Brisbane, Australia

Brisbane is Australia's third-largest city and Queensland's capital, with a pretty relaxed vibe that works well for solo female travelers. The weather is warm most of the year, which means outdoor dining and river walks are usually an option. Aussie culture generally makes solo women feel welcome - locals are friendly but not pushy, and you'll see plenty of other women eating alone or exploring by themselves. The police are visible and helpful, especially around transport hubs and the CBD. Public transport runs well and feels safe during the day, though Fortitude Valley gets pretty rowdy on weekend nights so you'll want to be careful there. Emergency services are excellent and most people speak English, which makes getting help easy if you need it. Overall it's got that laid-back Australian feel but with enough city amenities to keep you busy.

English is the main language. Emergency services (000) operate in English with interpreter services available if needed. Tourist info and major attractions often have multilingual support.

• Brisbane takes its coffee seriously - try a flat white if you haven't had one. Café staff are usually happy to chat about their coffee, but don't feel like you need to be an expert.
• The sun is really strong in Queensland - carry SPF 30+ sunscreen and wear a hat. UV levels are high even on cloudy days, so don't get caught off guard.
• Tipping isn't expected like in the US, but rounding up bills or adding 10% for good service is appreciated. Most places take cards including contactless payments.

• TransLink runs all public transport - buses, trains, and ferries. Get a go card ($5 deposit) for easy payment, with single fares starting around $3.45.
• The CBD and South Bank are pretty walkable with good lighting and security. There's a free CityGlider bus that connects the main areas.
• The CityCat ferries along the Brisbane River are scenic and run frequently. Uber, DiDi, and taxis are easy to get and safe for getting around at night.