TRAVEL

Why Crete is the digital detox destination you need

13/10/2024

As summer’s vibrant energy gracefully transitions into the calm embrace of Autumn, Seaside A Lifestyle Resort in Crete extends an invitation to travellers seeking the serenity of quiet travel and a much-needed digital detox. Nestled amidst the tranquil and unspoiled beauty of Crete, this resort promises an all-inclusive oasis of calm, ideal for those looking to reconnect with themselves amidst eye-catching landscapes. Autumn heralds a season of new beginnings and resets. The fast pace of daily life often leaves little room for the self-care we truly require. At Seaside A Lifestyle Resort, guests are welcomed to cocoon in comfort, surrounded by natural beauty and tranquillity. This sanctuary is perfect for experiencing the growing trend of wellness travel, particularly among those enamoured with the ‘wellness retreat aesthetic’, which has seen a significant rise in popularity. Here are a few compelling reasons to visit this luxurious resort in Crete, where you can create lifelong memories, experience heartfelt hospitality, and immerse yourself in relaxation and wellbeing, all while enjoying the resort’s dramatic views: Quiet Experiences From sunrise to sunset, Seaside A Lifestyle Resort offers visitors a serene escape where life slows down to a peaceful rhythm. Whether you’re seeking a spiritual connection, a path to self-love, or simply a break from the stresses of daily life, the resort provides a space that fosters peace and tranquillity. Begin your day with a journey to oneness at the resort’s Yoga Shala, a place designed to deepen the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Here, silence is cherished, allowing you to… Read More

New study unveils Britain’s 30 most beautiful buildings

05/10/2024

By James Banham

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

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. As a pick-your-own paradise, it allows you to harvest everything from… 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.

Tag: chivas xv

How to drink gold: The new Chivas 15-year-old XV

by James Banham

Posted: 13/12/2018

There’s a new 15-year-old blended Scotch whisky in the Chivas portfolio, that continues Chivas’ tradition for expert blending, and is one hell of a bev. The new Chivas XV brings together the best15-year-old malt and grain whiskies before they’re selectively finished in the most prized Grande Champagne Cognac casks. Grande Champagne famously produces the finest Cognacs in the world, renowned for their outstanding quality. So you can understand why Chivas is so proud of the new batch. They’re 200 years on and have created a new innovative blend that’s fruity and velvety interpretation of the Chivas house style. It comes in a clear bottle encased in a gold carton, making it the go-to gift for whisky lovers. Chivas XV is on sale now with an RRP of $90. Get it here.

Category: FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: chivas, chivas whiskey, chivas xv, whiskey

ARTS & CULTURE

New music to know: fresh fusion of Turkish & Egyptian indie sounds by Selin Sümbültepe

28/10/2024

By James Banham

MDLBEAST Records, renowned for championing innovative talent across the MENA region, proudly unveils the “Hemhal” EP—a mesmerising blend of Turkish and Egyptian indie music. This five-track release underscores the label’s devotion to the alternative music scene, boldly traversing cultural and musical boundaries with a sound that defies convention. “Hemhal” is a tapestry of sounds and styles, weaving indie pop with the rich traditions of Turkey and Egypt. At the forefront are the evocative vocals of Selin Sümbültepe and Maii Waleed, whose voices soar over the meticulously crafted soundscapes by producer Zeid Hamdan. The EP delves into themes of love, identity, and the universal human experience, inviting listeners to embark on an emotive journey. Selin Sümbültepe, celebrated for her albums “C?zgan” (2017) and “Ben Estim Sen Esme” (2021), brings her multi-instrumentalist prowess and storytelling flair to this collaboration. Her Turkish roots and the vibrant culture of her hometown, Hatay, infuse her sound with authenticity and depth. As she works on her third studio album, Sümbültepe continues to push boundaries, with “Hemhal” showcasing her adeptness at genre-blending. Egyptian indie sensation Maii Waleed adds a complementary layer to the EP with her hauntingly beautiful lyrics that explore love, disappointment, and identity. Known for her influential “Moga” EP (2013), Waleed solidifies her place as a leading voice in the Egyptian indie scene with this latest project, adding emotional richness to the collective work. At the core of “Hemhal” is the visionary Zeid Hamdan, a luminary in the Middle East’s indie music circuit. Dubbed one of Lebanon’s cultural icons by… Read More

Art is a serious subject: the UK campaign to reignite the study of creativity

28/10/2024

By James Banham

The value of art in our schools is immeasurable. Urgently, we need to bring it back. Yes, times are hard and budgets are tight. But that’s not why art is drying up in our schools. The truth is more complicated. Over time, our school curriculum (both primary and secondary) has been re-structured to focus on core subjects and tests at the expense of everything else. The knock-on effects of these changes are damaging art education in the UK. Schools are measured – and judged – on what’s tested, so teachers have to focus their time and energy on those subjects. On top of that, teachers don’t get proper training in art education, while those who are trained are leaving the profession. No art teachers. No art rooms. No art lessons. And none of the mind-expanding, question-prompting, wild creativity and confidence art brings to the classroom. It’s all going, going… Each one of these changes is hard to reverse. You can’t magic up art teachers and art rooms once they’re gone. It’s time to fight for them. The ‘easy option’ has never been harder “Art education has rarely been taken as seriously as other subjects in schools, and studying art is all too often understood to be an ‘easy option’”. Vanessa Jackson RA. Yet art teaches children to question. It wakes up imaginations. It builds confidence. It encourages children to see the world differently and to make their mark. But making and studying art in our classrooms is getting harder and harder. A curriculum that focuses… Read More

Masterpieces of French Impressionism return to Melbourne at NGV

28/10/2024

By James Banham

In a world where art speaks louder than words, the 2025 presentation of the French Impressionism exhibition at the NGV is set to be an unmissable event for art enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Originally unveiled in 2021 but quickly shuttered by the pandemic, this exhibition offers Australians a second chance to dive into an ocean of artistic rebellion and beauty, featuring one of the most significant collections of French Impressionism ever to grace our shores. On loan from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, this collection charts the daring trajectory of the late-nineteenth-century movement that shook the art world to its core. These French Impressionists had a flair for the dramatic, boldly rejecting the rigid conventions of the state-sponsored Salon to showcase their ‘impressionistic’ masterpieces independently. This exhibition captures that spirit of defiance and innovation, inviting visitors to explore the thoughts and musings of the artists themselves, preserved in letters, journals, and articles. Through their words, the exhibition reveals the intricate web of social connections, artistic inspirations, and personal rivalries that united this band of creative mavericks. The exhibition design is nothing short of a masterpiece itself—an immersive experience that transports audiences into the vibrant world of Impressionism. With its distinctive brushwork, striking use of colour, and unique perspectives, the exhibition takes you on a visual journey to the beloved locales of the artists, such as the bustling streets of Paris, the serene Fontainebleau Forest, and the idyllic gardens of Giverny. It’s like strolling through a gallery, except the gallery is alive with… Read More

Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s UK tour in 2025

27/10/2024

By James Banham

Sophie Ellis-Bextor is set to light up the UK music scene with her biggest headline tour yet, bringing disco fever to fans across the country in May and June 2025. Known for her captivating live performances and a career that’s as glittering as a disco ball, Sophie will kick off her tour in Glasgow on 24th May, making stops in 15 cities, including Manchester, Newcastle, Cardiff, and Bristol. The tour will conclude with a grand finale at the iconic Royal Albert Hall in London on 12th June. Sophie is bubbling with excitement about the upcoming shows, saying, “This year has been full of amazing tour dates around the world, and it has been so much fun. I absolutely love performing live, but it’s always an extra treat to be able to tour at home and I can’t wait to play my biggest dates in the UK yet next May and June. It will be wonderful to bring the disco fun to everyone! Headlining The Royal Albert Hall in London is a bit of a dream and it’s going to be very special.” Adding to the buzz, Sophie’s new single, ‘Freedom of the Night’, is set to premiere its dazzling video at 6pm tomorrow. This disco-pop anthem marks a confident return to her iconic sound and has fans tapping their feet in anticipation. The video, filmed at the legendary Rivoli Ballroom, promises a nostalgic yet refreshing vibe under the direction of her long-time collaborator, Sophie Muller. Tickets for this must-see tour will be available through artist… Read More

New exhibition at Ames Yavuz: Andre Hemer’s Techno Dreaming

23/10/2024

By James Banham

Ames Yavuz, a leading contemporary art gallery in the Asia Pacific, is currently showcasing an intriguing solo exhibition titled Techno Dreaming by the renowned New Zealand-born, Vienna-based artist André Hemer. Open to the public at the gallery’s Reservoir Street location until 9 November, this exhibition promises to captivate art enthusiasts and the curious alike with its innovative approach to exploring the intersection of digital technology and artistic creation. In Techno Dreaming, André Hemer invites viewers to navigate through a series of new paintings and video works that delve into the artistic possibilities birthed by digital technology. Hemer’s creative process is an intricate dance between nature, generative algorithms, and artistic labour, prompting reflection on what it means to create art in an era where the lines between physical and digital experiences are increasingly blurred. This marks Hemer’s fifth solo exhibition with Ames Yavuz, where he unveils vibrant floral landscapes in radiant hues of blue, gold, and orange. The series is born from a unique AI ‘dreaming’ process, where software trained on Hemer’s personal archive of paintings, photographs, and recordings reimagines each work anew. This fusion of soundscape, video work, light projection, and acrylic on canvas pushes the boundaries of traditional painting and imagery, inhabiting the space between reality and imagination. Hemer elaborates on his thematic exploration, stating, “I chose to title the exhibition Techno Dreaming as it’s an evocative way to describe the unknowingness of AI generation. Like our own dream state, it’s elusive and you can never have the same one again. That’s what art… Read More