Brisbane and the Gabba

On the way up to Brisbane we spent a rainy night and day in Byron Bay. It's often described as a sort of hippie 'joint' and I must concur. A few hundred people arrived a couple of decades ago with some cash in their wallets and a box of cigarettes each. It seems that they're almost out of money because most of them spend their time sitting at the bus stop bumming ciggies off tourists and singing about better days. If you (like us) can overlook this, you will discover a few good beaches and a relaxed vibe.

A bus ride later and we'd arrived in Brisbane and besides an exciting confrontation between Jackie and a useless girl at the Greyhound desk we were happy to be there. We would be seeing a new city, staying at Tony's place (my assistant bestman from Moose's wedding earlier this year) and most importantly watching the Aussies take on the Sri Lankans at the Gabba.

The day of the cricket arrived with a cooked breakfast and a few beers provided by Australia's shining beacon of hospitality - Tony. We were at the grounds in good time but with the players leaving the field after the first over because of rain I was ready to test my hari kari technique. We kept ourselves occupied and well refreshed and it wasn't long before the players returned. A great day of cricket passed by as fast as the snap of Murali's arm and as evening turned into night we became permanent fixtures at the neighbouring Chalk Hotel.

Our Aussie mates (from London), Ben and Michelle, are from Brizvegas, as they call it. Taking their advice we explored some of the sights and even got to the venue of their wedding that took place in May last year. We rate the city pretty highly, with trendy restaurants, original modern architecture, big shopping centres and a river transport network that is great for tourists and efficient for locals.