TRAVEL

Welcome to Myconian Sunrise Agrari Beach

24/07/2024

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

Where’s everyone travelling to this winter from Australia?

05/07/2024

By James Banham

As the Australian summer approaches, many families are planning their long-awaited getaways, seeking both domestic escapes and international adventures. According to Booking.com’s latest search data, Bali has emerged as the favourite destination, recording a remarkable 75% year-over-year (YoY) increase in flight searches. This volcanic island, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, also ranks highly in accommodation searches with three out of the top ten winter destinations, spurred by the desire to escape the recent rainy weather. Beyond Bali, Japan remains a top choice for Australian travellers, with Tokyo rising to the second most searched destination for accommodations, climbing three spots from last year. The allure of the 2024 Olympics is further driving Aussies to major European cities like London and Paris, which claim the third and ninth spots respectively in accommodation searches. In a striking trend, China has witnessed an astounding 95% YoY increase in flight searches, highlighting its growing appeal. Closer to home, the Gold Coast continues to reign supreme as the most popular domestic destination. Other notable domestic hotspots include Mooloolaba, which has seen a 25% YoY increase, and Adelaide, with a 20% YoY increase in accommodation searches. These trends underscore Australians’ favour for coastal and metropolitan locations during the summer months. Interestingly, technology is also shaping travel plans, with a recent study by Booking.com revealing that nearly a third of Millennials (31%) and Gen Z (30%) are likely to use AI in their travel planning this winter. This contrasts with Gen X (19%) and a mere 6% of Boomers showing… Read More

Tag: Spice Temple

Why celebrate 15 years of Spice Temple

by James Banham

Updated: 29/05/2024

In the bustling culinary landscape of Sydney, Spice Temple stands as a beacon of gastronomic excellence, celebrating 15 years of crafting unforgettable dining experiences. With a dedication to sourcing only the finest ingredients and a commitment to culinary artistry, Spice Temple has solidified its reputation as a dining institution that captivates the hearts and palates of Sydney’s discerning diners. A legacy of exceptional suppliers Throughout its illustrious history, Spice Temple has curated a selection of exceptional suppliers, each chosen with care and a shared vision of quality and excellence. From the renowned David Blackmore Wagyu to the artistry of Velluti’s, Spice Temple’s dedication to working with the best in the industry is evident in every dish served. By fostering close relationships with suppliers like Bruce Collis, Nicholson & Saville, Andrews Meat’s, and Poulos Bros, Spice Temple ensures that only the finest ingredients grace its menu. The heart of Spice Temple: quality above all For Executive Chef Evans, the heart of Spice Temple lies in the relentless pursuit of quality. By engaging directly with fishermen, growers, and farmers, Evans ensures that only the freshest and most exceptional produce finds its way onto the menu. This dedication to quality is non-negotiable, with Evans emphasizing, “If it’s not the best we can buy, it doesn’t go on the menu.” This commitment to excellence resonates through every aspect of Spice Temple’s culinary offerings, setting a standard of uncompromising quality that defines the dining experience. A badge of honour: Sydney’s culinary gem With its unwavering dedication to quality, Spice Temple… Read More

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

Tags: rockpool, Spice Temple, Spice Temple Sydney

Where to celebrate Chinese NY

by James Banham

Updated: 17/01/2024

Spice Temple is not just honouring, but wholly immersing itself in the Chinese tradition of welcoming propitious times with special feasts containing dishes of good omen, exclusively curated for the forthcoming Lunar New Year celebrations. The restaurant’s Executive Chef for Sydney and Melbourne locations, Andy Evans, along with Melbourne’s Head Chef Maggie Chan, have put together exceptional banquet menus in celebration of the Year of the Dragon, which begins on Saturday, 10th February, with traditional festivities continuing for up to 16 days. These specially crafted Lunar New Year banquet menus, priced at $149 per person, are on offer from Monday 5th February to Sunday 18th February, for both lunch and dinner services at Spice Temple in Sydney and Melbourne. As Chef Andy explains, “We have included some of our most special dishes reserved for celebratory occasions, and have also developed completely new dishes that feature ingredients known to bring prosperity, happiness, peace, love, and other aspects of good fortune.” In the Sydney location, the Chinese New Year banquet menu highlights purse-shaped pipis symbolising fortune, tea eggs for fertility, noodles for longevity, and red ingredients such as baby tomatoes for prosperity. The Melbourne menu, on the other hand, features golden bao buns and abalone representing wealth and power, along with classic dishes usually consumed during Lunar New Year feasts, such as the raw fish Yu Sheng salad, colloquially known as ‘Prosperity Toss’, which stands for good luck in the coming year. “Diners are encouraged to toss the shredded ingredients of the salad high into the air;… Read More

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

Tags: Chinese food, Feast, Spice Temple, Year of the DRagon

Why you need to go back to Spice Temple: Crabs!

by James Banham

Posted: 06/11/2023

Spice Temple, the much-loved regional Chinese restaurant in Melbourne and Sydney, is celebrating Mud Crab season in true style, offering a feast featuring Australia’s native crabs – affectionately known as ‘Muddies’. These sumptuous crustaceans are at their seasonal best, boasting luxurious, irresistibly sweet flesh. As a quintessential ingredient in Chinese cooking and a star of the banquet style of dining at Spice Temple, the live Mud Crabs, sourced directly from Queensland, are cooked to order and dressed in delicious authentic sauces. The spice of the season, until Sunday, 31st December, is the $99 price point on all Mud Crab dishes – a value-packed proposition for a flavour-packed dish that promises to be a show-stopper at any group gathering over the summer, holiday and festive celebrations. Under the expert guidance of Spice Temple’s Executive Chef Andy Evans, the Mud Crabs are steamed to perfection to ensure their sweet, delicate flesh remains tender and untainted. Diners can choose from a variety of five traditional sauces to accompany the delectable crab meat. As the Mud Crab season progresses and the summer heat intensifies, Spice Temple’s menu will also feature Blue Swimmer Crabs and Snow Crabs, each adding their own unique flavours to the mix. For Chef Andy, Mud Crabs and live seafood are the epitome of Chinese dining and offer a unique opportunity to present the regional Chinese flavours that Spice Temple is famous for. In his words, “Mud Crabs are often considered a luxury, but the real treat for our guests this season is the limited-time $99… Read More

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

Tags: Best crabs restaurant, Spice Temple

ARTS & CULTURE

Chicos Mambo’s award-winning show TUTU comes to the Peacock Theatre

26/07/2024

By THE F

Chicos Mambo’s acclaimed performance of TUTU is set to light up the Peacock Theatre at Sadler’s Wells, from Tuesday 1 to Saturday 5 October. After nearly a decade of touring and close to 700 performances worldwide, this family-friendly show, created by Artistic Director Philippe Lafeuille, features an all-male cast of six dancers dressed in a kaleidoscope of flamboyant costumes. TUTU affectionately mocks the classical ballet uniform while expertly parodying over 40 iconic characters, blending styles from classical ballet to contemporary dance. Audiences can expect innovative twists on well-known pieces, including a hip-hop rendition of Swan Lake and a quirky take on Dirty Dancing. Ahead of the show, Lafeuille expressed his enthusiasm: “I’m very happy and proud to be presenting my show TUTU in London. For me, London represents one of the world’s great epicentres of performing arts and entertainment. It’s a city that has given me great theatrical thrills, and I’m delighted that our visit coincides with TUTU’s 10th anniversary. Where better to celebrate this milestone than at Sadler’s Wells, a theatre that showcases dance in all its diversity and richness? So get ready to be ‘TUTUfied’, London… let’s dance!” David Fry, the Peacock Programmer, shares the excitement, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Chicos Mambo’s TUTU to the Peacock Theatre this October. With their blend of technical prowess and comedic flair, Chicos Mambo injects a fun and fresh energy into their shows. I know our audiences and West End friends will adore TUTU’s playful choreography and flamboyant costumes that cleverly subvert gender norms in… Read More

Ramesh Marion Nithiyendran in his studio May 2024. Photography Bowen Arico 2

New kind of Sri-Lankan Australian art in Sydney

22/07/2024

By James Banham

There’s a Sri-Lankan Australian artist, Ramesh Mario Nithiyendran, who’s putting on an art show entitled The Self Portrait and the Masks. And you need to see it in Sydney.

Flamenco Manuel Linan ¡VIVA c. Marcos G Punto 7

Amazing Flamenco in London; you must see ¡VIVA!

22/07/2024

By James Banham

With six bailaores (dancers) gracing the stage, ¡VIVA! pays homage to freedom while defying traditional gender norms of flamenco.

Egypt Museum NGV Friday Nights Pharaoh Michael Pham 4

NGV Melbourne brings a new take to Pharaoh exhibition

22/07/2024

By James Banham

Every Friday night, a rotating program of performance residencies will surprise and delight with unique musical experiences in the Great Hall. Inspired by the Pharaoh exhibition, each week audiences will be taken on a different musical journey, with a selection of music and performances, from jazz to cabaret, to classical, funk and blues.

José María Velasco’s Mexican art comes to National Gallery London

17/07/2024

By James Banham

The National Gallery in London is proud to present the first monographic exhibition in the UK dedicated to José María Velasco (1840–1912), Mexico’s esteemed 19th-century painter. Titled José María Velasco: A View of Mexico, this groundbreaking exhibition will be held from 29 March to 17 August 2025 at the prestigious Sunley Room. Please note that there will be an admission charge for this extraordinary showcase of artistic brilliance. Celebrating Mexico’s Artistic Legacy This landmark event marks the debut of a Latin American artist’s exhibition at the National Gallery and aligns with the 200th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the UK and Mexico. José María Velasco’s renowned body of work primarily focuses on the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Valle de México, encapsulating the essence of Mexico’s evolution amidst significant societal transformations. Rediscovering Velasco’s Legacy Despite his acclaim within Mexico, José María Velasco’s international recognition has waned over time. This exhibition aims to reintroduce Velasco to a global audience, shedding light on his multidimensional genius beyond painting. Not only was Velasco a masterful artist but also a botanist, naturalist, and geologist, blending artistry with scientific inquiry to create captivating and insightful compositions. Exploring Cultural Narratives Velasco’s paintings transcend mere aesthetics, delving into the intersection of cultures, ecological conservation, and industrial progress. By juxtaposing Velasco’s works with pieces from the National Gallery’s collection, such as Édouard Manet’s The Execution of Maximilian, visitors are prompted to contemplate themes of colonialism, industrialization, and humanity’s impact on nature—a discourse as relevant today as it was in the 19th century. A Scholarly… Read More