I went to Brisbane for the sole purpose of hugging a koala. After I hugged a koala, held an alligator, fed some kangaroos, and watched some sheep shearing, I finally decided that I had enough animal encounters.
South Bank Parklands turned out to be one of my favorite city parks in the world. It was January in the southern hemisphere, and on the day I arrived the news announced that it was the hottest summer Australia has ever seen. Thankfully Brisbane’s subtropical weather made it a bit more bearable. After a sweaty and brisk walk through downtown, I soon found myself slowing my pace under a flower covered corridor. Although not too far from the busy streets and skyscrapers, this park seemed like a hidden oasis. There was a giant poinciana tree covering a small play area with its bright red flowers and lush greens. Nearby, a few boys had climbed atop a banyan tree, while the little girl looked up with envy, trying to decide whether she should follow.
I spent the afternoon in the park, visiting the Nepalese Pagoda, watching kids play in the pool, and reading a book by the water. Three months into my travel sabbatical and a bit burned out already, the relaxing afternoon was a reminder for myself to stop chasing after every tourist attraction, and to simply enjoy being here.
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