Chesters

Of course, if you are after accommodation in the Valley, then my top tip is Chester's Guest House. A b&b, in the quiet backstreets, behind James Street.

It only has 10 bedrooms and is run by Maria and Peter Gittoes. If you like that personal touch when you are out of town, this is the place for you.

There is also free wireless internet, a relaxing lounge, free DVD's and welcoming, friendly service. It is at 26 Chester Street, Fortitude Valley www.chesters.net.au

Joanne Kee
www.ceressolutions.com.au

Fortitude Valley - food

There are a few places to grab a good coffee around the James Street Market area. This is one of them, Campos coffee, down a little laneway. 11 Wandoo Street, Fortitude Valley, open from 7am to 4 each day.

You can also catch a decent coffee in the James Street Market, not sure of the name, but you can't miss the coffee shop/restaurant smack bang in the middle of the markets.

If the James Street area is a little out of your price range, which would be totally understandable, try Chinatown in the Valley.

Apart from the various places where you can get barbeque, there is also Taste of Vietnam, where a big bowl of Pho will set you back $10.80. they also have the usual fare of spring rolls, both normal and rice paper. Food is quite decent. They are at 28 Duncan Street, Chinatown Mall, Fortitude Valley.

Joanne Kee
www.ceressolutions.com.au

Brisbane

In Brisbane for the week for the Big sound music conference.

Staying Chesters a great little b&B, which is a stones throw away from James Street Markets and campos coffee. Good places to get coffee.

Had dinner at Cru in James Street yesterday. The steak was fantastic, though not too sure about the potato rosti with breadcrumbs. This little complex has lots of other interesting places to eat, graze and consume in this little strip of shops.

The James Street markets are at 22 James Street, fortitude Valley, Brisbane


Joanne Kee
www.ceressolutions.com.au