You’ve checked in, said goodbye to your family, sent your baggage through to collections, and you’ve cleared the security station – now all you have to do is occupy yourself for a little bit of time before your flight. Easy done! If you’ve booked an early morning flight, we suggest you start with a hearty and wholesome breakfast. The Botanist Kitchen and Bar can be found before security, and serves some of the finest barista-made coffee in the entire International Terminal. In addition to this, all dishes are made from locally sourced ingredients, from the avocado and fetta on toast to the pancakes with fresh berries and ice-cream. Across the way, Corretto Bar & Cafe plates up an equally scrumptious array of vegan dishes including veggie and salad bowls.

Any international holiday isn’t complete without a cursory glance at the duty-free offering. You could probably spend a few hours browsing the deals available, but if you have a particular penchant for whisky, then you’re going to want to seek out the 100-bottle whisky bar at JR/Duty Free for some tastings. From Bruichladdich and Glenfiddich to Laphroaig and Hibiki, you can sample from a comprehensive range of drops from around the globe. After sampling, make your way out into the terminal and take in some more of the dining options. Brisbane River Grill should be your first port-of-call for delicious burgers and paddles of craft beer (including Brisbane’s own Green Beacon), while Windmill & Co offers stellar views of the runway and a menu of bistro bites including pizzas, pulled-pork quesadillas, tapas platters and more.

After shopping up a storm and eating your fill, it’s time to get pampered. Many travellers aren’t even aware that the International Terminal is home to a stellar spa where relaxation is the aim of the game. The Wellness Spa offers a range of treatments to ease aches and soothe woes, including de-stress massages, facials, aromatherapy and more. Once you’re suitably relaxed, float on through to the pay-per-use Plaza Premium Lounge and settle in with a view of the entire terminal. Sign up for a short or long-stay package and take advantage of the Wi-Fi, recharging stations and buffet, then sip and snack until your flight is called.

If you want to share a meal with friends and family before setting off on your holiday, your crew can book parking online and score two hours for $15. If your crew is joining you on your getaway, you can drive yourself to the airport and park, with parking options from only $10* per day. *Terms and conditions apply. 

This post was created in partnership with our friends at Brisbane Airport Corporation.