TRAVEL

Sydney Harbour Bridge sunshine afternoon

New experience at Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: Climb & unwind

29/07/2024

BridgeClimb Sydney stands out as a must-do adventure for both locals and tourists, offering a chance to ascend the Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of Australia’s most iconic structures. Launched in October 1998, this experience promises an adrenaline rush and breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. With various climb options ranging from approximately $160 to $390, including special sunset climbs, participants are guided by experienced leaders who ensure safety and share fascinating stories about the bridge’s history and engineering. Designed to be manageable for participants aged eight to 100, BridgeClimb Sydney is a family-friendly activity catering to a wide range of fitness levels. Climbers are equipped with all necessary gear, including a climbing suit and harness, ensuring safety throughout the ascent. As they make their way up the bridge, climbers can expect awe-inspiring moments and opportunities to capture incredible photos of Sydney Harbour. For those looking to tick this world-class experience off their bucket list, booking directly through the official BridgeClimb website is recommended. BridgeClimb Sydney is more than just a climb; it’s an unforgettable journey providing a unique perspective on one of Australia’s greatest architectural marvels, leaving lasting memories for both local residents and visiting tourists. Now this year, they’re adding something new to their experience! BridgeClimb Sydney is taking things to new heights—literally and figuratively—with its latest offering, the “Climb & Unwind” package. In an exciting partnership with Chi, The Spa at Shangri-La Sydney, this exclusive experience marries the thrill of scaling the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge with the luxurious pampering of a high-end… Read More

Welcome to Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach

24/07/2024

By THE F

Discover the harmonious blend of comfort and adventure at Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach. Nestled along the stunning south coast of Mykonos, guests can embark on various explorations, from traditional kaiique rides to the archaeological wonders of Delos, or even charter a boat to the unspoiled waters of Rhenia. The around-the-clock concierge service is on hand to facilitate travel and dining reservations, suggest activities, and cater to special needs, aiming to ensure a hassle-free and memorable stay. Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, as part of the exclusive Myconian Collection, offers guests priority bookings at top-tier spas and restaurants, enriching their experience even further. The venue is ideal for special events, with its unique and picturesque setting promising unforgettable memories. The dedicated team is focused on tailoring experiences to align with guests’ wishes, reinforcing the hotel’s commitment to exceptional service. At Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, you are encouraged to slow down, relish every moment, and craft lasting memories in an environment that feels like a true home away from home. This sense of genuine hospitality and deep connection to the island’s heart defines Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach, making it a tranquil haven and a unique gem in Mykonos.

Free things to do in Memphis USA

19/07/2024

By James Banham

Travelling abroad can sometimes be costly, prompting travellers to be more mindful of their expenses and look for activities that cost less or preferably are free of charge. Those planning a trip to the birthplace of blues, soul & rock’n’roll and the BBQ capital of the world, Memphis, will be thrilled to find a range of activities in the Tennessee city without spending a buck or at a discounted rate. Memphis was not only voted one of the Best Places to Go in 2023 by Conde Nast Traveller but was also the Number 1 U.S. Destination on a Budget in 2023 by USAToday. According to a study last year, Memphis hotel rates were 28% lower than the U.S. average. Seeing some of Memphis’ biggest attractions can mean spending a good chunk of the trip’s budget on tickets, but there’s a wide range of museums and attractions that offer free admissions so travellers can save money without missing out on the fun. There are also multiple walking tours and even a culinary trail to follow and save money during the trip. Free Admissions to Museums and Attractions Free and Affordable Music Experiences Free and Affordable Trails and Walking Tours Explore more of Memphis here.

Travelling for State of Origin? Try these

17/07/2024

By James Banham

As New South Wales and Queensland gear up for the final battle of the State of Origin, competition is ramping up both on and off the field. With both states boasting breathtaking landscapes, stunning coastlines, and iconic attractions, it’s no surprise that the states are head-to-head when it comes to the ultimate road-trip destinations. Budget Australia has rounded up the top road trip destinations so that travellers can hit the road and decide for themselves. Now it’s up to them to hit the road and be the judge of who comes out on top! For those planning their next trip, Budget Australia is currently offering free SUV upgrades to make sure your trip is match-ready for the whole team. Minnamurra Rainforest, NSW, vs. Mt Tamborine, QLD Just a few hours’ drive from both state’s respective capitals, both Minnamurra Rainforest and Mount Tamborine are home to stunning vistas, dense rainforest, and awe-inspiring waterfalls. Pack your swimmers and hiking boots to make the most of your visit. Hilltops Region, NSW vs. Granite Belt, QLD Less known on a global scale, the Hilltops Region and Granite Belt are two exciting emerging regions that should be on any wine lover’s bucket list. Explore Young’s surrounding Hilltops Region, four hours from Sydney, and sample their takes on Italian classics like Nebbiolo, Prosecco, or Sangiovese, or head to the Granite Belt for a robust Shiraz or Chardonnay. Broken Hill, NSW vs. Birdsville, QLD Head into Australia’s beating red heart and discover the unique appeal of Birdsville and Broken Hill. Be amazed… Read More

Crete in Greece: the Greek island you need to visit

12/07/2024

By James Banham

Are you one of those who can’t stop hearing about the allure of Crete but have yet to experience its magic firsthand? Well, let’s dive into why this magnificent island, as endorsed by the renowned Crete family holiday resort Fodele Beach, deserves a spot on your travel bucket list. Here is why Greeks are so good at hospitality 1. Coastal Bliss and Blue Flag Beaches Galore Crete, the majestic gem of the Greek islands, unfolds over 600 miles of breathtaking coastline, adorned with 139 Blue Flag beaches recognised for their pristine waters and eco-conscious management. Nestled in this coastal paradise is Fodele Beach Resort, offering direct access to a well-preserved beach, ideal for a spontaneous summer escape or a serene late summer retreat. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and immerse yourself in a plethora of water adventures, from exhilarating jet skiing and stand-up paddleboarding to tranquil canoeing and captivating scuba diving at premier dive sites just a stone’s throw away. Relax on the resort’s sunbeds, soaking up ample Vitamin D in between your aquatic escapades. Why Crete is a better option than Mykonos 2. Cultural and Natural Marvels for the Curious Souls For the adventurers at heart craving cultural immersions, the iconic Palace of Knossos, steeped in the legend of the Minotaur, beckons as a must-visit attraction for first-time Crete explorers. A mere 30-minute drive from Fodele Beach Resort, this archaeological marvel promises a riveting half-day journey through the remnants and intricate frescoes of the Minoan Civilisation, captivating both parents and children alike. Embark on… Read More

Tag: national gallery

National Gallery London begins countdown to 200th birthday with Bicentenary celebration

People gathered around front door of National Gallery Trafalgar Square

by James Banham

Updated: 22/06/2022

2022 it seems, is the year of milestones and celebrations. If Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee wasn’t reason enough to celebrate all that’s wholesome and likeable about the UK, then perhaps the news that the Nation’s favourite Western-style gallery, the National Gallery of Trafalgar Square is turning 200 years old. And they’ve got a lot planned to celebrate it. The countdown’s on to 10 May 2024 when the institution hits the milestone. What will it do with this time? Celebrate its past and look forward to the future with a year-long festival of art, creativity and imagination which sets the tone for its third century, of course! And the best bit is everyone’s invited. The celebrations will extend from in-to-outside the Gallery, encouraging visitors to London and locals to participate, view, engage and learn. “We will make it easier than ever for everyone to share a space with some of the greatest paintings in the world. From seeing a real work in the context of your local museum or gallery to enjoying a dive into the virtual history of the nation’s collection, everyone can find new ways to connect with art,” says the Gallery. Here’s a run-down of what’s on to look forward to. Dates and more info to come from the National Gallery website MORE: See the Raphael exhibition at the National Gallery until 31 July The Gallery across the nation The National Gallery is going national, taking key elements of its 2000+ strong collection to areas all over the UK. NG200: National Treasures 12… Read More

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: national gallery, National Gallery 200 birthday, National Gallery London, NG200, Trafalgar Square gallery

What to do this Queen’s Jubilee at the National Gallery London

by James Banham

Posted: 21/05/2022

The most incredible time in the history of the UK – well, one of the – is upon us; Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee! And if you’re not heading to the Mall for the Trooping The Colour parade, or heading to any of the other celebrations around London and the UK, then maybe a visit to the National Gallery is on the cards. Here’s a taste of what’s on… Fit for a Queen: Symbols and Values of Sovereignty An innovative virtual exhibition for everyone, anywhere to enjoy online, free. The wonders of digital will bring together a display of 28 National Gallery masterpieces – from Hans Holbein the Younger to Peter Paul Rubens and Jan Gossaert to Anthony van Dyck – curated by Susanna Avery-Quash. The display will explore images of female rulers from different epochs and countries as well as images that relate to some of the attributes most frequently associated with queenship in the past and present. Online visitors can navigate themselves around the virtual gallery, zooming in close to explore the 3D images of the diverse works of art on display. Click on the panel next to the picture to listen to an audio guide for each painting. Fit for a Queen: Symbolism and Values of Queenship will be live from Thursday 2 June 2022. Collections There will be a special Jubilee tour through the Gallery with wall labels, linked to Fit for a Queen: Symbolism and Values of Queenship. It will also draw attention to important pictures Her Majesty has generously… Read More

Category: ART, LIFESTYLE

Tags: national gallery, National Gallery London, Queen's Jubilee National Gallery

National Gallery London: get up close with Rafael

by James Banham

Posted: 23/03/2022

He may have died over 500 years ago (as of 2020), but Rafael’s work lives on stronger than ever, especially this year at London’s National Gallery, where a new exhibition is on sale and ready to host his fans. The Credit Suisse Exhibition: Raphael celebrates the painter, draughtsman, architect, designer and archaeologist who captured in his art the human, the divine, love, friendship, learning and power. He helped define what the quintessence of beauty and civilisation through some of his most famous works, like Transfiguration, Three Graces and his renowned tenure spent with Pope Julius II in the Vatican. His career spanned only two decades, but in it he helped to shape the course of Western culture like few artists before or since. The National Gallery exhibition will examine his work while lifting the veil on his time spent as an architect, archaeologist and poet, with so much more. Find out more about the artist and book your visit at the National Gallery website The Credit Suisse Exhibition: Raphael 9 April – 31 July 2022First Floor Galleries, Rooms 1-8Admission charge. Members free.

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Art blog, Best galleries London, London art, London art blog, national gallery, National Gallery London, National Gallery London get up close with Rafael, Rafael National Gallery London

National Gallery London is one of the first reopening after Coronavirus after 4 July

by James Banham

Updated: 02/07/2020

The National Gallery of London is one of the first galleries opening its doors again after the Covid-19 pandemic from 8 July. Most establishments won’t reopen, except the Royal Academy’s plans on Tuesday, reopening from 9 July, with face masks compulsory. The Barbican gallery will open on 13 July while the Tate’s four venues won’t reopen their doors until 27 July. All this comes with the new need to register for tickets prior to a visit – yes, to free exhibits, as well – in addition to an enforced one-way direction and face masks recommended. Either way you look at it, it’s a blessing the galleries will reopen, especially the National Gallery, whose Titian exhibition will be available for guests to see after it was cut short by government lock down rules. Head to the National Gallery’s website to book a slot.

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: national gallery, National Gallery reopen, National Gallery Titian

Coming to the National Gallery, a celebration of Artemisia Gentileschi

Artimisia's work at the National Gallery

by James Banham

Updated: 18/03/2020

Update: This exhibition has been put on hold on account of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Check the National Gallery website for more. About mid next year, the National Gallery of London will put on an exhibition that its never done before. For the first time, the work of Artemisia Gentileschi (1593–1654, or later), will hit the gallery, celebrating the life and work of the baroque Italian painter. At the centre of the exhibition, entitled Artemisia, will be the Gallery’s recently acquired Self Portrait as Saint Catherine of Alexandria (about 1615–17), which will be displayed alongside other closely related works by Artemisia for the first time since its discovery in 2017. The artists is considered one of the most accomplished followers of Caravaggio. She since accomplished a lot for a time when female artists were not easily accepted. The Artemisia exhibition will bring together around thirty-five works from both public institutions and private collections around the world. It’ll tell the story of Artemisia’s career from her youthful training in Rome, where she learnt to paint under the guidance of her father, to her formative years in Florence and her return to Rome just a few years later. It will then continue on to tell the tale of her dying father, and the establishment of her studio in Naples, where she lived for the last 25 years of her life. See the Artemisia exhibition at the National Gallery from April 2020. See more at the Gallery’s website.

Category: LIFESTYLE

Tags: Artimisia, Artimisia exhibition, Artimisia exhibition National Gallery, national gallery, National Gallery Artimisia

Nicolaes Maes is the Dutch Master of the Golden Age coming to the National Gallery London

by James Banham

Posted: 13/05/2019

From 22 February 2020, the work of Dutch Master Nicolaes Maes will grace the ground floor galleries of the National Gallery, right in the heart of London. It’ll make for what’s to be the first exhibition exclusively devoted to the man who died in 1693, taking on loans from private collections around the world. Made up of 35 pieces of work in paint and lead, the exhibition will take you on a journey through the life and learnings of a creative, considered one of the star pupils of renowned Dutch Golden Age Baroque artists, Rembrandt. What’s Maes known for? Maes was fond of works that depicted genre scenes, portraits, religious compositions and still lifes, many of which make up the bulk of next year’s exhibition. He was a pioneer of the theme of the eavesdropper; his carefully styled narratives often break the fourth wall, making the viewer a participant in the scene, as characters (often a maid) eavesdrop or point to illicit goings-on. To end the exhibition, it’ll focus on the period from 1673 when Maes settled in Amsterdam and abandoned domestic genre scenes to devote himself almost exclusively to portraits. A group of these lesser-known works will show how he brought a Van Dyckian elegance and swagger to the portraits. The exhibition will run until 31 May 2020. See more from the National Gallery at the website.

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

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ARTS & CULTURE

Good news for the London Museum revamp

06/09/2024

By James Banham

In a bold move to enrich London’s cultural landscape, the City of London Corporation and the Mayor of London have pledged an additional £50 million towards the creation of the new London Museum. So if history and the arts are your thing, then get excited! Nestled within the historic Smithfield markets, this ambitious project, designed by Stanton Williams and Asif Khan, is set to become one of Europe’s most significant cultural infrastructure projects, preserving the iconic market buildings for future generations. With a generous contribution of £25 million each from the City of London Corporation and the Mayor, the funding boosts the museum’s overall project budget to £437 million. Accompanying this, the museum is on a mission to raise an additional £30 million, with nearly half already secured through private donations and philanthropic efforts. The transformation of the Victorian General Market and Poultry Market into world-class spaces for art and learning is well underway. Slated to open in 2026, the General Market will showcase the museum’s permanent galleries, bringing to life more of its renowned collection than ever before. By 2028, the Poultry Market will house a cutting-edge learning centre, temporary exhibition spaces, and a publicly accessible collections store, inviting visitors to explore behind the scenes of the museum’s vast collection. Sharon Ament, Director of the London Museum, expressed her excitement about the project: “Thousands of Londoners are helping to shape this fantastic new museum which will not only explore our city’s rich history but the people and places that make it such a vibrant… Read More

Sydney Contemporary announces MA Art Prize winner as First Nations artist Alfred Lowe

05/09/2024

By James Banham

The eighth edition of Sydney Contemporary opens its doors today at Carriageworks, promising an exhilarating display of artistic prowess that spans the globe. In partnership with Principal Partner MA Financial Group, this year’s fair sets the stage for over 85 galleries and more than 400 artists from across Australia and the world, transforming the iconic venue into a vibrant hub of contemporary art from September 5th to 8th, 2024. A highlight of the launch is the announcement of the MA Art Prize winner, emerging First Nations artist Alfred Lowe. This prestigious $10,000 acquisitive award celebrates and supports the work of emerging and early-career artists in Australia. Hailing from the Arrernte community in the Central Desert, north of Alice Springs, Lowe now practices in Adelaide. His winning piece, “All dressed up I, 2024,” showcases his skill with clay and ceramics, using hand-built stoneware adorned with sgraffito and raffia to reflect themes of Country, informed by his deep connection to the central desert landscape. Sydney Contemporary has cemented itself as Australasia’s premier art fair since its inception in 2013, attracting over 25,000 visitors per edition and generating more than $121 million in art sales. It serves as a crucial meeting place for collectors and art enthusiasts, fueling the growth of the Australian art market. This year’s fair promises a dynamic lineup, including a colossal 20-meter-wide installation by artist Lisa Roet, an engaging Talk Contemporary program featuring Mona’s Kirsha Kaechele, and a vibrant performance by multidisciplinary artist HOSSEI. Fair Director Zoe Paulsen expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s… Read More

Sydney Dance Company brings ‘momenta’ dance to Melbourne

05/09/2024

By James Banham

Sydney Dance Company is set to captivate Melbourne audiences with the debut of Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela’s latest creation, ‘momenta’, at the Arts Centre Melbourne from 8-12 October. This full-length dance work, which has already garnered critical acclaim in Sydney, is a celebration of the profound beauty and fragility of shared humanity. Through the dynamic and evocative language of contemporary dance, ‘momenta’ delves into the ephemeral nature of human connections and encounters. Bonachela’s choreography is renowned for its intricate rhythmic patterns and inventive partnering, and ‘momenta’ is no exception. The 17 dancers of Sydney Dance Company transcend their physical boundaries, showcasing a breathtaking blend of grace, power, and vulnerability. Each movement is designed to resonate through space, creating a visceral experience for audiences as they are drawn into a world where raw emotion seamlessly blends with exquisite technique. The performance is elevated by the evocative electronic soundscapes of composer Nick Wales, who weaves in elements from P?teris Vasks, adding layers of depth to the narrative. Elizabeth Gadsby’s immersive set design and Damien Cooper’s striking lighting further enhance the atmosphere, capturing the essence of fleeting moments suspended between past and future. These elements converge to create a space where individual trajectories collide and intertwine, echoing the transient nature of life itself. Rafael Bonachela expressed his excitement about bringing ‘momenta’ to Melbourne, stating, “We’re thrilled to present momenta in Melbourne for the first time. momenta is a testament to the ephemeral yet profound connections that weave through all of our lives. From the most tender exchanges to… Read More

Listen to Beethoven live in Sydney

02/09/2024

By James Banham

In a celebration of musical revolution and historical milestones, the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall will play host to a landmark event on 26 October 2024—an extraordinary concert commemorating the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. This monumental piece, renowned for its powerful ‘Ode to Joy’ choral finale, redefined the symphonic form by integrating human voices, and has since become a resounding anthem for equality, freedom, and unity across the globe. Presented for one inspirational concert only, “Ode to Joy – Beethoven & Smyth” promises an evening steeped in musical brilliance and historical significance. Under the baton of the inimitable Elizabeth Scott, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs’ 400-strong Festival Chorus, alongside special guest soloists Bronwyn Douglass, Helen Sherman, Bradley Daley, and Michael Honeyman, will bring this masterpiece to life. Adding another layer of youthful exuberance to the performance, the Sydney Youth Orchestra will join forces in this magnificent collaboration. Not content with merely celebrating Beethoven’s legacy, the program also shines a spotlight on another trailblazing composer, Dame Ethel Smyth. Known for her fervent activism and defiance of societal norms, Smyth’s contributions to music and the suffragette movement remain inspiring. Her grand Mass in D, hailed as a masterpiece upon its premiere in 1893, will be performed, echoing the sentiments of George Bernard Shaw, who praised her work for dispelling the notion that women could not accomplish great feats in art. Smyth, a formidable figure in the male-dominated world of classical music, used her platform to champion equality. Her anthem, “The March of the Women,” composed during… Read More

Bridgerton candlelight concert comes to Sydney

02/09/2024

By James Banham

Sydney is about to be swept off its feet as Netflix, Shondaland, and Fever join forces to present the exclusive Bridgerton Candlelight Concert. This enchanting event is set to transform St Stephen’s Uniting Church into a Regency-era wonderland on October 24th, 2024, with performances at 6:30pm and 8:30pm. Imagine stepping into a world lit by thousands of flickering candles, where the air is filled with the familiar tunes of Bridgerton hits performed by a local string quartet. This multi-sensory musical experience promises to be a night to remember, featuring an eclectic setlist that includes Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” Ariana Grande’s “thank u, next,” and “Give Me Everything” by Pitbull, Afrojack, Ne-Yo, and Nayer, among others. With Bridgerton’s three seasons captivating audiences globally, this Candlelight Concert is a chance for Sydney-siders to immerse themselves in the magic of the series in a truly unique setting. To secure your spot at this highly anticipated event, sign up for the waitlist on Fever’s app or website. Doing so grants you exclusive pre-sale access to tickets, up to 24 hours before they become available to the public. Fever’s Candlelight Concert series is renowned for democratizing access to classical music, offering a fresh twist that appeals to a broad audience. Each concert is a celebration of music, performed in iconic venues worldwide, and this Bridgerton special will be no different, with limited tickets available for this fashionable event of the season. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this dazzling evening. Tickets for the Candlelight: Best of Bridgerton on… Read More