If you are thinking of migrating down under, and Queensland’s endless summers appeal to you- take a look at Surfers Paradise. A unique mix of high rise skyline, vibrant night-life, and stunning beaches, make it the most iconic tourist destination in Australia. And the qualities that make Surfers such an exciting holiday spot make it well worth considering full time. A lot of the locals are single, and couples without children, and most of the real estate is units. But if you are thinking of moving the family over, Surfers has plenty of family facilities and can offer a quintessential action-packed, outdoors Aussie lifestyle alongside some more cosmopolitan pleasures.

A 50 minute drive South of Brisbane, and 20 minutes from Gold Coast Airport, Surfers Paradise has taken a prime spot on the famous 40 km stretch of surfing beaches. The economy of the area is based around retail, hospitality and other personal and business services supporting a largely tourist based economy. The permanent population of Surfers Paradise is just under 20,000, and the Gold Coast City Council is based there, at Evansdale. The Council has started a 25 million dollar redevelopment of the foreshore in 2010, adding to the attraction and land value for families moving to Surfers Paradise.

Sunshine and surf culture is obviously a focal point, but Surfers is also a haven of retail therapy that’s hard to match- home to myriad local and international brand and concept stores open 7 days a week, with late night shopping every night. Try Elkhorn Ave for high end labels Prada, Gucci, Hermes and Louis Vuitton. Other unique retail experiences include the night markets at the beach on Wednesdays and Fridays.

Families who decide to make the move to Surfers Paradise a permanent vacation can make the most of all the lifestyle offerings.  There are plenty of educational choices with at least 20 schools within 7 kms.