CCM

I've been living in "Indro" as it is known for almost a year now... living in an apartment was a bit of a change from our house in the outer suburbs that we previously had; but it has worked out really well. There are lots of public transport options; so much so that I have sold my car. The train station is a central hub where express trains run to the city; so there are more trains than at other stops closer to the city. The ride takes about 10 mins to the city on an express train. There is a bus station also at the shopping centre.

There are a few restaurants along Station Rd - though the only ones worth bothering with are the Laksa Hut and the Ashoka Indian. The others don't have very nice meals, although they seem to be busy a lot of the time. The Hog's Breath Cafe at the Coles complex opposite the train station also has great steak, which I was suprised about. The food court in the main shopping centre has loads of options; and also recommend the ribbon sandwiches and tea selection at Fleet Street Cafe (part of the Pig and Whistle Pub adjoining the main shopping centre). The Pig and Whistle is open late on weeknights and weekends for meals and drinks and has a smoking section outside.

There is an unofficial dog park/meeting point at the Indooroopilly High School Oval; lots of dog walkers about 6.30am and about 5pm at night. Make sure you take your own bags and ball. Lots of dogs there and they are all very social. We walk every morning and see the same people - many are regulars and friendly. Never seen any dogs fighting there.

The noise from the train can be painful if you are living close by. Most apartments and houses would have soundproof glass if they are reasonably new; but be prepared to have your conversations and TV interrupted if you are close. The traffic can be a bit busy, but no more than any other inner city suburb. We were using street parking for most of the year and did not have a problem. Make sure you check the signs though; parking inspectors will ticket you if you are in an unlined/unsigned zone.

All in all, Indro is a great place to live. It has a mix of students; young families; retirees and professionals and on the whole people are friendly. It's easy access to the city and public transport and not pretentious at all. Shopping is excellent and I certainly recommend it if you are looking to live reasonably close to the city. The biggest downside is that rents are quite expensive.