TRAVEL

Exploring the charms of France during the Paris Olympics 2024

02/07/2024

As Paris readies itself to welcome hordes of sports enthusiasts for the much-anticipated 33rd Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, the latest data from Booking.com unveils a fascinating trend among Aussie travelers. Not only are they gearing up to witness athletic prowess, but they also have their sights set on savoring the essence of French culture beyond Paris. Unveiling Wanderlust Trends Amidst the allure of Paris, Australian tourists are venturing towards lesser-known French gems, as indicated by recent search data. The figures paint a vivid picture of wanderlust preferences, steering travelers away from the conventional tourist paths. Strasbourg: A Gothic Wonderland The data showcases a remarkable 210% surge in Australians searching for accommodations in Strasbourg compared to the previous year. For those with an eye for architecture, the gothic marvels of Notre-Dame beckon, promising a journey through history and craftsmanship. Marseille: Sun, Sand, and Serenity Aussie sun-seekers are turning their gaze towards Marseille, a picturesque coastal town nestled in the enchanting Provence region. Booking.com notes a notable 70% uptick in searches for this Mediterranean haven, catering to those craving a perfect blend of beach bliss and cultural charm. Insights from Booking.com Todd Lacey, the Regional Manager for Oceania at Booking.com, stands ready to delve deeper into these travel trends. His insights offer valuable commentary and interview opportunities, shedding light on the evolving preferences of Australian travelers exploring France during the European summer. Australia to France Search Data Snapshot (European Summer 2024) Methodology: Data searches conducted between 26 May, 2024, and 2 June, 2024, for check-in dates… Read More

pexels pixabay 51947 winery vineyard tuscany

Hot to go to Italy… without going to Italy

02/07/2024

By James Banham

Perfect for Aussies wanting to embrace the Italian vibes, from home shores.

Why Greece is always the right choice for a trip

02/07/2024

By James Banham

The countdown to summer has kicked off! If you’re dreaming of your next warm weather getaway, then cast your gaze no further than Greece.

The Seville Fair: A Celebration of Culture and Tradition

30/06/2024

By James Banham

The Seville Fair, known in Spanish as “Feria de Abril de Sevilla,” is one of the most vibrant and celebrated events in the Spanish calendar.

a man and woman standing on a dock with a table and chairs and a straw roof

Why a trip to Tahiti’s got your name on it

29/06/2024

By James Banham

With colourful reefs, long white sand beaches and some of the most striking blue waters imaginable, The Islands of Tahiti already provide countless reasons to visit. If that wasn’t already enough to persuade you to book a trip right away, several exciting updates and new openings throughout the beautiful islands will surely do the trick. From luxurious resort reopenings and new dining experiences to sustainable practices, these developments promise to enhance the allure of the tropical paradise for travellers worldwide. Whether you’re a regular visitor eager to try something new or a first-timer exploring the lush landscapes, turquoise waters, and welcoming hospitality of the Tahitian people, these exciting updates are bound to inspire you to start planning your trip. Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts Reopening on October 1, 2024 Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts is set to welcome travellers starting October 1, 2024, following extensive renovations. The refreshed resort will feature air conditioning and Wi-Fi in all accommodations whilst maintaining its unique “Robinson” charm. Guests can anticipate delightful surprises in line with the “Pearl Resorts” ethos while enjoying the pristine pink sand beaches, stunning lagoon, Bird Island, and the warm hospitality of the hotel’s team members. Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa Opening in August 2024 The new Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa will open its doors in August 2024 on the former Le Meridien property. Offering overwater bungalows with glass floors and beach villas with direct lagoon access, the resort promises an unparalleled stay. Guests can look forward to gourmet dining, wellness and… Read More

Tag: Melbourne Shakespeare

Bell Shakespeare presents King Lear, starring Robert Menzies

by James Banham

Updated: 29/06/2024

For the first time since 2010, Bell Shakespeare presents King Lear, starring veteran stage actor Robert Menzies in the titular role. The production stages Shakespeare’s epic of the imagination in an intimate setting as Australian audiences won’t have seen it before.

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, MELBOURNE, THEATRE

Tags: King Lear, Melbourne Shakespeare, melbourne theatre, theatre

ARTS & CULTURE

Paris Fitzpatrick Quadrophenia a Mod Ballet Photo Johan Persson

Sadler’s Wells has a new mod ballet for you

01/07/2024

By James Banham

Sadler’s Wells and Universal Music UK today announced Pete Townshend’s Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet, a major new dance production of Townshend’s iconic album of the same name, which will tour the UK in 2025. Quadrophenia is steeped in the mythology of the 1960s—sharp suits, soul music, Vespas and parkas—but its themes of lost youth, rebellion, the search for belonging, and hunger for social change are just as urgent today. A rich orchestral arrangement of the album by Rachel Fuller and Martin Batchelar provides the backdrop for Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet. The brand-new production is choreographed by Paul Roberts, directed by Rob Ashford, and features original costumes by renowned British fashion house Paul Smith and Natalie Pryce, projection by Nick Hillel, and lighting design by Fabiana Piccioli. Rising star Paris Fitzpatrick performs the lead role of Jimmy. Quadrophenia, a Mod Ballet, tours to Plymouth Theatre Royal (28 May – 1 June 2025), Edinburgh Festival Theatre (10 – 14 June 2025) and the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton (18 – 21 June 2025) before having its official opening at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, London (24 June – 13 July 2025) and then visiting The Lowry, Salford (15 – 19 July 2025). Pete Townshend said: ‘QUADROPHENIA is the only Who album that I solely composed and produced (1973) and the movie that followed in 1979 launched the careers of some of the finest young actors of the time. In 2016 Rachel Fuller agreed to create an orchestral score of the album. When I first heard a demo of this version, without… Read More

Festival of Dangerous Ideas is back in Sydney this August

01/07/2024

By James Banham

Australia’s original disruptive ideas festival returns this August to provide a sanctuary for curious minds with a taste for danger.

New LGBT romance CHUCK CHUCK BABY coming to London

30/06/2024

By James Banham

CHUCK CHUCK BABY, funded by the BFI and awarding National Lottery funding, alongside BBC Film and Ffilm Cymru Wales and produced by Artemisia Films, will arrive in cinemas this summer just after Pride on 29 June! This highly anticipated film is set to be released in UK and Irish cinemas on 19th July, though the release date remains confidential and will be officially announced soon. Written and directed by Janis Pugh, known for The Befuddled Box of Betty Buttifint and Blue Collars and Buttercups, the film stars an impressive cast including Louise Brealey, Annabel Scholey, Sorcha Cusack, Celyn Jones, and Emily Fairn. The production is helmed by producers Anne Beresford, Adam Partridge, Andrew Gillman, and Peggy Cafferty. CHUCK CHUCK BABY tells a poignant story of love, loss, and music set amongst the falling feathers of a chicken factory in present-day industrial North Wales. The plot centres on Helen, who divides her days between packing chickens and caring for Gwen, her dying mother-figure. Helen’s world is set on a new course with the return of Joanne, a figure from her past with whom she shared unspoken teenage passions twenty years earlier. Encouraged by Helen, Joanne initiates a playful wooing game that re-awakens their old feelings, reigniting Helen’s zest for life. However, Joanne grapples with darker shadows from her past, leading to a series of emotional upheavals. As Gwen passes away, Joanne’s haunting memories cause her to retreat, leaving Helen alone. The film explores the women’s journey as they reflect on their missed chance to break down… Read More

Bringing music to people with Live At Yours

30/06/2024

By James Banham

For centuries, people of all cultures have gathered in places of worship to share the joy of music. Live at Yours is an artist-led organisation that brings local and international classical artists to audiences across Australia. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Vladimir Fanshil and Eleanor Lyons during the COVID-19 pandemic, the initiative aimed to provide a safe and intimate setting for live music. Their mission is simple – to connect audiences of diverse backgrounds, including various religions, nationalities, and occupations. Next month, Live at Yours will present events featuring Konstantin Shamray, Midnight in Paris, and Andrey Gugnin at Sydney’s Great Synagogue and Melbourne’s Toorak Synagogue. These venues, usually closed to the public, offer a unique blend of historical significance and architectural beauty, serving as a time capsule of humanity, music, connection, and culture. The organisation’s programming approach combines the casual tradition of the 19th-century European salon with contemporary local influences, making classical music accessible and appealing to a wide array of audiences. Live at Yours’ upcoming events promise to be an incredible and unique experience, showcasing renowned artists and captivating performances in extraordinary settings. If you’re interested in learning more or attending an event, complimentary tickets can be arranged, ensuring a memorable and enchanting experience. Full 2024 program: Live at Yours is an artist-led organisation that presents local and international classical artists to thousands across Australia.

Rubens’ artwork ‘The Judgement of Paris’ returns to display in National Gallery

30/06/2024

By James Banham

Following a meticulous 14-month restoration undertaken by the Gallery’s Conservation Department and supported by the Bank of America Art Conservation Project, Peter Paul Rubens’s The Judgement of Paris is now back on public display as of this June.