Category: TRAVEL

When you’re next in the French West Indies, visit Hotel Manapany by Francois Champsaur

Updated: 16/11/2022

Francois Champsaur’s new luxury hotel, Hotel Manapany, hidden away in Saint Barthelemy, French West Indies is the rage at the moment, touting everything you love about luxury travel, right at the tip of South America. After the renovation of the Hotel Vernet in Paris, Francois Chamspaur and Anne Jousse – the President of the hotel and resort group B Signature – have taken it upon themselves to show the world what it means to open the first eco resort on the island of Saint Barthelemy It’s a ruggedly handsome spot of land north of the South American coastline, the natural beauty of which, really plays to the direction they’ve decided to take the new project. Interior designer Francois Champsaur saw the combination of the immense ocean, the white sandy beach, the coastal vegetation, and the silhouettes of islands in the distance as things to play with the atmosphere of the hotel, in addition to the interior style itself. To put it plainly, he was inspired by the presence of nature, and the natural balance between these elements. The resort is made-up of 43 cottages scattered on the beach and hillside of the island. Blending with the plants and landscape are wooden decks, pergolas, and small windows with shutters which catch the light and create the feeling of being nestled amongst the trees, whilst providing an exceptional view of the sea. The hotels pathways have been narrowed to blend in with the landscape and the beautiful beach that borders the cottages has regained its wild and lush vegetation…. Read More

Category: FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, TRAVEL

Tags: francois champsaur, francois champsaur hotel, hotel manapany, saint bathelemy hotel, st barthelemy

Lonely Planet introduces first guides to cruise travel

by James Banham

Updated: 08/11/2018

We all love the thought of jumping on board a luxury, floating palace and sailing away into the sunset on an undetermined island-hopping cruise of relaxing, eating and drinking. But, who amongst us knows the best way to go about it? Or, even where to actually go, on said cruise? Ahoy mates! ? Leading travel media company Lonely Planet realised how nuts people are for cruises, so for the first time is releasing cruise ports guidebooks to help travellers discover the best onshore experiences. Lonely Planet’s Cruise Ports series is published this month with guides to Alaska, Scandinavia & Northern Europe and the Caribbean ? #lonelyplanet #cruiseship #travel #travelgram A post shared by T H E F A U (@the_f_au) on Jul 6, 2018 at 8:14pm PDT Well, thanks to the travel legends that are Lonely Planet, their new range of cruise guides for travellers take-out the guess work, making cruising holidays a breeze. According to Cruise Lines International Association, the Australian cruise market grew by 4.4% in 2017 with more than 1.34 million Australians taking an ocean cruise last year. Australasia also accounted for 5.4 per cent of global cruise passenger numbers in 2017. With numbers like that, they were right to jump on board with the new range of books when they did. Lonely Planet’s Cruise Ports series has kicked off with guides to Alaska, Scandinavia & Northern Europe and the Caribbean, offering top-notch ideas for holidays to those of us a little more sea faring. The new books feature coloured maps, highlights, reviews and tips on how to save time and money, proving… Read More

Category: BOOKS, LIFESTYLE, TRAVEL

Tags: best cruises, cruise guides, lonely planet, lonely planet cruise guides

Changi Airport has just launched the ‘Changi Stopovers in Singapore’ program

by James Banham

Posted: 27/07/2018

Changi airport is the gateway to Asia and the rest of the world if you’re heading north, so it’s no wonder that over 1.4 million Aussies head through the nation state every year. Though it often comes withe the reputation of lengthy stop-over times and long journeys on from Singapore, which are one of the biggest pain points for travellers from Australia. Singapore’s Changi Airport has created a new program to encourage travellers to make the most of their time in Singapore city while they’re in ‘stopover mode’, sparking a new reason to get out of the airport and check out some of what the country has to offer. So, the Singapore Tourism Board has announced its ‘Changi Stopovers’ program, allowing travellers to book a stopover package from as little as $63 per person which includes a complimentary one-way airport transfer from your hotel of choice (listed below), a complimentary mobile SIM card for data roaming and access to 20 hotel partners as part of the program. These are the hotels included: 1. Andaz Singapore 2. Aqueen Jalan Besar 3. Clover Jalan Sultan 4. Copthorne Kings 5. Fort Canning Lodge 6. Four Points Sheraton 7. Fragrance Imperial 8. Hilton Singapore 9. M Hotel 10. Oasia Downtown 11. Oasia Novena 12. Park Regis 13. Ramada Singapore 14. Rendezvous Singapore 15. Santa Grand Bugis 16. Santa Grand Little India 17. Studio M Singapore 18. V Bencoolen 19. Value Balestier 20. Value Thomson See more about what’s on offer at Changi Airport website.

Category: TRAVEL

Tags: changi airport, singapore airport, singapore stopover program

How to be perfectly prepared for your road trip this summer

by THE F

Updated: 12/05/2022

You have been looking forward to hitting the road with your best friends this summer. Hopping into the car and driving to your chosen destination is going to be the highlight of your summer, so you want to make sure everything goes perfectly. From making sure your car is suited to driving in the city to getting prepared for the actual journey itself, you have a lot of things to think about before you set off. Make sure your long awaited road trip goes off without a hitch and consider all of these perfect pointers. Super supplies Before you set off on a long road trip you need to make sure you have the basic emergency kit for your car including items such as spare tyres, a torch and a luminous vest. You should also visit www. peakhd.com to buy products such as antifreeze, oil and diesel in bulk. This is a much cheaper alternative, rather than making a mad dash at a petrol station along the way. Splendid snacks Nobody ever likes to be hungry in the car and if you want to make limited rest stops then it’s important to stay stocked up on delicious snacks. Obviously, potato chips, popcorn and sweets are ideal snacks, but make sure you are careful not to bring too much chocolate; this could melt and cause a huge mess in the back of the car! Comfort is key If you’re on a super long trip then you need to make sure you are dressed comfortably and that you… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, TRAVEL

Tags: how to be prepared road trip, road trip, road trip guide

7 reasons to visit Singapore this year

by THE F

Posted: 12/07/2018

It’s getting to that time of year again where people are booking up their vacations so that they can relax and unwind from a busy year of working hard. While some people enjoy simply going somewhere with plenty of beaches and swimming pools to lounge by, some people would rather take a vacation that’s going to give them a little more than simply sitting by the pool. There is only one problem when it comes to booking your summer vacation – where to go this year? If you’re looking for a fun-filled and action packed vacation this year, why not consider going to Singapore? Located at the very south of Asia, and with a plethora of things to do, you’d be mad not to check out our reasons to visit Singapore this year. The food If you’re like many, you probably enjoy a takeaway delivered to your door from time to time. You’ve probably enjoyed rice and egg noodles, prawns, and chinese sausage and yep, you guessed it – it originates from Singapore. Why not indulge in a chilli crab or a fried carrot cake in the heart of Singapore with those that you love the most? One thing is for sure, you won’t be disappointed with the local delicacies that are on offer! Take a look at the most famous dishes in Singapore so that you can get an idea of what beautiful dishes to expect while you’re visiting the incredible city that is Singapore. The weather With the hottest months ranging from February… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, TRAVEL

Tags: singapore, singapore guide, travel singapore

Fullerton Singapore’s Concours D’Elegance is giving you a reason to visit this June

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

When it comes to travel, Australians know how to do it – we go everywhere! And Singapore is one location that is apparently close to our hearts. It’s out seventh most visited destination after others like the UK and the US. So it’s no surprise we’re excited to mark the 90th anniversary of the iconic Fullerton Heritage precinct, home to the Fullerton Hotel. This June, the area will be transformed into a three day celebration will be held from 29 June to 1 July. Called the Fullerton Concours D’Elegance, it’ll have a heap of car-related things going on, as well as a feast for all the senses, and a unique weekend of entertainment for the whole family. A special concoction created using local ingredients, the Fullerton Concours Cocktail will tantalise the taste buds with a refreshing mix of fruit and citrus. The gin-based cocktail consists of cherry liqueur, strawberry, pomegranate and honey syrups, tipped with fresh ginger and calamansi juice, infused with dried sour plum and topped with club soda. The cocktail will be featured at Post Bar at The Fullerton Hotel Singapore, and Lantern at The Fullerton Bay Hotel Singapore. Families and children can discover the rich heritage of the precinct through various art, music and cultural activities. For example, acclaimed local musical group TENG Ensemble, known for their East-meets-West sounds, will perform at the opening ceremony.

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, TRAVEL

Tags: fullerton, fullerton singapore concours delegenace, singapore

ARTS & CULTURE

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Experience break dancing like never before this MAy

24/04/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to experience the ultimate celebration of hip hop culture, innovation, and artistry at Breakin’ Convention 2024. An international festival of Hip Hop dance theatre, it’ll be taking over Sadler’s Wells in Islington this coming May Bank Holiday. Enthusiastically helmed by the visionary UK hip hop maker and Breakin’ Convention Artistic Director Jonzi D, this festival has become a beacon for fans and creators of hip hop from around the globe. The excitement is palpable as we gear up for two days packed with jaw-dropping performances, interactive workshops, and live music that promise to electrify the Sadler’s Wells venues on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 May. With an extraordinary lineup featuring international sensations like Femme Fatale (USA), Sons of Wind (France), and Jinjo crew (South Korea), alongside groundbreaking UK acts such as TRAPLORD, Boy Blue, and When Time Was New, this festival is set to showcase the dynamic and diverse world of hip hop dance theatre. Attendees of all ages can look forward to a vast array of activities including spectacular dance performances, bespoke graffiti workshops, freestyle sessions, and even live DJs sessions that guarantee to keep the energy high and the spirit of hip hop alive throughout the entire building. Not to mention, the festival coincides with the historic moment of breaking becoming an official Olympic sport at the Paris Olympics, adding an extra layer of exhilaration to the festivities. Beyond the performances, Breakin’ Convention 2024 invites audiences to engage directly with the hip hop community through unique events such as the Tiny… Read More

Opera Australia orchestrates a new era with Matthieu Arama as Concertmaster

24/04/2024

By James Banham

In a move that marks a significant milestone in its illustrious history, Opera Australia has announced the appointment of the renowned French violinist Matthieu Arama as the new Concertmaster of the Opera Australia Orchestra (OAO). This announcement follows an exhaustive global search, culminating in Mr. Arama’s selection, a testament to his extraordinary talent and leadership abilities. Set to join the OAO in August of this year, Arama brings with him a wealth of experience as the current Concertmaster of the Opéra National de Bordeaux, coupled with an impressive track record of performances with some of the world’s most distinguished conductors. View this post on Instagram A post shared by matthieu arama (@matthieu_arama) Arama’s role will be pivotal in steering the OAO towards achieving artistic brilliance across its broad annual repertoire, which spans over 250 opera, ballet, musical theatre, and concert performances for Opera Australia and The Australian Ballet. His recent engagements as Guest Concertmaster for Opera Australia on iconic productions such as La Traviata and Swan Lake, alongside The Australian Ballet, and a solo recital featuring opera and ballet excerpts, underscore his extraordinary versatility and musicianship. The enthusiasm within the OAO is palpable, with Acting Concertmaster Huy-Nguen Bui expressing excitement over welcoming Arama to the helm. “The OAO is excited to welcome an exceptional violinist and musician as our new Concertmaster. We look forward to reaching the highest levels of music-making through Mr. Arama’s artistic leadership,” said Bui. This sentiment is echoed by Opera Australia’s CEO Fiona Allan, Artistic Director Jo Davies, The Australian Ballet’s… Read More

Lauren Brincat When Do I Breathe 2024. Performer Jasmin Lancaster. Photographer Zan Wimberley. Courtesy of the artist

Public performance in Randwick Sydney by artist Lauren Brincat

22/04/2024

By James Banham

This week, the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct will experience an exceptional infusion of art and community spirit through a public performance by the celebrated multidisciplinary artist Lauren Brincat. Scheduled for one-night only, on Wednesday, 24 April 2024, Brincat’s performance marks the launch of the new Laneway Art Program. This initiative, commissioned by the Randwick Health & Innovation Precinct and supported by Transport for NSW’s Safer Cities program, seeks to enhance perceptions of safety for women, girls, and gender diverse people navigating the streets and laneways of the Precinct. Brincat, along with Rochelle Haley, another leading Australian artist, has been entrusted with the mission to improve night-time connectivity and comfort within the precinct through performance-based and site-specific artwork. Both artists have engaged directly with health workers in the area to shape their projects, aiming to make the public spaces more welcoming and to strengthen the sense of community, safety, and inclusiveness across the site. The artwork, titled When do I breathe?, is an ambitious collaboration with sound artist Evelyn Ida Morris, UNSW Choral Director Sonia Maddock, and choreographer Charmene Yap. It invites the public to actively participate in shaping new paths across the precinct, offering a unique experience that encompasses three activation sites within the UNSW Kensington and the hospital precinct. The performance, beginning at 5:00 pm on the UNSW Scientia Lawn, is a reflection on the interconnectedness of local communities, especially those separated by differing work shifts and daily rhythms. Aiming to reclaim public space through collective action, When do I breathe? presents an… Read More

Good news for National Gallery London: Eva Gonzalès piece acquired

22/04/2024

By James Banham

On the occasion of the artist’s 177th birthday on Friday 19th April, the National Gallery has acquired La Psyché (The Full-length Mirror), about 1869-70, by Eva Gonzalès (1849-1883) thanks to three generous legacy gifts from Mrs Martha Doris Bailey, Miss Gillian Cleaver, and Ms Sheila Mary Holmes, and the National Gallery Trust. This is the first acquisition by the Gallery of a work by Gonzalès and the second acquisition of its Bicentenary year. La Psyché has not been seen in public for over seventy years and joins only one other painting by her in a UK public collection, The Donkey Ride, about 1880?2, at the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery. Gonzalès is the 20th female artist represented in the National Gallery Collection, marking a significant addition. The story of Gonzalès’s reputation, during and after her life, reflects some of the reasons why women artists are not well represented in the National Gallery. These include being offered fewer opportunities in life and the lack of interest shown, consciously or not, in works by women artists by collectors of the era and onwards, from whose acquisitions the National Gallery’s own collection was assembled. During her lifetime Gonzalès was an established artist who exhibited multiple times to acclaim at the official Paris Salon. She was the only official pupil of Edouard Manet (1832-83), with whom she studied from 1869. Gonzalès likely painted La Psyché around the same time that Manet was painting his portrait of her, Eva Gonzalès (1870). That work, in the Gallery collection, was the focal point of the recent exhibition, Discover Manet & Eva… Read More

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Shooshfest: Australia’s first ever silent short film competition

17/04/2024

By James Banham

Australia’s Shooshfest, an inaugural silent short film competition, invites diverse creators to innovate in storytelling sans speech. Promising an immersive experience, it will connect with audiences, honour silent film and catalyse cinematic culture.