TRAVEL

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Salina in Sicily is your next big summer trip

21/05/2024

Príncipe di Salina, a luxurious haven nestled amidst the lush greenery of Salina—a Mediterranean gem off Sicily’s coast—proudly announces the completion of its Grande Pool Renovation, inviting travellers to immerse themselves in refined elegance and authentic Mediterranean charm. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Principe di Salina (@principedisalina) More than just a destination, Principe di Salina embodies a soulful sanctuary, seamlessly blending the timeless allure of Sicilian tradition with contemporary sophistication. Perched upon the tranquil remnants of an ancient volcano, our boutique hotel is a testament to the rich heritage and natural beauty of Salina, offering guests an immersive journey into the heart of Italian culture. As the sun-kissed shores of Salina beckon, Principe di Salina unveils its renewed Grande Pool, a masterful fusion of architectural innovation and local craftsmanship. Spearheaded by the visionary designs of Linea T architect Salvo Terranova, the renovation introduces two expansive open-space suites atop the main edifice, epitomising the essence of private Aeolian Mediterranean living. Complementing this, the pool deck undergoes a metamorphosis, now exuding a vibrant social ambiance, courtesy of a new pool bar and enhanced convivial spaces. In homage to Salina’s storied past and pristine landscapes, the pool renovation pays tribute to sustainability, utilising locally sourced materials such as Sicilian rocks from Catania and light lava stones, fostering an intimate connection with the island’s rugged terrain. The addition of Sicilian white ceramics accentuates the bar area, infusing the atmosphere with a touch of Mediterranean allure, while the aquamarine hues of the Aeolian Sea are evoked… Read More

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Los Angeles Tourism celebrates the 54th Annual LA Pride

21/05/2024

By James Banham

LA Pride returns, promising an incredible lineup of events, including LA Pride in the Park headlined by Ricky Martin, the LA Pride Parade & Block Party on Hollywood Boulevard, LGBTQ+ Pride Night at Dodger Stadium and PRIDE is Universal. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Discover Los Angeles (@discoverla) Stay & Slay: LA Tourism Offers Exclusive Hotel Deals for LA Pride Attendees Los Angeles Tourism will join the 54th annual LA Pride festivities this June through its support of the organization and its annual lineup of events. LA Pride stands as one of the largest Pride celebrations in the United States and the world. Throughout LA Pride, local Angelenos and travellers can secure a nearby hotel with the best available rates and enjoy welcome amenities, discounts, and more at select properties. “LA Pride beautifully captures the spirit of our City of Angels with its focus on unity, inclusivity, and self-expression,” said Adam Burke, President & CEO of the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board. “We are incredibly proud to invite both our fellow Angelenos as well as travelers from around the world to join us in celebrating our LGBTQ+ community.” LA Pride in the Park will take place on Saturday, June 8, 2024, across more than 20 acres of lush green space at LA State Historic Park. The event will feature dozens of local and LGBTQ+ vendors, a huge variety of food & beverage, beer gardens, and a special lineup. The global icon Ricky Martin will headline LA Pride in the Park,… Read More

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Exploring the Maldives: an eco-conscious paradise at Nova Maldives

21/05/2024

By James Banham

The Maldives, an archipelago of 26 atolls scattered in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, is a dream destination for many travellers. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life, it offers an unparalleled escape into nature’s lap. Among its spectacular islands, Nova Maldives stands out as a beacon of eco-conscious luxury, dedicated to preserving the ocean’s delicate ecosystem. Nova Maldives, cocooned on its own island in the South Ari Atoll, provides a private and eco-friendly island experience. This resort invites guests to rediscover their inner selves and foster meaningful connections with nature and others amidst a soft-luxury setting. Surrounded by a vibrant marine ecosystem, Nova is renowned for its spellbinding marine experiences, offering unique opportunities to watch whale sharks and manta rays in their natural habitat from over 30 spotting points. In celebration of World Ocean Day, Nova Maldives has announced a lineup of activities spearheaded by Afaa Abdulla, one of the Maldives’ few female diving instructors and a visionary PADI Professional dedicated to female empowerment, conservation, and environmental awareness. Afaa, a remarkable 22-year-old conservationist, has a deep connection to the ocean, having grown up on a northern Maldivian island. Trained under the esteemed Zoona Naseem, the Maldives’ first female PADI Course Director, Afaa aims to share her profound love for the ocean with travellers who are captivated by the sea’s allure. From June 6th to June 9th, Nova Maldives will host thematic briefings, presentations, and guided activities to educate guests on the region’s ecology. Topics include the biology of whale… Read More

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Best budget city breaks in Europe revealed

17/05/2024

By James Banham

Leading the list is Warsaw, Poland, which has been ranked first thanks to its lack of tourist tax, the cheapest hotel prices and one-day public transport tickets!

Airbnb unveils Icons and their extraordinary experiences

13/05/2024

By James Banham

Over the past half-decade, Airbnb has captivated travelers with over 90 unique stays and experiences inspired by iconic landmarks like Barbie’s Malibu DreamHouse, the Home Alone house, and Shrek’s Swamp. Today marks a new chapter in Airbnb’s story as they introduce Icons, a groundbreaking category of exceptional experiences hosted by luminaries from the realms of music, film, television, art, sports, and beyond. Unveiling the First 11 Icons Prepare to step into a realm where dreams converge with reality as Airbnb presents the inaugural 11 Icons, each promising an unparalleled adventure: Enhancements for Travelers and Hosts In addition to these awe-inspiring experiences, Airbnb is rolling out enhancements to elevate the guest and host experiences: For more details on the latest offerings and updates from Airbnb, visit the official announcement. Dive into a world of unparalleled experiences with Icons, where every adventure is an opportunity to unlock extraordinary moments that linger in your memory forever. Get a taste of it at the Airbnb site or app

Tag: SoCal

Where to have a Mexican fiesta in Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 28/04/2024

It’s that time of the year again, where the flavours of Mexico descend upon us with an exuberance that can only be found at SoCal’s Taco & Tequila Fiesta! This year, we’re turning the heat up with a lineup of events that promise not just a taste, but a full immersion into the vibrant Mexican culture. From the toe-tapping tunes of a live Mariachi band to the adrenaline-pumping chilli eating contest, we’re serving excitement on a platter! Cinco De Mayo Launch Party – The Ultimate Sunday Session Mark your calendars for May 5th because we’re kicking off the festivities with a bang! Immerse yourself in the ultimate party atmosphere as we transform our space to celebrate Cinco De Mayo. Enjoy live music, $15 margaritas, and tacos that will have you coming back for more. The fun starts at 1 pm with an acoustic duo and ramps up with a DJ and a surprise Mariachi band performance. Trust us; you don’t want to miss this! Find out more about the Cinco De Mayo Party Taste of Mexico, Dinner & A Show – A Culinary Journey On Thursday 9th & Thursday 23rd May, join us for a special evening that whisks you away to the heart of Mexico. Prepare to be mesmerized by a live Mexican dancing show while indulging in a sumptuous feast curated by our Head Chef Joel Doyle. At $79 per person, including a starter, main, side, and dessert – plus a welcoming margarita – it’s an experience that marries flavor with culture. Book… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, CITIES, MEXICAN FOOD, SYDNEY

Tags: mexican, Mexican Sydney, SoCal

ARTS & CULTURE

Opera Australia doing 500 tickets for $35

10/05/2024

By THE F

Opera Australia is rolling out the red carpet for younger audiences with its innovative Opera for Under 35s program! A fresh initiative that aims to breathe new life into the traditional art form of opera. In a bold move to attract a younger demographic, OA is offering an enticing deal of 500 tickets priced at just $35 each. This special offer marks the launch of a program dedicated to making opera more accessible and appealing to the under-35 crowd, starting with the Australian premiere of Edward Dick’s acclaimed production of Tosca. Scheduled to mesmerise audiences firstly in Melbourne at the Margaret Court Arena on May 24, followed by a season at the iconic Sydney Opera House starting June 25, Tosca is set to be a landmark event. This initiative is not merely about offering discounted tickets; it’s a comprehensive program designed to cultivate a deeper appreciation for opera among young Australians. Registrants of the program can look forward to a 15% discount on tickets to most OA performances year-round, alongside exclusive further discounts for select shows, with some tickets available at the low price of $35. Additionally, members will receive invitations to special behind-the-scenes events including meet-and-greets with artists, all at no additional cost. Jo Davies, OA’s new Artistic Director, expresses her excitement about the program, highlighting it as a strategic move to lower financial barriers and make opera accessible to all, especially during tough economic times. This approach not only preserves but also propels the art form forward by ensuring it remains relevant and… Read More

National Portrait Prize in State Library of Queensland this winter

09/05/2024

By James Banham

The National Portrait Gallery’s esteemed National Photographic Portrait Prize of 2023 is set to grace the State Library of Queensland, marking a prestigious period from May 11 until July 7, 2024.

New gallery in Sydney: A Secondary Eye opens

07/05/2024

By James Banham

Led by Jesse-Jack De Deyne, a specialist with extensive experience working in the secondary market for Australian Indigenous art and Boris Cornelissen, former Contemporary Art Specialist at Sotheby’s London and Hong Kong, A Secondary Eye was founded in 2020 with a focus on further developing the secondary market for art and collectibles in Australia.

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Flamenco Festival London 2024 is back

05/05/2024

By James Banham

This year’s festival is brimming with anticipation, featuring ten UK premieres and showcasing a constellation of flamenco’s brightest stars.

Dutch piano virtuoso returns to the Sydney Opera House

30/04/2024

By James Banham

Mark your calendars and prepare to be enveloped in the soul-stirring sounds of Joep Beving, as the maestro makes his grand return to the Opera House this July. After mesmerising audiences in previous years, Beving is back with a bang, ready to unveil the mystical realms of Hermetism across two spellbinding shows on Monday, 22 July 2024. Each performance promises an experience akin to a spiritual odyssey, underscored by Beving’s deeply introspective, neoclassical sound that has captivated millions globally. This year, the enigmatic Dutch pianist is set to elevate his musical narrations to unprecedented heights, blending his artistry with an awe-inspiring audio-visual spectacle developed alongside the innovative minds of Boris Acket, Merijn Versnel, and Roxanne Percobic. Hermetism, drawing inspiration from Beving’s 2022 album, invites you on an enchanted voyage exploring the essence of spirituality, the elusive nature of time, and the depths of the inner self. This isn’t just a concert; it’s an invitation to transcend the ordinary, led by a masterful storyteller who’s rediscovered his love for the piano and transformed it into a source of universal connection and wonder. Joep Beving’s remarkable journey from personal loss to streaming stardom is a testament to the power of music to heal, unite, and inspire. With over 200 million streams on Spotify and a place among the giants of post-classical composition, Beving’s return to the Opera House isn’t just an event; it’s a pivotal moment in the world of contemporary music. As Ben Marshall, Sydney Opera House Head of Contemporary Music, aptly puts it, “Joep describes… Read More