WHEN someone says he loves visiting Australia's Gold Coast, I am never surprised. There are few places on earth that can match this place when it comes to fun.

WhiteWater World

For starters, check out this new feature. Opened last December, WhiteWater World is one of the world's most technologically advanced water parks.

You can scream your stress away while careening through the water tunnels and getting swished around in The Rip and The Green Room. Hungry for more thrills? Challenge your friends on the BRO (Blue Ring Octopus), the world's first eight-lane octopus racer or hop onto the Super Tubes HydroCoaster that speeds not only downhill, but up as well.

At Nickelodeon's Pipeline Plunge, the kids will have a blast exploring the 140 interactive water activities which include geysers and blaster canons. Even the adults enjoy themselves here.

Fulfil your dream of ruling the waves at Dreamworld's FlowRider

Dreamworld

Conveniently located next to WhiteWater World, Dreamworld has some of the world's fastest and tallest rides. Let the Big Five Thrill Rides - Tower of Terror, Giant Drop, Wipeout, Cyclone Rollercoaster and The Claw! - pump your adrenaline. Do not be a chicken, make sure you try out The Claw. Dreamworld's latest addition will swing you nine storeys high while spinning 360 degrees in the air till you reach zero gravity.

Need practice before tackling the surf at the beach? FlowRider, another new attraction, will let you enjoy the thrill of catching a wave, regardless of your skill level. Just remember to act cool when you take a spill.

Infinity and SpaceWalker

Fun and educational, Infinity and SpaceWalker will enthral even non-sci-fi fans.

Infinity comprises over 20 multi-sensual environments designed to stimulate your senses and ignite your imagination. Groovy music and unique special effects abound while you explore different zones such as The Electron Maze, which contains thousands of miniature lights simulating electrons inside the circuitry of a large computer; and Infinite Kaleidoscope, which feels like a transparent skyscraper with kaleidoscopic walls.

At SpaceWalker, catch a glimpse of the future as you get 'teleported' 40,000 lightyears to Star Station Zeta and journey through Discovery Pods, Wormholes, the Milky Way and the planets. Top off your inter-galactic experience with some extra-terrestrial nourishment at the Voyager Bar and Restaurant. But beware of alien life forms languishing in your cocktail!

Catch the colourful extravaganza Tempo Rouge before it ends its run in April

Tempo Rouge

Forget about Crazy Horse, catch Tempo Rouge instead at the Conrad Jupiters, an international luxury resort where the 24-hour Jupiters Casino is.

A spectacular live stage show filled with vibrant choreography and specialty acts, Tempo Rouge will take you on a whirlwind journey around the globe from the latino beats and flamboyant costumes of Rio Carnivale, to the heart of Africa, the backstreets of America's jazz scene and the opulence of Bollywood.

Tall Ship Sailing Cruises

Need to slow down the tempo? Why not go whale watching? Gold Coast's most luxurious vessel, the M.V. 2000, run by Tall Ship Sailing Cruises, offers five spacious viewing platforms from which you can spot whales, turtles and dolphins.

On your way back, check out McLarens Landing, an exclusive island hideaway. You can relax there or test your adrenalin on a speedboat ride, 4WD eco-tour, seaplane flight or parasailing.

Take in the amazing view from the Observation Deck

The Q1 Observation Deck

Before bidding adieu to a thrilling time at the Gold Coast, I suggest you pay a visit to the highest residential tower in the world. Standing at 322.5m tall, the Q1 has an observation deck at Level 77 (230m) that will give you such breathtaking views of the ocean, beaches, waterways and buildings of the Gold Coast. You will be left gasping for more!

Angela Lee visited Queensland as a guest of Tourism Queensland.
Photos: Angela Lee

The "Gold Coast Escapade" package

This land package offers free entry to WhiteWater World for the first 100 kids! Starting from $428, it includes 3N accommodation, daily hotel breakfasts, return airport transfers and entry to Dreamworld with return transfers. It is sold in conjunction with Qantas or British Airways return airfares and is valid for DBS/POSB cardmembers only.

Meet Dora The Explorer

Hailing all the way from Dreamworld, Dora will make 20-minute appearances at the Natas travel fair at the Tourism Queensland Booth T05 from 11am to 7pm tomorrow; and 12.30pm, 2.30pm, 4.30pm and 6.30pm on Saturday and Sunday.