Category: AUSTRALIA

Novotel Sydney does VIVID Sydney

Posted: 15/04/2023

If you’re planning to visit Sydney this May and June, Novotel Sydney Central should definitely be on your list. The VIVID Festival, an annual festival of light, music and ideas, is coming back and they have something exciting in store for all ages. Novotel Sydney Central has partnered with Sugar Republic to bring an interactive illuminated ball pit to their lobby during the festival. Filled with colorful balls, surrounded by neon lights and available to the general public and guests alike. It’s the perfect way for grown-ups to relive their childhood memories, and for kids to simply have fun! Oh, and let’s not forget about the perfect photo-op for avid Instagrammers! For those wanting to stay closer to the action, Novotel Sydney Central has announced a special VIVID package. This includes an overnight stay in a twin room, buffet breakfast where kids eat free, parking, and a welcome pack consisting of a bottle of wine for adults and a kids pack comprising of soft drinks and glow sticks! But it’s not just about staying at the hotel, because the Thomas St Kitchen and Bar will be offering special VIVID cocktails and food – making this the perfect date night or weekend getaway. So mark your calendar for the 19th of May to the 18th of June, and don’t miss out on Novotel Sydney Central’s VIVID activation. It’s the perfect place to create new memories and have a ball! Make a booking at the Novotel website

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIA, CITIES, FEATURES, SYDNEY, TRAVEL

Tags: Novotel, Novotel Sydney, Novotel VIVID Sydney, vivid sydney

Sydney brings back The Rocks Markets

by James Banham

Updated: 12/04/2023

Welcome to The Rocks Markets, a true icon of Sydney’s bustling city center. This historic harborside spot has been a hub of creativity and local craftsmanship for over 200 years, and it’s only getting better! The market is undergoing a refresh, with new makers and artisans joining original vendors to bring the best bites, live beats, and local crafts to this beloved destination. To celebrate the arrival of these new makers, The Rocks Markets is hosting a community taster event called Meet the Makers on April 15th and 16th. This two-day event is the perfect opportunity for Sydneysiders to shop for unique arts and homewares, devour tasty treats, enjoy live music, and take part in free workshops and special trader experiences with some of the makers themselves. Throughout the market’s footprint, you’ll experience a program of surprise pop-up maker demonstrations, tastings, trader interviews, and experiences, all free to attend for just one weekend! From leather goods to florals, from colorful art to gorgeous resin crafts, there’s something for everyone at The Rocks Markets. And the fun doesn’t end with the taster event! The Rocks Markets will be offering maker workshops and demonstrations as a permanent staple. Check The Rocks website and make a booking to get hands-on and make your very own item. Learn to create a flower arrangement with Jonima Flowers, explore geometric abstraction using collage and drawing with Emilio Frank Design, create the most famous and original Australian leather wallet with The Leather Trading Co., or make your own resin terrazzo coaster set… Read More

Category: CITIES, AUSTRALIA, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY, TRAVEL

Tags: Best sydney markets, Rocks market, Sydney market guide, sydney markets

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge; help a charity

by James Banham

Posted: 03/03/2023

Sydney’s known for two things: the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Both are iconic, but only one lets you climb it – and this year, the Bridge is supporting a charity and doing some good for the community. Following an incredible inaugural event last year which saw over 550 participants and more than $70,000 raised, BridgeClimb Sydney is thrilled to announce the return of its Climb for a Cause charity event on Sunday May 7, 2023, supporting Black Dog Institute, Australia’s leading mental health research institute. Doing more for the world than just allowing commuters aboard, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and BridgeClimb are fast-becoming not just a fun outdoor social activity, but an engine for change. For one day only, individuals, groups, and organisations can come together to ascend the magnificent arches of the Sydney Harbour Bridge while raising awareness and important funds towards a mentally healthier world. So why not get involved? It takes only three steps: More info and bookings can be found at the BridgeClimb website

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIA, CITIES, SYDNEY, TRAVEL

Tags: BridgeClimb, Climb Harbour Bridge, Sydney Harbour Bridge

Where to watch Sydney Mardi Gras’ new Pride route for 2023

Mardi Gras Parade men topless in speedos

by James Banham

Updated: 11/02/2023

With a new route that still wind sup out front of the party to end all parties, the Mardi Gras after party at Hordern Pavillion where you’ll see Agnes, Sugababes, Kitty Glitter and plenty more acts, it’s time to start getting excited. On Saturday 25 February 2023, the world-renowned Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade returns home to Oxford Street in celebration of the 45th anniversary of the first Mardi Gras march. This iconic event unites individuals across the LGBTQIA+ communities to showcase their pride, advocate for equal rights and express their passion. As the centrepiece of the epic Sydney WorldPride Festival, all eyes will be focused on 12,500 marchers as over 200 floats grace Oxford Street for the first time since 2020. Expect to see all of your Parade favourites, with First Nations, 78ers and the legendary rumble of the Dykes on Bikes leading the Parade as well as the quintessentially Australian Lifesavers With Pride and the many colourful, political, satirical and outlandish floats that has made the Parade famous over the last four decades. This year’s Festival theme, “Gather, Dream, Amplify,” comes to life as bigger floats adorn the entirely revamped route. With lighting and firework shows elevating the spectacle of the Parade, from Hyde Park to Moore Park, including a new Parade route milestone Drivers Triangle located by recently-announced Viewing Area Ruby Road. For more about Mardi Gras in Sydney 2023, head to the website and plan your night!

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIA, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY, TRAVEL

Tags: mardi gras, Sydney Mardi Gras 2023, Where to watch Mardi Gras, Where to watch Sydney Mardi Gras Parade 2023, Where to watch Sydney Mardi Gras' new Pride route for 2023

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge this Valentine’s Day

Two men kissing atop Sydney Harbour Bridge

by James Banham

Updated: 11/02/2023

If you’re sharing your life with that special someone, take it to the next level – kind of literally! – this February with a climb up the world famous Sydney Harbour Bridge! The Bridge has become known for great initiatives and special experiences for Sydney locals and visitors from all over the world and this is the latest. Prove how sky-high your love is! The opportunity to celebrate love at new heights with a Valentine’s Day picnic experience like no other will see you ascend the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge and bask in the stunning views with your significant other. After your climb, enjoy a lavish picnic at a picturesque location while admiring the magnificent Bridge you just scaled. The luxury menu features a sumptuous graze board, beautifully decorated picnic table, and romantic music, among other delightful surprises. For every Climb, Graze & Gaze purchase, you’ll make a difference by providing 10 meals to those in need, through our partnership with OzHarvest. Starting from $846, this one-of-a-kind experience is the perfect way to make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable. Book now at the Bridge Climb website and make a difference while creating lasting memories.

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIA, CITIES, SYDNEY, TRAVEL

Tags: Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge, Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge this Valentine's Day, sydney, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Valentine's Day Sydney

Great places to stay in Sydney this World Pride 2023

by James Banham

Posted: 31/01/2023

Everyone knows that emerges from its 11-month dormancy every year in March to bless the city of Sydney with its rainbow glow and turn Sydney into the living, breathing, beating glittery LGBT heart of the country that it is. So it’s no surprise that likely countless LGBTIQA+ people and their friends will descend on the city this February-March 2023 to bask in some of that rainbow glow, party, celebrate, activate and commiserate. Read more about it all here. If this is you, where will you stay? We spoke to Booking.com and they gave us a round up of some top-notch plays to call yours for a little or a long while, based on which events you’re heading to. Located in the inner-city suburbs of Eveleigh and Redfern, renowned multi-arts organisation Carriageworks will come alive for six days as the First Nations Gathering Space. Stay at the vibrant Adina Apartment Hotel Chippendale offering modern service apartments with a leafy courtyard and outdoor plunge pool. 2. Event – Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade and Pride Villages Be in the thick of the action around Oxford St where the iconic Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade and Pride Villages will take place. For 9 days from February 24th, parts of Crown St and Riley St will be closed to host an array of Pride Villages including stalls, performances, dining and Booking.com’s own Travel Proud stage. Make yourself at home at this Victorian Style House with Courtyard off Oxford St fitted with everything you need to enjoy your stay whilst immersing yourself in the celebrations. Only… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIA, CITIES, LGBTIQ, SYDNEY, TRAVEL

Tags: best Hotels Sydney, Booking.com hotels Sydney, Hotels Sydney World Pride, where to stay sydney, World Pride Sydney, World Pride Sydney where to stay

Move to Perth, Australia: pros and cons

Perth Australia sunny day park with city in background

by THE F

Updated: 24/08/2023

Moving to Perth, Australia, is a big decision, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. After all, change is exciting! But before you pack your bags for Perth, Australia, you should know a few things about the city. By the time you finish reading this article, you’ll know whether or not Perth is the right place for you. This article will cover everything from the cost of living and weather conditions to how to find jobs! Things to consider before moving You’ll need a suitcase (or two!), as well! Our favourite at the moment is American Tourister Pros Perth is a great city to live in. It has good weather, a strong economy and plenty of exciting things to do and see. The food is also excellent here, with restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines from around the world. There are many reasons why it is popular for people to move here: If you want your suitcase to look unique, and make it easy to distinguish from other suitcases. Then you can consider custom stickers cheap at this time. You can customise stickers with your name plus any pattern, or choose to customise some stickers of different shapes. In this process, custom stickers not only play a perfect decorative role but also reflect the importance you attach to this suitcase. It can be customised, no matter what you want to decorate with it. Custom stickers are not only very cheap but also very practical, hurry up and try them. Cons Takeaway:… Read More

Category: CITIES, AUSTRALIA, LIFESTYLE, PERTH, TRAVEL

Tags: About Perth, Disadvantages of living in Perth, How to move to Perth, Moving to Australia guide, Moving to Perth, perth, Where is Perth

5 Melbourne photo opps you don’t want to miss

by James Banham

Updated: 21/12/2022

Maintaining a long-standing stranglehold on the list of most liveable cities in the world, Melbourne is known for many great things. With an abundance of instagrammable places in Melbourne, it’s no surprise the city is known for its trend-starting fashion scene and cultural hotspots. Plus, it’s nigh-impossible to walk around the city without stumbling over the perfect cup of coffee. Being an incredibly artsy city, you’ll find several photoshoot locations in Melbourne that can take your Insta from first-timer shots to world-star compositions with some genuinely incredible Melbourne photography spots. If you want to capture new images for your Instagram feed, read our list of the best places to take photos in Melbourne, grab your camera, and snap these Melbourne photo-opps! Flinders Street Station On top of being a major transport hub for the CBD and one of the first stops for everything from business to site seeing, Flinders Steet station is a picturesque structure worthy of capturing on camera. Alight at Flinders Street station if you are interested in French Renaissance architecture. Then, take a moment to practice your documentary street photography and study the personalities of the crowds that gather here throughout the day. Photography Suggestion: You’re sure to find other shutterbugs around this Melbourne photography spot, so it’s also a great place to meet others in the scene. Hosier Lane/ACDC Lane We’ve lumped these two photography locations in Melbourne together since we couldn’t decide which was the best place to view high-quality street art in Melbourne, the so-called cultural capital of Australia…. Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIA, TRAVEL

Tags: 5 Melbourne photo opps you don't want to miss, Best Australian places for photos, How to take photos, Melbourne photos

Get your photo with Santa – on top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge!

by James Banham

Updated: 08/11/2022

This is the month it almost begins to feel like Christmas! Even Santa’s feeling the merriment and has landed on top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge where he’s cleared his schedule every Sunday morning from 6 November to 18 December 2022 for the ultimate Christmas photo: 134 metres above sea level and with the iconic Sydney Opera House as the backdrop. The man-in-red will be spreading his cheer for the Christmas must-do for all ages with one of the most breath-taking views in Australia – and the best thing is, with a sunny Christmas a sure thing every year, you know it’ll make for a great picture! As well as experiencing the best views of Sydney whilst scaling the iconic arches, Christmas cheer add-ons include a complimentary printed Santa photo with every purchased photo package, optional festive photo border on all photos, Santa hat to take home, and the chance to sing-along to your favourite Christmas carols on a stage like no other. For more info and to book – be quick! – head to the BridgeClimb website

Category: AUSTRALIA, CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY, TRAVEL

Tags: Bridge Climb Sydney, Climb Sydney Harbour Bridge, Santa photos Sydney, Santa Sydney Harbour Bridge

ARTS & CULTURE

Rum Tum Tugger and 2022 International Tour Company c Alessandro Pinna

CATS the musical is coming back to Sydney

17/10/2024

By James Banham

Step into a world of enchanting felines and timeless melodies as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical, CATS, returns to Theatre Royal Sydney. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in June 2025, this legendary production is set to captivate audiences once more, in the very theatre where its Australian journey began back in 1985. CATS first leapt onto the stage at the New London Theatre in 1981, revolutionising musical theatre with its dazzling fusion of music, dance, and T.S. Eliot’s whimsical poetry from Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. Since then, it has mesmerised over 81 million viewers across more than 50 countries, earning accolades including the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Musical. On Broadway, it reigned supreme for 18 years, collecting seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and establishing itself as a defining piece of the British “mega-musical” phenomenon. Producer John Frost of Crossroads Live reflects on the show’s enduring allure: “CATS is a legendary show that I’ve admired for over 40 years. A sparkling fusion of music, dance, and verse, it was revolutionary when it first opened and enticed new audiences into the world of musical theatre. I can’t wait to bring the original production of CATS back to Australia where it all began, at Theatre Royal Sydney, to celebrate its 40th anniversary in Australia.” The magic of CATS lies in its heartwarming tale of the Jellicle cat tribe. Each year, these unique felines gather for the Jellicle Ball, where their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy, makes the pivotal Jellicle choice, deciding which cat will… Read More

Dance, theatre and live music come together in Nobodaddy at Sadler’s Wells

17/10/2024

By James Banham

Experience the magic of dance at Sadler’s Wells Theatre this November with the enchanting production of “Nobodaddy,” brought to life by the brilliant Michael Keegan-Dolan and his acclaimed company, Tea? Da?sa. Running from 27th to 30th November, this groundbreaking performance promises to captivate audiences with its innovative fusion of dance, theatre, and live music. Following the success of their previous work, Mám, Keegan-Dolan returns to Sadler’s Wells with Nobodaddy, a powerful and evocative creation co-produced by Sadler’s Wells and making its London premiere. Inspired by a William Blake poem, this production emerges from the heart of Ireland’s Gaeltacht in West Kerry, offering a unique exploration of themes that resonate deeply with audiences. Nobodaddy is a large-scale dance and theatre ritual, featuring nine dancers seamlessly blending movement with song, accompanied by six musicians performing live on stage. The piece includes the extraordinary talents of renowned folk singer Sam Amidon, whose expertise in banjo, guitar, and fiddle enriches the performance. With seven acclaimed solo albums to his name, Amidon’s collaboration with Tea? Da?sa brings a vibrant, musical heartbeat to this immersive experience. The name “Nobodaddy,” an anagram for “Old daddy Nobody” or “Nobody’s daddy,” was coined by English Romantic poet William Blake. While Blake’s Nobodaddy represented a destructive divinity, Tea? Da?sa’s interpretation is a tribute to peacemakers and the harbingers of goodwill—an artistic nod to the power of unity and creativity. Created over eight weeks in the scenic surroundings of Kerry, Nobodaddy is a testament to Keegan-Dolan’s distinctive style of contemporary dance. The production is a celebration… Read More

The Lehman Trilogy 2024 L R Howard W Overshown Aaron Krohn © Mark Douet 50A6969.JPG

Lehman Trilogy is the play to see in London this season

13/10/2024

By James Banham

The return of The Lehman Trilogy to London’s West End is nothing short of a theatrical triumph. Having garnered critical acclaim and five Tony Awards®, this production reclaims its rightful place on the stage at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, dazzling audiences with its epic narrative and stellar performances. With its limited run until 5 January 2025, this is an unmissable opportunity to witness a play that has captivated over half a million viewers worldwide. Penned by the masterful Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power, and brought to life by the visionary director Sam Mendes, The Lehman Trilogy is a sweeping saga that chronicles the rise and fall of a family that not only changed the world but also shaped modern financial history. The story begins on a cold September morning in 1844, with a young Bavarian immigrant dreaming of a new life, and unfolds into a gripping tale spanning 163 years, culminating in the dramatic collapse of Lehman Brothers. This production boasts a formidable cast, with John Heffernan delivering a magnetic performance as Henry Lehman. Heffernan, known for his roles in Edward II and Oppenheimer, brings depth and nuance to the character. Alongside him, Aaron Krohn shines as Mayer Lehman, drawing on his rich experience with Sam Mendes’ previous works, including Cabaret and The Bridge Project. Howard W. Overshown rounds out the trio with his compelling portrayal of Emanuel Lehman, further solidifying his reputation from notable performances in Richard III and A Soldier’s Play. The ensemble is supported by a creative dream team, including set… Read More

What to see at Victorian Opera’s 2025 season

09/10/2024

By James Banham

Victorian Opera’s Season 2025 is set to be a dazzling display of theatrical brilliance, blending rare operatic masterpieces with the glitz of Broadway and literary adaptations. Topping the season’s bill is the first-ever fully staged production of Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning musical, “Follies,” running from February 1-6 at the iconic Palais Theatre in St Kilda. Picture this: a run-down theatre on the brink of demolition becomes the backdrop for a starry reunion of former chorus girls, rekindling the magic of their interwar performances. With luminaries like Marina Prior, Antoinette Halloran, and Rhonda Burchmore gracing the stage, it’s bound to be a spectacle that will go down in Australian musical theatre history. Under the expert artistic direction of Stuart Maunder AM, Victorian Opera continues to innovate and enchant. After their previous successes with productions like “Sweeney Todd” and “My Fair Lady,” Maunder once again teams up with Tony Award-winning designer Roger Kirk AM to bring this glamorous vision to life. The musical prowess of Phoebe Briggs and Orchestra Victoria will ensure a mesmerizing auditory experience. Come August, the Palais Theatre will once again be abuzz with excitement as Victorian Opera presents a fresh take on Mozart’s “The Abduction from the Seraglio.” This darkly comic opera is a heady mix of romance, heroism, and a touch of humor, set against Mozart’s emotionally charged score. Directed by Constantine Costi and featuring talents like Cleo Lee-McGowan and Katherine Allen, this production promises a thrilling ride through an operatic landscape filled with loyalty, love, and laughter. October brings us “Katya… Read More

If you like art, then you need to visit Royal Academy London

05/10/2024

By James Banham

At the dawn of the 16th century, the artistic landscape of Republican Florence became the stage for an extraordinary convergence of talent and ambition. Three illustrious figures of the Italian Renaissance—Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael—found themselves vying for the favor of the city’s most influential patrons. On January 25, 1504, Florence’s leading artists gathered to determine the rightful home for Michelangelo’s nearly completed masterpiece, David. This pivotal meeting included Leonardo da Vinci, who, like Michelangelo, had recently returned to his birthplace, setting the scene for a creative rivalry that would shape the Renaissance. The exhibition, beginning with Michelangelo’s acclaimed Taddei Tondo, delves into the competitive yet inspiring relationship between Michelangelo and Leonardo, and the profound impact they had on the youthful Raphael. Visitors will encounter some of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance drawing, including Leonardo’s Burlington House Cartoon and preparatory studies by both Leonardo and Michelangelo for their murals commissioned by the Florentine government for the newly built council hall in the Palazzo Vecchio. Organised by the Royal Academy of Arts, London, in collaboration with the Royal Collection Trust and the National Gallery, this exhibition offers a captivating journey through the artistic rivalry and collaboration that defined a pivotal era in art history. Michelangelo, Leonardo, RaphaelFlorence, c. 15049 November 2024 – 16 February 202510am–6pm, Tuesdays to Sundays10am-9pm, Fridays