TRAVEL

New study unveils Britain’s 30 most beautiful buildings

05/10/2024

In a nation steeped in history and architectural grandeur, a recent survey has unveiled a definitive list of Britain’s 30 most beautiful buildings, capturing the hearts and imaginations of residents and tourists alike.

10 best pumpkin patches to visit in the UK this October

05/10/2024

By James Banham

Top 10 Most Instagrammable Pumpkin Patches to Visit This October 2024 As autumn paints the UK countryside in hues of gold and orange, the allure of pumpkin patches becomes irresistible for both families and avid Instagrammers. This October, capture the essence of the season by visiting some of the most photogenic pumpkin patches across the UK. From scenic landscapes to vibrant festivals, these locations not only offer the perfect backdrop for your autumn snaps but also provide a range of activities that ensure a day filled with fun and memorable experiences. 1. Cotswold Farm Park, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire Leading the list with stunning countryside views, Cotswold Farm Park is a haven for those looking to capture the beauty of autumn. With 51,000 Instagram followers and 11,300 hashtags, its popularity is well-deserved. Beyond pumpkin picking, you can meet rare breed animals and explore interactive exhibits. The tractor rides and locally sourced dishes at the café add layers of charm to your visit, making it a quintessential day out. 2. Tulleys Farm, Crawley, West Sussex Tulleys Farm, a favorite with 42,300 Instagram mentions, offers a unique night-time experience with its ‘Pumpkin Nights’. The twinkling lights and live music provide an enchanting setting, perfect for photos. This venue is also famous for its Shocktober Fest, blending pumpkin picking with a thrilling twist, ensuring your Instagram feed will be as exciting as it is beautiful. 3. Garsons Farm, Esher, Surrey With its lush green backdrops and a score of 27,400 Instagram points, Garsons Farm is a dream for nature-filled photography…. Read More

Sydney Harbour Bridge sunshine afternoon

New experience at Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: Climb & unwind

29/07/2024

By James Banham

BridgeClimb Sydney stands out as a must-do adventure for both locals and tourists, offering a chance to ascend the Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of Australia’s most iconic structures. Launched in October 1998, this experience promises an adrenaline rush and breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. With various climb options ranging from approximately $160 to $390, including special sunset climbs, participants are guided by experienced leaders who ensure safety and share fascinating stories about the bridge’s history and engineering. Designed to be manageable for participants aged eight to 100, BridgeClimb Sydney is a family-friendly activity catering to a wide range of fitness levels. Climbers are equipped with all necessary gear, including a climbing suit and harness, ensuring safety throughout the ascent. As they make their way up the bridge, climbers can expect awe-inspiring moments and opportunities to capture incredible photos of Sydney Harbour. For those looking to tick this world-class experience off their bucket list, booking directly through the official BridgeClimb website is recommended. BridgeClimb Sydney is more than just a climb; it’s an unforgettable journey providing a unique perspective on one of Australia’s greatest architectural marvels, leaving lasting memories for both local residents and visiting tourists. Now this year, they’re adding something new to their experience! BridgeClimb Sydney is taking things to new heights—literally and figuratively—with its latest offering, the “Climb & Unwind” package. In an exciting partnership with Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Sydney, this exclusive experience marries the thrill of scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge with the luxurious pampering of a high-end… Read More

Welcome to Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach

24/07/2024

By THE F

Discover the harmonious blend of comfort and adventure at Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach. Nestled along the stunning south coast of Mykonos, guests can embark on various explorations, from traditional kaiique rides to the archaeological wonders of Delos, or even charter a boat to the unspoiled waters of Rhenia. The around-the-clock concierge service is on hand to facilitate travel and dining reservations, suggest activities, and cater to special needs, aiming to ensure a hassle-free and memorable stay. Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, as part of the exclusive Myconian Collection, offers guests priority bookings at top-tier spas and restaurants, enriching their experience even further. The venue is ideal for special events, with its unique and picturesque setting promising unforgettable memories. The dedicated team is focused on tailoring experiences to align with guests’ wishes, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to exceptional service. At Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, you are encouraged to slow down, relish every moment, and craft lasting memories in an environment that feels like a true home away from home. This sense of genuine hospitality and deep connection to the island’s heart defines Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, making it a tranquil haven and a unique gem in Mykonos.

Free things to do in Memphis USA

19/07/2024

By James Banham

Travelling abroad can sometimes be costly, prompting travellers to be more mindful of their expenses and look for activities that cost less or preferably are free of charge. Those planning a trip to the birthplace of blues, soul & rock’n’roll and the BBQ capital of the world, Memphis, will be thrilled to find a range of activities in the Tennessee city without spending a buck or at a discounted rate. Memphis was not only voted one of the Best Places to Go in 2023 by Conde Nast Traveller but was also the Number 1 U.S. Destination on a Budget in 2023 by USAToday. According to a study last year, Memphis hotel rates were 28% lower than the U.S. average. Seeing some of Memphis’ biggest attractions can mean spending a good chunk of the trip’s budget on tickets, but there’s a wide range of museums and attractions that offer free admissions so travellers can save money without missing out on the fun. There are also multiple walking tours and even a culinary trail to follow and save money during the trip. Free Admissions to Museums and Attractions Free and Affordable Music Experiences Free and Affordable Trails and Walking Tours Explore more of Memphis here.

Tag: Asian restaurants Chatswood

DOPA opens its doors at Chatswood Chase: a new chapter in Japanese dining

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by James Banham

Posted: 05/10/2024

The culinary landscape of Chatswood Chase has welcomed an exciting new addition with the opening of DOPA, the vibrant Japanese fast-casual eatery from The Devon Group. This marks DOPA’s ninth location, rapidly following the success of their Victoria Cross store, and bringing a fresh take on Japanese comfort food to Sydney’s North Shore. Named after dopamine, DOPA promises a transformative culinary experience, akin to the chemical reaction its name suggests. Executive Chef Zachary Tan, known for his work at prestigious venues like Guillaume at Bennelong and Pier, alongside Executive Pastry Chef Markus Andrew, who brings his expertise from Adriano Zumbo at The Star, have crafted a menu that pays homage to Tokyo’s bustling streets. The duo expertly blends traditional Japanese flavors with a modern urban twist, embodying DOPA’s commitment to quality, sustainability, and ethical food production. At the heart of DOPA’s menu are the beloved Japanese donburi bowls, offering over twenty variations. Diners can enjoy classics like teriyaki chicken and karaage or venture into unique offerings such as cheeseburger wagyu & pickles, wagyu beef tongue, unagi, or glacier 51 toothfish. Exclusive to the Chatswood store, from October 14th to November 17th, is the limited-edition yellow fin tuna donburi, featuring sashimi-grade tuna with delightful accompaniments like ponzu and salmon caviar, priced at $25.50. For those seeking lighter fare, soba salads with options like veggie, Angus beef, and grilled hake are available. Dessert lovers are in for a treat with the popular DOPA Shibuya toast, available in flavours such as matcha and lotus Biscoff, and the signature… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, ASIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, SYDNEY

Tags: Asian restaurants Chatswood, Dopa, Japanese Sydney

ARTS & CULTURE

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

Sydney Philharmonia Choirs with special guest soloists

05/10/2024

By James Banham

Prepare to immerse yourself in an enchanting celebration of musical theatre as the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs take centre stage with their Showstoppers concerts, honouring the legendary partnership of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II.

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Story Week comes to Sydney this October

04/10/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to dive into a world where words come alive and stories unite us all—Story Week 2024 is making its grand return to Sydney this October! With the theme of ‘Common-Unity’, this year’s festival promises to transform storytelling into an intimate and shared experience, inviting audiences and artists to connect on a deeper level. Kicking off with a bang, the Australian Poetry Slam finals will spotlight the finest spoken word artists from across the nation. From Queensland’s nerve-wracking showdown on 3rd October to the dramatic Victorian clash on the 5th, and continuing through Sydney and New South Wales on 11th and 12th October, the competition will crescendo at the National Final at none other than the Sydney Opera House on 13th October. Here, Australia’s top 16 poets will battle it out for a coveted international tour, with the audience and judges—picked from the crowd—deciding their fate. It’s poetry at its most electrifying! For families and the young at heart, the Australian Maritime Museum will host Sea Tales—a delightful foray into oceanic storytelling from 4th to 6th and 9th to 11th October. Guided by poets and musicians like Miles Merrill and Trevor Brown, young attendees will embark on a seafaring journey through Australia’s maritime past. The big question, “Why do we still travel by sea in the age of space flight?” will be artfully explored, culminating in a magical transformation into a humpback whale that closes this captivating tale. But the storytelling magic doesn’t end there. For those craving a more personal touch, Story Week… Read More

RÜFÜS DU SOL to perform on Sydney Harbour

03/10/2024

By James Banham

Get ready for a night of music magic, folks! The Grammy-winning maestros of live electronic music, RÜFÜS DU SOL, are set to grace us with an intimate performance that promises to be as iconic as the Sydney Harbour itself. Mark your calendars for October 10th, because this is one sunset performance you won’t want to miss. Imagine this: the sun dipping below the horizon, casting its golden glow over the Harbour, as RÜFÜS DU SOL unleash their hypnotic blend of live instrumentation and electronic beats. It’s the perfect setting for unveiling their highly anticipated fifth album, giving Aussie fans the first peek at their new tunes. It’s not just a concert—it’s an experience, one that promises to be as exclusive as your secret Tim Tam stash. Now, before you start packing your picnic rug, remember that tickets go on sale Friday, October 4, at 10 AM AEST. You’ll want to be quicker than a kangaroo on a hot tin roof, so head over to rufusdusol.com/sydney to snag your passes to this once-in-a-lifetime event. But wait, there’s more! The band’s website has launched a mysterious countdown, teasing more live performance announcements. Could they be planning to take their groundbreaking soundscapes to a city near you? Only time will tell, but it’s safe to say fans around the world are on the edge of their seats. RÜFÜS DU SOL aren’t just a band; they’re a global phenomenon. Since dropping their last album, ‘Surrender,’ they’ve nabbed a Grammy for Best Dance/Electronic Recording, earned two Grammy nods in 2023,… Read More

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National Theatre’s new show is a must-see this season

27/09/2024

By James Banham

Hold onto your top hats, theatre enthusiasts, because the National Theatre is sprinkling a little stage magic with its latest announcement. They’re rolling out the red carpet for the first major stage adaptation of Noel Streatfeild’s beloved book, “Ballet Shoes,” adapted by the talented Kendall Feaver, who you might remember from “The Almighty Sometimes.” This festive family feast will pirouette into the Olivier Theatre from 23 November 2024, promising to be the must-see show of the holiday season. Directing this enchanting spectacle is Katy Rudd, making her triumphant return to the National Theatre after her hit with “The Ocean at the End of the Lane.” Rudd’s directing prowess, paired with an all-star creative team, assures audiences are in for a visual and emotional treat. The set’s magic is conjured by Frankie Bradshaw, with costume wizardry by Samuel Wyer, and toe-tapping choreography by Ellen Kane. Composer Asaf Zohar crafts the musical atmosphere, while Gavin Sutherland handles dance arrangements and orchestrations. Lighting, sound, and video design elevate the experience, thanks to Paule Constable, Ian Dickinson, and Ash J Woodward respectively. The cast is a diverse tapestry of talent including Stacy Abalogun, Yanexi Enriquez as the ambitious Petrova Fossil, and Pearl Mackie as the nurturing Sylvia. They join a vibrant ensemble featuring the likes of Eryck Brahmania, Cordelia Braithwaite, and the dynamic trio of Grace Saif as Pauline Fossil, Justin Salinger as GUM/Fidolia, and Daisy Sequerra as Posy Fossil. Together, they bring to life the story of three adopted sisters living in a delightfully crumbling house garnished with… Read More