It seems a lot of my travel adventures seem to involve music and food. Well why not, I say? They’re not only two things everyone should hold dear to them, but also two that often go hand in hand. If you see some great live music you should be dining on delicious food, either before, after, or maybe even during.
One place that may have survived in the shadows of its neighbouring area on the gorgeous Gold Coast of Queensland is Broadbeach.
Of course, everyone knows and many love Surfers Paradise. In a way it is the capital of the Gold Coast. But its little sister, which sits about 10 minutes south, is more than appealing. Broadbeach has all the elements that make it a brilliant seaside destination like Surfers. But it is a little more relaxed and I think more inviting.
The beach is superb and very accessible, and just recently the new Kurrawa Surf Club opened its doors. You won’t get a better view with your lunch. There is also plenty of other action on offer.
Shopping
The Oasis Shopping Centre in Broadbeach Mall is full of delightful boutiques, exclusive Queensland designers, quality homewares and gourmet goodies.
Then straight across the road you have the massive Pacific Fair. Now, let me warn you upfront; should you or your partner manage to drag you away from the beach to visit here, take a compass! The place is huge.
But let’s get to the important stuff, the music, the food and a superb place to rest your head.
Music
Twice a year, Broadbeach comes alive with the sweet sound of music with festivals that are gaining momentum and that music lovers are embracing.
Every May the place gets in to the groove with its very own Blues on Broadbeach – www.bluesonbroadbeach.com. Now in its 16th year, this event has gone from strength to strength – with a mix of overseas and Australian talent, it is a four-day frenzy of blues and blues rock that will have you in harmony heaven! The events main stage is right in the heart of the Broadbeach CBD, but there are many venues in and around that have musical offerings for all so make sure you have a little time to explore. This year’s event will run from May 17th through until the 20th.
The other festival that takes place here is the new kid on the block and I guess is running of the success of the Blues on Broadbeach. The Broadbeach Country Music Festival runs from the 19th -21st of June and is quickly gaining a good following. So, if Country is your thing then get your boots and Stetson on and head to Broadbeach in June.
Food and Accommodation
I’m actually going to combine my food with a brilliant accommodation choice that will not only have you staying right in the core of the action, but will also have you feasting better than a Masterchef judge, while being treated like royalty at the same time.
The Sofitel (www.sofitelgoldcoast.com.au) sits right in amongst the action at Broadbeach and I have chosen to stay there many times over the years.
For me, one of the biggest let downs in Australian hospitality sadly is service. Good, old fashioned, you-are-an-important-person-because-you are-choosing-to-eat-at, or stay-in, or visit, our establishment. It is a vital part of all business and in the hospitality game it should be number one!
Sofitel has (and I hope always will) shine when it comes to this most important element of the game.
Yes, it has brilliant rooms with fantastic views over the beach or out to the Gold Coast Hinterland. It features a breakfast buffet that puts a lot of the other hotel buffet offerings to shame and, if you are smart, you won’t need any lunch. The pool deck is divine and stylish giving you the perfect option to the beach, and comes with a cocktail or two, should you be so inclined.
It also has one of the best restaurants on the Gold Coast itself and you must, when you stay, spoil yourself with a degustation delight at Room 81. If you consider yourself a bit of a foodie, and to be honest most of us do these days, then you will certainly be in your element. Room 81 has many plaudits, but I guess being awarded two hats by the Australian Good Food Guide would have to be the best. I want you to indulge yourself with one of their degustation offerings, either the five- course or the magnificent signature 12 course feast. You will not be disappointed!
On top of that as I said you will be treated exactly how you should be treated when staying at any 5-star establishment – maybe better.
Scott is the host of ‘A Taste of Travel’ on the TEN/WIN Networks
