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: melbourne restaurants

Scenic dining in Australia

by James Banham

Posted: 15/03/2024

Australia’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes, offering not just exceptional menus, but also breathtaking views and iconic locations. Whether you are a food enthusiast or an avid traveller, these destinations provide a window into the country’s unparalleled beauty. Location: 78 Penfold Road, Adelaide SA 5072 Highlights: Nestled in the beautiful Adelaide foothills, Magill Estate Restaurant combines modern dining with stunning scenery. Enjoy contemporary dishes and an impressive wine selection amid breathtaking views that make every meal memorable. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Magill Estate Restaurant (@magillestaterestaurant) Location: Plane Tree Dr, Adelaide SA 5000 Highlights: Situated within the picturesque 51-hectare Adelaide Botanic Garden, Restaurant Botanic offers a dining experience that evolves with the seasons. Chef Justin James crafts a menu to engage all your senses, ensuring a relaxed four-hour culinary adventure. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Restaurant Botanic (@restaurantbotanic_adl) Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000 Highlights: Dine with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour and the city at the iconic Sydney Opera House. The menu celebrates Australian cuisine with elegant meals crafted from top-quality local ingredients. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bennelong Restaurant (@bennelong_sydney) Location: 1 Macquarie Street, Sydney Highlights: Aria boasts stunning views of Sydney’s landmarks paired with a versatile menu. Whether opting for a full degustation or a selection of dishes, the best of Australian ingredients are showcased in every bite. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aria Restaurant (@ariarestaurant) Location: 270 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE, SYDNEY

Tags: dinner, melbourne restaurants

New modern Asian in South Yarra Melbourne

by James Banham

Updated: 26/01/2024

South Yarra is about to welcome a new culinary gem into its vibrant Toorak Road dining precinct. Token, a gastronomic venture by the esteemed Darling Group, is set to officially open its neon-lit, 150-seat dining space on the 23rd January 2024. Infusing the Japanese Izakaya concept with modern sophistication, Token is designed to navigate diners through a seamless culinary journey from day to evening. The venue itself personifies casual dining with a touch of decadence, featuring an open bar, a central kitchen, and a curated raw bar where sashimi and temaki are made on demand. “We’ve crafted a menu that entices a culturally curious audience with beautiful and fresh Japanese-inspired dishes,” remarks Chef Ashly Hicks, one of the creative minds behind Token’s meticulously curated menu. The restaurant has two focal points – the Liquid & Raw and the Charred & Flamed. While the former pays homage to nature’s light and fluid attributes with a cocktail bar and raw offerings, the latter explores darker, textured, and sensory facets, emanating from the open-fired kitchen. The venue features a custom-made Binchotan yakitori grill and a coal-fired oven, promising a visual spectacle for patrons. Token’s Head Chef Jun Sun, a Nobu and Ichi Ni Izakaya veteran, will bring these flame-kissed Asian fusion creations to life. Token’s menu is a celebration of umami flavours, from spicy delicacies to skewered and chargrilled delights. Standout dishes include Tempura Enoki Mushroom with Kombu Seasoning, Twice-Cooked Pork Belly Chashu Kushiyaki, and “Steak Frites” Wagyu with Japanese Pepper Sauce served alongside Token Fries. Token is… Read More

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

Tags: Asian restaurants Melbourne, Best Asian restaurants Melbourne, Melbourne Asian restaurants, melbourne restaurants, south yarra

Unforgettable Valentine’s Day events around Melbourne

by THE F

Posted: 24/01/2024

Whoever you’re marking February 14th with this year, true romance is guaranteed across Chris Lucas’ eight Melbourne venues. From tableside flowers and fiery fun to summer strawberry pavlova and the finest champagne, wooing your loved one has never been easier. Just make the booking and leave the rest up to the team at Lucas Restaurants. Yakimono: Ignite the Flames of Love Yakimono is bringing the fire to Valentine’s Day with an exclusive flame-kissed Setto menu for $110pp, which includes a cheeky cocktail to kick things off. Expect a mix of classics and special additions to share against the backdrop of the neon-lit dining room. Think fresh, flavorful kingfish sashimi; umami negi chicken skewers; dynamite tuna hako with dragon’s fire sauce and much more. The sparks will be flying — and we don’t just mean from the kitchen. What’s more, Yakimono is teaming up with the flower maestros at Bush, transforming its downstairs foyer into a pop-up florist for one day only. Drop by from 10am to 7pm on 14 February to pick up some stunning seasonal blooms, including banksia stems from $25 a pop and lush bouquets from $85. Get in quick to reserve your February 14 booking now Society Dining Room: A Feast for All the Senses A spectacular setting for any romantic rendezvous, with exceptional Euro-accented fare to match, Society is the perfect choice for a truly memorable Valentine’s Day. Visit the esteemed Dining Room for an exclusive $245pp Chef’s Menu, set to include a very special edition of Society’s famed dessert trolley…. Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FEATURES, MELBOURNE

Tags: melbourne restaurants, valentine's day, Valentine's Day Melbourne

Queen & Collins: Redefining CBD Dining Experiences

by THE F

Posted: 11/01/2024

The GPT Group, one of Australia’s leading property groups, has unveiled the final phase of its audacious redevelopment project at the illustrious Queen & Collins tower. The crown jewel of this project is a premium dining precinct encapsulated within the iconic gothic façade. Queen & Collins has evolved to shatter the conventional mould of CBD dining hubs, providing an architecturally designed space that intertwines the site’s rich history with a modern celebration of culinary diversity. This dynamic precinct serves a broad customer demographic, including business executives, local residents, and tourists. Each corner of Queen & Collins is meticulously crafted to reflect the vibrancy of Melbourne’s famed laneways. It thrives as a lively community hub, imbued with character and texture, set to make its mark as a distinctive destination for gatherings this social season. Fine Dining and Artisanal Cafes Reine & La Rue, the French bistro nestled within the historic Grand Cathedral Room, brings a touch of old-world New York opulence. Managed by the renowned NOMAD group, the bistro has quickly achieved ‘icon’ status, winning Good Food’s 2023 Best New Restaurant of the Year. The grandeur of its vaulted ceilings, granite columns, and stained-glass windows pairs elegantly with a menu that leaves patrons wanting more. Rustica, the artisanal café and bakery, offers a more laid-back dining option. It’s the perfect retreat from the city’s hustle, marking the café’s fourth location in the CBD. Exciting New Additions This December, food lovers can look forward to the launch of the subterranean bar, Purple Pit, by culinary maestro Maurice… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

Tags: melbourne restaurants, QUeen and COllins, Queen retaurant

New degustation dinner at Botswana Butchery in Melbourne

by James Banham

Posted: 01/09/2023

Melbourne’s renowned Botswana Butchery is set to elevate the city’s dining scene with a stunning gastronomic event on Wednesday, 6th September. Showcasing a luxurious degustation featuring exquisite wagyu dishes and beverages from Nikka Whisky, the soiree promises to be an extraordinary feast for food and drink enthusiasts alike. Botswana Butchery has consistently captured the hearts of diners with its delectable steaks and meat dishes, underpinned by a commitment to premium produce and innovative culinary experiences. The impending Wagyu x Nikka Whisky pairing event is a testament to their ethos, guaranteeing a unique experience relished by gourmands and connoisseurs alike. Guests will be invited to unwind in the opulent surroundings of the CBD restaurant, delighting their taste buds with four servings of premium wagyu, a refreshing palate cleanser, and a mouthwatering dessert. The culinary adventure is further enhanced by an array of Nikka whisky beverages, meticulously paired to complement each course. Enhancing the experience will be captivating talks by key personalities involved in the event. Culinary Director, Angel Fernandez, will offer insights into the selection of wagyu cuts and the inspiration behind the dishes. Award-winning Bar Manager Reuben Beasley, a recent winner of the Nikka Perfect Serve 2023 Competition, and Nikka Whisky Ambassador Marcus Parmenter, will share their expertise on whisky blends and the intricacies of the barrelling process. The delectable evening will set you back $299 per person and promises an unforgettable culinary journey. For more details on the event and to book your place, visit Botswana Butchery’s website. When it comes to enjoying delicious… Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

Tags: Botswana Butchery, Degustation dinner, Degustation Melbourne, Melbourne degustation dinner, melbourne restaurants

Chic new Melbourne restaurant, Morris House

Prahran Hotel Longboy Media 17 1024x683 1

by James Banham

Updated: 26/06/2023

Get ready, Melbourne. On Monday, July 10th, the city will welcome its newest four-level pub, Morris House, after a stunning $4 million transformation. Designed by the talented Red Design architects, Morris House will feature a fresh, light exterior, an NYC-inspired basement comedy club, an elegant ground-level dining room, a cozy level one bar and terrace, and a spacious rooftop with fantastic city views. Taking over the former European Bier Café, the renovated venue will accommodate up to 550 guests across its four revamped levels, including a generous rooftop space for 180 guests: Basement Comedy Club – Morris House proudly presents the Basement Comedy Club, a neon-lit haven inspired by New York’s finest comedy venues. Showcasing exposed brick and moody lighting, the space will host local and headline comedy acts every Friday and Saturday night in partnership with Melbourne Comedy, featuring a residency from Arj Barker starting on July 18th. Ground Floor Dining Room & Bar – The newly revamped ground floor Dining Room boasts plush leather booths and a sleek marble bar, perfectly situated off the bustling city sidewalk for mid-week lunches or post-work drinks. Level One Bar & Terrace – Experience comfortable booth seating and a sun-soaked terrace overlooking Exhibition Street at the Level One Bar and Terrace. This space hosts weekly live music and is available for corporate and social events. Enjoy local bands every Friday night or unwind with $16 Negronis while listening to smooth jazz every Thursday. Rooftop – The fourth-level rooftop offers an inner-city, leafy-green oasis perfect for social gatherings…. Read More

Category: LIFESTYLE, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, MELBOURNE

Tags: best restaurants Melbourne, melbourne restaurant, melbourne restaurants, Morris Melbourne

A new kind of Mexican in Melbourne: Johnny’s Green Room ‘New El Paso’

by James Banham

Updated: 11/04/2021

This Sunday 11 April, there’s a new once-off Tex-Mex extravaganza at Johnny’s Green Room in Melbourne, showcasing the yummiest in food and drink of the Mexican persuasion. Complete with Melbourne rooftop views, delicious Mex-American dishes will be pumped out for under $20 alongside tunes from DJ Chico G. Oh, and a special one-time-only gelato taco from gelateria (and Johnny’s neighbour) Pidapipo will round out the menu with the perfect sweet finale. Garage Project will also have their Golden Path IPA on tap to sip (for only $12 a pint) and enjoy the city views whilst you chow down on delicious tacos and quesadillas. Here’s what to get excited for: Totopos con queso – $11 Corn chips & nacho cheese sauce Mushroom quesadilla – $11 Pine mushrooms, Oaxaca cheese & jalapeño Burnt ends hard shell tacos (2pc) – $17 Smoked brisket burnt ends, salsa roja & guacamole Torta ahogada – $16 Fried chicken sandwich, chipotle mayo, iceberg, guajillo & tomato salsa Pidapipo gelato taco – $11 Sweet corn gelato tacos with capsicum and strawberry jam, poached cucumber & peanut croquant Johnny’s 8 Ball – $20 Blanco tequila, mezcal, Aperol, yellow chartreuse, lime Find it at Johnny’s Green Room presents: ‘New El Paso’ Sunday 11 April, 12pmLevel 2, King & Godfree LnCarlton VIC 3053

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE, MEXICAN FOOD

Tags: A new kind of Mexican in Melbourne: Johnny’s Green Room New El Paso, Best Mexican, melbourne restaurants, Mexican Melbourne, Mexican restaurants Melbourne, Where good Mexican Melbourne, Where to go Mexican

Sri Lankan restaurant in Melbourne – INDU opens its doors

by James Banham

Updated: 16/02/2021

For the times you’re hankering something with Sri Lankan flavours; think INDU. It’s open in Melbourne, turning out the cuisine that puts that part of the globe on the map, like Smoked Yarra Valley goats leg dosa, Indu-cured kingfish, Thilaka’s potato curry and the Great Lamb Raan. It can be found in the front of the iconic Collins Quarter building in the middle of Melbourne. Just sniff for and follow the dark and aromatic aromas produced by their menu inspired by the coast and village and delicious dishes. Find INDU at 86A Collins St, Melbourne and more at the INDU website

Category: LIFESTYLE

Tags: Best Melbourne restaurants, INDU Melbourne, melbourne restaurants, Melbourne Sri Lankan restaurant, Sri Lankan restaurant Melbourne

11 Melbourne restaurants to celebrate Valentine’s Day at in 2021

by James Banham

Updated: 05/03/2021

So, Valentine’s Day as a concept is super divisive. Some love it, some not so much, others just use it as an excuse for dinner. That’s where this comes in handy. Here’s a list of 11 of Melbourne’s trendiest and top-notch places to smash a romantic dinner with a special someone – or group of them – you need to book before Sunday. Mejico Melbourne Spice things up this Valentine’s Day at Melbourne’s newest Mexican restaurant and tequila bar, Mejico. Sip on all kinds of margaritas and celebrate with a special set menu including oysters, Mejico’s signature tableside guac, salmon ceviche, Yucatan style BBQ empanadas, porterhouse steak with chimichurri and a margarita cheesecake to finish.Mejico’s Valentine’s Day set menu is available or dinner for $75 per person. Bookings online at Mejico’s website Chin Chin Melbourne Lock yourself and the one you love in at Chin Chin with its special ‘Love Me, Feed Me’ menu. The delicious set menu includes all the dishes you know and love from the CBD favourite including kingfish sashimi, grilled king prawns with Chin Chin papaya hot sauce and more. To finish with something sweet, lovers can indulge in a special Valentine’s Day heart-shaped chocolate and coconut mousse with chilli caramel and raspberry sorbet. Couplers can sit back and relax while they sip on liquid loving cocktails including the ‘Easy Lover’ with Aperol and elderflower and ‘Two’s Company’ with gin, raspberry and rhubarb flowers. The Love Me, Feed Me menu is available for $89 per person and bookings are available at Chin Chin’s site Bomba Treat your… Read More

Category: AUSTRALIAN FOOD, CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE

Tags: melbourne restaurants, Valentine's Day restaurant guide, Valentine's Day restaurants, Where to eat Valentine's Day

ARTS & CULTURE

A Cinderella Royal Opera Affair at the Sydney Opera House

28/11/2024

By James Banham

Get ready to dust off your glass slippers and prepare for a royal night out as Opera Australia rolls out the red carpet for the Australian premiere of Cinderella (Cendrillon), opening at the Sydney Opera House this summer. And here’s the twist—this isn’t just another fairy tale outing. Think dazzling voices, high-fashion-meets-18th-century costumes, and, the pièce de résistance, an all-Australian, mostly female-powered superstar cast. All Hail the All-Australian Cast Leading the charge is mezzo soprano Emily Edmonds in her debut as leading lady, stepping into Cinderella’s much-coveted shoes. It’s her big moment, and honestly, we couldn’t have picked a better royal-to-be. Playing Prince Charming in the iconic ‘pants role’ is Margaret Plummer, making her return home from a sparkling international career. She’ll share the spotlight with fellow powerhouse Sian Sharp, an Opera Australia principal singer who knows how to bring the charm. And in a role that’s truly otherworldly, the Fairy Godmother will be brought to life by beloved soprano Emma Matthews—just what you need for some magical, operatic sparkle. Of course, no Cinderella story is complete without a wicked stepmother and, less-than-ideal stepsisters. Angela Hogan and Dominica Matthews will channel their inner villainess with all the outrageousness you could hope for, while Ashlyn Tymms takes her Opera Australia principal role debut alongside Jennifer Black and Jane Ede as the hilariously dreadful stepsisters. Throw in Richard Anderson as Cinderella’s father, Shane Lowrencev as the King, and Iain Henderson and Virgilio Marino as the Dean of Faculty, and you’ve got yourself an ensemble fit for a… Read More

Yayoi Kasuma makes more history at NGV Melbourne

22/11/2024

By James Banham

This summer, the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) in Melbourne invites you to lose yourself in the extraordinary universe of Yayoi Kusama.

Why rush to see The Great Mughals at V&A: a celebration of opulence, art and culture

22/11/2024

By James Banham

Today, the Victoria and Albert Museum opens the doors to a landmark exhibition, The Great Mughals: Art, Architecture and Opulence. For the first time in a major show, the monumental artistic achievements of the Mughal Empire’s ‘Golden Age’ (c. 1560–1660) take centre stage, showcasing the splendour, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange that defined one of the world’s greatest empires. The Glory of the Mughals The Mughal dynasty, rooted in Central Asia, was founded in 1526 by Babur, a Timurid prince who carved out an empire stretching from modern-day Afghanistan to the edges of southern India, and from Gujarat to the borders of present-day Bangladesh. At its zenith, the empire was known for its staggering wealth, progressive governance, and artistic innovation. Focused on the reigns of three of the dynasty’s most celebrated emperors—Akbar (r. 1556–1605), Jahangir (r. 1605–1627), and Shah Jahan (r. 1628–1658)—the exhibition illuminates a period when the Mughal court transformed into a cultural powerhouse. These were the rulers who commissioned masterpieces like the Taj Mahal and fostered an artistic legacy that blended Persian, Indian, and European influences. Unveiling the Court’s Creative Mastery At the heart of the exhibition are over 200 objects, breathtaking in both their beauty and their historical value. Visitors can expect to marvel at exquisite paintings, intricately illustrated manuscripts, luxurious textiles, vibrantly hued carpets, and dazzling objects crafted from mother of pearl, jade, rock crystal, and precious metals. Many of these treasures have been hidden from public view for decades, making this a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the artistry of… Read More

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