TRAVEL

Colosseum Rome 11 Gladiator Icons Airbnb Credit Christopher Anderson

Face your Gladiator II destiny with strength and honor at the Colosseum

17/11/2024

Step into the annals of history and embrace your inner warrior with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to become a gladiator at the Roman Colosseum. This unique experience invites you to channel the strength and honour of ancient warriors as you step into the iconic arena known for epic battles and legendary tales. For the first time in nearly 2,000 years, the Colosseum is offering modern-day adventurers the chance to don historically accurate gladiator armour and partake in thrilling challenges that test both skill and courage. As you enter the sacred grounds, you’ll follow in the footsteps of victorious fighters, your destiny shaped by your prowess in battle. The experience begins at sunset, as a patron leads you into the candlelit Colosseum, a sight few have witnessed in modern times. Descend into the hypogeum, the underground chambers where gladiators once prepared for combat. Here, you’ll suit up in armour that reflects your chosen gladiator style—be it murmillo, thraex, provocator, retiarius, or contrarete. Choose your path wisely, for your fate in battle depends on it. As you traverse the torch-lit passages, imagine the footsteps of Maximus and countless other warriors echoing through history. Witness seasoned gladiators clash in a symphony of swords and shields, and prepare yourself for the challenge that awaits. Fuel your body with a selection of modest victuals—grapes, pomegranates, almonds, and walnuts—ensuring you’re battle-ready. Engage in combat training under the watchful eye of a summa rudis, your fate determined by your performance in the arena. Will you rise to the occasion and taste the sweetness… Read More

Egypt Sphynx pexels alexazabache 3185480

Why Egypt should be on top of your travel list

17/11/2024

By James Banham

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

Tag: the f sydney

The bard is back: Shakespeare by the Bay is on again in Sydney

by James Banham

Updated: 18/02/2019

Back by popular demand, Shakespeare By The Bay by Bard On The Beach, Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel and the Woollahra Council, brings world-renowned Shakespearean performances to life. Get your ‘tithers’, ‘whithers’, thines and mines and all your oxymorons ready as the magic of the words of William grace the beach to the stunning backdrop of Sydney Harbour. It’s kind of like the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour, only Shakespeare. The troupe will be putting on classics like The Life and Death of King John as well as The Comedy of Errors all from Robertson Park in Watsons Bay. Performances will run during the evening over two weeks 1st March – 10th March, from Friday through to Sunday. And you can even bring your dog! This year will also introduce Bard & Bark for the performance on 3 March of “The Comedy of Errors”. A dog friendly evening for you to enjoy the works of Shakespeare with the WHOLE family. See the wonder of William’s work at: The Life and Death of King John: Friday 1st, Saturday 9th, Sunday 10th The Comedy of Errors: Saturday 2nd, Sunday 3rd, Friday 8th Time: 7:30pm – 10:15pm Get tickets at the website.

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, LIFESTYLE, THEATRE

Tags: Sydney Shakespeare, THE F Shakespeare, the f sydney, William Shakespeare

Move over Tim Ho Wan, new restaurant Canton! Canton! is here

by James Banham

Updated: 18/02/2019

If, like most people, you thought Tim Ho Was was as gross an excuse for Chinese food as it was, then you’re about to have your day made. Canton! Canton! is taking over the old venues on Pitt and George Streets in Sydney on 18 February, bringing quality Cantonese eats to central Sydney. Inspired by the hustle and bustle of Canton’s vibrant markets, Canton! Canton! serves up home-style Cantonese dim sum and roast meats by executive chef Jackie Chan and his team of foodies. Jackie has spent the past 28 years perfecting the art of dim sum. It all comes off his experience as head dim sum chef at Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore before joining the Tim Ho Wan group in 2016. He’ll be working hard to transport guests to the capital of Guangdong and the epicentre of Cantonese culture through food. He’s drawn from the region’s rich tapestry of culture, history and tradition to form a menu that features the perfect blend of the traditional five Chinese flavours – sweet, sour, bitter, savory and salty. Check it out from 11am at Shop GD04, 580 George Street, Sydney or see more at the group’s website.

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

Tags: asian restaurants sydney, Best Chinese restaurants Sydney, Canton Canton Sydney, Cantonese food Sydney, Chinese food Sydney, food blog, sydney restaurants, THE F Asian food, THE F Chinese food, the f sydney, Tim ho Wan Sydney

Saturday Night Fever is coming to Sydney with sparkling new cast

by James Banham

Posted: 04/02/2019

The lol-times movie from the 70s that glued John Travolta in our minds with those killer dance moves is making it stage debut in Sydney this year with a brand new line-up. Australian theatre producer John Frost recently announced the leading performers and the rest of the cast of the iconic hit musicalSaturday Night Fever, which will premiere in Sydney at the Sydney Lyric Theatre from 27 March 2019. The production’s lead role of Tony Manero has gone to rising star Euan Doidge, Helpmann Award nominated for his role in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, after performing in Les Miserables, A Chorus Line and the Gordon Frost Organisation’s Grease and Legally Blonde. Needless to say, he’s up to the part. As Stephanie Mangano, the best dancer at the nightclub, will be Melanie Hawkins. Melanie has previously appeared in Singin’ In The Rain, Strictly Ballroom the Musical, King Kong Live on Stage and Rock of Ages. Paying homage to the classic movie, Saturday Night Fever will be packed with disco classics, including the Bee Gees’ greatest hits Stayin’ Alive, How Deep Is Your Love, Night Fever, Tragedy and More Than A Woman. Saturday Night Fever tells the story of 19-year-old Tony Manero, a Brooklyn youth whose weekend is spent at the local discotheque, where life lights up on the disco floor. There, Tony luxuriates in the admiration of the crowd and a growing relationship with Stephanie Mangano, and where he can temporarily forget the realities of his life, including a dead-end job in a paint store and his gang of deadbeat friends. See more at the production’s website.

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

Tags: John Travolta, Saturday Night Fever, Saturday Night Fever Sydney Lyric Theatre, Sydney Lyric Theatre, THE F Saturday Night Fever, the f sydney, THE F theatre

New restaurant in Darling Harbour: Flying Fish swims over to The Star

by James Banham

Posted: 03/02/2019

Since Flying Fish first splashed onto the dining scene back in 2004, it has become well regarded by Sydneysiders as one of the best waterside restaurants in the city, specialising in (yep, you guessed it) seasonal and delicious seafood. Now it’s taken up residence at The Star, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows overlooking the beautiful Pyrmont Bay. The new digs have been modernised, with a fresher vibe than the former Jones Bay Wharf location. Walking into the restaurant, you’ll cross lush bespoke carpets, with subtle splashes of colour that pop against the dark and sophisticated furnishings, and crystal ball lights twinkling overhead. Executive chef Peter Robertson joins the Flying Fish team in its new location, which opened just last week. On offer were a veritable buffet of seafood delights. It’s impossible to have a “bad” dish at Flying Fish, but some our favourites were the Harvey Bay Scallop and the Black Pepper Style Butterflied Prawn. Our pick for dessert was (hands down) the melt-in-your-mouth Valrhona chocolate sundae, miso caramel and malt cream. When it came to the drinks, we sampled the “grammable” and vibrant Bondi House Fizz; lemon myrtle vodka with butterfly flower tea and agave, as well as the Flying Fish version of the Aperol Spritz, the East Bound and Down; apricot and quince spritz with Aperol and crisp cider. For wine drinkers, there’s a deliciously well-considered wine list with delectable drops from both local and international regions. See more of what’s on offer at the new digs at the Flying Fish website.

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

Tags: Darling Harbour restaurants, Flying Fish Sydney, sydney restaurants, THE F Darling Harbour, THE F Flying Fish, the f sydney

Get cheap beer when it gets hot: Sydney Beer Co introduces surge pricing

by James Banham

Posted: 16/01/2019

The higher the mercury goes, the lower your cost of beer becomes. That’s the stuff of a good deal. With summer being as rough as it is in Oz and Sydney being as much of a hard taskmaster as it is when it comes to sweet reprieve, the Sydney Beer Co made a good decision that involves you saving a tonne. Their very own ‘Sydney Beer Co. Summer Price Index’ will dictate the discount on it easy drinking beer that basically means, simply put, when the temperature goes up, the beer price comes down. This temperature focused discounting is an exclusive limited-time thing that can monitor yourself with the temperature price index using your phone. Ranging from 0% to 49%, Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel, Imperial Hotel Erskineville, Daniel San Manly, Park House and Northies will offer discounts to be locked in on Sydney Beer Co. lager based on the real-time temperature. Get it at each venue every day until 17th March 2019. Here’s how to get cheap beer Follow these simple steps to redeem the discount:1. Sign up to the Summer Price Index with Sydney Beer Co. at www.sbcsummerpriceindex.com.2. Once the temperature hits 30°C, choose to lock in your discount.3. Nominate a two-hour block of time on that day to redeem your discount. Note the discount is only valid on the day it’s locked in and for the two-hour block you nominate, with a limit of one claim per person each day, so choose wisely!5. You will receive an email with your discount confirmation.6. Visit a participating venue to… Read More

Category: FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE

Tags: Cheap beer Sydney, Sydney beer brands, Sydney Beer Co, the f sydney, THE F Sydney Beer Co

ARTS & CULTURE

A Golden Adventure awaits at the Australian Museum with new Machu Picchu Exhibition

21/11/2024

By Danielle Kirk

Sydney, prepare yourselves for a cultural gold rush. From November 23, the Australian Museum is rolling out its latest blockbuster, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru. This dazzling exhibition is your passport to ancient Peru, featuring 134 priceless treasures from the land of the Incas and 14,000 years of history. Think glittering jewels, royal tomb artefacts, and a VR journey to one of the Seven Wonders of the World. It’s more than a history lesson—it’s a time machine with all the bells, whistles, and human sacrifice relics you could dream of. Following the success of the Ramses Exhibition at the Australian Museum (fun fact, it became the highest grossing exhibition in the State’s history, selling over 500,000 tickets!), Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru is created in partnership with Peru’s Museo Larco, Museo de Sito Manuel Chavez Ballon, and Neon Global, taking you on a journey through five ancient Peruvian empires, spanning over 3,000 years of rich history. Parts of the collection have only been shown in four other cities around the world, in fact, some of the artefacts have never left Peru before, and now we’re lucky to set sights on them in Sydney. Expect to see the most opulent Andean gold collection to ever leave Peru, intricate ceremonial masks, and objects that whisper secrets of long-lost rituals. For the tech-savvy explorers, the Machu Picchu and the Spirit of the Condor VR experience will transport you above the clouds for a bird’s-eye tour of the legendary citadel. Guided by the… Read More

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