Project Romance

We found it!

2010-09-01T12:25:00.005+10:00

Project Romance would like to apologise for the misleading title of this blog entry. Although honestly, after a spate of mediocre Spanish food consumed in Brisbane over the past few months - I'm hoping it speaks for itself.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I have died and gone to tapas heaven. Now granted, I have never been to Spain. And granted, maybe your standards are a little different from mine. But in my humble opinion this place ticks EVERY BOX.

'Peasant' is located in the Barracks at Paddington (which has become my new favourite hideout in Brisbane for multiple reasons - homemade chocolates, Swiss icecream and quaint bookstores are but three of said reasons!). You can sit outside (with the err...wonderful view of Caxton Street), or soak up the ambient soft lighting inside at the long wooden tables or at the bar - which is where we ended up as soon as we had an inkling that this place carried Argentinian wine, which had come highly recommended to us in recent times.

The staff were attentive and friendly - always on hand with recommendations but not pushy. They let you take your time and enjoy your time there and to their credit, didn't laugh at me when I caved and ordered food after maintaining (twice!) that we were only there for a drink.

The food...the food is out of this world. We ordered a few dishes - spiced almonds, clams and chorizo with fresh warm bread served with roasted garlic, sweet potato empanadas - oh my. We didn't stay for mains as we had a movie to catch, however we could have honestly sat there all night, soaking it all up. They do a variety of main meals - and believe me, we'll be back to try them. They also do paella for two on Monday nights for only $30- SCORE!

Despite their occasional specials, Peasant isn't cheap by any stretch of the imagination. Four glasses of wine, plus the almonds, bread and two tapas set us back around $100. But honestly - if you can't spend your money on good food and good wine - then why the hell are you even alive? I believe their mains are around $30 (which is fairly average nowadays), so it's not for the budget conscious - but if you're looking for an intimate dinner for two, in a gorgeous location, with food and wine that's a little different from the typical Brisbane fare - Peasant is definitely worth a try.

Summary: Warm, ambient, cosy, yummy, amazing tapas bar and restaurant in the heart of Brisbane's upmarket dining and cinema scene.
Tip: Clams and chorizo with warm bread and roasted garlic.
Transport: Bus to Caxton Street, 15 min walk from Roma Street Train Station
Where: Barracks, Paddington (61 Petrie Terrace)
When: Open daily for lunch and dinner.
Cost: Standard up-market Brisbane prices. Worth EVERY CENT.
Website: None as of yet!
Perfect For: Something different, grazing, interesting wine list, intimate dinners.
Downsides: Pricey (depending on your definition really). Get there before 7pm - or the place packs out. If you're going for dinner - phone ahead of time. :)

Livin' la Vida so-so.

2010-07-13T09:08:00.002+10:00

There are few things in my life that I like more than 1) Seafood 2) Sangria and 3) Chocolate - so when I heard about Vida Spanish Restaurant in Paddington, Brisbane - my eyes lit up and I bumped this place up to the top of my list. Where I'm not completely sure it belonged in the end, but nevertheless we went.

Vida was converted from an older style house - so therefore the eating areas were considerably spread out. The decor was bland: white walls, white ceilings, white fans, crooked frames on the wall. The one thing that gave it warmth and character were the hanging tealight holders by the window I wanted to take home with me.

Bread and olive oil was complimentary (and very nice I might add). We came for one reason and one reason only and that was the Paella ($50 for two) so we ordered this, and some marinated olives to munch on before it arrived. The olives weren't too bad - some were as big as your head and extremely flavoursome (niiiice), but the others really hadn't been marinating for long and were bland in the centre. The Sangria ($25 for two) came in a terracotta jug which was a lovely touch and I'll admit, was outstanding.

The paella arrived and was served by a rather nervous waitress who attempted to dish it out and ended up dishing it onto the tablecloth instead. I realise the pan was hot but I'd preferred if she'd just let us do it ourselves. The mussels were lovely and flavoursome, as were the prawns - however the rest of the dish was a bit so-so. There wasn't that lovely crust that develops when you cook paella - this one had been stirred. It's a hard dish to do at a restaurant I imagine as it takes awhile to make - but I was disappointed at the lack of authenticity.

We ordered churros for dessert and these were kind of disappointing too. They crumbled beneath our forks and we constantly lost chunks of them in the dipping sauce (which was heavenly, I'll give them that).

Vida prides itself on being a "Spanish Fusion" restaurant but I think I like my Spanish "unfused" and a little more authentic. It's a nice place for a date - and certainly if you're not fussy about authenticity - then by all means, it's a great spot.

I'd like to hear from anyone that has found really amazing authentic Spanish food in Brisbane. If you have - drop me a line at the end of this post!

Summary: Cosy Spanish-fusion restaurant in New Farm
Tip: Definitely order the Sangria. It's lovely and fruity and made with some good quality wine (unlike most other "Mexican" restaurants who will remain unnamed!)
Transport: Buses run to Paddington 7 days a week.
Where: 14 Collingwood St, Paddington QLD 4064
When: Open Monday - Saturday 6pm-10:30pm.
Cost: Tapas $10-$13, Entrees $18, Mains $30, Desserts $15. Paella for 2: $50.
Website: www.vidarestaurant.com.au
Perfect For: First-time, non-fussy Spanish eaters. Cosy dates. Something different.
Downsides: The service is patchy, the waitresses fairly standoffish and disinterested. I'd be interested in their other meals (if I didn't have other restaurants to visit) but if you're picky about your paella - you may be disappointed.

Warning. This post may induce fits of drooling and extreme pizza-lust.

2010-06-09T11:01:00.003+10:00

Who has found Brisbane's best pizza? Oooh! Pick me! Pick me! I know!!!

Granted - that's a big call. Not because Brisbane is known for it's pizza - it's largely because MOST Australians don't know what real pizza is (oh hush if you're someone that does - I said MOST!) . Hell I don't know what real pizza is. But if I DID know, I bet it'd be something like Vespa Pizza at New Farm (and I believe Wooloongabba too but I haven't been there so I can't comment).

Now I'm going to start with something negative - but I'll go from there. Admittedly I DID attempt to make a booking online - and no-one got back to me. Their bad. So when I rocked up to a restaurant chock-full of "Reserved" signs, I had a sinking feeling that my name wasn't on the list. So I told them about my plight and the lovely Canadian girl behind the counter (who I suspect was a manager of some kind) sprung into action and gave us a table - as long as we could be out by 8:00pm. I looked at my watch - 6:30! Brilliant!

We were seated at a cosy little table in the front of the store. I had a brief look at the outside area though which was lit by lanterns and fairylights and I lamented a little - but I'll definitely be back, so the lanterns will have to wait. The service was prompt and corkage was not charged. You heard me. In the day and age where $4 per person corkage is not uncommon - especially in New Farm - I was astounded. Granted we had to pour the wine ourselves - but who cares!

We ordered a panzanella salad to start - which is a type of bread-salad. Dear god. I was in HEAVEN. The olive oil used on it was divine and the bread, despite being soaked in it was not soggy in the slightest. Stephen and I fought over the very last morsel of it!

Can I just say now that I LOVE a guy that eats salad? It downright turns me on.

After some batting of eyelids and pouting (and not realising that we could do 1/2 and 1/2 pizzas - d'oh!) we settled on a "Pizza Bianca" - with pancetta, olives, cherry tomatos, artichokes, capers, sea salt and fior di latte. Stephen's not usually fussed on salty things like artichokes and capers - but he relented because pancetta and artichokes to me are like...like....well let's just say they're two of my favourite foods. Ever.

We waited about 25 minutes - bearing in mind that Vespa Pizza do takeaway as well as home delivered orders and it was a Saturday night. And it was made from scratch and woodfired. The base was light but not soggy - and served as an incredibly tasty canvas for the toppings - which were chopped quite finely and not overbearingly salty at all. The taste was a mashing of simple flavours and can I just say fior di latte? Fior the WIN!

We devoured it and could have EASILY gone another one - however there was dessert. Now I took the liberty of ordering this when the pizza arrived because it was 7:15 by this stage and I was worried that I'd be kicked out without the very thing I came to eat.

Nutella and marshmallow calzone with vanilla gelato.

Be. Still. My. Beating. Heart.

This thing has to be seen to believed - and when we first laid eyes on it, we immediately thought "Pfft! We could have ordered two!". Oh no we could not have. 5 minutes later, and several grunts of pleasure and lickings of spoons (haha, that sounded kind of wrong didn't it?) - we agreed it was definitely a dessert best shared.

The total bill? $38. Not only did I find the best pizza in Brisbane (in my opinion) - but we found a place where we could eat delectable amazingly yummy Italian food for under $40.

Go there. Go there now.

Summary: Incredible Italian food in a cosy spot in trendy New Farm.
Tip: Nutella Calzone. Do not die without trying this. Oh - and it's BYO.
Transport: Buses run to New Farm all the time - although it's a bit of a walk to Merthyr Road (you'll need it!)
Where: 148 Merthyr Road, New Farm
When: Open 7 days from 5pm.
Cost: Preludes from $7. Pizza from $17 (shareable). Dessert from $7.50.
Website: www.vespapizza.com.au
Perfect For: A meal before a show at the Powerhouse. Cosy Italian food. Carb-fest?!
Downsides: Book or you just won't get a table. The end. You can also takeaway or if you live locally - have it delivered - however you're looking at 45 minute waits on weekends. Best just to book and go and have a great time.

Have we found Brisbane's best sushi? Our survey says YES!

2010-05-25T09:44:00.001+10:00

I know what you're going to say. "Do you ever eat anything OTHER than Japanese food?" Well, yes. I do. But when I get told about an amazing new sushi place on Brisbane's northside, 5 minutes from where I live - I'm not exactly going to wait before trying it out.

Sakana, in Clayfield, is Brisbane's newest addition to the sushi game - but before you think about sushi trains with soggy edamame, and the same boring dishes with gelatinous toppings, going around and around for hours like a broken J-Pop record - think AGAIN. Sakana is about great Japanese service (oh how I have missed this since I've been back!), and phenomenal food - and there is not a train in sight. It's absolutely tiny - with only room for a handful of simple pine tables and chairs - so if you're eating in - take my advice and book.

The beautiful thing is all of the dishes are so inexpensive. You get a cute little complimentary salad with your with some of the meals and the tea is bottomless (and gooood). There isn't a main dish over $17 and the only thing more expensive than that is the sashimi - but you're still looking at $22 for 15 pieces which is pretty awesome, all things considered. The edamame was warm and salty and heavenly, and I highly recommend Sakana's "Special Rolls". There are 8 humungous pieces in these babies - and you are left quite pleasantly full afterwards. Stephen had the CSR ($14): Deep fried scallop, BBQ eel, avocado, and cucumber topped with crunchy king crab salad. I had the Sakana ($16) (which is their signature dish): Deep fried prawn, scallop, avocado, and salmon topped with rainbow layers of thin salmon and tuna sashimi.

Next time I'm going back for the prawn gyoza, seafood butter teriyaki and roasted cream oysters.

Summary: cosy dining experience with seriously amazing customer service and heavenly, inexpensive food.
Tip: Special rolls. ZOMG!
Transport: Buses head down Sandgate Rd on a regular bais.
Where: Shop 1A/730 Sandgate Road, Clayfield
When: Open daily for lunch and dinner.
Cost: Prices start from $2 (miso) to $22 (sashimi platter). You can easily eat there for under $30. Unless you're me.
Website: None as of yet!
Perfect For: A great Japanese dining experience without the horrendous expense. Perfect for first-timers too - there's something for everyone.
Downsides: Get there before 6:30pm if you're not going to book. Even then - this place's popularity is really picking up, so I'd book if I were you. They DO provide takeaway however - so if you're after an intimate little Japanese dining experience at home - they're definitely worth the trip.

Mmm...dumplings. Sorry - did you say something?

2010-05-19T09:59:00.003+10:00

Been while Project Romancers...my bad. Working full time, studying part time and setting up a business is well....time-consuming! Not to mention setting up blogs for said new business and the rest!

ANYWAY. A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to stumble across what I have since named my Favourite. Chinese. Restaurant. Of. All. Time. Seriously - this place has had so many good reviews it's not funny. Everytime I walk past, it's packed. If that doesn't tell you something - what does?

Bamboo Basket on Grey Street, South Brisbane is a reasonably new restaurant, having only opened its doors this year. It's mostly known for it's gigantic window direct into the kitchen, where you can watch the chefs busy about hand-making noodles and dumplings and...............*cough* Sorry. I was distracted by my memory of the dumplings.

Walk inside and it is a decorator's dream come true - lush furnishings, gorgeous lighting, beaded crystal curtains - it is hands down the most romantic damn Chinese restaurant you will ever encounter. While BB caters easily for large groups - there are heaps of smaller tables around the outside of the restaurant, making it perfect for dinner (or lunch!) dates.

This is not a foodie blog so I will not attempt to review the food to any kind of intellectual extent. However the dumplings and the pork belly (never had pork belly? YOU MUST DO THAT NOW) that I did consume was enough to leave a permanent stain of ecstasy on my memory.

All in all - if you're after an intimate cosy dining experience with fantastic customer service and amazing food - Bamboo Basket is your place.

Summary: intimate cosy dining experience with fantastic customer service and amazing food
Tip: Soup dumplings. And the Shanghai pork ones (I can't remember their name but they were HEAVEN). Oh and the pork belly!
Transport: 5 minutes walk from the Southbank busway and Southbank train station. Parking is expensive.
Where: 199 Grey Street, South Brisbane
When: Open daily for lunch and dinner.
Cost: Upmarket Chinese prices - an entree and a main will set you back about $25.
Website: N/A
Perfect For: Sharing!!
Downsides: There can be a bit of a wait on meals during busy times. See your movie first THEN go have dinner. :)

The Book of Love

2010-04-26T11:43:00.003+10:00

I've been listening to Peter Gabriel lately. A lot. And there's a song of his which came to mind when I watched a lot of the videos on the Man's Guide to Love website. This is one of my favourite songs of all time, it's called "The Book of Love". This song was used in the film "Shall We Dance" - and it touched my heart so much because it's not a song about new, romantic love. It's not a song about attraction, or lust. It's a song about the journey. And the montage of images that play against this song in the film just speak volumes about a lifetime commitment and what it's like to still be in love with the person you chose to marry, years from the day you met.

How many of us can say that we're going to be able to share this same love with the same partner that we've loved for a lifetime? I truly hope that some day, that I will.

The Book of Love

The book of love is long and boring, no one can lift the damn thing
It's full of charts and facts and figures and instructions for dancing

But I, I love it when you read to me...and you, you can read me anything

The book of love has music in it, in fact that's where music comes from
Some of it is just transcendental, some of it is just really dumb

But I, I love it when you sing to me...and you, you can sing me anything

The book of love is long and boring, and written very long ago
It's full of flowers and heart-shaped boxes, and things we're all too young to know

But I, I love it when you give me things
And you, you ought to give me wedding rings

You ought to give me wedding rings

- Peter Gabriel

The Man's Guide to Love

2010-04-26T11:27:00.001+10:00

All over the country, we’re asking men:
“If you had one piece of advice that you’d give
another man about love, what would it be?”
These are their answers.

So I stumbled across this website the other day - The Man's Guide to Love.

Now honestly - I'll admit that I was skeptical. Men giving men advice on relationships? Isn't that a woman's job? *ducks objects thrown at her from all directions* But when I made my way through some of the videos on the website, I realised that there were so many guys out there who were passionate about fulfillment, who were committed to making relationships work.

Some of the advice I liked was:

“There’s no such thing as a perfect relationship. There will always be a honeymoon phase.”

“Stay the course. It just gets better, and better, and better.”

“Compromise. Lots and lots of compromise.”

“These days, the dudes are constantly texting the girls. That’s not attractive.”

"Work it out. Because it can be worked out."

These guys are definitely worth following. Check them out on:

So I asked Stephen quickly about what advice he'd give, he said simply:

"Be there. For anything and everything. Don't hold back."

And that's why I love him, your honour. :)

We're back!

2010-04-20T16:58:00.001+10:00

We're back! Japan was phenomenal - if you haven't had the chance to get there - Jetstar have a 2 for 1 airfare deal happening at the moment - it's definitely worth the trip. Anyone that thinks that Japan would be one of the least romantic destinations in the world just hasn't been there! We spent hours walking through parks, with cherry blossoms falling all around us. We explored the backstreets of Gion together, and marvelled at Bamboo forests, hiked up mountains and breathed in the clear Sagano air. We clinked glasses 52 storeys up at the Park Hyatt in Shinjuku, and bought matching mouse-ears at Disneyland. We discovered beautiful restaurants in the back streets of each city and experienced new tastes, sounds and languages.

Don't underestimate its magic - experience it for yourself.

Turning Japanese.

2010-03-22T20:07:00.002+10:00

So most of you know that Stephen and I are going back to Japan in two weeks time. We absolutely cannot wait! I'd love to do a special Project Romance update from beautiful cherry-blossoming Kyoto - but I do not plan to have the time to do so. But I can do the next best thing!

It's no secret that I love Japanese food. And Brisbane is fast becoming a place with CHOICES (shock!) when Stephen and I get that hankering. There are a few choices when it comes to choosing this cuisine. The good thing is - Japanese food comes in all shapes and sizes and for all budgets. ALL of it is as romantic as you want to make it.

Sure you may not be able to cosy up on high stools at a sushi train, but what better place to go and sample new tastes together? I'm quickly learning which of Brisbane's sushi trains are worth paying for and which are simply taking you 'for a ride'. (Didya like that? I thought that up all by myself!). So without further ado, here are my Top 3.

3. Ginga Sushi Train - Southbank (near the cinemas). Funky lighting, and a train as long as the eye can see. Decent selection of Japanese drinks (sake is fairly typical - but after a few, you won't notice). One of the only places I know that serves edamame (although order it fresh - it's not so nice after sitting on the train for 10 minutes...). Good selection of both adventurous and not-so-adventurous sushi - however can get pricey. The dim blue lighting and atmosphere here is defintely date-worthy - especially if you're looking for something a bit interesting. Great place for dinner and a movie.

2. Sushi Station - Toombul (Centro Shopping Centre). This was my very first sushi train experience and remains a favourite even to this day. The staff are friendly, and will make you whatever you want if you can't find it on the train. Lots of the usual favourites here - and sometimes they'll surprise you with something a bit different. Doesn't matter either way - it's GREAT sushi and decently priced.

1. Sushi Station - Oxford St, Bulimba (next to Balmoral cinemas). Stephen and I have eaten here twice now and it has blown us away both times. It's a tiny establishment with a few romantic dark corners thrown in for good measure. The staff are great - and the food is phenomenal. You'll find something for everyone on this train - regardless if you're a seasoned sushi consumer or otherwise. Another great place for dinner and a movie. Especially if you're on a budget.

HOWEVER - if you're after something a little classier - or that absolutely PERFECT five star dining experience - I cannot say this ENOUGH - you need to head to Sono Restaurant at Portside (also in the city - however I haven't been to this one - I can imagine it's fairly similar). You get unparalleled views over the river, dim romantic lighting, and sumptuous food with an extensive wine and sake list. I try to get here at least once a year - because it's just a little slice of authentic, classy five-star Japan. The menu caters for both experienced and inexperienced palates and I highly recommend the tasting platters - especially if you're in the mood to try new things. Do yourself a favour and try it - you will not be disappointed!

SONO RESTAURANT - PORTSIDE

Summary: Five star Japanese dining experience. Romantic as ANYTHING.
Tip: There is a beautiful boardwalk downstairs that stretches out along the river at Hamilton with lots of private places to sit and listen to the river lapping against the the edge. Breathtaking on a full moon-lit night!
Transport: Buses go past Portside - however check times later at night. There is an undercover carpark for restaurant visitors.
Where: Portside Wharf - 39 Hercules Street, Hamilton
When: Mon-Wed noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm. Thu-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm. Sat 6pm-10pm
Sun 5.30pm-9pm
Cost: Five star restaurant prices - although can be reasonable depending on what you order.
Website: http://www.sonorestaurant.com.au/
Perfect For: Something different, romantic dinner, waterfront dining.
Downsides: Pricey pricey pricey. But soooo worth it.

Letting Go

2010-03-22T19:18:00.002+10:00

There comes a time in everyone's life when they find themselves in places that they never thought they'd be and feeling things that they never thought they'd feel. What once felt like utopia, can turn into disillusionment. How could you go so wrong when it was supposed to be forever? Anyone who has gone through a relationship breakup will know how this feels. Do you save the relationship? Why should you if the other person doesn't even know you're alive? Should you forgive them? Should you move on? There are no easy answers and no quick solutions. You're in for years of trust-rebuilding, and second guessing yourself, and worse - explaining to family and friends how wrong you were. How do they trust you again? What if you find someone else? Do you start to feel like the boy that cried wolf? "Oh - but this one's real...I promise."

I have gone through this now twice in my 30 years. The first time, I think you can be forgiven - especially if you were young when you made those decisions. The second time is harder - especially if there's a wedding somewhere in the middle of that relationship. How do you say to all of those family and friends years later that you were wrong? Or that you tried as hard as you could? That you made a mistake? Well...that's a personal thing, I suppose. All you can do is try to surround yourself with loving friends and family who will help you weather the storm.

When do you let go though? Is there a prescribed timeframe? A socially acceptable norm? I have asked myself these same questions. Essentially - the only rule of thumb is that you let go whenever you are ready to - and not a moment before. You will have people tell you that the sooner you do it, the better - but you run the risk of bottling all of that hurt and resentment, rather than letting go. You have to truly ask yourself what you will do without access to your former partner's life (Facebook addicts, I'm looking at you...). Can you cope without knowing how they are and whether they're surviving without you? I can tell you now - you will drive yourself insane if you do - BUT - if you're not ready to cut the thread that ties you to that need, then by all means - don't. You're in for more pain - but it depends on what your threshold is as to when you choose to not hurt anymore.

The hardest part is when your former partner finds someone else. Suddenly it's all over the internet with a thousand people showering them with congratulations at a rate of knots. Or that's how it seems. You feel every emotion possible - sometimes all at once. You ask yourself what their new partner has that you don't. You find flaws in both them and yourself. You erupt into sudden tears at work, on the bus, out running, watching TV. You swing between being better off and not coping. Jealousy really knows how to ramp up the pain. And I can tell you - it's probably about now that most people drop out of the resentment race. Competing with a new flame is a whole different ballgame and drives people to do stupid, irrational things.

I'm on the verge of letting go of something that has been a part of my life for nine years now. That's almost a third. I've been to hell and back about a million times over the past two years. I have suffered depression, anxiety and a few too many blows to my self esteem. Sometimes I look at photos and still wonder where it all went wrong. What I did wrong. And what life would have been like if I hadn't have given up. But then I remember why I did. It takes two people to make a successful relationship. Some will suffer through a loveless marriage for fear of what lies beyond if they leave. Those fears are valid, believe me. But they only compound when you're out and you keep looking back.

This weekend I'm going to let go of something and I'm not going to look back. It is quite possibly the scariest and most liberating thing I have ever done in my life. And all I can do now is be grateful for the (albeit few) friends that I have left, and the experiences that I have gained. I am now with someone who allows me the freedom of loving wholeheartedly. Who I don't have to apologise to for simply being myself. Who is everything I have needed but for some reason in the past I have settled for less.

I look back and wonder if I should have waited for my ex-husband to change (Note to self - people. do. not. change. ever.) instead of putting myself through the pain. The answer is always no. My skin is marked and scarred and not as soft as it used to be. I have lived through several wars and although I did not emerge unscathed, I emerged a better person. I am more secure and fulfilled and my heart is once again bursting with life after being starved of affection for so long.

It is truly his loss.

But there is nothing I can do about that anymore.

Nor do I care to.

Lifting the lido on cozy Ascot dining.

2010-03-15T23:28:00.005+10:00

So I spent the weekend in Cairns and fully expected to spend my one day off for this week, working on my diploma and writing a few blog posts for PR – but the incessant droning of machinery from the nearby roadworks was driving me to utter distraction – and unfortunately, procrastination. I then spent an hour driving around the northside of Brisbane for a new café to try (someone should alert the authorities that there is a mass closure of cafes in Wilston on a Monday. SERIOUSLY! Wilston!) I wasn’t in an Ashgrove mood and was just about to relent and go home, when I took a sharp turn into Racecourse Road and autopiloted it to an old favourite of mine: "The Lido".

The Lido is one of those great cafés with a warm atmosphere inside and a trendy, private Al fresco courtyard outside and shock....friendly (!) staff who will do anything to make your dining experience wonderful – whether you’re staying for a meal or just coffee. The second you sit down – you simply feel at home. Their menu is an inviting combination of Italian and modern-Australian-cafe (watch out however for the heavy alliteration!) and they have a simple but effective wine list that takes the guesswork out of choosing the right accompaniment to your meal. It’s is also brilliant just for cozying up with a couple of chai lattes (why, don’t mind if I do – thank you!) and watching the world go by.

Summary: Cozy cafe with great food, and brilliant service.
Tip: There are a range of tempting desserts – but if you feel like a stroll – why not head down the road to Milany’s for gelati?
Transport: Buses run down Racecourse Road quite regularly and there's off-street parking if you're lucky. :)
Where: 120 Racecourse Road, Ascot, 4007.
When: Mon-Fri 9am-9pm, Sat 8am-10pm, Sun 8am-3.30pm
Cost: Upmarket cafe prices - unless you're sharing a pizza/breads etc. Coffee approx $4.50.
Website: N/A
Perfect For: Coffee, cozy dining, woodfired pizza.
Downsides: Mains can be quite pricey - but then, Ascot dining usually is. If you go for the Pizza/Pasta options - it's a lot cheaper - especially if you're sharing. :)

Feverishly disappointed.

2010-03-09T19:47:00.003+10:00

What better way to spend a Friday night then to kick back with some Sangria and some tapas in an inner-city location, celebrating the end of the working week with your significant other?

That's what I thought when I skipped gleefully towards Pintxo's at New Farm (yes I know I'm a 30 year old female - hush!). I had been envisaging mouth-watering interesting tapas that were just begging me to feverishly consume them (at the disdain of my credit card), not to mention the authentic-tasting Sangria which wouldn't taste pre-mixed at ALL.

The decor was cosy, and the ambience quite nice. But it became quite obvious, quite soon that the Sangria DID taste pre-mixed and the food really wasn't that mouth-watering or interesting. Despite it being a busy Friday night - very few selections were on the tapas train (yes - think sushi train but....Spanish...well, kind of), and we had to order a lot of what we wanted. Which would have been okay if it actually turned up. We waited 40 minutes for a bite-sized morsel to appear in front of us, not to mention my third Sangria (the pre-mixed taste goes away after the first two and you stop caring). The staff were flustered and snapping at each other and we felt like we were on the set of My Kitchen Rules rather than a trendy New Farm restaurant. We paid for what we'd eaten and left - sans final tapas and headed for New York Pizza where big fat slices of cheesy pepperoni awaited us (Why yes, I did regret that decision later) - and then off to the Press Club where large cocktails took the edge off our disappointment.

Seriously? If it's tapas you want - head to The Lark at Paddington. I'm going to attempt to hunt down some others too. Yes, I will do this for you, my dear readers. All in the name of research. I know. I'm too kind.

If you have any FANTASTIC cosy tapas places that simply must be checked out - leave me a comment, or email me at erica@dragonflysakura.com. Alternatively - if you have any great tapas RECIPES - same applies (especially if you know how to make deep fried feta stuffed olives...be still my beating heart....)

Retreating in style.

2010-03-01T21:57:00.003+10:00

I know, I know! I need to post more Brisbane-related articles. But I can't help it - I am such a sucker for the hinterland (anywhere!), and ever since leaving the Lismore region a few years back (in ye olde uni days), I have missed the diverse range of scenery that surrounds the beautiful North Coast of NSW. This was Stephen's first Valentines Day (hey - don't knock him - I'm sure you remember what that's like!), and I wanted to make it special - but I was racking my brains. We both had the weekend off (which was a rare occurence in itself), so there was no question about it - we were going away.

I had a place in mind that I've wanted to visit for years now - Casurina Lodge, about 15 minutes drive from Mullumbimby in the Byron Bay hinterland. It used to be owned by the Peppers group of resorts, but now I believe it's changed into Mantra's capable hands.

The first thing that hits you (aside from your lack of phone reception - but don't worry - you won't need that here!), is how utterly peaceful it is. As you drive up the long driveway towards the cabins - the only thing you can hear is the call of the birds and the wind in the trees. The cabins are duplexed, but fairly well separated from each other. The interior has a cosy-cottage type feel to it with timber floors, warm lighting and throw rugs. There's a small kitchenette for tea and coffee making - and the bedrooms are small but delightful - easing out onto the rainforest-sheltered verandah.

I'd pre-arranged a massage for Stephen as a surprise - and these start from $100 an for an hour (and go upwards from there). The resort only uses two massage therapists and they both come with very high recommendations (and if you know the Byron area - you'd know that the region thrives on natural therapies - so I knew he was in good hands) (err..no pun intended). I left them to it, and drove down into downtown Mullumbimby in search of a dress to wear to dinner (guess who left her sexy plunge-neckline little black dress back in Brisbane?). "Mullum" as it's known to the locals is a sleepy little down that like the other north-coast areas, has a pub, a Retravision, a town hall, and not much else. I still managed to find a sweet little dress shop with an enthusiastic, if not a little eccentric, owner who pointed me in the right direction.

I arrived shortly before Stephen's massage had finished, so I sat out on the verandah and soaked in the amazing energies of the property - it's impossible to sit there and be stressed about anything. Later in the afternoon we went for a swim - the pool was deserted, and the temperature just divine. At sunset, we walked down to the creek where the Lodge has provided two deck chairs - just for sitting and being together. They will even provide you with a bottle of wine and two glasses if plan on being there awhile. Or a picnic. In fact there's nothing the staff won't try and organise for you to make your stay absolutely perfect.

Dinner was at the lodge restaurant "Wilson's On the Creek" (also included in the package deal), and we sat out on the verandah at dusk, with a gorgeous Cab-Shiraz, and some freshly made bread while they made our meal. We both ordered the beef, which it was aged, tender and simply succulent. Dessert was a decadent chocolate souffle - and the perfect end to a great meal.

Breakfast was also included - and consisted of a light continental breakfast of homemade muesli, yoghurt, fruit and croissants. Perfect for lazing around in the morning sun and preparing for the day.

When we checked out, the concierge gave us friendly local advice about what to see in the area (highly recommending the Lennox Heads markets), and invited us back to stay with them again soon.

Summary: Rainforest retreat in the Byron Bay hinterland.
Tip: Bring a bottle of wine (or two!). There's a fridge in the cabin - and you do NOT want to pay bar-fridge prices.
Transport: Car only (it's a long way out...dirt roads and all!)
Where: Casuarina Lodge - 138 Newes Road, Coorabell, NSW.
When: Every day/night.
Cost: Rates start from approx $150 per night - however you can be lucky to get a 2-course meal + breakfast as part of their 1 Night Escape package for $168. Yes this is for TWO! :)
Website: http://www.mantra.com.au/new-south-wales/northern-rivers/byron-bay/accommodation/resorts/casuarina-lodge/
Perfect for: Romantic getaways, stress-relief, "us" time.
Watch out for: The bar-fridge. It gives most expensive hotels a run for their money. Bring your own food if you're planning on snacking/drinking.

The view from our verandah just before heading down to dinner, at dusk. Gorgeous.

Project Romance - back online!

2010-03-01T19:15:00.001+10:00

Hello dear readers, it has been awhile, I know. I've had neverending issues with my lack of internet - but it looks like everything is back to normal - at least for now! I hope everyone had a wonderful Valentines Day - mine was more of a "Valentines Weekend" (what can I say - I know an opportunity for romance when I see one!) - Stephen and I spent the night down in the Byron Bay hinterland at Coorabell Lodge which was absolutely divine! More about that in a separate post.

So how did you celebrate Valentines Day? Some people had absolutely no expectations - some were disappointed. I know that the diamond trade always does well this time of year (no offense to anyone who ever was proposed to on V.Day - but I personally think it's the most cliche'd day of the year to get engaged - but maybe I'm just jaded!).

Anyway - it's great to be back - expect more posts from me soon!

Don't forget if you have any romantic suggestions/reviews or requests for articles - let me know - I'd love to write about them.

Be well. xo

44 Things to do in Brisbane on Valentines Day

2010-01-16T15:32:00.009+10:00

So as you all know (or should know), Valentines Day is nearly upon us. Some do a little, some do a lot. Some pretend they don't care about it, some wish others cared more. And well, the forward thinking romantics among us are starting to rack our brains for the perfect Valentines Day celebration - whether big or small, expensive or not - Brisbane has something for everyone. Here we go.

1. Take a picnic and check out the Moonlight Cinema - New Farm
2. Grab a pizza from Arrividerci's in Milton and head up to Mt Coot-tha lookout
3. Head out to Redcliffe for some fish and chips at sunset.
4. Take a bottle of wine and some cheese and sit by the river at Rocks Riverside Park
5. Go for a ride on the Wheel of Brisbane at Southbank.
6. Bring out the Spaniard in you at Pinxto at New Farm (hello Sangria and tapas!)
7. Head to The Lark on Given Terrace for some cozy cocktails on the couch.
8. Enjoy some seafood and a chilled bottle of wine on a gondola on the Brisbane River
9. Take your partner to new heights - climb the Story Bridge together!
10. Stroll through the Southbank, Riverside or Redcliffe markets together.
11. String up some fairylights in your backyard and put on some music and order some gourmet food.
12. Head to The C Word at Nundah for smoked salmon bagels for breakfast.
13. Drive out to a winery and do a wine tasting (and maybe lunch?). Sirromet is highly recommended - as are the winerys on both the Gold and Sunshine Coast hinterlands!
14. Hire a luxury car from Sports Car Rentals, Hendra.
15. Get a soothing Reiki massage from Anita Katajamaki at Cannon Hill.
16. Take a River Queen Valentines Day cruise!
17. Take a dance class together!
18. Share a decadent dessert at Milany's Gelato Caffe in Ascot
19. Roll dinner and a movie into the one occasion at the Blue Room Cinebar!
20. Cocktails by the river at Byblos, Portside.
21. While you're at Portside - head upstairs for the most incredible Japanese food at Sono (also overlooking the water!)
22. Hire a romantic movie, and do your own Sushi night!
23. One word - Skydiving!
24. Hot Air Balloon over the city (or again, in the Gold/Sunshine Coast hinterland!)
25. Follow that with a champagne breakfast. (Actually I think that should be mandatory, no matter what you do!)
26. Book a creative, artistic photo session for the two of you.
27. Make a short video, declaring why you love each other and store it for those not-so-romantic times.
28. Plant a tree together.
29. Stroll along the boardwalk at Southbank.
30. Visit the Valentines Day Orchid show at Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens.
31. Head to the Brisbane Botanical gardens for a free concert.
32. Rent out a fabulously extravagant hotel room at the Stamford Hotel
33. Drive up to Mt Tamborine for some exotic food and wine (don't forget the fudge!)
34. Do the Tree-Walk at O'Reilly's rainforest retreat.
35. Head over to Stradbroke Island for a romantic picnic on the beach.
36. Go out for fabulous Barramundi at the Breakfast Creek hotel.
37. Enjoy tapas and a great atmosphere at Liquorish in Bulimba
38. Surrender to death by chocolate at 16th on Park at Milton
39. Love is in the Air - concert on the Manly Esplanade, Manly.
40. Go for a bike ride.
42. Check out the 6th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art
43. Listen to Live Music at the Treasury Casino
44. Check out some smooth Jazz at the Caxton Hotel

Magic and Moonlight at the Powerhouse.

2010-01-16T14:20:00.005+10:00

Someone was obviously listening when I said "I miss that open-air cinema they had in Brisbane a few years back..." I literally squealed when I heard that Ford (and a whole other bunch of associated sponsors) were bringing a heap of films (some recent - some less so) to New Farm Park for their "Moonlight Cinema" sessions. Now granted, I won free tickets, so I needed no further incentive - so last night, blanket in tow, we headed over to the Powerhouse for their showing of "Mao's Last Dancer".

It was absolutely lovely - the weather was perfect, not a cloud in sight, and after awhile we forgot that we were lying in the middle of New Farm Park - the sound and the picture were both excellent. When we arrived, we decided that a blanket wasn't enough - we HAD to roadtest their funky "Moonbeds" (think bean-bags but WAY cooler). $6 each to hire - we considered that worth it! And they were!

If you're looking for something a little bit different but still romantic as hell (seriously - wine, food, picnic, stars, blanket, films.....why haven't you bought your tickets yet?), Moonlight Cinema is your place. It's only running until March - so you don't have long - but why not take advantage of the warmer months while they're here?

Summary: Cinema under the stars.
Tip: 1. Bring your own food. The food is extravagantly overpriced (in my opinion). I paid $15 for 3 dips in plastic containers and some toasted turkish bread. Apparently you can't bring your own alcohol - but everyone else did - and if you want to avoid the $30 bottles that they're selling - do1 it. Bring a blanket - even if you're going to hire a moon-bed - it's good to have somewhere to stash the food. 2. Get there early. Gates open at 6pm - you don't want to be any later than that if you want a good spot up the front. :)
Transport: Buses go to New Farm Park and the Powerhouse from the City. Parking is excellent and right next to the cinema-setup.
Where: New Farm Park (Powerhouse end), New Farm.
When: Wednesday-Sunday nights (until the 21st of February). Gates open at 6pm and the film starts at 7pm.
Cost: $13 a ticket online - $15 at the gate. Moonbeds are $6 to hire each (with $10 deposit ea.)
Website: http://www.moonlight.com.au
Perfect for: Romantic evenings under the stars, something a little different, night-time picnics.
Watch out for: Overpriced food. Some of the younger "promotional" staff haven't been trained well in customer service, and I witnessed some interesting encounters where they were quite rude to customers. Again - just avoid the catering van and you'll be right. The staff on the gate were lovely.

Romance a 'given' in Paddington.

2010-01-12T20:52:00.006+10:00

The Lark Food and Drink (let’s just call it The Lark from now on, it’s less of a mouthful) is on busy Given Terrace (go back and read the title - geddit now?) in oh-so-trendy Paddington, but from the moment you step inside, you might be forgiven for thinking you’d just walked into someone’s house – with a narrow staircase to the right and a lovely courtyard to the right. What gives it away is the very well stocked bar that greets you as you walk through the door (unless of course you have friends with well stocked bars – in which case, leave their address at the bottom of this post!).

The Lark is perfect for all manner of rendezvous’- whether it be a casual “get to know you” drink at the bar, a casual and relaxed afternoon/evening outside, with great music, or an intimate and cozy affair upstairs with its classy décor, dim lighting and comfortable couches. The wine list is fairly extensive but not cheap. Expect to pay around $7 for a bottom-shelf Pinot-Chardonnay with most wine by the glass averaging between $9 - $11. The tapas menu is of a considerable size, however again, be prepared to pay 5 star tapas prices. The chips with gorgonzola sauce are definitely worth the $7 – and oysters can be ordered solo if you prefer – rather than the standard ½ dozen (although for $3.50 each, I must say, I was scouting out what else to order). Many of the smaller accompaniments are designed to accompany the extensive wine and cocktail list and if you’re just that little bit more hungry, there is a menu to suit, also.

You pay for the up-market food and up-market atmosphere and Paddington location – but if you’re looking for a place that’s just that little bit special, with good service, a spectacularly classy and cozy atmosphere – The Lark is your place.

Summary: Intimate cocktail & tapas bar with two casual dining options - intimate/cosy upstairs and relaxed/laidback outside.
Tip: No bookings on the weekend - so prepare for a wait or arrive in plenty of time!
Transport: Plenty of public transport to Given Tce - but be prepare for a LOOONNG walk if you park in Paddington. Of course -that's not a bad thing....
Where: 1/267 Given Tce, Paddington, 4064
When: Monday: Closed. Tues-Thurs: 4pm-midnight. Fri-Sun: Noon-midnight.
Cost: Upmarket tapas/wine/cocktail prices.
Websites: http://www.thelark.com.au/
Perfect For: Drinks, quick bites, cozy romantic rendezvous'.
Downsides: Is quite pricey (worth it - but don't go if you're on a budget). Can get VERY busy on weekends.

Ascot and you shall recieve....

2010-01-09T16:50:00.005+10:00

Remember that hiatus? Err....it'll start on Monday. Ish. Okay - I found another excuse to hit McDonalds up for their free aircon and free wifi - and hell, the mango smoothies aren't half bad.

Okay - I have found THE find of the decade. Um. The decade so far that is - which of course is just over a week old. I stumbled across this place by accident yesterday whilst strolling down Racecourse Road at Ascot. It seems like only a few weeks ago that I prayed to the god of dessert and said "Please...PLEASE let there be some kind of late-night dessert cafe somewhere on the northside of Brisbane?"

Introducing Caffe e Gelato Milany - Prayer heard. Answered. And how! Not only does Milany's have a decent range of gelato available - but they also have a veritable smorgasmord of yumminess (Figuratively speaking.You still have to order from a menu!), most of which are perfect for sharing and include just about every combination of gelato, poffertjes, fruit - and even pasta. You heard me! There is also a wide range of gelato cocktails.

Summary: Gorgeous, decadent, shareable desserts. Authentic, amazing gelato. Heaven on earth.
Tip: Perfect for after dinner - or anytime really (do we NEED rules for gelato-time?). Order a shareable dessert (or two) - which of course means lots of gazing into eyes and feeding each other. OR - grab some takeaway gelato and wander down Racecourse Road towards the river. Lovely on Summer nights. :)
Transport: Racecourse Road is easily accessible by bus - and there is plenty of off-street parking if you drive.
Where: 4/53 Racecourse Road, Hamilton.
When: Tuesday-Sunday 12pm-10pm
Cost: Single scoops will set you back around $3-4. Three scoops were around $6.50. Some of the more extravagant desserts hit the $20 mark - but don't forget these are huge and shareable - so all things considered, I think this is verrrry reasonable.
Websites: http://www.gelato-milany.com/
Perfect For: After dinner (hell - before dinner too!), late-night rendezvous', romantic summer dates, something a little bit different.
Downsides: I'm trying to think of some. Really...

Intermittent Hiatus.

2010-01-08T14:59:00.001+10:00

Hello from the ever-handy "Free Wi-Fi" hotspot at Maccas. Optus had the audacity to cancel my home internet, and short of blogging from Ye Olde iPhone (pimping Brisbane's best Romance Spots one tap at a time just takes too long, sorry!), I took the liberty of feigning interest in the food here and sat down to catch up on everything I've missed out on in the past 24 hours *whimper*.

I start a new job on Monday - and since my prime blogging time will be at night - I may not be able to update until my new internet is connected. Bear with me! I promise I'll be back as soon as humanly possible!

In the meantime - if you have any places to recommend, or Valentines Day stories to share - email me at erica@dragonflysakura.com!

Ciao xo

Mt Cotton Guest House

2010-01-06T16:13:00.002+10:00

So, I bet you were thinking that in order to get away for a quiet rainforesty romantic weekend, you had to trek somewhere deep into the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast Hinterland, right? Well that's what I thought so too, until I saw Mt Cotton Guest House. Situated (conveniently!) near the Sirromet Winery at Mt Cotton - The Mt Cotton Guest House has all of the perks of the Tamborine-esque getaways, but easier to get to - perfect if you can't spare much time.

The guest house itself is situated on 20 hectares of natural bushland and a stones throw from some beautiful secluded national parks. The guesthouse contains several large, comfortable rooms furnished with quality fittings and linen that include large LCD screen TVs and Wireless internet (not that you'd need either of those things on a romantic escape...would you?). The property also has a Balinese-inspired garden and hot tub (ooooooh) to be enjoyed by its guests. A sumptuous breakfast is included, which you can take on the main deck or on your own private verandah. Dinner can also be arranged if you prefer to eat in.

If you like the idea of a getaway but not sharing a guesthouse, 8 Eco-Cabins are also being built on the property, ready for some serious romantic getaways in 2010.

Rooms start at $160 per night for the standard "Garden" room and go up to $250 per night for the Tangalooma room. Several packages are also available and "couples massages" can be arranged for a truly relaxing, romantic getaway.

Summary: All the perks of a romantic, relaxing retreat - without the travel to the hinterland!

Tip: If both you and your partner can get the time off mid-week, it's worth booking during this time as the Guesthouse is considerably cheaper.

Transport: While buses run in the local area - they don't tend to go quite near the guesthouse. However if you are without a car, a taxi can be taken from the Sheldon or Springwood areas. If you are driving however, here's an idea of how to get there:

View Larger Map

Where: Mt Cotton - Around 40-45 minutes from the City - obviously a lot less if you live on the South/East side of Brisbane.
When: Monday-Sundays with discounts for week-day stays.
Cost: Rooms start at $160 and go to $250 per night - with cheaper rates on week-days.
Websites:
Mt Cotton Guest House
Sirromet Winery

Perfect For: Romantic getaways, relaxing weekends, pampering, "re-connection", wine-tasting.
Downsides: I honestly can't think of too many other than the Eco Cabins aren't finished yet - so you may have to deal with some minor building noise - but I'm sure they would keep this to a minimum. It's not the cheapest of getaways but it is fairly comparable to many others so it's not overpriced per-se. The bottom line is - if you need to indulge and relax and don't have the time to travel far out of Brisbane, then this is your place.

The best Mt Tamborine love shacks!

2010-01-05T16:18:00.014+10:00

I promised a few posts ago that I'd update with a link of romantic getaways at Mt Tamborine - and especially with Valentines Day looming - I thought I'd better get onto it!

This is by no means and exhaustive list - there are many more to be found - however these are the most popular.

Pethers Rainforest Retreat

Relish the exquisite sense of calm in romantic, Asian-inspired surroundings. Gaze out over the tops of the trees while relaxing in your designer treehouse. Explore the five hectares of privately owned pristine rainforest. Spoil yourself with a spa treatment. Indulge in fine food and wine. Escape to Pethers - the Gold coast hinterland's finest hideaway.

Editor: I have actually been here and it is STUNNING. I couldn't recommend it more.

Address: 28b Geissmann Street, North Tamborine, Qld 4272
Phone: (07) 5545 4577
Email: retreat@pethers.com.au
Website: www.pethers.com.au

Hillside B&B - Gumnut Cottage
Enjoy expansive views of the Coast from this private and secluded s/c cottage. Set in the forest with every comfort and spacious deck with barbeque. Breakfasts are served al fresco or a hamper of fresh produce provided. Pool and Spa. Attractions and restaurants nearby.

Address: 25 Leona Court, Mount Tamborine, QLD, 4272
Phone: (07) 5545 3887
Email: info@hillsidebedandbreakfast.com
Website: www.hillsidebedandbreakfast.com

Cedar Creek Lodges at Thunderbird Park
"Creek Lodges" - Spacious, self contained 2 bedroom architecturally designed lodges dotted along the banks of spectacular Cedar Creek, with wood fireplaces & 2 person spa bath.

"Bush Lodges", “Lorikeet Lodge”, “Mill Lodge” 2,3, 4 bedroom accommodation.

Address: Thunderbird Park, Tamborine Mtn Road, Tamborine Mountain
Phone: (07) 5545 1468
Email: info@cedarcreeklodges.com.au
Website: www.cedarcreeklodges.com.au

Mountain Edge Studios with Kandinsky's Restaurant
Magnificent panoramic ocean and city views. Self contained luxury accommodation each with a spa or giant tub, log fire, T.V.& VCR, CD player, private patio and courtyard. Set amidst trees, birdlife and nature. Peace, romance and serenity 30 mins from the Gold Coast, 60 mins from Bris. A la carte restaurant open Thurs to Sun.

Address: 387 Henri Robert Drive, Tamborine Mountain, QLD, 4272
Phone: (07) 5545 3437
Email: jean@mountainedge.com.au
Website: www.mountainedge.com.au

Camelot
With an AAAT 4.5 star rating our luxury retreat offers the finest certified accommodation and hospitality on the Mountain. They offer a choice of three award winning designer cottages for couples who seek that dream, romantic getaway or special escape and, in a separate guest wing attached to our single storey farmhouse; we offer the very best in Bed and Breakfast accommodation.

Address: 322 Main Western Road, North Tamborine, QLD, 4272
Phone: (07) 5545 4380
Email: camelot.bnb@bigpond.com
Website: www.tamborineaccommodation.com.au

Ambience Retreat Cottages & Rainforest B&B
4 large magical musically themed cottages, 4 beautiful B&B suites, spa, fire, 4 poster bed, verandah overlooking rainforest - TV, DVD, CD player. All accommodation comes with 4 course breakfast, afternoon tea, nibbles at Sunset - pool, library and entertainment area. Secluded but central to walks, to Gallery Walk and Restaurants. Robes and slippers included in stay.

Address: 25 Eagle Heights Road, Tamborine Mountain, QLD, 4272
Phone: (07) 5545 1766
Email: ambiencecottages@westnet.com.au
Website: www.mazsretreat.com

Songbirds Rainforest Retreat
Sometimes people need a break from it all - time to be surrounded by the forest; become immersed in beauty, indulge in fine food, relax and revive mind, body and soul. Songbirds Rainforest Retreat includes the multi-award winning Songbirds in the Forest Restaurant; six luxurious two person villas and more than 50 acres of pristine rainforest.

At Songbirds we take things slowly so guests have time to focus on the really important things - like getting ready for a massage; listening to the birds or choosing the wine to have with dinner.

Songbirds has acres of rainforest walking tracks so guests can enjoy the abundant flora and fauna at their leisure. Guests can soothe the senses and invigorate the body with an exquisite therapeutic massage, take an individual yoga class, relax and revive or explore a multitude of activities and experiences at Mount Tamborine.

Editor: This is next on my list - how amazing does this sound!!

Address: Lot 10 Tamborine Mountain Road, North Tamborine, QLD, 4272
Phone: (07) 5545 2563
Email: info@songbirds.com.au
Website: www.songbirds.com.au
Restaurant: http://www.songbirds.com.au/restaurant (I just had to share this link with you too!)

Cottages at Witches Falls
Delightfully different self-contained stone gabled cottages tucked away on Tamborine Mountain featuring polished timber floors, raked bamboo ceilings, double spas, fireplaces and private courtyards. Bordering Witches Falls National Park and lookout (the oldest National Park in Queensland and the third oldest in the world) the cottages are walking distance to 3 Wineries, antique shops, galleries and many of the mountains attractions. Other specialities include our home-made bread for breakfast, picnic hampers and sumptuous BBQ hampers all prepared to make your stay that little more enjoyable.

Address: Cnr Hartley & Main Western Roads, North Tamborine, QLD, 4272
Phone: (07) 5545 4411
Email: chiefwizard@witchesfallscottages.com.au
Website: www.witchesfallscottages.com.au

Runneth over.

2010-01-05T15:37:00.003+10:00

In all of my unpacking recently, I've been finding bits and pieces that I thought were lost forever (seriously - it's been like Christmas!) (err...x2!). Stephen was digging through a box the other day and he tossed a tiny book on my desk saying "Here...I think that's yours?". It was "Women Are From Venus: Understanding the Woman in Your Life" by John Gray (Remember when we all went crazy buying up John Gray books in the early 2000's, trying to improve our relationships? Or was that just me?). I don't know - as cliche'd as the books have become in recent years - I think his writings are still very relevant (I can almost see my friend Mel shaking her head at me in disgust for even admitting that I own the book, let alone wanting to blog about it).

So I tossed it back to him saying "Don't you think you'd better hang onto it?". "No" he replied. "I understand the woman in my life."

While some of the statements within it are a bit presumptious, I still love this book - it's kind of a summarised version of the "Venus" chapters in Men are From Mars Women Are From Venus. Now - let me run a disclaimer here - whilst my post may appear quite sexist - I'm only quoting the book because I own it. John also has another book all about the guys. Apparently. I don't own it. :)

Anyway. Here are a few favourite quotes:

A woman will have a hidden feeling that says 'I don't want to tell him what I need; if he really loves me, he will know'.
A woman never gets bored of hearing a man say 'I love you'. It allows her to feel his love.
Men and women express their love differently. It is difficult for a woman to believe that a man who forgets her birthdays or anniversaries could really love her.
When a man regularly brings romance into the relationship, it makes a woman feel cherished and reminds her not to give so much.

That last one really does it for me. Some are needier than others when it comes to relationship romance. Those of us who need the reassurance, the little thoughtful gifts, the texts, the notes, the cuddles and the creative dates are often branded "High Maintenance" - a title which I think is a little unfair. Maybe those people have been starved of romance and affection in previous relationships and they just need that little more. Regardless if your romance cup is large or small, don't you agree that the world just gets that little bit better when it runneth over?

Lazy Afternoon Drives #1: Mt Tamborine

2010-01-03T13:59:00.010+10:00

Isn't this rain gorgeous today? Seriously - who doesn't love curling up by candlelight with your favourite person and a nice cup of tea? Well...normally. But today Stephen's busy setting off the smoke alarm with the Whipper Snipper. Don't ask.

Yesterday we decided to un-coup ourselves from our holiday couped-uppedness and head out for a drive. We ended up at Mt Tamborine - which I try to get to at least once or twice a year for some much needed rainforest time. I tellya - if you're looking for a great roadtrip that isn't well, TOO far out of Bris-Vegas - Mt Tamborine is your place. It's just such a beautiful, spiritual place - and it's easy to forget all of your worries as you drive through the rainforest, and the birdsong starts and the temperature drops....ahhhh.

Whether you're walking through the rainforest, or checking out the waterfalls, doing a tree-walk or visiting the copious amounts of wineries and restaurants - Mt Tamborine has something for all romantic budgets. It also has its fair share of rainforest cabin retreats - but note that these book up quite far in advance (so if you're getting ideas for Valentines Day - start calling NOW!). I might do a separate post on these soon.

If you're just going for the afternoon - Tamborine has one of those streets that's just perfect for walking along hand, in hand and checking out the quaint galleries and shops on offer. There are some gorgeous cafes and restaurants - but expect tourist prices. Personally - Tamborine is one of my favourite Picnic Destinations - but yesterday was a get-out-of-bed-at-midday kind of day, so we ended up at the Tamborine Mountain Winery cafe where two gourmet pies and two drinks set us back around $20. As a result, we can highly recommend the "Meatlovers" pie (yes - it actually tastes like a Meatlovers pizza - in a pie!) and the "Salmon, Lemon and Dill" pie. Divine.

We then set off on our annual pilgrimage to "Fudge Heaven" (pictured). Simply sinful, simply gorgeous, creamy, full-of-fat-and-we-don't-care fudge in every flavour imaginable from caramel macadamia to lemon meringue pie, cherry ripe, creme brulee, jaffa, dark chocolate and more. There's also a range of "adults only" fudge. Oh stop raising your eyebrow at me - it's not what you....okay, maybe it is. With flavours such as "Orgasmic" and "CS Cowboy", Fudge Heaven is a whole separate range of alcoholic fudge and it truly IS to die for. They even supply you with a plastic knife for taking it away, slicing bits off and feeding your significant other. :)

Summary: Tamborine has something for every romantic budget, is easy to get to and is full of beauty and wonder - perfect for exploring on lazy afternoons.

Tip: Aim to get there earlier than 3pm - quite a few places close at 4pm and parking can be a bit of an issue too. The last tree-walk is at 4pm also.

Transport: Short of a bus tour , transport is predominately by car only.

View Larger Map

Where: Just inland from the Gold Coast - under an hour's drive from Brisbane.
When: It's a mountain - it doesn't go anywhere! Most shops close between 4pm-5pm however.
Cost: Gourmet pies (mentioned above) were around $7.50 each. Fudge is around $4-$5 a block - or you can do what we did and get 6 for $20!
Websites:
Fact Sheet: Walking Tracks
Mt Tamborine Winery
Fudge Heaven
Perfect For: Long drives, rainforest and waterfall walks, secluded picnic spots, romantic lunches, wine and cheese tasting, sinful chocolate tasting, relaxation.
Downsides: Many of the cafes close at 4pm. Can get a little pricey - so if you're on a budget, consider a picnic. Watch the roads in the rain also!

Relationship Resolutions

2010-01-01T22:53:00.008+10:00

Happy new year! It's that time of year again, after we pick ourselves up from our hangovers (possibly resolving never to drink again), or cringe at ourselves in the mirror and swear that THIS year will be the year that we're going to stick out that gym membership no matter what the cost. Perhaps some of us are recovering from relationships, promising to ourselves to never get our hearts broken again. Perhaps we are in new or even languishing relationships. Either way - we always seem to forget about matters of the heart when we're making those infamous resolutions for the year.

“...medicine, law, business, engineering - these are noble pursuits and necessary to sustain life. But poetry, beauty, romance, love - these are what we stay alive for.”
- Robin Williams

If love is so important to us, it amazes me that we don't cherish it more. But we put it on the backburner claiming that we'll "get around" to nourishing it. Somehow other things in our lives become more of a priority - our jobs, our employers, our family - meanwhile the love we have with our partners wilts with neglect. We stop respecting it. We stop honouring it. We stop thinking about the other person and start thinking more about ourselves.

So without further ado - here some relationship resolutions we all might want to consider for 2010!

Relationship Resolutions

1. Maintain that Intimacy. After my post the other night - you might have noticed that touch is a key part of a relationship for me. Sometimes we just forget to do it. Sometimes it's just not in our nature. But let not our everyday lives put physical intimacy on the backburner. Remember - you can say a thousand things with just one touch - and not to mention put those inner-monologues to rest.

2. Forgive. No matter if it was an overspending issue, or not putting the rubbish out. There are just some things that you have to forgive - and while you're at it - forget. That's not to say that some relationships don't have bigger problems, and I'm not saying that every offense is forgiveable - far from it. But some things you just have to...let go of.

3. Say "I Love You". Don't think you're being cool like Swayze in Ghost by murmering "Ditto". If you love them - tell them. And tell them every day. Don't hang up the phone without saying it. End every text message and every email with it. Think it's getting boring? Insert another word or three for "Love". I adore you. I can't live without you. I appreciate you. I see you. Find different ways of delivering the message - you don't have to write a love poem every week - there are other simple ways. Tracing a heart in the shower screen. Writing in whiteboard marker on the fridge. Type it on the computer screen. Arranging things on the kitchen bench - you get my drift!

4. Take Chances. Don't you get bored doing the same thing week in and week out? Complaining that the magic has left your relationship? It hasn't. Your relationship abandoned it first. Magic doesn't happen on its own - YOU make it - day in and day out. It's your choice to be the most amazing, loving, wonderful, creative, spontaneous partner ever. Go on some really well thought out dates, take some long drives - go and explore something you've never explored before. Go and make memories - beautiful, incredible, legendary memories. (And of course - watch this space in 2010 for help on how to create said memories...)

That's about it for me - stay tuned for Project Romance's first official year. I look forward to helping you make incredible magic in your relationships in 2010. Don't forget - if you have any suggestions (especially in the Brisbane/S.E QLD area) - please comment - and I'd be delighted to pass on your recommendation or check it out on your behalf.

Stay safe!

Stay at Home Date #1 - Sushi Night!

2009-12-30T01:45:00.007+10:00

With all this rain that's been around lately - it's hard to think of endless summer starlit nights - or getting dressed up just to be drenched down 5 minutes later. Solution? At-home-date-night. Now I'm not a dinner and obligatory candles kind of girl (okay, okay - I like dinner. I like candles. But I want morrrrrre. So much more than pasta stir-through and tapers and re-runs of Glee on Channel 10 - wait...that was last night!). Shall I get to the point? Okay. Why not try a SUSHI NIGHT!

Sorry - we're just going to have to wait for a moment until the non-seaweed, non-raw-fish, non weird-food-eaters leave the room. Um, the whole: sushi = raw fish thing is soooo 1980's darling.

Sushi is awesome because you can make it together (heaps of fun!) or you can spend a few hours preparing it yourself and setting the scene ready-to-impress. Either way, it's a win-win. Also - you can combine a whole host of ingredients, so it suits people who don't eat this or don't eat that. Hell, you can even omit the seaweed if you like (Hey, why was the sand wet? Because the sea weed...) (My apologies, I couldn't resist. Blame it on being the mother of a 10 year old!)

Not sure if it's your proverbial cup of green-tea?

Check this site out: http://sushifan.com/eat_sushi.php - be educated!

In a nutshell, you'll need the following: sushi rice, sushi mat, soy sauce, pickled ginger, seaweed (nori) sheets, wasabi paste, and rice vinegar. You can get kits that include most of this stuff - and you can even buy handy-dandy sushi-makers nowadays (I'm a bit of a purist, but hell, whatever floats your boat - http://www.sushimagic.com/ - if you're interested).

What do you fill it with? You can use any combination of prawns, crab, tuna or salmon (canned or fresh - ensure if you're getting raw tuna or salmon that it's sashimi-grade), hell even chicken works well. Combine that with cucumber, avocado, other vegetables - the sky's the limit - it's your sushi after all! Don't OVERdo it - pick a few ingredients and run with it - especially if you're a first-timer.

Setting the mood.

Light some Japanese style lanterns or candles around your room and lay some cushions or pillows out on the floor so you can both eat from the coffee table - maybe while watching a few Japanese action films (not into those? Lost in Translation or Memoirs of a Geisha works well for me!)

Serve your sushi on square plates - don't forget chopsticks, and little dishes of soy, wasabi, and ginger! If you're a master of chopsticks (or even if you're not)- you could feed each other!

Feeling really adventurous? Buy some sake from your local liquor barn (please PLEASE avoid Go-Shu. Beer we can make in Australia. Hell, a decent Semillon we can make in Australia. Sake we make not.) It's up to you if you serve it room temperature or slightly warm (check the bottle for how your particular sake should be served). I'm a fan of warm sake - but hell, I'm just a fan of sake in general. It's all good. Serve it in traditional sake cups (Earthborn had these on sale before Christmas for about $20 - I'm kicking myself for not getting them!)

Maybe for the ultimate mood setter, a robe? You don't have to go all out - but there's something very very sexy about handing your partner a robe and the two of you sitting on cushions, in robes, drinking sake and eating sushi and watching Scarlett Johannson in Lost in Translation.....STEPHEN! STOP TAKING OVER MY POST!

Hmmm....maybe those Japanese action films would be a better choice after all?

P.S If you're planning the whollllllllle night (and you know what I mean) - The Body Shop have the most amazing Cherry Blossom body-butter and Body-Puree, which makes for highly scent-ual massages.

Enjoy!

The Power of Touch

2009-12-28T20:52:00.013+10:00

I have a confession to make. I'm one of these touchy-feely people. I need the reassurance of a hug, or a kiss on the forehead, or my hand being held out in public. Unfortunately it has been lack of reciprocal touch that has caused many a relationship downfall for me and many other women who have dated or been in relationships with men who have not realised the importance of touch. Of course this can work both ways - I know of several women who have not been particularly touch-oriented. It's not for everyone. But until you're absolutely sure your partner doesn't appreciate subtle touching - don't rule it out. A touch can say anything from "I'm here" to "I'm so, so sorry" to "I love everything that you are". It is one of the most beautiful ways to communicate - and one of the ways we forget about as time goes on and we get older.

Touching, hugging, snuggling - whatever you want to call it - can be done in a myriad of ways. Of course there is the obvious - in bed, on the couch, in the bath, when you greet or say goodbye. But there are so many other opportunities to show that you're still there, and that they have your full attention. Great places and times for sneaky hugs include:

when one of you is on the phone
in the grocery line
in the kitchen preparing dinner (my favourite kind of hugs!)
in bookshops
on a cold winter night (BLANKET HUGS!)
while one of you is sitting at the computer
passing by a mirror

Oh it doesn't have to be a crash-tackle hug every time! Just a wrap-your-arms-around-I-adore-you hug. Or even a hand running down their back. Or a kiss on the shoulder.

Destroying the Negative Inner-Monologue.

I won't speak for all women here - but I know that many of us have these continuous inner dialogues that keep churning and churning (you might know the "Oh god, am I fat? monologue - it's an old favourite. "Am I fat? I shouldn't have worn these pants today. Maybe if I wore my new heels, they make my legs look longer and I won't look so frumpy. Should I get changed? I'm going to get changed. But changed into what? I knew I shouldn't have eaten that pasta for dinner last night. I'm definitely going to the gym. As soon as the new year starts. And I pay for my car to be fixed and then there's the kids tuition...right. I don't need a gym. I can do this myself. I'll start walking every day. And cutting out carbs. And I'm going to throw out all that chocolate. Except for those liqueur chocolates I got for Christmas..that would just be rude. I'm going to eat those and then I'll start. Right...")

Many of us have this inner monologue about everything. A lot of the time it's about our appearance. If you're in the room, I can guarantee that you'll be the main topic.

"I wonder what he meant by what he said before. I know it could be taken two ways - I have to be careful I don't over-react. Right. I'm going to read his body language - that's how I'll know. I've walked by the couch three times now. He's just staring at the TV. Maybe he's avoiding me. Maybe it's true. I mean, if it was the other explanation, surely he'd be looking at me differently or showing me otherwise? He's falling out of love with me. I probably talk too much. Or.....oh god, I know what it is. It's the weight I've put on. I KNEW I shouldn't have eaten that pasta for dinner last night...." (see dialogue #1 for the remainder of THAT conversation).

I know that many of my inner monologues have been disrupted by my hand being taken as I walk past, or a warm hug or a touch at the base of my spine. I actually attribute this to the reason my current relationship works. He knows me well enough to know that my thoughts spiral off into overdrive sometimes. One heartfelt touch destroys the power of the negativity inside my head and immediately I am warm, I am loved and I am reassured once more.

Try it. It may not come naturally to you right away - but give it time, it will be worth the effort.

Back in Brissie!

2009-12-28T18:32:00.018+10:00

Well it finally happened - we moved back to Brisbane. It's been a hectic few weeks - uprooting one's life and relocating was never bound to be easy - but we made it. It was a triumphant day today - when I threw out close to 250kg of my life - papers, old cassette tapes, cards - and the remnants of my previous two marriages.

I guess it's time to come clean - I, the writer of Project Romance, have been married twice in my 30 years of being on this earth. Will I get married again? Probably. Eventually. Most people I know haven't even been married once. It's fairly accepted by society to be married a second time - usually you know what you're doing by then. Well...it's a nice theory. So what is a self-professed serial-bride doing writing a blog about romance? Well, actually I think that makes me somewhat of an expert. See, in my years of chasing the perfect relationship and the perfect marriage - I have learned a lot about the cornerstones of romance. Everyone's different of course, and you'll get out of this blog what you will. Of course I'm still learning. And of course no relationship IS perfect. I've been lucky enough to be loved by some amazing men. And equally unlucky to see those relationships die before my eyes for various reasons that possibly could have been avoided before walking down the aisle-slash-rose-petal-bridge.

I am especially blessed now to be with a wonderful man who satisfies every criteria and ticks every box in the relationship satisfaction survey. A man who believes in romance as much as I do and lives to make me happy as much as I live to do the same. I look forward to sharing our journey with you - and inspiring you to go forth and think outside the big box of the ordinary and the familiar.

Setting Hearts a-Flame in Montville!

2009-11-22T20:01:00.013+10:00

I promise I'll start posting about Brisbane soon - but as it so happens, I'm still living on the Sunshine Coast for the next few weeks - so I'm going to squeeze every drop out of this romantic's paradise as I humanly can. :)

So this morning I found myself craving a really great bottle of wine and a nice shady place to drink it in - possibly with some great food - to share of course, but without ants and sand and the sun searing into my already sunburned shoulders. Driving up to the gate, I realised that my beloved "Settler's Rise" winery had been renamed, and rebranded as "Flame Hill" winery. Didn't bother me!

Flame Hill is about 5 minutes from the heart of Montville in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. It's nestled away in a small vineyard overlooking the rolling green hills - and on a clear day you can see right out to the beautiful Sunshine Coast beaches.

For $5 you can taste Flame Hill's premium wine range, or you can proceed directly to their restaurant - which has a real homely feel to it, with wide sweeping verandas overlooking the vines. Flame Hill have a full a la carte menu - or for Settler's Rise veterans - the tasting plate is still available - although the food has definitely changed (and for the better! Oh my!) We chose the "Picnic on a Plate" - which came with assorted antipasto bits and pieces - cold meets, cheeses, pickled eggs (don't knock them until you try them!), olives and enough homemade bread to feed an army. A bottle of Flame Hill's own Verdehlo went very nicely with the meal - and it was lovely to sit back, let the breezes just wash over us, and take our time.

Picnic on a plate (chicken, pickled eggs and goats cheese and so...so much more)

...and also - lovely homemade bread!

Of course we had to be very naughty and order dessert - but who could resist dishes like "Frozen Sabayon with Fresh Mango" or "Frangipani Apple Tarte?". We couldn't - although in the end we went with the Catalone Cream with Orange Blossom, Honey and Saffron as well as the Frozen Sabayon. What can I say? After a bottle of wine, your cares are a very very long way away.

Seriously. Who could say no?

Frozen Sabayon with Mango (oh my god)

Catalone with Orange Blossom, Saffron and Honey. Seriously amazing.

Yes - that is actual fairy floss on top! Okay, okay...spun sugar...

Tip: Picnic on a Plate (for 2), Flame Hill Verdhelo. ANY of their decadent desserts (although I would recommend sharing one in hindsight!)

Summary: Flame Hill is just that kind of gorgeous getaway that can give you an unparalleled afternoon of togetherness, true Queensland style. Stay as long as you like, the staff are friendly and happy to assist you in any way they can.

Where: Flame Hill Winery – 249 Western Avenue, Montville
When: Thursday-Monday: 10:30am-5:30pm.
Cost: Picnic on a Plate - $39.50. Cheese Platter - $28. A la carte dining from $12-$26.
Website: http://www.flamehill.com.au
Perfect For: Long drives in the country, romantic lunches, wine and cheese tasting, relaxation.
Downsides: Not open for dinner. Alas!

Picnic Dates - The Essentials

2009-09-29T19:16:00.007+10:00

One of the most inexpensive ways to spend time over good food and a great bottle of wine, is the classic romantic picnic. However don’t go popping the champagne just yet – picnics may look simple, but the key to a successful blanket-date (that's of the picnic-kind, get your mind out of the gutter!) is preparation. You need to carefully consider your location, time of day and weather conditions – even the most perfectly prepared picnic can be rudely interrupted by rain, ants, mosquitoes, passers-by (particularly in the evening) – the list goes on. You will also need to make sure that you have all of the picnic essentials – you can never be over-prepared! You don’t want your date ruined because you forgot to bring the corkscrew, or glasses, or a sharp knife – or you didn’t check the weather forecast beforehand. It doesn’t matter how long you have been slaving over individual salmon quiches or Chinese tea-eggs – you forget the essentials, and you invite embarrassment, backpedalling and over-thinking – which can be dangerous on a date! Do I sound like I am speaking from experience? *cough* Um…

It’s easy really – keep all of your picnic essentials in a basket – in the back of your car, if the need arises for a little spontaneity. What are these magical, mystical essentials?

Glad you asked!

PICNIC ESSENTIALS 101

Picnic Basket – a simple and romantic way to keep all of your goodies hidden from view – and of course and easy way to carry everything at once. You didn’t see Little Red Riding Hood juggling the biscuits and a hot thermos of chocolate for her grandmother in several old Coles bags did you? Tip: Basketworld have a very nice selection of picnic baskets – anything from the basic to the fancy-schmancy-everything-but-the-kitchen-sink ones. Failing that, try Myer and Target for a fairly decent range with prices to match almost every budget.
Picnic Blanket – I know size isn’t supposed to matter in this day and age – but when it comes to picnic blankets – it does. You need to have ample room for two people plus your basket – and potential for “stretching out” later in the date. (I said stretching out – what were you thinking?) Leaning back onto an ants nest, whilst makes the date unforgettable – does so in the wrong way. Tip: Break of Day have some great picnic rugs – check out the ones that conveniently roll up and buckle-shut! Sweet! You also may want to consider a rug with a waterproof underlayer – especially if you’re picnicking after the rain, or at the beach.
Candles – An absolute essential for a night-time picnic! Not venturing out past dark? So you think! You’re going on a lunch-picnic. You have a lovely meal prepared, a few glasses of wine, and you get talking. Suddenly it’s 5:30 in the afternoon and the sun’s about to go down. Never mind- you have candles, and of course wind-shielding candle holders. Don’t forget the matches! Tip: Ikea are more than a quirky and ergonomic furniture store – they also have some practical and inexpensive candle-holders. The Candle Nut have some beautiful tealight holders too – and you can shop online! The deeper the better – there’s nothing more annoying than constantly re-lighting candles! If you’re looking for something a bit more ornate or fancy – you can try Dusk - but be wary of the expense! Tea-light lanterns may also be a cute and inexpensive way to go!
Glasses – of course everyone drinks wine from the bottle at some stage in their life – but on a romantic picnic? I think not. Have some sturdy glasses in your basket at all times – not the frail, thin crystal ones that your mum keeps in the front cabinet. Avoid plastic glasses too. They may be convenient – but there is nothing classy about tupperware. What size or shape is up to you – but I don’t think the specific white wine/red wine glasses apply to picnics. Unless of course of course these things are important to you…
Plates – Again, no need to break out the good china for this – and yes plastic IS allowed here – but for a date – try to go for the more good-quality plates. A lot of picnic baskets nowadays come with these, which is a bonus.
Cutlery – Get a set of sturdy picnic cutlery. Make sure you also have a sharp knife – you never realise you need it until you don’t have one! While I’m on the topic – don’t forget the corkscrew! Much of today’s wine production is in bottles with screw-top lids, but there will always be that one occasion when your bottle will have a cork – and no matter what your knife-wielding skills are like – there’s only one way that baby is coming out…
Insulated cooler-bag – specifically one that can keep drinks cool. Regardless if you’re heading out with an ice-cold bottle of home-made lemonade, or a bottle of Hunter Valley 2006 Semillon – lukewarm drinks are a definite date-killer. Tip: Check out the “T-Chill” bags – very affordable way of chilling drinks portably. The only downside is that you need ice to keep it cold. But for a portable ice-bucket – it does the trick!

Do yourself a favour and look at combining some of these essentials in the one purchase. Not only will you save money – but you would have invested in your romantic future too. Check out the Picnic & Cappuccino section on this website – some really snazzy and clever storage for your “Picnic Essentials”.
What else? I know it’s usually the last thing we think of – but when one ventures out into the great outdoors, things well…happen. Sunburns, mosquito bites to name a few. Keep a small travel pack of sunscreen and insect repellent in your bag…just in case. A portable music player with speakers is also a novel idea if you’re tired of the nearby screaming children or traffic noise. If you have an MP3 player – Officeworks have some portable speakers for around $20 – or maybe a portable radio would do the trick – depending on what you’re looking for. Of course – background noise is part and parcel of the picnic experience – so unless music is playing a key part in your date – don’t go rushing out for iPod speakers.

That’s about it for now – I’ll be updating soon with a list of fantastic, tried and true romantic picnic spots in the beautiful South-East, and some other tips to make your romantic picnic unforgettable.

Cozying up in Buderim…

2009-09-24T18:53:00.008+10:00

One of the great things about living on the Sunshine Coast, is the amount of little cafes and restaurants that you ordinarily have to “stumble” across on daytrips or holidays!

Backofen at Buderim is a sweet little Austrian-inspired bakery, fronting onto (but elevated over) the main street. Two things make Backofen legendary – it’s food and it’s customer service. Whether you are there for lunch with the in-laws or cozying up with your significant other – the staff are attentive and respectful of your needs.

Now whilst Backhofen have a unique (and filling!) breakfast and lunch menu – what makes this perfect for a mid-afternoon rendezvous, are the stunning array of cakes and desserts. You might balk a little at the prices – especially if you’re used to the $3 slab of day-old mudcake from the local carvery, but I can assure you, the servings are massive and worth every cent.

So massive in fact…that they’re worth…sharing. *wink*

Tip: Apple & Ginger strudel (with cream and icecream of course). Get a slice of this (it’s HUGE) with two spoons (or one!) and a couple of Chai Latte’s (PERFECT with the strudel!). Steal yourself a spot at one of the corner tables and you have yourself the setting for a gorgeous, romantic afternoon tea.

Summary: A little slice (or rather a large one!) of romantic Vienna.

Where: Backofen – 65 Burnett St, Buderim
When: Mon-Sun 6am-late afternoon.
Cost: Upmarket cafe prices – but sharing is allowed and encouraged.
Website: http://www.backofen.com.au
Perfect For: Romantic breakfasts, lazy lunches, cozy afternoon and high-teas.
Downsides: Not open for dinner/late night coffee, unfortunately. Parking at Woolworths can be tricky at certain times of the day. That strudel is worth a walk if you park up the other end of Burnett St though!

Spanish. Chocolate. Seduction. Need I say more?

2009-09-22T18:48:00.004+10:00

Looking for an intimate but interesting twist on “just dessert” or “just coffee”? Look no further! San Churro’s website tag states that “Chocolate and Churros shall be your salvation” – and they couldn’t be closer to the truth! San Churro is a little Spanish cafe on the boardwalk at Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore. They specialise in – you got it – churros and chocolate – but make absolutely divine coffee too.

What’s a ‘churro’? Glad you asked. It’s a type of Spanish doughnut – served long and hot (no puns please, I’m part-British), with a pot of melted chocolate. Legend has it that the Spanish have these for breakfast – but I believe that as much as Americans think that kangaroos exist in our backyards (actually they do populate the local university here – but I digress).

San Churro do much more than churros and melted chocolate – they also specialise in all sorts of yummy chocolate tapas, fondues, sundaes and cakes. Their beverages are also the perfect companion – choose from a variety of Spanish Coffees and Hot Chocolate concoctions – not to mention their milkshakes! Oh my.

I recommend: Churros for two (two sauces – Dulce de leche and Dark Chocolate -and yes, once you dip churros in both of these babies at the same time – you won’t go back), and Madrid Mocha (no cream, but definitely marshmallows).

Tip: Find a cosy corner couch inside the dimly lit cafe, and you have a perfect recipe for romance!

Summary: In a nutshell? Utter chocolate seduction.

Where: San Churro – Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore
When: Mon-Sun 9am-10pm
Cost: Upmarket cafe prices ($5.50 for coffee, $13 for Churros for 2. $7 for 1)
Website: http://www.sanchurro.com.au
Perfect for: Late-night chocolate cravings, after-movie coffee, or something a little different.
Downsides: Only one of its kind in QLD (sorry Brisbane residents!), can get a little noisy on Friday/Saturday nights, given that it’s so close to the cinemas, restaurants and pubs at the plaza. Can also get very busy during peak times.

Coffee & Churros - made for each other!