Find yourself dreaming of a sea change? Queensland Airport’s Isabelle Yates shares the best way to spend 48 hours in her new home, tropical Townsville.

outbound: Where do the locals head for a beautiful breakfast on a lazy weekend?

Isabelle: My favourite breakfast hot spots are Bambini (Gregory Street, North Ward), Ladah (1/157 Stanley Street, Townsville) and The Balcony (Flinders Street Mall). There is no shortage of places that offer a tempting menu and relaxed ambience.

outbound: And where do those in-the-know enjoy quality shop-hopping?

Isabelle: Gregory Street has some cute boutiques including homewares and all your latest fashion. Palmer Street’s new Stellar Moda is also great. And I can’t go past Miss Ruby on Flinders St. Miss Ruby stocks high end favourites such as Alice McCall, Sass & Bide and Fleur Wood.

outbound: Can you suggest some interesting restaurants and bars for the discerning tropical diner?

Isabelle: You can catch great live music at Molly Malones or upstairs at the Exchange Hotel and The Brewery as just had an impressive makeover. You can taste Townsville’s very own brew here. I also recommend Level 1 of the Consortium, ‘The Lounge’ recently opened and is ideal for a Friday afternoon wind down.

outbound: How can visitors enjoy the very best Magnetic Island has to offer?

Isabelle: Head to the Barefoot: Art Food Wine (Horseshoe Bay) for relaxed dining Thursday to Monday – 11.30am until late, or dine in lush tropical foliage at Swenson’s Restaurant, Bungalow Bay (Koala Village). For something quirky check out the Stage Door Theatre Restaurant.

outbound: What about the tropics weekender looking for something different?

Isabelle: I suggest letting your hair down at the Magnetic island Full Moon Party or taking one of the many tracks up Castle Hill to see Townsville’s best view.

Right now is the best time of year to visit Townsville: warm days and cool nights! Virgin Blue flies directly from Gold Coast Airport to Townsville so head to Virgin Blue to book your flight.

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