Spending time anywhere in Australia can be exciting and it is certainly multicultural but the Fortitude Valley is special. This is where I was able to see Brisbane’s China Town and walk through the absolutely fabulous Brunswick Mall. It is the place to find the best gelato, great museums and the Emporium Hotel where you can get all anyone can ask for in luxury.

I always like to begin a visit anywhere with a guided tour of the main attractions before venturing for more in-depth wanderings on my own. It is through these tours that you get information about the area. Fortitude Valley was first settled in 1849 and was named after the ship, Fortitude, that the immigrants were riding on. I took a bus tour that included 19 different stops among which were historic buildings and China Town. The bus driver gives a running narration of all the sights and the best part was that I could get off at different places, explore on my own, and then reboard the bus and continue on with the tour.

I fell in love with Ann Street. It was on this street that I found Blonde Venus, a truly unique boutique. It did not look like much on the outside, but just like you should not judge a book by its cover, don’t judge boutiques either. It showcases a lot of local talent and also has cutting-edge designs. It is also the street where you can find Ultra Suites, Mod Cons where you can find unique housewares and gifts, and jewellery at Dinosaur Designs.

Just as Hollywood has its walk of fame, so does Fortitude Valley. The plaques that you will see as you stroll down Brunswick Street Mall are dedicated to the bands from Brisbane that have made their way to fame. I read plaques about The Bee Gees, Keith Urban, The Saints and the Go Betweens. There are a many more and it is a great place to learn the history of your favorite bands from Australia.

Fortitude Valley is a melting pot of cultures. You can find food, art, entertainment, gifts and clothes from around the world. Chinatown is like a miniature Asia where you can find all of the outdoor shops and eateries that you could possibly want. The Brunswick Street Mall is open daily and the Brunswick Street Market is open on Saturdays from 8 am to 4 pm.

I can strongly recommend that you enhance your visit to Brisbane and Fortitude Valley with a Balloon Tour. Pick a clear day, there are plenty of these, and you can see all the way to the Gold Coast as you float above the bustle of the city. The tour includes the opportunity to help inflate the balloon, champagne breakfast and sunrise flights which beg to be photographed. For the photographer, there is no better way to get spectacular views and memorable photos.

I can highly recommend the accomodations available from the Emporium, if you wish to be pampered, to the Backpacker Hotel where you receive excellent meals and helpful information for walk-abouts in the area. Go ready to enjoy the Fortitude Valley experience.