Day 1 - Gold Coast

The flight took 7h 25m. Long, and we were not able to get much sleep. Despite checking in early at 7pm, we were seated at row 57, third last row in the plane. 

We landed at 6.50am local time (4.50am SIN time) and took a while to clear the customs at Brisbane Airport, but everything went smoothly and we met Raul from Brunell Chauffeur Drive. He drove us in style to the Palazzo Versace, Gold Coast, in a BMW 7 Series. Very friendly guy.

Recently voted Australia's most luxurious hotel, the world's first Versace hotel reflects the Italian style and splendor, setting the standard in luxury accommodation and dining.

The room was gorgeous, every single item was Versace. The sight of a comfortable flight at the end of a 7.5hrs flight and 1.5hrs drive from Brisbane, was like heaven. But of course, the shopping queens could never resist bargains. After a shower and change of clothes, we set off for Harbourtown.

Before we went to Harbourtown, we stopped over at Australia Fair, easily accessible from Palazzo Versace via bus 715. Over there, we went crazy at the Supre outlet store. There were racks after racks of clothes on sale. From there, we took bus 703 to Harbourtown. 

It was shopping heaven. My Supre bag was totally full and heavy by 4pm and we took bus 715 back to the hotel. I managed to get 2 pairs of Keds, 3 dresses, 6 tops, a necklace, cosmetics. 

Shopping queens back at the hotel.

After a nap, we changed into warmer clothing (it gets chilly at night) and headed to Surfer's Paradise. 

The hotel thoughtfully provided a list of things to do for each day of our stay with them, and they listed a night market ongoing today. We took bus 750 from the hotel directly to Surfer's Paradise.

On the throne!

Night market - It is full of interesting items and friendly folks. 

We met Mr. Sandman who creates sand structures for a living. Every donation made contributes to his art. The above is a dragon with fire spouting out from its nostrils.

Interesting street performances, including one from a guy in Adelaide who juggled cricket bats and struggled to free himself from a chained up jacket.

It's cold here. I need more warm clothing. We were freezing away while waiting for the bus back to the hotel.

Night view of the poolside.

By the time we returned to the hotel about 10pm, we were disappointed to find that the Hog's Breath Cafe next door has closed for the night. So we ordered room service instead. 

If you noticed, we took the bus for the entire day. Reason being, the cabs are just so expensive. According to the concierge, a 20 min ride to Harbourtown from the hotel would cost about AUD$30 - 35. Our total expenditure on bus rides today was about AUD$15 each. Evidently, buses are a much better choice.

The first day of the trip has turned out to be wonderful. The people here are friendly and nice, it feels different as compared to back home.

Can't wait for tomorrow, Dreamworld, Holden Performance Driving Centre, QDeck!