Category: FEATURES

How to spend 48 hours in Athens this June Pride Month

Athens Greece night lights

Looking for a queer-friendly destination that’s not just about the party scene? Look no further than Athens. While it may not be as flashy as Mykonos or Amsterdam, the Greek capital has a and welcoming LGBTQ+ community that’s active throughout the year. But come June, when Pride events kick off, you’re in for a treat. Here are some must-do activities for your 48-hour Athens itinerary, inspired by This is Athens: Day 1: Athens Realness Morning Get your day started at Rooster for a cup of delicious Greek coffee. This all-day café is located a short walk from Monastiraki metro and is a popular spot among the local LGBTQ+ community. Afterward, make your way to the Acropolis, passing sights like Hadrian‘s Library and the Roman Agora along the way. Don’t forget to check out the state-of-the-art Acropolis Museum and explore the surrounding area, including the Odeon Of Herodes Atticus, Philopappou Monument, and Anafiotika. Lunch Head out of the Historic Centre and explore LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhoods like Gazi, Keramikos, and Metaxourgio. For lunch, try Myrolovos on Avdi Square for small Greek plates or hit up Groovy MyPlate in nearby Keramikos Square for some of Athens’ famous street food. Afternoon Take a break from ancient marble and explore Athens’ contemporary art scene at the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) or check out the underground Greek art in Gazi. If shopping is more your thing, head to the chic boutiques in Kolonaki or Athenian street fashion purveyors like Pitch, Dangerous Minds, or He-m-n-oid. Evening Experience Athens’ nightlife with… Read More

Australian ski season is here: Thredbo gets its snow

Thredbo snow mountain

It’s time to break out the skis and snowboards as Thredbo Resort celebrates an amazing night of snowfall and snowmaking in anticipation of the 2023 winter season. With only 15 days left until opening day on June 10, excitement is building for what promises to be a massive long weekend of celebrations on and off the mountain. Thredbo received an additional 15cm of snow on the upper half of the mountain, and with cold temperatures overnight, snowmaking conditions were ideal, resulting in some great early snow coverage. The sun shone the next morning, creating a beautiful bluebird day in the Snowy Mountains area. Thredbo’s snowmaking operations have been impressive so far, with more snowfall and snowmaking conditions predicted in the coming week. To see the snowfall for yourself, check out the live snow cams on Thredbo’s website. But it’s not just about skiing and snowboarding, Thredbo’s Winter 2023 Opening Weekend includes an exciting line-up of après, dining, live entertainment, kids’ activities, and more. And the fun won’t stop there, as Thredbo’s winter events and entertainment calendar is bigger and more diverse than ever this year, with new events added to the line-up, old favourites returning, and more bookings available for the hugely popular on-mountain experiences. So get ready to hit the slopes and enjoy all that Thredbo has to offer this winter season. With incredible snowfall and an exciting line-up of events and activities, it’s sure to be one to remember.

A technical look at the new Ford Everest Ambiente car

Ford Everest Ambient Sydney view car

First things first; I am not a technical car person, BUT, the new release of the Ford Everest Ambiente in Australia is such an approachable drive, it deserved the time. So, without further ado, let’s get under the bonnet (sorry) of what’s actually up with the new Ford Everest Ambiente and discuss the real question: should you buy one? Technical Review of the Ford Everest Ambiente in Australia The Ford Everest Ambiente is a rugged and reliable SUV designed for the Australian market. Here’s our technical review of this impressive vehicle: Engine and Performance The Ford Everest Ambiente comes with either a 2.0-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder engine producing 154kW/500Nm or a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 in the Sport and Platinum model grades. The Ambiente also features an advanced Terrain Management System, allowing drivers to choose between several different driving modes to optimize performance on various road surfaces. On top of that, the new Ford Everest Ambiente has a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Safety Features Safety is a top priority for the Ford Everest Ambiente, and it comes with a range of advanced safety features. These include seven airbags, a rearview camera, parking sensors, electronic stability control, and hill descent control. In addition, the Ambiente features Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and voice-activated controls for added convenience and safety. Interior and Comfort The interior of the Ford Everest Ambiente is spacious and comfortable, with seating for up to seven passengers. The seats are upholstered in durable cloth… Read More

Wines for winter: what’s your type?

Rose wine

Winter is upon us in Australia, and what better way to warm up than with a glass of delicious wine? If you’re looking for the perfect wine to enjoy during the colder months, there are a few options that truly stand out. First up, red wine. During winter, it’s time to put away the light and fruity whites and embrace the full-bodied flavors of red wine. One great option is Shiraz, which is rich and spicy, with notes of dark fruit, pepper, and chocolate. The Barossa Valley region produces some of the best Shiraz in Australia, and it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a wine that pairs well with hearty winter meals like stews and roasts. Another great option is Cabernet Sauvignon, which is often described as the “king of red wines.” It’s full-bodied and complex, with flavors of blackcurrant, tobacco, and vanilla. This wine pairs perfectly with rich and savory dishes like beef or lamb, making it a great choice for winter dining. If you prefer a lighter red wine, Pinot Noir is another great option. It’s a delicate and elegant wine, with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and spice. This wine is a great match for winter dishes like mushroom risotto or roast chicken. Moving on to white wine, Chardonnay is a classic choice for winter. It’s a full-bodied wine with flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla, and it pairs well with creamy dishes like pasta carbonara or chicken pot pie. Look for Chardonnays from the Margaret River or Yarra Valley regions… Read More

Eco-friendly wines are here to stay: here’s why

Wine hand Vinomofo

Are you a wine lover who’s also environmentally conscious? If so, you’ll be happy to know that eco-friendly wines are becoming increasingly popular. These wines are made using sustainable and organic farming methods that minimise the use of harmful chemicals and reduce carbon footprints. Eco-friendly wine production starts in the vineyard, where farmers use natural pest control methods such as crop rotation, cover crops, and composting. This approach ensures that the soil remains healthy, and the vines are protected without the use of pesticides or herbicides. In addition to protecting the environment, this method of farming also produces healthier grapes that result in better tasting wines. Organic wines are also made without artificial preservatives such as sulphur dioxide. Instead, vintners use natural processes to ensure that the wine is stable and can age properly. This means that organic wines are often fresher and have a cleaner taste than non-organic wines. Another option for eco-conscious wine lovers is biodynamic wine. Biodynamic farming takes organic farming a step further by incorporating spiritual and mystical practices into the production process. Biodynamic farmers use an astrological calendar to determine when to plant, prune, and harvest their grapes. They also use natural preparations such as manure, compost, and herbal teas to promote soil health and vine growth. If you’re looking for eco-friendly wine options, look for labels that are certified organic, biodynamic, or sustainable. These certifications ensure that the wine has been produced using environmentally friendly methods that meet specific standards. Some notable certifications include Demeter, USDA Organic, and Certified… Read More

Cheap airfares with Qatar Airways: go places this summer

Qatar Click Frenzy Mayhem aeroplane plane flight

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with Qatar Airways‘ Click Frenzy Sale! Starting from May 16, 2023, the world’s best airline is offering up to 10%* off on both Economy and Business Class flights. But hurry, this offer ends on May 21, 2023, at midnight. With travel dates between May 16, 2023, and March 31, 2024, you have plenty of time to discover new horizons and explore exciting destinations across the United Kingdom, Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. Simply use the promo code FRENZY on the Qatar Airways website and bag a bargain on your next getaway. Be it a relaxing beach break, a cultural experience, or an adventure of a lifetime, Qatar Airways has got you covered. With flights departing from all major airports, you can travel in style to your selected destination. And with Qatar Airways being voted the world’s best airline, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable journey. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to go places together with Qatar Airways. Book now and let the adventure begin!

Melbourne’s best bottomless cocktails at Brogan’s Way, Richmond

Negroni Spagliato cocktail

Bottomless cocktails, delicious tacos, and a cozy atmosphere – who says you have to wait until summer to enjoy all of these things? Thanks to Brogan’s Way Distillery and Bar in Richmond, cocktail-lovers can indulge during the colder months too. Starting on 20th May, Brogan’s Way is hosting Bottomless Cocktail sessions on selected Saturdays from May through to September. Each session will run for two hours starting at 3pm and will take place at the Brogan’s Way Distillery and Bar on North Street, Richmond. Guests will be treated to unlimited G&T pairings, select gin cocktails, and bottomless bubbles. Some of the G&T pairings on offer include the popular Everyday Salvation Gin & Tonic and Strawberries & Cream Gin & Tonic. Meanwhile, the cocktails on offer will be on rotation, including the Mando Sour, Mulled Gin, and Blood Orange Negroni Spritz. Not into alcohol? Don’t worry, Brogan’s Way also offers a non-alcoholic menu featuring delicious mocktails, select soft drinks, and alcohol-free wine. But that’s not all – guests can also indulge in tasty tacos from the Special Event Taco menu. Both meat and vegetarian options are available. Tacos start from $13 for two and can be ordered during the Bottomless Cocktail sessions. The Bottomless Cocktail sessions are a great idea for those looking to catch up with friends and family on a Saturday afternoon with refreshing and unique drinks and delicious food. And with tickets for the bottomless Gin Cocktails Drinks Package priced at $58 pp and the unlimited non-alcoholic Cocktails and Soft Drinks Package at… Read More

Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge: An Experience of a Lifetime with BridgeClimb Sydney

SYdney Harbour Opera House climb view

Climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most exhilarating experiences in the world. Standing 134 meters high, the Harbour Bridge offers breathtaking views of Sydney harbour, including the iconic Opera House and the city skyline. If you’re considering taking on this adventure, there’s only one way to do it – with BridgeClimb Sydney. BridgeClimb Sydney has been offering guided tours of the Harbour Bridge since 1998 and has taken over 4 million climbers to the top of the landmark. The company provides a safe and thrilling experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Preparing for the Climb Before the climb, BridgeClimb Sydney provides climbers with a comprehensive briefing, which includes safety instructions, guidelines, and a rundown of the equipment used during the climb. The briefing takes about 20-30 minutes but provides crucial information to ensure a successful and enjoyable climb. After the briefing, climbers are given a jump-suit, a radio headset, and a safety harness. You’ll also be asked to take a breathalyser test to ensure everyone is safe during the climb. Don’t worry; the test is just a formality, and it’s not meant to be invasive. The Climb The climb is divided into different stages, each with its unique perspective of the city and historical information given by your guide. The first stage takes you to the base of the bridge, where you’ll be walking on catwalks beside the traffic on the bridge. The second stage involves walking up a set of stairs to the arch’s interior. The… Read More

You Only Live Once: Inspiration for a Life Well-lived

Japan Mount Fuji Pagoda

Are you tired of the same old travel guides that simply list famous landmarks and tourist attractions? If so, Lonely Planet’s “You Only Live Once” may be just what you’re looking for. The highly anticipated second edition of this book offers an extraordinary range of travel adventures that aim to inspire you to live life to the fullest and make every moment count. “You Only Live Once” is not your typical bucket list of places to go and things to see. Instead, this book encourages you to seek out new experiences that will enrich your life and leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether it’s snorkelling in the Great Barrier Reef or taking a literary pilgrimage to Tasmania, this book provides ideas for fun, fulfilling, and often unconventional ways to explore the world. One of the great things about “You Only Live Once” is the wide range of experiences it offers. From an hour-long skinny dipping session to a month-long hike on New Zealand’s Te Araroa trail, you’ll find adventures that range from short and sweet to epic and life-changing. The book encourages you to try out new things and break away from your comfort zone, making it the perfect guide for the adventurous traveller. Aside from featuring incredible travel experiences, “You Only Live Once” highlights the importance of responsible and sustainable travel. Every chapter encourages readers to travel with the environment in mind and to give back to the communities they visit. In addition to inspirational travel ideas, this book also includes perspectives from well-known… Read More

Celebrating Mother’s Day in Australia with gifts

Woman chil gift

Mother’s Day is an occasion to celebrate and honour mothers, mother figures, and maternal bonds. It is a day to acknowledge the love, sacrifices, and hard work of mothers in our lives. In Australia, Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May – 14 May this year! – and it’s a day filled with traditions, joy, and appreciation. We’ve put together a wrap-up of some winning gift ideas for the most important woman in your life! UGG boots The Australian staple really needs no introduction. Lambs wool inner, suede outer, a whole lot of comfort. These are a must for anyone in Australia. Get them from Catch! T2 Tea gift pack Australian and the best. Support local while helping her drink the world, with a range of tea options either from or inspired by all corners of the globe. Head to the T2 Tea website for more Shavers and groomers from Shaver Shop An Australian initiative that sells the best and latest in shavers and personal grooming devices for men, women and everyone in-between, our favourite is the latest Silk Expert Pro 5 IPL Long Term Hair Removal Device. Get it for $499 down from $1099! Wine from VINOMOFO We’re rounded up Our wine favourites for ease, but basically, go Australian, go bold and prove to the woman who loves you how much you love her back! Hermes Mosaique au 24 Soup Tureen In homage to the mosaic which covers the floor of 24 Faubourg Saint-Honoré, the historic Hermès store, the geometric friezes… Read More