors are allowed to feed and hold them for around 32 AUD. The sanctuary is about 15 minutes from the CBD, accessible from the 445 and 430 buses or a Mirimar cruise, which for 72 AUD gets you a round-trip cruise and entrance to the park, as well as a guided boat tour of Brisbane.

Ann Street, Brisbane, Australia © Brisbane City Council | Flickr

Once back downtown, you can close out the afternoon with one of Brisbane’s public art trails, which are detailed on the city council’s website. The trails go all throughout Brisbane, covering historic architecture and contemporary art alike.

City Botanical Gardens © Lydia | Dreamstime 96071

At some point you can stop for a late lunch at one of the many restaurants in the CBD. Even if it’s too late for breakfast, The Bagel Boys is a local favorite, having recently set up a permanent shop after finding success in Brisbane’s farmers markets. Order take-out and enjoy the setting sun in the City Botanical Gardens.