I’m sure we can all agree that after spending so much time at home this year, we need less stuff and more experiences. After all, research has shown that getting among something new leaves a meaningful mark on our memories.
So this Christmas, skip the impersonal candle and opt for helping your loved ones make next year truly magical. The best part? It takes absolutely minimal effort, thanks to BananaLab’s experience gift boxes. A single gift box offers hundreds of epic travel and foodie experiences, from blissful wine tastings to culinary adventures. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up our top picks in and around Brisbane—you’re welcome.
Overnight Staycation At Cairns Oasis Resort
Cairns City
Bank some tropical holiday vibes minus the expensive plane ticket, thanks to Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort. You’ll be put up in a deluxe room overlooking the city with access to amenities like a pool and swim-up bar—how dreamy. Bonus bits include a welcome cocktail on arrival and breakfast the next day—winning.
Get among this experience with the Ultimate Gift Box.
Ultimate Dining Experience At Eagles Nest
Kangaroo Point
Few things beat the twinkling city lights of Brissy set to the backdrop of a whimsical sunset. Make tracks to the 12th floor of Eagles Nest rooftop bar to get among this goodness. Snack away on tapas and a charcuterie board as you enjoy a drink overlooking the horizon.
Get among this experience with the Bucket List Gift Box.
Romantic Dining Experience At Plates Restaurant
Hamilton
Dining riverside has to take the cake as one of the most romantic dinner settings. Add to this access to an extensive cellar door, and you have a cosy evening out for you and your beau. Plates Restaurant serves up the atmosphere and tasty bites all in one go with their two-course meal starring modern Australian cuisine.
Get among this experience with the Bucket List Gift Box.
Sirromet Winery Tasting
Mount Cotton
Get among Queensland’s Granite Belt wine region thanks to this private tour with Sirromet wines. You’ll get to know what’s what when it comes to all things vino, from the history to the process, to what makes these drops so sippable. Afterwards, enjoy a taste of their award-winning premium wines, which are only reserved for special folk.
Get among this experience with the Table for Two Gift Box.
Overnight Getaway At The Point Brisbane
Kangaroo Point
Turn on the ‘out of office’ and take off for a well-deserved staycation at The Point Brisbane. This one-night stay is packed with the good stuff; romantic city views, a comfortable deluxe room, as well as a free brekky at Lamberts Restaurants the next day.
Get among this experience with the Moments of Wanderlust Gift Box.
Two-Course Lunch Experience
Bardon
Amp up the romance with a luxurious afternoon at the French bistro La Belle Vie. Make your way southwest of the city to indulge in a thoughtfully-crafted two-course lunch alongside stellar views and a glass of vino. You’ll experience just this with a lucky someone on a foodie excursion out to Bardon—so what are you waiting for?
Get among this experience with the Bucket List Gift Box.
Overnight Staycation At The View Hotel
Hamilton
Transform your weekend from streetview to sky-high with a luxury staycation at the View Hotel. The name says it all, really—spend a night soaking up the relaxing scenes of Albion Park from your well-appointed room. What’s more, you can bank on a welcome bottle of wine and breakfast for two with this one. There’s really nothing better than ordering room service in bed, is there?
Get among this experience with the Moments of Wanderlust Gift Box.
Ultimate Wine Session
Fortitude Valley
If you’d like the cellar door experience without the long car ride, opt for our go-to urban spot; City Winery Brisbane. There’s no doubt that this really is the ultimate wine experience. In this hands-on session, you’ll dive deep into flavour profiles and tastes before getting crafty and mixing together a bottle of booze yourself.
Get among this experience with the Ultimate Gift Box.
Lunch And Cruise Experience
Surfers Paradise
If you’ve already ticked off the best panoramic views around the GC, take to the water with a tasty lunch and cruise. Get a taste of Queensland’s best produce and fresh seafood as you catch the sights along the Gold Coast’s canals. Plus, did we mention there’s a bar onboard? See you there.
Get among this experience with the Moments of Wanderlust Gift Box.
Farm Tour And Picnic Lunch
Sharon
Escape the city and embrace wholesome vibes with a trip to Splitters Farm. You’ll enjoy a full day exploring all there is to discover, including no less than 300 adorable rescue animals living their best lives. Scout out your favourite spot and settle in for a gourmet hamper brimming with delicious bites to satisfy your hunger.
Get among this experience with the Bucket List Gift Box.
Tick off your festive to-do list with BananaLab’s experience gift boxes. With a winning selection of food, wine, travel, and adventure experiences on offer, they have you and your loved ones covered.
Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by BananaLab and proudly endorsed by Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.