When you reside in South East Queensland, the Glitter Strip that is the Gold Coast, or the Goldie as it is often affectionately referred to by locals, is right on your doorstep. Funnily enough, when something is right on your doorstep, you often overlook it in favour of destinations further from home.
Highrises tower over sand, surf and myriad of city streets. Here the limit is, imagination, pure and simple.
Recently having enjoyed a brief overnight stay at Surfers Paradise, it was a delight to spend some time wandering our little area and visiting a few local businesses. Our accommodation for the night, was Novotel Surfers Paradise. Not the first stay here and definitely wont be the last.
This trip was to serve two purposes, one for a function, the other to catch up with lifetime mate and spend some girl time alone for the first time in about 16 years. Both purposes were fulfilled beautifully,
With a balcony giving a view of the sea and beach, Novotel Surfers Paradise, really is a pleasant place to wile away some time as you relax into that holiday (albeit brief) mode. Our room had been renovated, was clean, tidy with plenty of room to move. That balcony is just an awesome added extra bonus!
Staff were fantastic, throughout the establishment, from reception to cleaning and everything in between. Very welcoming and helpful. The only meal we had at the hotel was breakfast, but, the choice at the buffet is superb. Add to that a helpful chef who can whip you up an omelette or eggs of your choice. Yum, great way to start your day.
Even though the weather wasn’t that great we did head out for lunch on the first day. After a bit of retail therapy, what could be nicer than a balcony lunch overlooking the flame trees in full flower, with a lot of potential for simply watching the world go by. We found this ideal spot at Hard Rock Cafe. Located on the same block as the hotel, we arrived there by meandering through some interesting shops between the Novotel and Hard Rock. Ok so we didn’t go far, but in our defence, there was a lot to see, I mean a lot!
Again the service was superb, with meals coming out quite quickly. The Nacho meal was huge and I certainly enjoyed the fish n chips, awesome food, great company and a lovely atmosphere.
There’s plenty to see at this venue too, with walls seeping music history for your perusal. Loved the Christmas tree set up, great tribute to Guns N Roses.
Part of the reason for this trip was to visit a small function at the iconic Island hotel. With a renovated function, open bar area on the rooftop, it was interesting venue to visit. The Island is one of the original hotels for Surfers Paradise, now renovated, whilst still maintaining some of the history from years gone by. 
We were treated to a very brief sunset, which looked incredible from the function room we were in. Would recommend paying The Island a visit whilst you’re exploring Surfers, theres a great bar and restaurant downstairs, plus those renovated rooms are apparently quite a sweet place to stay.
Our exploring included a test of a couple of chocolate places, one each day of course… Our favourite between Max Brenner & San Churro, was the latter, on this occasion.
Remnants of the 2018 Commonwealth Games remain around Surfers, with Borobi smiling happily at tourists and locals alike, inviting you to take a posing photo.
We finished our exploration of this small part of the Gold Coast, with a lunch at Helm Bar. The large sprawling complex caters for your needs and is conveniently located alongside one of the canals, meandering its way through Surfers. Even on a dull, overcast day, there is still plenty to see across the water, with the big floor to ceiling windows allowing a great view. Here we encountered helpful, friendly staff and a menu with plenty to choose from.
This superb platter we shared was a credit to the Chef. Awesome finish to our short little break.
There is simply not enough room to cover everything we saw and experienced. However, set Gold Coast as a destination for your break, either short or long stay. You certainly will not be bored!
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Even the dull skies and threatening rain could not dampen the spirits of those who attended. Totally awesome to see so many families enjoying an evening out, perusing the many stalls, dining from the food vans and enjoying the entertainment on offer.
A big hit with young and old alike, was the baby animal nursery. All were so cute, very friendly and active, but one little man stole the show. Marvin, the 5 month old baby camel.
Marvin was more than happy to voice his disapproval at what he perceived to be a delay in the arrival of his dinner. Whilst his milk was warmed and feed prepared, Marvin took great delight in loudly proclaiming how hungry he was.
Vintage cars drew many looks and comments. These old girls were part of the parade too. Lovely chatting to the proud owners and hearing the history. For instance the Chevy Ute at the back of the photo above, had refurbished timber from different structures around Brisbane. This old Ute had been in the same family since 1926, with the original registration papers still kept. The back of the cab was made with timber from one of the old city swimming pools.
All aboard the express! Families rode in the train as it traversed the street. Others climbed the rock wall, bounced on the bouncy castle, took a spin in a spinning cup or found something amongst the many stalls to keep them amused until the Christmas parade began at 7pm.
The happy crowd enjoyed some free handouts from local businesses, including the water donated by Cafe63, show bags from the doctors and Chemist Warehouse. Friends caught up, whilst strangers traded happy remarks. It was truely wonderful to see so much community spirit come to the fore.
If you missed this years event, be sure to keep an eye out for details next year. I’m told the crowd attendance well exceeded last year, proving the popularity of this community street party.
The success of the evening is proof you are doing great work.
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