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Overview
When you're spending your spare moments glued to your phone, trying to cram more work into the 9-to-5 or scoffing down a snack as quickly as possible, it's easy to forget what taking a break really means. And, while enjoying a coffee throughout the day is one of life's simple pleasures, that's only the beginning.
Sure, your morning, lunch or afternoon break might be brief — and the window of time after work and before you head home, too — but that doesn't mean you can't find something fun to do. Try venturing beyond your closest cafe for these activities. They'll make your day brighter, trust us. Take the rewarding break you, as a hardworking human being, deserve.
SPLASH ABOUT AT SOUTH BANK
The fact that there's a free public pool right in the heart of Brisbane is pretty amazing — and something everyone quite often overlooks. Even if paddling in such a high-use swimming hole doesn't appeal, dipping your toes in just might. Where else can you close your eyes, soak up the relaxing watery vibes and pretend that you're miles away, all during the course of your lunch break? Be warned: it is a rather popular spot, but hey, doesn't that just add to the fun?
GET A QUICK ART FIX AT GOMA
There's a reason that the Gallery of Modern Art is one of the best places in the city. To put it simply, there's always something to see, regardless of whether the walls are lined with pieces from a high-profile exhibition at any particular moment. And, even when a big showcase does take over the space, you'll still find free sections to scour. Basically, it's the ultimate quick lunchtime culture fix — and given that its array of art is always changing, it's a place you can keep going back to regularly.
STOCK UP ON MID-WEEK MARKET GOODIES
You've gotta love the Wednesday Jan Power markets at Reddacliff Place at the end of Queen Street. They offer the epitome of lunchtime multitasking, as well as a weekly chance to stock up on farm-fresh groceries. Maybe you just want something new and different to eat? Perhaps you're keen to stock your pantry at home? Or, maybe you're keen to wander and munch on whatever takes your fancy. Yep, you can do all that here, whatever time you take lunch.
PEDAL AROUND TOWN
You've seen the stations all over the city, and the bright yellow bikes on the road, too. But, have you ever thought about hiring out a CityCycle and peddling around town for 30 minutes? We're suggesting that block of time because the first half an hour of every journey is free, however taking to the road for a longer ride really isn't very expensive. Just remember to BYO helmet, and you can cycle a circuit around the CBD and South Bank in next to no time.
FREE YOUR MIND AND MOVE YOUR BODY
It originated as a Chinese martial art, involves focusing the mind and the body, and can be practiced in the Brisbane Botanic Gardens at 12.30pm every Tuesday. Yes, we're talking about tai chi, the ultimate lunchtime relaxation activity. Think of it as a moving form of meditation that keeps you active and invigorates your brain at the same time. It's perfect for anyone who wouldn't even know how to enter a gym, it's free and you'll move your limbs while enjoying a view of the nearby duck pond.