Australia has always been a land of adventure for me. I’ve wandered through Sydney’s harbor, explored Melbourne’s laneways, breathed in Tasmania’s wild beauty, and felt the pulse of Brisbane’s growing energy. I even wrote about my experiences in my award-winning book. And yet, every time I return, I discover there’s still so much more to see. That’s the magic of Australia—it keeps inviting you back.
Now, Qantas is making that invitation even easier. The airline, which has been part of Los Angeles since the 1984 Summer Olympics, has launched a brand-new Brisbane–Los Angeles Dreamliner route. To celebrate, Qantas and Brisbane Airport hosted a night to remember at NeueHouse Venice, where the future of travel across the Pacific was front and center.
Why the Dreamliner is Different
This isn’t just another flight. The Dreamliner is designed to make the journey part of the experience. Think quieter cabins, cleaner air, lighting that eases jet lag, and seating choices that include Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. With 21 weekly flights, there are more opportunities than ever for Americans to say “yes” to Australia.
Brisbane: The Perfect First Stop
Brisbane has changed dramatically since my first visit. Once seen as a stopover city, it’s now a destination in its own right. Families can meet koalas at the world’s only sanctuary or dive into Bluey World. Luxury seekers will love the city’s spas and the largest elevated infinity pool in the world. And with the 2032 Olympics ahead, Brisbane is stepping onto the global stage in a big way.
Queensland: The World’s Biggest Backyard
The city is just the beginning. A short trip north leads to the Whitsundays, where white sand and turquoise water feel like a dream. The Gold Coast is buzzing with new luxury hotels like the Andaz, plus a growing focus on wellness—boutique bathhouses, bakery tourism, and spa retreats.
Queensland also shines for ecotourism and Indigenous culture:
- Stargaze in dark-sky sanctuaries while hearing ancient stories passed down through the stars.
- Follow the Humpback Highway, where 45,000 whales migrate each year.
- Night-dive the Great Barrier Reef or kayak to ancient Aboriginal sites.
It’s a place where luxury, culture, and adventure meet—Australia’s biggest backyard, ready to be explored.
A New Chapter in the Journey
At NeueHouse Venice, I felt the same excitement in the room that I’ve felt every time I’ve landed in Australia: the thrill of possibility. One lucky guest even left with round-trip Dreamliner tickets to Brisbane, the ultimate golden ticket to adventure.
For me, this new route feels personal. I’ve seen a lot of Australia, but there’s so much more waiting. With Qantas’ Dreamliner making the trip easier, I can’t wait to go back, take on new challenges, and keep discovering why Australia has a hold on my heart.
Qantas + Brisbane. A new chapter begins.
