Kayla Wratten
Freelance Sub-Editor | Urban List Queensland
Kayla is a Brisbane-based writer and editor who swears the secret to happiness is always having a holiday booked. As a food, travel and lifestyle writer for leading publications around the world, she's visited some pretty cool places in the name of journalism—from the breezy beaches of Vanuatu to the snowy streets of Vancouver.
Back home in the Sunshine State, Kayla loves checking out the latest openings, whether it's buzzy city restaurants or design-led hotels in the hinterlands. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her with her nose in a book, catching up with friends over cocktails, or planning a trip she’ll 100% convince herself is 'research.
The Good Life By Kayla
Hot yoga + Ocean swims + Tommy's margs
Connect with Kayla
Articles
Where To Stay
Because our pets deserve relaxing holidays, too.
Things To Do
The Best Markets In Townsville To Visit This Weekend For Food, Fashion And Local Finds
Grab your market bags: food, crafts and local treasures await.
Things To Do
The Best Hikes In Townsville For Waterfalls, Lookouts And Coastal Views
From coastal climbs with sweeping Coral Sea views to rainforest tracks and waterfall detours, North Queensland’s unofficial adventure capital has no shortage of ways to get your heart pumping.
Food & Drink
Rise And Shine: Where To Find Townsville’s Best Breakfasts Right Now
Start your day right with locally-roasted coffee and a breakfast of champions.
Wellness
Sweat It Out At Townsville’s Best Gyms And Wellness Hubs In 2026
Sweat, sculpt, or float your stress away with 24/7 gyms, hot Pilates studios and infrared saunas that give your body the TLC it deserves.
City Guides
23 Things to Do On Your Next Tropical Getaway To Townsville (2026 Edition)
Snorkeling at an underwater museum, weekend markets, sunset cocktails over the Coral Sea—Townsville truly has it all.
Travel
6 Reasons Townsville Belongs On Your 2026 Travel Bucket List
There's more to this under-the-radar tropical capital than meets the eye.
Entertainment
Can You Fall In Love After Just 8 Dates? This New Brisbane-Based Series Is About To Find Out
Your insider scoop into the new rom-com drama series filmed in Brisbane, Two Years Later.
Things To Do
Where To Find A Photo Booth In Brisbane Right Now
Because nothing beats piling into a booth with your favourite people, waiting for the flash and watching the pics roll out.
Features
Townsville’s Long-Awaited Flinders Street Wharves Precinct Is Finally Open
Townsville cranks up the good times with its stunning new $30 million dining and entertainment hub.
Food & Drink
Raise A Glass At The 10 Best Bars In Townsville (2026 Edition)
Townsville/Gurambilbarra might be known for its sunshine, but when it comes to after-dark drinks, the best Townsville bars know how to bring the fun
Food & Drink
The Best Pubs In Townsville To Sink A Schooner In 2026
From beachfront beer gardens to heritage hotels, Townsville’s pub scene hits the trifecta with top-notch atmosphere, food and frothies.
Where To Stay
Check In: Townsville’s Dreamiest Airbnbs To Book In 2026
With 300 days of sunshine, Townsville is your year-round ticket to tropical bliss. Check in at now at the best ocean-view island stays and inner-city pads.
Food & Drink
20 Of Townsville’s Best Restaurants To Book In 2026
Start booking dinner reservations—here are the best Townsville restaurants to add to your hit list.
Restaurants
These Micro Restaurants In Brisbane Are Proving Size Does Actually Matter
From hidden degustations to hole-in-the-wall bars, Brisbane’s smallest venues are proving that big experiences don’t need big dining rooms.
Where To Stay
The Best Family-Friendly Accommodation In Osaka For A Fuss-Free Japan Getaway
From apartment-style digs to themed hotels steps from Universal Studios Japan.
Food & Drink
Ballin’ Bites: The Best Takoyaki Spots In Osaka
Eat 'em hot off the iron, on kerbs and in laneways, at breakfast and at midnight.
Food & Drink
Slurp The Best Ramen In Osaka: Here’s Where The Locals Go For The Perfect Bowl
You’ll find just about every ramen style in Japan's Kitchen, from rich and creamy tonkotsu to seafood-based broths and light shio bowls.
Food & Drink
The Best Cafes In Osaka To Get Your Daily Caffeine Fix (2026 Edition)
Osaka does caffeine with the same devotion it brings to everything else, from locally-roasted beans to century-old kissaten and riverside pour-over spots.
Food & Drink
The Best Street Food In Osaka’s Dotonbori District
Eat your way through Dotonbori with our tried-and-tested cheat sheet, swerving from takoyaki to strawberry daifuku.
Things To Do
The Best Things To Do In Osaka With Kids (That Parents Will Also Love)
One minute you’re riding rollercoasters, the next you’re snacking your way through Dotonbori or battling it out in an arcade. The best part? Osaka appeals to kids and adults alike.
Things To Do
The Best Museums In Osaka To Dive Into Japan’s History
Whether you’re brushing up on Japan’s feudal past or diving into Osaka’s obsession with food culture, there’s a museum to pique everyone's interest.
Local Escapes
The Best Day Trips From Osaka That Are Worth Fitting Into The Itinerary
From ancient capitals and storybook castles to mountain retreats and coastal cities, day trips from Osaka are unmatched.
Local Escapes
This Hiroshima Day Trip From Osaka Is One For The Bucket List
While Hiroshima is often defined by its history, there's so much more to explore in this charming coastal city.
Local Escapes
From Osaka To Koyasan: You Have To Book This Japan Temple Stay
Sleep in a working Buddhist temple in a UNESCO-listed mountain town—Japan’s most unforgettable overnight escape from Osaka.
Where To Stay
Where To Stay In Osaka From Five-Star Hotels To Traditional Ryokan
Where you stay shapes your entire trip, whether you prefer mornings shrine-hopping or nights chasing Osaka’s legendary street food scene.
Restaurants
25 Of The Best Mother’s Day Brunches And Lunches In Brisbane 2026
Treat the woman who does it all the way she deserves.
Where To Stay
The Coolest Barcelona Neighbourhoods To Stay In 2026
Each lively neighbourhood offers its own distinct personality, from the sun-drenched seaside in La Barceloneta to the medieval maze of El Born.
Things To Do
Thrift And Snack Your Way Through Barcelona’s Best Markets
From the freshest seafood to vintage finds and round-the-clock flowers, Barcelona markets have you covered.
Local Escapes
10 Of The Best Day Trips From Barcelona (2026 Edition)
At Urban List, we love heading beyond the city centre to explore what lies just outside. And there’s plenty to see and do around Barcelona, from the Costa Brava coastline to Montserrat’s famous mountain monastery.
Things To Do
The Best Nightclubs To Dance The Night Away At In Barcelona
In Barcelona, watching the sun rise over the Mediterranean from a dance floor is a perfectly reasonable way to end a Tuesday.
Things To Do
The Best Barcelona Beaches To Visit This Euro Summer (2026 Edition)
With over 4km of sandy coastline stitched together by a palm-lined promenade, you’re never far from ocean views in the city by the sea.
Things To Do
14 Of The Very Best Things To Do In Barcelona For 2026
From Gaudí trails to underground clubs and the beaches everyone wants a spot on.
Food & Drink
The Best Bars In Barcelona For Sundowners And Nightcaps
Whether you’re chasing world-ranked cocktails, low-intervention wines or perfectly executed Martinis, Barcelona has a bar for every kind of night.
Food & Drink
The Best Paella In Barcelona To Dig Into In 2026
Paella might just be Spain’s most quintessential (and delicious) dish. Whether you’re chasing a long lunch by the sea or a more refined take in the city, these are the Barcelona paella spots that truly know their way around a pan.
Food & Drink
Where To Find The Best Tapas In Barcelona (2026 Edition)
As one of the top foodie capitals of the world, even tapas bars in Barcelona gloat Michelin status. But finding a truly great one isn’t always as simple as following the crowds. Embrace tapas culture on your next Spanish sojourn with our round up of the very best in the small-plates business.
Food & Drink
The 15 Best Restaurants In Barcelona To Book A Table At In 2026
One of the best ways to get to know a city is to eat your way through it. In Barcelona, you can really run the gamut of dining experiences, from Michelin-starred tasting menus to tapas at a packed bistro.
Where To Stay
Hotels With Serious Cool Factor: 10 Barcelona Stays To Book In 2026
If Barcelona isn’t on your flight path yet, these slick hotels might just change that.
Best Of
Brisbane’s Best Restaurants And Bars With Fireplaces
From intimate English-style pubs to heritage-listed bars, your next reservation just got a whole lot cosier.
Where To Stay
The Best Airbnbs In Osaka For Every Type Of Japan Trip (2026 Edition)
Live like a local in Osaka with stays that swap hotels for tatami homes, zen gardens and onsen-style baths.
Where To Stay
The Best Hotels In Osaka For An Unforgettable Japan Holiday (2026 Edition)
Osaka is ancient and ultra-modern all at once, with a hotel scene to match.
Things To Do
Osaka’s Nightlife Is Pumping With Hidden Bars And Clubs—Here’s Where To End Your Night
Japan’s nightlife capital ramps up after dark, with packed izakaya, cocktail dens and late-night clubs that keep going long after midnight.
What's On
Win Your Dream International Trip By Shopping In Brissy CBD—Here’s How
Score an international getaway for two to Paris, New York City or London, simply by shopping at this luxe centre.
Shopping
The Best Op Shops And Vintage Stores In Brisbane For An Unbeatable Haul
Whether you're on the hunt for designer steals, unique vintage gems or everyday wardrobe staples, here's where to get thrifty.
Travel
This Sunshine Coast Getaway Is Cheaper Than Therapy (And Comes With A Bubbly Beachside Spritz)
Home to one of Queensland’s best beaches, this sunny coastal town pairs natural beauty with waterside restaurants and self-care moments that’ll have you feeling lighter by the end of day one.
Things To Do
Brisbane Wakes Up Earlier Than Any City On Earth—Here’s How To Win The Morning
Ready to rise and shine? Consider this your ultimate guide to winning the morning in Brisbane.
Where To Stay
12 Luxury Barcelona Hotels For When You’re Feeling Fancy (2026 Edition)
If you’re ready to live large on your next Euro getaway, Barcelona is the place to do it.
Things To Do
Drop An Anchor At This Luxe Boat Show With A Veuve Clicquot Sun Club And Splashy Superyachts
You don’t have to be a boating fanatic to make a day of the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show.
Things To Do
Hikes, Koalas And Hidden Bays: 8 Things To Do On Magnetic Island In Queensland
Queensland is spoilt for choice when it comes to tropical islands. Only 8km from Townsville, Magnetic Island is arguably one of the best.
Local Escapes
The Best Port Douglas Accommodation For A Tropical Getaway In 2026
Check into an adults-only boutique hotel, enjoy a family-friendly resort or unwind in a luxe villa with your very own plunge pool. Here’s our guide to the best accommodation in Port Douglas in 2026.
What's On
Beat The Midweek Slump: The Best Things To Do In Brisbane After Your 9-5
From bingo to beer yoga, here's your reminder that you're allowed to have a life during the week.
Bars & Pubs
Brisbane’s Best Irish Pubs To Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day
Pull up a stool at Brisbane’s best Irish pubs for a taste of the Emerald Isle all year round.
News
Townsville Weather: When Is The Best Time To Travel To Queensland’s Tropical Coastal City
With 300+ days of sunshine, Townsville is a year-round tropical paradise—here's how to plan around wet season, cyclones, and stingers for your perfect escape.
Things To Do
Beyond The Beach: 8 North Queensland Adventures You Won’t Want To Miss
Townsville is your launchpad for every kind of thrill, from reef and rainforest day trips to red dirt adventures.
Things To Do
Dive In: The Best Great Barrier Reef Trips To Book From Townsville
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a first-time snorkeler, Townsville is your gateway to some of the best Great Barrier Reef trips in the Sunshine State.
Features
Inside House Of Hälsa, Mermaid Beach’s New All-Day Cafe And Wellness Destination
House of Hälsa is a new wellness-focused cafe in Mermaid Beach, serving nourishing all-day eats, custom smoothies and global-inspired plates in a California-cool space.
News
What’s Happening To The Gabba? We Finally Know The Future Of Brisbane’s Iconic Stadium
Demolished? Refurbished? Turned into apartments? Here's the rundown on what's next for The Gabba.
Activities & Itineraries
Your Game-Day Guide To The Gabba: Where To Eat, Drink And Stay
Whether you’re heading to a cricket game or cheering on the Lions at an AFL match, the action doesn’t stop at the stadium gates.
Food & Drink
This New Aussie-Made Sip Is About To Be Your Drink Of Summer For 2026
We've found the perfect sip for your sundowners and Sunday seshes this summer.
Gifts
15 Gifts You Can Find In Brisbane For Everyone On Your Christmas List
From unique artisanal finds to locally made goodies, here’s your ultimate Brisbane gift guide.
News
Scorchers Ahead: What To Expect From The Gold Coast’s 2025–26 Summer Forecast
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your sun, surf and sunset drinks on the Gold Coast this summer.
News
What’s The Weather Looking Like For Christmas Day 2025 On The Gold Coast?
While it’s still a little early for exact numbers, early signals are giving us a glimpse of the festive forecast for December 25 on the Gold Coast. Here’s what to expect for the big day—and how to plan accordingly.
Restaurants
22 Of The Best Christmas Party Venues In Brisbane The Whole Office Will Love
Take some of the pressure off and outsource the particulars of your seasonal knees-up to one of Brisbane’s best party venues.
What's On
Where To Get Santa Photos In Brisbane For Your 2025 Christmas Album
Snap your annual Christmas family photo (pets included) at the best places to get Santa photos in Brisbane this year.
News
Toombul Shopping Centre Is Returning, Here’s Everything You Need To Know
The northside icon is making a comeback with a massive development in the works.
News
Brisbane’s Summer 2025–26 Weather Forecast Is In And Things Are Getting Spicy
BYO umbrella, because this summer is set to be hotter, wetter, and more humid than usual.
News
Queen Street Mall Is Getting A Major Glow-Up—And Stage One Lands This Summer
Brisbane’s most iconic shopping strip is levelling up—here's everything you need to know.
Restaurants
Dig Your Fork Into 13 Of The Best Restaurants In Chermside
Whether you're living it up on the northside or fuelling up for a shopping trip, here's where to grab a bite in Chermside.
Restaurants
Where To Book When You Want To Splash Out On Fine Dining In Brisbane
From long-standing icons to award-winning venues, these are Brisbane’s top fine dining restaurants to book when only the best will do.
Things To Do
8 Unmissable Day Trips From Townsville
Leave the city behind for heritage-listed tropical islands, mountain villages and outback safaris complete with Texas longhorn steers.
Food & Drink
Albion: What To Eat, Drink And Do In 2026
We're spilling the beans on where to eat, drink and chill out in Albion.
News
The Scenic Rim Is Turning Into A Massive Live Music Playground This November
The Scenic Rim is once again turning into a vibrant food, wine and live music playground when The Scenic Rim Trail returns from October 31 to November 9.
City Guides
The Most Magical Rainforest Day Trips From Townsville
Explore the green side of North Queensland like a proper local with our best rainforest recs—including Australia's tallest single-drop waterfall.
Cafes
Where To Find The Best Matcha In Brisbane Right Now
Hot or iced, Brisbane is obsessed with matcha so we've found the best cafes and dessert bars to get your fix.
Food & Drink
Savour The Tweed Festival Is Returning In 2025 With A Huge Five-Day Lineup
The Tweed’s epic food and drink festival Savour The Tweed is back for its second year in 2025, with five flavour-packed days of culinary events running from Wednesday 22 to Sunday 26 October.
Cafes
41 Of Brisbane’s Best Coffee Shops For Your Next Caffeine Hit
If you're as addicted to the bean juice as we are here at Urban List, here’s where to find the best specialty coffee in Brisbane.