Roaming the East Coast: Brisbane_Brisbane_Blogs_About

Jul 10,2025

Roaming the East Coast: Brisbane

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On November 19, 2023, I boarded a flight from Guangzhou to Brisbane—my first time venturing beyond Asia!

My original travel plan for the second half of this year was actually to visit Japan. Even during the October holiday, I was reading travel blogs about Japan every day. But just then, the whole “island purchase” incident happened, so I had to switch gears. That’s how Australia became our top choice. This trip is one for the memories—it’s my first trip with my mom, and also my first time leaving Asia.

After more than seven hours of flying, we finally flew above the Pacific Ocean and greeted our very first sunrise in Australia. My first overnight flight was actually this May to Singapore; this was my second, and it still felt a little rough. But compared to the months-long sea voyages of the past, this journey feels like pure happiness.

Australia has one of the strictest customs systems in the world—lots of items need to be declared in advance, and getting caught with prohibited goods can mean a hefty fine! So make sure you’re careful. I was a bit nervous at immigration, but the officer was very friendly, even chatted with me, and told me her daughter shares my birthday. What a small world—fate really is everywhere.

This is the Brisbane departure hall. I thought about posting a photo with my mom in it, but decided to wait and use one from a more classic landmark later!

Walking out of the arrivals hall, what greeted us was endless blue sky and clouds. The “land of koalas” is so green—the air is much fresher than back home in China!

This kind of gentle breeze, clear skies, and high clouds is something we only see in winter—and even this winter, it’s been rare. Every time I watch a plane in the sky, I feel like life should always be on the move!

Ferris wheels hold a special place in many people’s hearts, but the one in South Bank Parklands feels strangely lonely—maybe because Brisbane isn’t a business-driven city.

Most of the houses and shops along the way are just two or three stories—high-rises are rare except in the CBD. That makes Australia, with its vast land and sparse population, feel even more spacious.