We hosted a Japanese homestay exchange student for 2 weeks on the Gold Coast and it was the best experience! I'm sharing info on outings, activities and the overall experience for anyone who might be considering hosting a student of their own sometime.
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Best mega slides on the Gold Coast
The only thing kids love more than a playground, is a playground with a MEGA SLIDE! We're talking the biggest of the biggest here, usually a tunnel slide and at least 3 stories high to make it on this select list. I've rounded up the Best Mega Slides on the Gold Coast here in one spot, so you can tick them each off your list and say you've conquered them all! What are you waiting for, get out there!
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Area 51, Helensvale
Area 51 has brought their epic play centre design to the Gold Coast, with their Westfield Helensvale location catering to 0-12yos. Come and discover a world of fun!
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Summerland Farm, Alstonville
Summerland Farm is a beautiful macadamia and avocado farm set high in Alstonville in the Ballina-Byron hinterland. Taste the region's delicious produce, meet the farm animals and enjoy a day in the country on a real Australian working farm.
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Vacay Your Way at Paradise Resort
Paradise Resort Gold Coast has officially launched its highly anticipated Vacay Your Way campaign, giving Aussie families even more reasons to plan their next getaway. The campaign features three tailored packages to suit every type of traveller, with travel available on selected dates until 18 September 2026. From those craving a short mini-break to families ready to tick off major theme parks, Vacay Your Way is all about choice.
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Two weeks in Japan – Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka
Our two week Autumn trip through Japan, visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Fujikawaguchiko.
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Our visit to the Japan Theme Parks – Tokyo Disney and Universal Studios
My family and I visited Tokyo Disney Resort (Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea) and Universal Studios Japan (Osaka) in December 2025. We travelled as a family of four, with children aged 6 and 3. Here are some answers to the questions I have been asked about our trip, as well as some tips and tricks we learned during our research and time in the parks.
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Deodar Park, Burleigh Waters
With a total of 7 slides, including a mega slide, Deodar Park at Burleigh Waters is a dream come true for those who love a slide! There are activities at every turn including a flying fox, swings, see saw, balance rope and fenced BMX pump track.
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Winter bucket list for Gold Coast families
Winter on the Gold Coast doesn't mean that the fun stops. With such a fleeting moment of winter, why not make the most of the cold weather and make your way through this mini-bucket list! There are so many great things on across the coast, pull out your winter woollies and get out there!
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Pat Fagan Park, Rainbow Bay
This vibrant playground is inspired by our surf lifesavers and designed to let the kids act out their surf lifesaving dreams! With a three storey Surf Rescue Tower, dune buggy and a surf shop, there is plenty here to play with.
