TRAVEL

Egypt Sphynx pexels alexazabache 3185480

Why Egypt should be on top of your travel list

17/11/2024

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

Sydney Harbour Bridge sunshine afternoon

New experience at Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb: Climb & unwind

29/07/2024

By James Banham

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

Tag: sydney food blog

Love truffles? Here’s where to get them in Sydney

by James Banham

Updated: 29/06/2023

Truffle lovers in Sydney have reason to rejoice with the start of the much-awaited truffle season. The city has no dearth of options when it comes to indulging in the earthy and aromatic delicacy. Here are some top spots to get your truffle fix: Darling Square IIKO Mazesoba is one of the most renowned culinary destinations in Sydney, known for its brothless ramen and black truffle menu. Their limited-time menu features unparalleled flavours of black truffle sourced exclusively from Truffle Hill in Western Australia. The menu includes customer favourites like Black Chicken Karaage and new dishes such as Brie Cheese Tempura served with Truffle honey. WingBoy offers Truffalo Wings and a Truffalo Burger. The wings are doused in truffle-infused buffalo sauce and topped with shaved black truffles, while the burger features truffle-infused buffalo tenders, slaw, ranch, shallots, and a milk bun. Spago serves up delectable truffle-infused dishes like Spaghetti cacio e pepe with exotic mushrooms and fresh truffle, Criss Cut Potato Chips with crispy bacon, melted cheese, truffle oil, and fresh truffle, and Homemade classic Tiramisu with fresh truffle. Ume Burger also boasts of luxury upgrades to its burgers and sides with Truffle Mayo, a crispy Kakaige Truffle Burger and Ume Hot Chips dipped in Truffle Mayo. The Streets of Barangaroo IIKO Mazesoba is a common name here too, offering the same black truffle menu as it does in Darling Square. Cirrus brings back its annual dinner series complemented by David Coomer’s rare black winter truffles, sourced from the fertile land nestled between the mighty… Read More

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

Tags: Best truffles Sydney, streets of barangaroo, sydney food blog, Sydney truffles, Truffled food Sydney, Where to find truffles

Movember at KOI Dessert Bar Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 16/11/2022

If ever there was someone who knew how to make cakes, it’s Reynold Poernomo and co.: the guys behind Sydney’s KOI Dessert Bar. In partnership with the annual Movember movement to raise money for men’s heath in Australia, KOI Dessert Bar will this weekend be hosting a decadent ‘Guy Tea‘. Arnold and Ronald have created a decadent menu with a mixture of sweet & savoury canapes including; Salmon Roe Tart with Brown Butter Potato, Smoked Bacon and Yol Jam ‘Cigar’, Milk Chocolate & Whisky Macaron and guests will be treated to a special cocktail upon arrival crafted by cocktail making sensation Wen Wang (Australia’s Best Bartender Top 100). Working with family is no easy feat, and add the complex nature of the fast paced hospitality industry, the boys have had their fair share of challenges, inevitably affecting their mental wellbeing. In a bid to bring people together through their shared love of food, the Guy Tea aims to help mates from all walks of life feel connected and comfortable to ‘at the table’ chat about how they’re feeling. Sessions will take place on Saturday, 19 and Sunday, 20 Movember with 2 sessions each day from 12pm You’ll find KOI Dessert Bar at 6 Central Park Ave, Chippendale 2008

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

Tags: Best desserts Sydney, Cake shops Sydney, dessert guide sydney, koi dessert bar sydney, Men's health, movember, Movember charity, movember sydney, sydney food, sydney food blog, THE F Movember, the f sydney

The Sydney South Coast Food & Wine Festival is back

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Down in Berry, South of Sydney, the South Coast Food and Wine Festival is back, serving up some of the country’s best regional food and wine. From Friday 13 – Sunday 15 September the festival promises to showcase the very best the South Coast has to offer. To the tune of over 15 events, there’ll be cooking classes, demos and tastings from local hero chefs, hatted restaurants hosting pop-ups, first-rate South Coast vineyards, and superb local producers, all supported by a vibrant array of free live music and entertainment. Food and wine on offer is 100% from south coast producers, thanks to the talents of over 50 stallholders expected to be showcasing delicacies from all over the region. Think seafood, cheese, berries, wines and much more for hungry and curious food lovers. Tickets to the South Coast Food & Wine Festival cost just $28pp and are on sale now at the Festival’s website. WHAT: The South Coast Food & Wine FestivalWHERE & WHEN: Friday 13– Sunday 15 September 2019 Berry Showgrounds, Berry, NSWTICKETS: $28pp

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

Tags: Australian food wine festival, South Coast food, South Coast Food Wine Festival, South coast wine, sydney food blog, Sydney food blogger, THE F South Coast Food Wine Festival, the f sydney

From Sydney to London: Where to celebrate World Gin Day

by James Banham

Posted: 08/06/2019

Gin is as trendy as anything right now and its popularity definitely isn’t limited to Australia or the UK, but damn when it comes to celebrating it, both countries have it down-packed. Between Sydney and London, there’s enough on to keep your whistle whet, so head along and give any one of their gin concoctions a go. London If you’re not tracking down where’s good to do for a tipple of The Botanist gin, then you’re doing something wrong. Find out about their London-exclusive map to goodness they’ve created, here. They’ll also be mixing up drinks at Belgravia, Opium, The Blind Pig, The Shrub and Shutter, The Little Yellow Door, Le Pont de la Tour and Jin Bo Law Skybar for guests. Bluebird Chelsea are celebrating World Gin Day on the 8th June with a Fever-Tree Perfect Serves Menu. The Chelsea landmark have collaborated with Fever-Tree to create a menu with summery flavours and a quintessentially British garden on the sun-soaked terrace. The menu features an array of G&Ts including Perfectly Pink G&T made with Pink Pepper Ginand Aromatic Tonic garnished with lemon and lavender. Mr Fogg’s is putting on a gin spectacular for all to witness in the Parlour, as they attempt London’s first 4 metre gin pour, from the top windows of Mr Fogg’s Gin Parlour on Saturday 8 June. The Little Yellow Door is Notting Hill is throwing the ultimate house party, complete with a chlorophyll-based brunch cocktail. Called ‘The Hangover’, this body purifying breakfast tipple packs one hell of a punch with more health benefits than drinks can shake a stick at…. Read More

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

Tags: Best bars gin, gin, Gin Day, London blog, London food blog, London gin, Sydney blog, sydney food blog, sydney gin, world gin day

Rivareno Gelato Sydney: Sugar hits done right

by Emi Berry

Updated: 07/06/2019

Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you can’t continue to enjoy frosty favourites like gelato. And it’s even better on hot Belgian waffles or freshly made crepes, which are now on offer as part of Rivareno’s winter menu. The crepes and waffles are served with either gianduia sauce (a chocolate-hazelnut sauce similar to Nutella), or with an organic Canadian maple syrup, topped with Rivareno’s freshly made gelato. Take it to the next level with some freshly whipped cream, if you dare! Rivareno’s has also introduced nine delicious vegan sorbets as part of the new winter menu including extra bitter cioccolato, pistachio, almond, authentic Italian gianduia, kiwi and coconut, plus more! If you’re after something really satisfying and indulgently rich to keep you warm, there’s also Rivareno’s signature rich Italian style hot chocolate, made with Valrhona single origin Grand Cru ‘Manjari’ chocolate. Be warned though, the hot chocolate is super thick, so you’ll want to enjoy it at a nice, slow pace. Rivareno have two stores in Sydney, one in Darlinghurst at 280 Crown Street and the other located at Barangaroo, 33 Barangaroo Avenue.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, SYDNEY

Tags: food blog, Gelato Sydney, Rivareno Gelato, Rivareno Gelato Sydney, sydney dessert, sydney food blog, the f food blog, THE F Rivareno Gelato Sydney, the f sydney

Get porked: Pork-A-Palooza at The Morrison is on in Sydney

by James Banham

Posted: 20/05/2019

Until 23 May, The Morrison in Sydney, right on George Street is your swine-tastic destination for all things pork. And it’s damn good. Joining the long list of food themed events and offering The Morrison puts on every year, Pork-A-Palooza will offer its guests a range of porky delights for even the most averted pork eaters. The menu includes whole suckling pigs – yes, that’s right – and pork hotdogs for as low as $1 each on Tuesdays. A top way to begin any week, Pork-A-Palooza is an obvious homage to the hog, with a menu cooked-up by chef Sean Connolly who dubs the humbel swine “his penicillin”. On top of dogs and whole piggies, also on offer are top noshes like chilled pigs head terrine, oysters Kilpatrick with bacon and crispy pork belly with squid as well as optional sides and salads and such. Not to mention, drinks on offer have all been designed by in-house mixologists and designed a menu of Swiney Swigs – sips with a piggy twist including the Don Melon Ham cocktail made with prosciutto infused Bulleit bourbon and the Orchard Spritz, a fruity concoction of Chambord, blueberry jam, lemon and James Squire Orchard Crush. All drinks will go down well with a handful of pork scratching popcorn, free at the bar with any special drinks purchased. The Morrison will be bringing the pork-loving vibe to Sydney from 23 April to 23 May with Pork-A-Palooza. Pre orders for suckling pigs open from 1 April and the full schedule of swine events is listed on the website.

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

Tags: morrison sydney, Pork A Palooza, Pork Morrison Sydney, sydney food, sydney food blog, The Morrison, The Morrison George Street

If crab’s your thing, it’s Muddy Mania at Kingsley’s Woolloomooloo this April

by Emi Berry

Posted: 17/04/2019

With Mother’s Day creeping up on us, it’s time to start thinking about where to take Mum this year. If you’ve done high tea to death every other year and looking for something different (don’t worry…we’re not suggesting skydiving), then maybe you should consider getting Mum’s hands a little dirty at Kingsleys in Woolloomooloo. It’s called Muddy Mania and this six course, crab-inspired menu is available all through April and will feature at Kingsleys Woolloomooloo up until Mother’s Day 2019. Showcasing delicious Queensland mud crab, you’ll have the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the view at Woolloomooloo wharf while you indulge in several iconic crab dishes – breaking a leg or two! First up on the menu is the ‘snacks’ course, which features three delicious crab dishes, including Alaskan Snow Crab croquette with smoked garlic aioli. The ‘entree’ course features a heavenly gnocchi, mud crab, sage butter and porcini dish. When it’s time to get in the thick of it, Kingleys kindly provides a stylish white bib to protect your clothes when you start the main event. This includes mouth-watering salt and szechuan pepper crab, Singapore chili crab, and chilled crab with a tangy cocktail sauce. For those who like to pair meals with wine, there is also the two hours of bottomless wine option, featuring Cape Mentelle wine from Margaret River, Western Australia. Available to book for throughout April up until Mother’s Day 2019 | $120pp including wine | $90 without wine Get your crab on at Kingsleys Woolloomooloo, 10/6 Cowper St Wharf… Read More

Category: ASIAN FOOD, AUSTRALIAN FOOD, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Australian food, Australian food blog, Crab month Sydney, Food blogs, Kingsleys, Kingsleys crab, Muddy crab Sydney, Muddy Mania, sydney food blog, THE F crab, the f food blog, THE F Kingsleys, THE F muddy mania, the f sydney, Where tog et good crab

ARTS & CULTURE

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

LOEWE PRECO SS25 SUNA FUJITA CERAMICS RGB CROPPED 4X5 3 5

Suna Fujita, LOEWE & Melbourne Art Fair to exhibit works

14/11/2024

By James Banham

In an exciting fusion of art and fashion, Melbourne Art Fair has announced a groundbreaking partnership with LOEWE, the esteemed luxury fashion brand renowned for its dedication to craftsmanship since 1846. This collaboration brings to life an exquisite preview of Jonathan Anderson’s renewed partnership with the Kyoto-based ceramist duo, Suna Fujita, marking a world-first exhibition in Australasia. The LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection made its debut with an intimate showcase at LOEWE’s Melbourne Collins Street store, offering an exclusive viewing experience of twenty whimsical ceramic pieces. These delicate works, celebrated for their intricate hand-painted scenes featuring ocean creatures and cosmic animals, seamlessly blend artistry with everyday function, transforming accessories and ready-to-wear items into enchanting works of art. Fair Director Melissa Loughnan expressed her enthusiasm for this creative union, stating, “This partnership is a reflection of Melbourne Art Fair and LOEWE’s shared commitment to supporting living artists and creatives, and an exciting precursor to the 18th edition of the Fair, which promises to be one of our most dynamic and anticipated showcases yet.” The collaboration not only highlights the playful essence of Suna Fujita’s ceramics but also underscores the vibrant art scene that Melbourne Art Fair champions. Launching today, the LOEWE x Suna Fujita collection is available both in stores and online at loewe.com, continuing until 29th December 2024. This artistic venture paves the way for the 18th edition of Melbourne Art Fair, set to take place from 20-23 February 2025 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The fair will present a remarkable assembly of… Read More

Labyrinth in Concert comes to London’s Royal Festival Hall

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Prepare to be whisked away to the mystical realm of Goblin City with a legendary twist, as “Jim Henson’s Labyrinth: In Concert” makes its grand debut at London’s Royal Festival Hall. On Friday, 28th November 2025, fans of this beloved musical fantasy film will experience a spectacular fusion of cinema and live music that promises to be nothing short of magical. For the first time ever, Jim Henson’s original masterpiece, starring the one and only David Bowie, will come alive on stage with a captivating live band performance. Audiences will be treated to the enchanting melodies of Bowie’s original vocals, accompanied by the band in perfect harmony, all set against the backdrop of the movie projected on a large HD cinema screen. It’s a chance to relive the unforgettable music and adventure that has captured hearts for nearly 40 years since the film’s release in 1986. Produced by Black Ink Presents, a division of Sony Music Entertainment, this unique concert experience is set to enthral long-time fans and newcomers alike. Known for breathing new life into iconic films with live orchestras and bands, Black Ink Presents has previously dazzled audiences with events like Batman, Ghostbusters, and The Nightmare Before Christmas. CEO John Kinsner shares his excitement, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of the groundbreaking collaboration of Jim Henson, George Lucas, David Bowie, and Trevor Jones on this film, and bringing it to fans in a live concert screening experience is a dream come true. Getting to hear Bowie’s vocals with a live… Read More

Why rush to National Art School postgrad show

12/11/2024

By James Banham

Step into the vibrant world of the arts at the National Art School (NAS) as it proudly unveils the 2024 Postgrad Show, a spectacular showcase of over 400 works by Australia’s next generation of emerging artists. Open to the public until 17 November 2024, this annual exhibition has firmly established itself as a pivotal event in Sydney’s cultural calendar, attracting gallerists, collectors, and art enthusiasts eager to discover fresh talent. The Postgrad Show serves as a launchpad for these budding artists, featuring the final bodies of work by the Master of Fine Art (MFA) graduates. This year’s exhibition offers an eclectic mix of mediums including painting, sculpture, printmaking, video, collage, 3D printing, performance, photography, drawing, and ceramics. Each piece is a testament to the diverse themes being explored—ranging from natural and digital ecosystems to identity, the Anthropocene, philosophy, and personal narratives. Ceramics take centre stage with artists like Benjamin Akuila, who delves into themes of construction, authenticity, and plasticity, informed by his Tongan heritage. His work offers a compelling exploration of queer and diasporic identity through hybrid cultural narratives. Meanwhile, Chrystie Longworth uses ceramic forms to navigate femininity, identity, and domesticity, drawing inspiration from historical subversive messages crafted by women in textiles. Her work, with its tactile terracotta and pigment surfaces, invites viewers to experience a subtle play of light and texture. From the drawing studios, Quan Zhu Ma marries traditional Chinese philosophy with contemporary practices, using innovative materials like heated charcoal and ash. His work reimagines traditional ink art, creating a fusion that resonates… Read More

Christmas music treat in Sydney: Handel’s Messiah returns

11/11/2024

By James Banham

This December, the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs are set to enchant audiences once again with their much-loved Messiah concerts, a cherished Sydney Christmas tradition that has spanned over a century.