Sponsored by Oakwood Brisbane
Last Tuesday, it was our eighth wedding anniversary. Yes, 8 years ago, hubby and I walked down the aisle and the day kinda looked like this:
I can’t believe it was eight years ago, but looking at that photo it feels like a lifetime ago. Funny how time works.
So, when Oakwood Brisbane asked if we’d like to try their city escape package, we jumped at the chance to have a staycation and have a bit of time to ourselves, celebrate our anniversary and enjoy the city.
Saturday morning we woke with great anticipation of the day. We stayed the night at hubby’s parents as we had a 70th birthday party that night, and the girls were going to stay over at their grandparents on the Saturday night, while we were at Oakwood. I was worried mostly about wasting the time away – you know that list of things you’ll do when you find yourself child-free? Yes, that! I had plans of reading a book while enjoying a (hot) coffee, having a bath with a glass on wine in hand, browsing the shops…all of that.
So when we checked in to Oakwood Brisbane I was very happy to find not only a balcony with an amazing view, perfect for reading while sipping on a hot coffee, or glass of wine; but a bathtub as well. And a cheese platter, and bottle of wine to enjoy. Yipeeeee!
By the time we’d scoped out the room, devoured the cheese platter and made a dent in the bottle of wine, it was about 4pm and we realised we hadn’t had lunch, so we ordered room service – which was at the door in a flash – pepperoni pizza, a wagyu beef burger (rated very highly by my burger-loving hubby) and salt and pepper calamari which came with a tasty little salad on the side.
I then decided it was time for that uninterrupted bath I was so looking forward to, and hubby wanted an uninterrupted nap (can you sense a theme here!), so I poured a bath, set up my Netflix with The Crown and poured myself a glass of wine. Oh yes my friends. This is livin’ Barry.
About 6.30pm we decided to get dressed up like the old days and go into town for some drinks and tapas. I’ve always wanted to have a relaxed few drinks at the Stokehouse so we did that.
We walked through South Bank to get there, and I must admit I had a small breakdown here. Momentarily I got the freaking mum guilts. The ridiculous, nonsensical guilts. There were families everywhere and despite the fact I am much better at spending time apart from my girls, I still miss them like crazy. But this was NOT going to ruin my night. MOVING right along.
It was after the first glass of wine that we really relaxed and had a good chat, and not just about the kids. It was nice. However when it ticked close to 11pm, I was TIRED. Seriously, when you hit 30 your body just gives up on late nights, I reckon. So, we jumped in a cab for the easy ride over to the Oakwood (which is situated right between the Valley and the City).
After a blissful shower (why not?!) I jumped into the crisp sheets and enjoyed 8 full hours of sleep. And guys, here’s that word again – uninterrupted.
Look, I love a good a-la carte breakfast menu but theres something about a brekky buffet I just freaking love. I guess you never know what’s going to be on offer. And you can eat as many eggs as you want…which for me, sometimes, is a lot. I was stoked to find gluten free options as well as the usual fare. And guys, it was tasty.
After we’d polished that off, we decided to go for a bit of a walk and check out the city. It’s really only a short walk along the water – and will be super close to the new wharf precinct being constructed, too.
Oh, did I mention the valet parking ($25 for the stay)? After we’d checked out, got our car and started to drive away, I was thankful – so thankful – to enjoy the time away but was also really looking forward to seeing our girls faces. Absence, hearts fonder, all that jazz. And that’s what it’s all about, really.
We really enjoyed our stay at Oakwood Brisbane – it was an easy place to stay – easy check in, friendly staff, fast lifts, clean room, comfy bed, quick room service, tasty food and a great location in Brissy, with an epic view. I’d love to book for another special occasion, and even bring the girls too. They’d love it.
Thanks to Oakwood Brisbane for having us. You can check out their rates and packages here.
Have you ever had a night away from your children? Or do you have them regularly? Any tips for avoiding the mum guilts?!
We stayed as guests of Oakwood Brisbane. This post is sponsored however all words and review is completely my own.
