Event Cinemas has taken over from the old Birch Caroll and Coyle at Indooroopilly. Pricing etc. however is still the same and well over a standard cinema. I like going to this cinema but now only go there when affordable e.g. on a cheap Tuesday or when I have vouchers.

Vaughan Kidd Photography stepped in last year when our photographer canceled on us a month before the wedding. The photos we received back were fantastic and the package was very affordable. Vaughan is a highly skilled photographer.

For the most part, I have quite enjoyed my experiences at La Dolce Vita (Milton), especially their Italian Hot Chocolate. However, I did think they had quite a nerve when they asked myself and a friend to move from a 4 seater table to a 2 seater when there was virtually no one around. The boss of the place then took that seat to do 'work' and asked how we were enjoying the coffee.

Cineplex at Southbank offers great value for money. I am willing to drive that little bit further to get to it to know the amount of money I will be saving. $3 parking is also offered, which makes it attractive. I can also see my favourite movies on the Imax screen from time to time, making it the ultimate viewing experience.

Approximate cost: $8.50

A great local fish and chip shops, which also sells fresh seafood. I think they have some of Brisbane's best chips and very generous servings. I always have to save some for later - it's not work throwing away. They also do great burgers.

My wife used this salon a bit before our wedding and said whilst it is a small, ordinary shop, it does have good prices and value for money. They obviously specialise in waxing services.

Foodworks has just taken over from Coles along Hawken Drive in St. Lucia. They offer better value for money but the employees don't look as happy to greet you.

I like Eldorado because it is a good alternatively to extremely high priced franchises such as Event Cinemas. You shouldn't expect anything extraordinary from this cinema but they do offer good value for money, which is why I will keep going back. Make sure you sign up online and get their Eldorado card.

Approximate cost: $9.50

I love this video store because it has a wide selection of rentals. You can just about get anything you want there or order it in. The negative fact though is the price, as they charge per DVD not per series you rent i.e. if you rent the DVD of Friends Season 3, you would be charged for three DVDs, not just the one like a franchised video store.

I would highly recommend going to the Sizzling Mongolian BBQ House on a Friday or Saturday evening when they also serve spring rolls, prawn toasts and other tasty appetizers in addition to their standard stirfry. It's a great place because you get to choose your ingredients and then watch it being cooked on the BBQ.