Brisbane: it’s a sub-tropical haven; a mecca of sunshine, style and sass; so where better to play? Brisvegas has it all, as Jessica Jane Sammut discovers.

When I think of Brisbane, so many things come to mind. Heat, sunshine, blue skies. A thriving arts culture. A fabulous shopping district. The perfect size (not too large and not too small). A cool crowd of progressive yet laid-back people, all having chosen to make their base in the city that lives outdoors.

So if it is a high-end girl’s sub-tropical weekend you are looking for, you would be hard pushed to beat this friendly urban hotspot, for it really does bend over backwards to make a weekend something special. City in the sun: that’s Brisvegas. Someone get that gal a mojito!

When looking for somewhere to stay right in the city, the Hilton, the Marriott, the Emporium and the Stamford Plaza have to be the pick of the best. Having stayed in the Stamford Plaza, I would certainly recommend it – a lavish hotel set on the Brisbane river with beautiful views, it is central to everything. And the staff can’t do enough for you. Champagne on ice in your room? You got it! The whole ambience really makes you feel like a princess and the décor of the hotel is traditional and full of character.

If you wish to kick start your weekend in style, make sure you indulge in the Stamford’s High Tea in the lobby. Complete with string quartet, a glass of Moet and the most delish selection of fine sweets and treats, not to mention loose-leaf teas, the High Tea offers a complete afternoon indulgence perfect for setting the scene for a fabulous night out!

And when dusk falls, it’s time to party. And Brisbane certainly caters well for those who love a fine wine, a gourmet meal or a shimmy on the dance floor.

Exquisite cuisine along with a beautiful environment can be found at Restaurant Two, Saké, Aria, Ortiga, Urbane or Alchemy. If I had to choose one, I would head for Saké in a heartbeat, which offers a contemporary Japanese menu matched with Japan’s finest saké – a taste sensation like no other. The Saké Signature Dishes Banquet Menu, consisting of a plethora of delectable sharing plates, together with the Saké Flight Experience (a sommelier takes you through a tasting of three different sakes – warm and cold) makes the evening ultra special and an experience you can savour. The cool vibe of Saké and its position on the river adds a further touch of style to the occasion.

And then for cocktails. Top of my list has to be The Bowery Bar, followed by Limes Rooftop Bar and then Laruche. All offer an amazing menu of drinks plus fabulous surroundings. You will certainly feel like you are mixing it up with the hot Brisbanites as you sip on some of the freshest cocktails you will ever taste, cooling you down nicely from the warmth of the night.

After a few drinks, it’s time to let down that hair and shake your booty and what better place to do this than at Cloudland or The Met. Throwing some shapes on the dance floor is what a girl’s weekend in Brisbane is all about after all!

So there you have it, my picks on what to do if hanging out in this fabulous city of the sun for the weekend, so don your highest heels, grab your bag and make your way over. Brisneyland is waiting …