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

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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: Hello Stake

Trade crypto from where you are with Stake

by James Banham

Updated: 16/03/2022

As of now, you officially don’t need to download yet another finance app to buy, sell and trade your choice of endless crypto options: Stake is adding it to the mix. Adding to their trinity of awesomeness when it comes to trading-on-the-go, they are adding crypto to the line-up of over 8,000 investment products available across the NYSE and ASX. Whether now is a good or bad time to add cryptocurrency to your portfolio isn’t super certain – do your own research – but having a central option for those Stake fans amongst us to add our choices into makes life that much more streamlined. Why are they doing it? Aside from crypto being massive and Stake being one of the best innovations in brokerage for investors of all kinds across the US, Australia and beyond, it looks like it’s a got a good reason behind all that, in itself. In a 2021 research study commissioned by Stake, cryptocurrency was found to be the second most popular form of investment after stocks for Australian investors under 40. And if that’s not enough or makes enough sense, well all this comes off the back of Stake’s initiative of Stake launching a revolutionary CHESS-sponsored ASX offering at just $3 flat brokerage in late 2021. For more and to sign up to Stake to make your own investments, go here

Category: FINANCE & INVESTING, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Crypto, finance, Finance blog, Hello Stake, Stake, Stake investment, Trade crypto from where you are with Stake

Love trading but hate brokerage? Sign up to Stake

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Stake makes investing simple, fun, interesting, worthwhile… Whatever other superlatives you can come up with. But aside from all that, they’ve done some sensational stuff in the accessibility of investing – for short or long term – by putting full access to the ASX and NYSE in your hands from anywhere in the world. And if that’s not enough, by offering insider access to news and research in the form of their paid subscription, Stake Black, the platform is turning around what it means to be financially savvy and plan for the future. In their latest movement, Stake’s offering Australian investors and those with an interest in the ASX, access again to free brokerage with a clever referral system. Simply encourage three more users to sign up and make a trade and you’ll knock off a dollar for each from every transaction. Previously considered impossible and getting to $0 brokerage on the ASX has been achieved thanks to a unique ‘three to free’ referral method, allowing customers to refer friends in exchange for discounted brokerage, with the opportunity to continue free brokerage indefinitely. For each person a customer refers, their brokerage drops by $1 for 1 year. That means just three referrals can get you to $0. Plus, referrals beyond the third are banked and kick-in once another has expired. So, customers can keep their fee-free ASX trading rolling. For more about Stake and to sign up, use this link

Category: FEATURES, FINANCE & INVESTING, LIFESTYLE

Tags: finance, Finance blog, Finance guide, Hello Stake, Investing guide, Love trading but hate brokerage Sign up to Stake, Stake, Stake trading

Stake Black: the only thing you need for investing

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Investing is one thing, but doing it as a newbie or without much experience can be daunting to put it lightly. There are heaps of changes in the world of investment; from opting for fund managers like Vanguard Australia to doing it yourself with Stake, resources are everywhere when it comes to info and making your own choices. And then, there’s Stake Black: an altogether epic alternative for industry and investment insight like you’ve never seen before. And here’s why. Stake introduced Stake Black for investors who want to take more control of their investments. As an optional add-on for those with a live account, Stake Black offers four key features: 1. Instant buying power – for the more active traders who are looking to move in and out of positions. This allows them to waive the T+2 settlement period and directly reinvest funds from a sale 2. Analyst ratings – one of my favourite features to help make a more informed investment decision. Analyst ratings all you to see how the big banks and investors on Wall St are analysing a stock as a buy/hold or sell 3. Price targets – going a level deeper than Analyst Ratings these give actual price targets the analysts believe the stock will reach 4. Full company financials – access full company financials of your favourite companies all in-app 5. Awesomeness in investing – you also score that sense of being ‘in the know’ and a part of a members-only club of financial movers that care about your… Read More

Category: FEATURES, FINANCE & INVESTING, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Hello Stake, Stake Black, Stake Black the only thing you need for investing, Stake investing

What’s trending in trading: Stake takes us through the October update

by THE F

Updated: 07/10/2021

If you’ve been following the financial news on THE F, then you’d know this very month is the month Stake Australia begins to take in those of us on the wait list! The wait list is for the new platform they’re launching, offering the opportunity to invest in the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) on-the-go from your mobile with $0 brokerage for the first 10,000 customers until 2022. Sign up to Stake now using this VIP code! Ahead of the platform going live and as the first instalment of a monthly ‘what’s trending in trading’ series for THE F readers, we got the insight from the Markets team to update our list of investments to watch for October! *Not financial advice. The value of money you invest in the stock market can go up and down and you may get back less than you invested. Top 5 most traded stocks Tesla (TSLA) Apple (AAPL) Microsoft (MSFT) Palantir (PLTR) Nvidia (NVDA) Top 5 hottest stocks Lucid Group (LCID) ProShares 1.5x Long Volatility (UVXY) Direxion 3x Bull Semiconductor ETF (SOXL) Upstart (UPST) 3x Inverse FANG+ ETF (FNGD) The stock market’s getting choppy The S&P500 just returned its worst month of the year. Down almost 5% for September, your portfolio may have given up some of the gains the market has generously delivered so far in 2021. One of the benefits of investing in the US markets through Stake is the ability to make the most of volatile or falling markets. A range of ETFs exist to ensure investors… Read More

Category: FINANCE & INVESTING

Tags: Best trading apps, Hello Stake, October trending stock investment guide, Share trading Australia, Stake, Stake investing, Trading apps, What's trending in trading Stake takes us through the October update

Join up to invest in the Australian Stock Exchange on-the-go with Stake

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

You can officially kiss the big banks and hefty priced investment firms a hearty ‘goodbye’! The moment every Australian investor’s been waiting for is here, courtesy of Stake. As of today, the waitlist is open for you to join the first intake of investors in Stake’s new offering: the ability to invest in the Australian Stock exchange using your phone (or desktop, if you’re classic), with a $0 brokerage fee for those on the BETA version. If you’ve been looking to invest in the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) but the standard $30-ish brokerage fee (the price brokers charge you to make trades) has been a put-off, then relax; Stake is the answer you’ve been hunting for. They’ll charge a tiny $3 brokerage per trade in 2022. Already know about Stake? Join up today with this VIP link If this sounds like the next move in your financial security, then head to the new ASX landing page is up and you can sign up to the waitlist! “We’ve kicked off already. People are trading on the ASX with Stake. We’re opening up thousands more spots, progressively, over the next couple of months. People atop our Beta waitlist will be taken on, which thousands have already signed up to,” said Stake founder and CEO Matt Leibowitz. “You jump ahead in the queue each time you refer a friend to the waitlist. Sign up, refer and climb, and you’ll be trading for free on the ASX until 2022.” It’s one helluva shake-up to the market long-dominated by only… Read More

Category: FEATURES, FINANCE & INVESTING, LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: ASX invest, Australian investing guide, Best investing apps, Best investment apps, Hello Stake, How to invest apps Australia, How to invest Australia, How to trade Australia, Investing apps, Investment apps, No brokerage investing, Stake, Stake app, Stake ASX, Stake Australian Stock Exchange

Stake investment: The updated Stake investing app is here

by James Banham

Updated: 28/11/2022

If you’ve jumped on board the trading-on-the-go from your phone trend that’s exploded around the world, then you know about Stake. And if you don’t, then check them out. Just today, they’ve ripped off the veil and shown the world a brand new better version of their app – and it’s nice. The now older version of he app was bold, easy-to-use, gave you everything you needed and as fewer steps as possible to get what you need done. The great news is that with this new version of the app, all that goodness still stands – it’s just a lot better. Here’s what’s up: They’ve introduced dark mode Whatever your mood or aesthetic, the app is now an outward manifestation of your inner you. Just switch it on or off in the settings. They’ve gone social While stopping short – at the moment – of being the full-blown social trading platform the likes of eToro, Stake’s now working with an integrated share and chat function, putting the your top tips for the week right in front of your pals’ faces. Stake Black? The paid version of the otherwise commission and cost-free vanilla version, Stake Black gives you instant buying power on on sell trades, buy and sell ratings from Wall Street analysts, price targets and full company financials to make those even better choices. Try it for $7.50/month billed annually. It’s about the get bigger Never before has the ability to invest in the Australian Stock Exchange as easily as what Stake’s planning. They’re… Read More

Category: FINANCE & INVESTING, LIFESTYLE, TECH & GADGETS

Tags: Hello Stake, invest in Wall Street, Stake app, The updated Stake investing app is here

ARTS & CULTURE

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

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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

Christmas music treat in Sydney: Handel’s Messiah returns

11/11/2024

By James Banham

This December, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs are set to enchant audiences once again with their much-loved Messiah concerts, a cherished Sydney Christmas tradition that has spanned over a century.