TRAVEL

Colosseum Rome 11 Gladiator Icons Airbnb Credit Christopher Anderson

Face your Gladiator II destiny with strength and honor at the Colosseum

17/11/2024

Step into the annals of history and embrace your inner warrior with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become a gladiator at the Roman Colosseum. This unique experience invites you to channel the strength and honour of ancient warriors as you step into the iconic arena known for epic battles and legendary tales. For the first time in nearly 2,000 years, the Colosseum is offering modern-day adventurers the chance to don historically accurate gladiator armour and partake in thrilling challenges that test both skill and courage. As you enter the sacred grounds, you’ll follow in the footsteps of victorious fighters, your destiny shaped by your prowess in battle. The experience begins at sunset, as a patron leads you into the candlelit Colosseum, a sight few have witnessed in modern times. Descend into the hypogeum, the underground chambers where gladiators once prepared for combat. Here, you’ll suit up in armour that reflects your chosen gladiator style—be it murmillo, thraex, provocator, retiarius, or contrarete. Choose your path wisely, for your fate in battle depends on it. As you traverse the torch-lit passages, imagine the footsteps of Maximus and countless other warriors echoing through history. Witness seasoned gladiators clash in a symphony of swords and shields, and prepare yourself for the challenge that awaits. Fuel your body with a selection of modest victuals—grapes, pomegranates, almonds, and walnuts—ensuring you’re battle-ready. Engage in combat training under the watchful eye of a summa rudis, your fate determined by your performance in the arena. Will you rise to the occasion and taste the sweetness… Read More

Egypt Sphynx pexels alexazabache 3185480

Why Egypt should be on top of your travel list

17/11/2024

By James Banham

Embarking on a journey to Egypt is like stepping into a living history book, where ancient wonders and vibrant culture intertwine seamlessly. At the heart of this enchanting destination lies the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), a must-visit for any traveller seeking to delve deep into the country’s rich heritage. Situated on the illustrious Giza Plateau, the GEM stands proudly near the iconic Pyramids of Giza, offering breathtaking views and a unique cultural experience. As one of the largest and most modern museums in the world, it promises an immersive exploration of Egypt’s past. Currently in its soft opening phase, visitors have the rare chance to explore its extensive artifact galleries and exhibition halls, with the highly anticipated King Tutankhamun galleries soon to follow. Beyond the museum, the Giza Plateau itself is a treasure trove of history. Be sure to visit the Great Sphinx and the Pyramids, where you can marvel at the engineering feats that have stood the test of time. For a more comprehensive experience, consider a camel ride across the desert sands at sunset, offering an unparalleled vantage point of these ancient structures. No trip to Egypt would be complete without wandering through the bustling streets of Cairo. Dive into the vibrant bazaars of Khan el-Khalili, where the aroma of spices wafts through the air and artisans display their intricate crafts. Explore the historic heart of Islamic Cairo, home to stunning mosques and ancient streets that echo with stories of the past. For a touch of tranquillity, take a day trip to the… Read More

Why Crete is the digital detox destination you need

13/10/2024

By James Banham

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

Tag: collaboration

Nespresso announces their sweetest collab yet with limited edition Brooki Cookies

Nespresso x Brooki Double Choc Salted Caramel Cookie

by Danielle Kirk

Updated: 10/08/2024

Ready, set, go coffee lovers! Nespresso Australia has whipped up a delectable treat that’s going to be the hottest pairing for your cap. In a sensational new collaboration with Brisbane’s viral TikTok sensation and local bakery queen, Brooki, Nespresso is launching an exclusive Double Choc Salted Caramel Cookie, designed to be the ultimate coffee companion for Nespresso Australia’s signature blend. Starting today, Nespresso boutiques across Australia will be dishing out these indulgent delights, which perfectly pair with the rich, caramel and chocolate flavours of Nespresso’s Bianco Piccolo capsules. It’s truly a match made in coffee heaven. Brooki Bakehouse founder, Brooke Bellamy, known for her iconic pink-themed bakery that draws lines out the door every week, says she’s crafted the cookie to complement your at-home coffee moments. “I’m a massive fan of Nespresso, so creating a cookie to pair with their coffee was a no-brainer! Expect a luscious chocolate cookie dough with both dark and milk choc chips, oozing with a silky caramel crème filling. Trust me, pop it in the oven until it’s warm and gooey, then dunk it in your cappuccino—it’s next level!” Every Saturday from 17 August until 6 September (or until they sell out), a fresh batch of Brooki’s Double Choc Salted Caramel Cookies will hit the shelves at Nespresso boutiques nationwide. And here’s the inside goss—they’re only available with any Nespresso coffee purchase. So, whether you’re picking up your favourite sleeve or trying something new, this cookie is the perfect excuse to treat yourself. Nespresso’s coffee ambassador, Mitch Monaghan, who helped… Read More

Category: COFFEE, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: brooki, brooki bakehouse, coffee, collaboration, cookie, nespresso

FairGo Casino Review: one of the best gambling platforms in Australia

by THE F

Posted: 18/05/2023

FairGo is a sportsbook and online casino that has recently become popular among Australian gamblers. This platform has fair go casino australia log in a wide range of features to cater to the demands of both casual and veteran gamblers. FairGo’s online casino section is as outstanding, with a large selection of slots, card games, and table games. Every gamer, regardless of preference, will find something to like. Leading casino software companies, like as Playtech, Quickspin, and NetEnt, support the platform, ensuring that the games are of high quality and have lifelike graphics. One of the most important factors that Australian bettors should evaluate before joining any online bookmaker is its legality in Australia. FairGo is an offshore bookmaker that is not governed by Australian law. However, it is a legitimate and trustworthy platform, licenced by the Curacao government. As a result, Australian gamblers can register and use its services with total confidence. FairGo provides numerous benefits and promotions to both new and returning clients. New players are rewarded with a hefty welcome bonus package that includes a deposit bonus as well as free spins on popular slot games. Regular casino promos like cashback offers, and bonus spin offers, are also available on the platform. These amazing bargains are one of the things that set FairGo apart from the competition, as they are designed to keep customers returning for more. Finally, FairGo is an excellent platform for Australian gamblers. It offers a variety of gaming options and incentives, making it a fantastic alternative for players… Read More

Category: COLLABORATION

Tags: collaboration

11 foods that will help keep your energy up

by THE F

Updated: 14/12/2021

It is fair to say that most foods give you an energy boost, but they do it in different ways. For example, eating pastries, cakes, dairy-based desserts as well as drinking fizzy sodas – foods rich in sugar – will provide you with an instant but short-term energy boost. But soon enough, the following crash will leave you hungry and tired again. On the other hand, enriching your diet with slow-release carbs, healthy fats, and diverse protein sources will provide you with a slower, steadier energy stream. Below, you will find a list of eleven foods that will help you keep your energy levels up throughout the day. They include but are not limited to almonds, dark chocolate, matcha, avocados, brown rice, edamame beans, and many more. Continue reading to learn more about the foods that will keep you energized. Almonds Almonds are a great source of unsaturated fats and protein. Eating almonds regularly has been proven to increase your energy levels as well as keep your brain sharp. Almonds also contain vitamin E, which helps fight free radicals and prevents premature cell degeneration. Chia seeds Chia seeds are another great source of protein and fiber. They can help regulate your blood sugar levels, which in turn will help you avoid sugar crashes. Chia seeds are also very rich in calcium, magnesium, and potassium. They provide the body with long-lasting energy and can boost your endurance during exercise. Matcha green tea Green tea is rich in antioxidants such as epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is a… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK

Tags: collaboration

These top 4 vitamins are necessary for healthy skin

by THE F

Updated: 16/02/2021

Taking care of your skin is essential to look young and lively. Excessive use of cosmetics and pollution in the environment has led to many skin problems. But some readily-available nutrients can rejuvenate your skin and make it glow. Here are the four vitamins that you should know about for gorgeous skin. Vitamin A Vitamin A has antioxidant properties that both the lower and upper layers of skin need for proper functioning. This vitamin plays an essential role in collagen production that makes skin healthy and firm to control wrinkles. The ultraviolet rays present in the sunlight lead to photodamage, which results in premature aging of the skin and makes skin stiff. Vitamin A fights against photodamage and minimizes the harms of ultraviolet rays. Its presence in the skin suppresses the overactive skin glands to stop acne and other skin problems. You can quickly get vitamin-A skin treatment with La Clinica. Vitamin B Complex Vitamin B consists of 8 B vitamins that have a direct role in proper metabolism and brain function. Vitamin B7 or Biotin, a part of the Vitamin B complex, is an essential vitamin present in the skin. Lower amounts of Biotin in the skin leads to dermatitis. The hydrating properties of Vitamin B make skin glow and shine while balancing the tone of your skin. Another component of the Vitamin B complex called Niacin lowers the skin inflammation to improve the dry and itchy skin. The Vitamin B complex’s anti-aging and lightening properties make it an essential part of young and… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE

Tags: collaboration

Things to consider when buying your wedding dress

by THE F

Updated: 18/08/2021

Your wedding day is arguably the most important day of your life and most of us go into it intending to only do it once. When all is said and done, and the food has been eaten, and the last drunken guests have gone home, all that’s left of the celebrations are your memories, photographs, and of course your dress – which is why it feels so important to choose the right one. Here are some things to consider when buying your wedding dress. Where to go If you are looking at wedding dresses in Melbourne, consider a boutique, like Eternal Bridal. You want somewhere that stocks the type of dresses you like and has exceptional customer service. When choosing something so personal and important, you want to be made to feel special by the consultant, and this might involve travelling a little further than you normally would, to ensure it’s the right place (with the best gown) for you. When to start looking As soon as you’re engaged, you will likely be bursting to look at wedding gowns, however, there is guidance on how soon you should buy specific types of dress, just to ensure that it is ready in time, and you are still the same size when it comes to the big day. For a made-to-order gown, you should look to order at around 8-10 months from the big day, and for made-to-measure, you should look at 10-12 months. Your budget The average price of a wedding dress in Australia is $2,637,… Read More

Category: COLLABORATION, LIFESTYLE, STYLE, WOMEN'S STYLE

Tags: collaboration, Consider when wearing wedding dress, Things to consider when buying your wedding dress, Wedding dress

Golden rules for an awesome dinner party

by THE F

Posted: 17/10/2020

We don’t always have to go out to bars and restaurants when we want to socialise with friends and family. Sometimes, it’s just fine to stay indoors and spend some time together. If you want to make things a little less “run of the mill,” however, then it’s important to push the boat out a little. You could have a good day just sitting around, but there’ll also be times when it’s good to make things a little extra special. For example, by hosting a dinner party. If you have ambitions to host a dinner party, then take a read of our tips below, where we outline all you need to have a memorable event. Pixabay – CC0 Licence The Guestlist The food is important, sure, but even the best food in the world can’t make up for a poor guestlist. Of course, anyone who you might invite to a dinner party at your house is likely to be in your good books, but you should also think about how your guests will interact with one another. A lot of people have work friends, pub friends, hiking friends, and so on — you can blend groups at a dinner party (it’s recommended) but if space is limited, then pick people you think will get along well with the others. Create the Space Your usual dining area is probably pretty relaxing and informal. However, when you’re going to host a dinner party, you’ll want to make things a little more formal. In fact, if you’re looking… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE

Tags: Awesome dinner party, collaboration, Dinner party, Dinner party guide

Women’s everyday style: Top tips

by THE F

Updated: 08/01/2021

There are so many things those fashionable women keep to themselves. If you would love to be counted as one of those fashionable women, here are tips that will help you look stylish every day. Well this may help in case you want to visit a land based casino and not an online casino. Be prepared Being fashionable is not difficult. The best way to avoid a possibly embarrassing situation would be to be prepared. Devote some time every night and pick out an outfit. This will ensure that you will not have to hurry in the morning or worry about how you are going to look. Look for inspiration If you look for inspiration, you will not struggle at all. You can look for information on Instagram, Pinterest, and fashion. These platforms will tell you what is hot and what is not. If you are not self-confident about what to wear or style yourself, this can be the perfect choice for you. Dress according to the weather Look at the weather report before you leave your home. Dress according to it. That way, you will be prepared in case of a rainy day. Avoid wearing white and fabric that would take a lot of time to dry, just in case you get wet. Looks good on you Wear things that look on you. Do not wear something that you are not completely comfortable in. Don’t be afraid of trying new things. Do not forget, it is also about you gaining more confidence and not… Read More

Category: COLLABORATION

Tags: collaboration

ARTS & CULTURE

A Golden Adventure awaits at the Australian Museum with new Machu Picchu Exhibition

21/11/2024

By Danielle Kirk

Sydney, prepare yourselves for a cultural gold rush. From November 23, the Australian Museum is rolling out its latest blockbuster, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru. This dazzling exhibition is your passport to ancient Peru, featuring 134 priceless treasures from the land of the Incas and 14,000 years of history. Think glittering jewels, royal tomb artefacts, and a VR journey to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It’s more than a history lesson—it’s a time machine with all the bells, whistles, and human sacrifice relics you could dream of. Following the success of the Ramses Exhibition at the Australian Museum (fun fact, it became the highest grossing exhibition in the State’s history, selling over 500,000 tickets!), Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru is created in partnership with Peru’s Museo Larco, Museo de Sito Manuel Chavez Ballon, and Neon Global, taking you on a journey through five ancient Peruvian empires, spanning over 3,000 years of rich history. Parts of the collection have only been shown in four other cities around the world, in fact, some of the artefacts have never left Peru before, and now we’re lucky to set sights on them in Sydney. Expect to see the most opulent Andean gold collection to ever leave Peru, intricate ceremonial masks, and objects that whisper secrets of long-lost rituals. For the tech-savvy explorers, the Machu Picchu and the Spirit of the Condor VR experience will transport you above the clouds for a bird’s-eye tour of the legendary citadel. Guided by the… Read More

NGV Architecture Commission 2024: Home Truth by Breathe

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In a bold reimagining of Australian home design, Home Truth by Breathe has been announced as the winner of the NGV Architecture Commission for 2024. This captivating installation takes the form of a labyrinthine house-within-a-house, challenging the notion of ever-expanding home sizes in Australia. At the heart of this design is a powerful message: rethink how we build to create more sustainable, higher-quality, and community-orientated living spaces. Home Truth invites visitors to step into a space that questions the ethical and ecological ramifications of the sprawling, oversized homes that have become prevalent across the nation. An external frame mirrors the silhouette of the average Australian home, which, at 236 square metres, ranks as the largest globally. Nestled within this silhouette is a serene timber structure, representing a smaller, more sustainable living footprint. This juxtaposition of scales is not just an architectural statement but a call to action. By contrasting these two structures, Home Truth shines a light on how smaller, more considered homes could help reduce suburban sprawl, mitigate environmental impacts, and enhance community wellbeing. It is a thought-provoking invitation for audiences to consider alternative, sustainable housing models that could lead to positive lifestyle changes. Visitors entering through the expansive garage door of the larger house find themselves navigating a maze of rooms and corridors, eventually arriving at the intimate timber retreat. This wooden haven offers a space for meditation and reflection, presenting a tangible vision of a more sustainable housing future. Constructed from framing pine and Saveboard, Home Truth uses materials emblematic of current… Read More

LOEWE PRECO SS25 SUNA FUJITA CERAMICS RGB CROPPED 4X5 3 5

Suna Fujita, LOEWE & Melbourne Art Fair to exhibit works

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In an exciting fusion of art and fashion, Melbourne Art Fair has announced a groundbreaking partnership with LOEWE, the esteemed luxury fashion brand renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship since 1846. This collaboration brings to life an exquisite preview of Jonathan Anderson’s renewed partnership with the Kyoto-based ceramist duo, Suna Fujita, marking a world-first exhibition in Australasia. The LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection made its debut with an intimate showcase at LOEWE’s Melbourne Collins Street store, offering an exclusive viewing experience of twenty whimsical ceramic pieces. These delicate works, celebrated for their intricate hand-painted scenes featuring ocean creatures and cosmic animals, seamlessly blend artistry with everyday function, transforming accessories and ready-to-wear items into enchanting works of art. Fair Director Melissa Loughnan expressed her enthusiasm for this creative union, stating, “This partnership is a reflection of Melbourne Art Fair and LOEWE’s shared commitment to supporting living artists and creatives, and an exciting precursor to the 18th edition of the Fair, which promises to be one of our most dynamic and anticipated showcases yet.” The collaboration not only highlights the playful essence of Suna Fujita’s ceramics but also underscores the vibrant art scene that Melbourne Art Fair champions. Launching today, the LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection is available both in stores and online at loewe.com, continuing until 29th December 2024. This artistic venture paves the way for the 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair, set to take place from 20-23 February 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair will present a remarkable assembly of… Read More

Labyrinth in Concert comes to London’s Royal Festival Hall

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Prepare to be whisked away to the mystical realm of Goblin City with a legendary twist, as “Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert” makes its grand debut at London’s Royal Festival Hall. On Friday, 28th November 2025, fans of this beloved musical fantasy film will experience a spectacular fusion of cinema and live music that promises to be nothing short of magical. For the first time ever, Jim Henson’s original masterpiece, starring the one and only David Bowie, will come alive on stage with a captivating live band performance. Audiences will be treated to the enchanting melodies of Bowie’s original vocals, accompanied by the band in perfect harmony, all set against the backdrop of the movie projected on a large HD cinema screen. It’s a chance to relive the unforgettable music and adventure that has captured hearts for nearly 40 years since the film’s release in 1986. Produced by Black Ink Presents, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, this unique concert experience is set to enthral long-time fans and newcomers alike. Known for breathing new life into iconic films with live orchestras and bands, Black Ink Presents has previously dazzled audiences with events like Batman, Ghostbusters, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. CEO John Kinsner shares his excitement, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of the groundbreaking collaboration of Jim Henson, George Lucas, David Bowie, and Trevor Jones on this film, and bringing it to fans in a live concert screening experience is a dream come true. Getting to hear Bowie’s vocals with a live… Read More

Why rush to National Art School postgrad show

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Step into the vibrant world of the arts at the National Art School (NAS) as it proudly unveils the 2024 Postgrad Show, a spectacular showcase of over 400 works by Australia’s next generation of emerging artists. Open to the public until 17 November 2024, this annual exhibition has firmly established itself as a pivotal event in Sydney’s cultural calendar, attracting gallerists, collectors, and art enthusiasts eager to discover fresh talent. The Postgrad Show serves as a launchpad for these budding artists, featuring the final bodies of work by the Master of Fine Art (MFA) graduates. This year’s exhibition offers an eclectic mix of mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, collage, 3D printing, performance, photography, drawing, and ceramics. Each piece is a testament to the diverse themes being explored—ranging from natural and digital ecosystems to identity, the Anthropocene, philosophy, and personal narratives. Ceramics take centre stage with artists like Benjamin Akuila, who delves into themes of construction, authenticity, and plasticity, informed by his Tongan heritage. His work offers a compelling exploration of queer and diasporic identity through hybrid cultural narratives. Meanwhile, Chrystie Longworth uses ceramic forms to navigate femininity, identity, and domesticity, drawing inspiration from historical subversive messages crafted by women in textiles. Her work, with its tactile terracotta and pigment surfaces, invites viewers to experience a subtle play of light and texture. From the drawing studios, Quan Zhu Ma marries traditional Chinese philosophy with contemporary practices, using innovative materials like heated charcoal and ash. His work reimagines traditional ink art, creating a fusion that resonates… Read More