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Broadbeach

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Broadbeach is claimed to be the ‘cosmopolitan’ heart of the Gold Coast. Similar to Surfers Paradise, there is a mall which is the centre of the entertainment precinct, which leads directly to the beach. Geographically, it is located 5 minutes drive from Surfers Paradise or approximately 25 minutes from Coolongatta airport.

Touted to be more animal and children friendly, the beach is just as spectacular as Surfers Paradise, however with much fewer people. The quality and variety of the restaurants are superior, without compromising the relaxed but vibrant Gold Coast atmosphere. There are over 100 restaurants, catering for all price ranges and atmospheres. If you’re after an affordable brasserie for the kids, or a romantic evening of al fresco dining, Broadbeach is where you get away from the hyper tourist traffic.

Pacific Fair and Oasis Shopping centre are the areas to shop near Broadbeach. These centers offer more variety than the strip malls in Surfers Paradise, and are a good way to spend some time out of the sun and in some air conditioned comfort.

The Conrad Jupiters casino is walking distance to Broadbeach, providing a hub of entertainment, where both kids and adults can relax and enjoy the shows. As I am from Melbourne , with arguably the best casino in Australia (Crown Casino), going to Conrad Jupiters was a bit of a step back in time. Beige, beige everywhere – on the carpet, on the walls, on the roof. The décor is old and I felt like I was in an episode of the Golden Girls. I think it’s high time they refurbish the complex, and get rid some of that beige. So down some bourbon and cokes and help Conrad out – play some games!

When you’re done relaxing on the beach, there are a number of spa resorts near Broadbeach which can cater to your needs. Meditation Institute in Queensland Avenue provides yoga classes which can be scheduled to suit your free time ( 16 Ghilgai Road , Merrimac). The Moroccan style Phoenician Spa Retreat has one of the most comprehensive relaxation programs and you don’t have to be a staying at the resort to take advantage of their services ( 24-26 Queensland Avenue , Broadbeach).

The arts and craft market provide a change in pace. On the first Sunday of each month, the beachfront provides the perfect setting to the vibrant market. With arts, crafts and home made food; it’s definitely worth a look. From September to May, there are Lantern Markets at night, which have similar wares and foods on sale.

As the cosmopolitan centre of the Gold Coast, there are numerous festivals and event happening through the year. Some upcoming events are:

• Opera on Broadbeach, a free community event

Saturday 7th October 2006 and Saturday 11th November 2006

• Blues on Broadbeach, running over 5 days. This includes international and local musicians, street parties, outdoor concerts and a Blues expo. Beginning on May 17 th and ending with a finale concert on the 21 st of May.

For more info, go to http://bluesonbroadbeach.com/

For more information on Broadbeach, go to http://www.broadbeachgoldcoast.com/