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Australia

The Best Summer Holiday Spots in Australia

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Have you ever dreamed of an escape to the Land Down Under on a carefree vacation? It is a land renowned for its untamed nature, vibrant cities and easygoing attitude of welcoming citizens. However, be mindful of the fact that the Australian continent comes with steep prices in every respect, and be financially prepared before you embark for its shores.

Going to the far side of the world seems like the ultimate escapade and, if you know exactly what you want, you can turn this fantasy into reality. Therefore, without further ado, here are the ten best summer holiday spots in Australia for your consideration.

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

If you ever thought about visiting Australia, why not start off with the continent’s capital? With its expansive and meticulously planned cityscape, Canberra is bound to be one of the quaintest yet most breathtaking urban areas you have ever visited.

You really have to spend some time on its streets to truly appreciate the lengths to which urban planning and design has gone to create an aesthetically pleasing modern metropolis that harkens back to classical Greek architecture.

As far as the summer activities go, it boasts an enormous artificial lake smack in the middle of the city, known as Lake Burley Griffin. The lake area is brimming with aquatic activities but, if you wish to take a dip in the salty waters, you are just a few hours away from the prime-time beach areas. Also, if you are in the mood for a daily excursion to Melbourne or Sydney, they are both five to six hours away.

Torquay, Victoria

Also known as Victoria’s surf capital, Torquay is a seaside resort which is immensely popular with people of all generations. Located just outside of Port Phillip Bay which conceals the skyscrapers of Melbourne, it is renowned for its azure beaches with relentless waves that lure brave surfers in from all corners of the world.

However, Bells Beach is not everything this location has to offer. There is also the world’s biggest surf museum, Surf World, the Surf Coastal Walk that spreads for 44 kilometers and connects Torquay with Anglesea, as well as many more summer related activities, restaurants, resorts and interesting places to stay.

Byron Bay, New South Wales

Byron Bay is a gem of a beachside town, hidden somewhere on the coastline between Brisbane and Sydney. With its attractive stretch of beaches, Byron Bay offers a picturesque and lavishing experience for every summer-loving enthusiast.

White sand bay is very popular for surfing, as most beachside hotspots in Australia. You can enjoy whale watching, snorkelling, hiking to Byron Bay Lighthouse, and even skydiving. Treat yourself with a visit to a relaxing spa in Byron Bay accommodation and a stay in the comfiest establishments around. This is an amazing locale for those who just need to get away from the smouldering city.

Great Barrier Reef

Have you ever imagined a tropical paradise that is a perfect place for dreamlike underwater excursions? The Great Barrier Reef is one of the top destinations for scuba divers and underwater explorers in the world. It boasts the largest barrier reef system in existence, with more than 2,900 coral reefs that build into impossible beautiful islands lagoons. It is located in the appropriately named Coral See, right off the coast of Queensland.

Tasmania

We will not concentrate on any particular location in Tasmania, and rather treat the biggest Australian island as a spot of its own. Right off the south-west corner of the grand continent, there is a sizeable chunk of land that looks as if it was chipped away from its “big sister” Australia. Tasmania remains one of the best preserved wild islands in the world, with an amazing ecosystem that is only rivalled by its beautiful vistas.

Sydney, New South Wales

Of course, we cannot talk about holiday summer spots in Australia without mentioning its biggest and most popular (not to mention – most iconic) city – Sydney. Sydney is a perfect city for those of you who enjoy the hectic urban rhythm, diverse cityscape and streets filled with verve. Take a tour of some of the most legendary tourist spots in the world – Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Tower Eye, Bondi Beach, etc.

There is something alluring about the possibility to whisk your friends and family away for a sunny adventure on the precipice of the world. With white sands between your toes and azure waves crashing against your ankles on a vast beach that seems to be going on forever, you will feel you are only one step away from the primordial spirit within each of us, and yet you will never be too far away from a classy restaurant or a luxurious hotel room with a picturesque view.

Summer in Australia, at the very edge of the Pacific, is much more than a season-bound vacation. It is an experience of a lifetime.

Australia, Destinations

5 Reasons to Visit Brisbane Australia

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Brisbane, on the Queensland coast of Australia, is a fascinating city that everyone should visit at least once. The city on the Brisbane River is often overlooked by visitors in favor of other coastal destinations. Why visit Brisbane? The city has a thriving dining and market scene and several dining districts. Here are five things to do and see in Brisbane.

Museums and Galleries in Brisbane
Museums and Galleries in Brisbane

Museums and Galleries

The Cultural Precinct is a fantastic location for families to visit. The Queensland Museum and Science Centre, Queensland Art Gallery, and GoMA are all in this district. The museum features permanent and interactive displays that are ideal for adults and children. Admission is charged for travelling exhibits, but they’re worth the price. GoMA is a kid-friendly art gallery and the one most visited in the country, with explanations of the exhibits for kids. One feature of the precinct that adults and kids love is the shops operated by the galleries.

Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane
Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane

Wildlife

Tangalooma on Moreton Island, 14 km from the city centre, is the place to observe stingrays, turtles, and whales during migration season between July and November. The biggest attraction is the Bottlenose dolphins that come into shallow water at sunset. Visitors can interact with and feed the dolphins, and learn about the species and their habitat. Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary is the habitat of native species including possums, wombats, kangaroos, and koalas. Visitors can go into the large kangaroo enclosure to meet and feed the kangaroos. Queensland is the only state that allows visitors to hold cuddly koalas. Have a photo taken with one of these charming little marsupials as a momento of your visit.

River Cruising in one of the highlights in Brisbane
River Cruising in one of the highlights in Brisbane

Cruise the Brisbane River

Experience views of the Brisbane skyline, gardens and parks, and the city’s historic homes as you travel the river. You can extend your tour to the islands of Moreton Bay. If you visit between May and October, you can observe humpback whales on their migration. Another enjoyable way to see the city is on a dinner cruise. After dark, the twinkling lights of the city reflect on the river.

More than hundreds of restaurants to experience in Brisbane
More than hundreds of restaurants to experience in Brisbane

Dining, Shopping, and Entertainment in Brisbane

What’s on around Brisbane? Many of the must visit neighborhoods and districts are along the Brisbane River. South Bank features a lot of cafes, museums, shops, theatres, and cafes. The Queensland Cultural Centre and South Bank Parklands are in the region. The Riverside Precinct features great dining on the Eagle Street Pier and the Craft Market on Sundays. Many heritage landmarks including the Customs House are in the Riverside Precinct. Manly’s Cambridge Parade features lively nightlife, cafes, and charming gift shops. Another of Manly’s attractions is the Manly Boat Harbour. Fortitude Valley is a shopping district and features the Brunswick Street Mall, McWhirter’s Markets, and the Chinatown District, that has a lot of authentic Cantonese and Chinese restaurants.

An exciting climbing adventure
An exciting climbing adventure

Climbing Adventures

Glass House Mountain rock climbing is an exciting climbing adventure to the summit of a dormant volcanic peak. The view from the top of Glass House Mountain is spectacular and suitable for climbers of all levels. Kangaroo Point Cliffs offers an urban experience in the heart of Brisbane. The cliffs are about 20 metres high and feature panoramic views of the city. Kangaroo Point is suitable for climbers of all levels and guides are available. The cantilevered Story Bridge built in 1940 is for the traveller who wants an amazing view of Brisbane. In 2005, tour operators began offering climbs to the top of the bridge. The trip is challenging and quite safe. The two and a half hour Story Bridge Adventure Climb is one of the unique experiences you can have in Brisbane.

Fast-developing infrastructure
Fast-developing infrastructure

Developing Infrastructure

The Cross River Project will make travel for residents and visitors much easier upon completion. Cross River Rail Brisbane is the largest transportation project ever undertaken in the city. Work begins at the site at GoPrint where a station at Woolloongabba will stand. A 5.4 kilometre tunnel will be built on the railway link that runs beneath the business district and the Brisbane River. The Exhibition Station that currently serves the region will receive an upgrade and four new stations to accommodate passengers travelling on the line will be built. The rail network will be upgraded, and reconfiguration includes Albert Street, Exhibition Stations going to Bowen Hill, Roma Street, and Woolloongabba.

Streets Beach, South Bank Parklands
Streets Beach, South Bank Parklands

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit brisbane is during the autumn months between March and May when there is little rainfall since the rainy season has just ended, and the temperatures are comfortable. Visitors need only a light jacket to be comfortable.

Infographic

The World’s 12 Most Amazing Train Journeys [Infographic]

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The world’s 12 most amazing train journeys

The idea of spending all day on a train may not sound like a holiday to most commuters, but upgrading to First Class isn’t all about wider seats and free newspapers: a truly first-rate rail trip can be among the greatest adventures in the world. With a bit of forethought, your mode of transportation needn’t be just a means to get to some yawn-worthy resort. Embracing the “it ain’t where you’re going, it’s how you get there” idea means opening up to the luxury of a smooth ride through astonishing landscapes and cultures. How better to experience a place than by combining the conviviality of the rail carriage with sheer mileage through open country?

Of course, the level of ‘luxury’ implied in each of the world’s most renowned rail trips depends somewhat on the location. The famous Orient Express from London to Venice, for example, offers vintage cabins, steward service, and afternoon tea. Beats the morning commute, right? Things might be a little more crowded on Japan’s Tōkaidō Shinkansen line from Tokyo to Kyoto: it’s ferried a record-setting 5.3 billion passengers during its 52-year existence. It’s worth a little hustle and bustle for a high-speed trip to the ideal viewing point of iconic Mount Fuji, though.

Whichever continent you find yourself on, rail engineers have been hard at work creating ever more ambitious and awe-inspiring ways to cut through nature and offer first class glimpses of Earth’s awesome, endless landscapes. A new infographic from Pettitts identifies twelve of the most luxurious rail trips available, enabling you to recline and enjoy your holiday without too much wear on the old shoe leather. Whether it’s wild salmon for dinner on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver, or the Harry Potter charm of Scotland’s Jacobite route across the Highlands, you’ll be glad you opted for an upgrade from the tin-can experience of budget airlines and overpriced taxis this summer.

train

Asia, Australia, Editor's Picks, Luxury Travel

Luxury Around the World

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Len Rutledge

Luxury and experiential travel are changing the travel industry and the way many people think about travel. While trips to see grandma will always occur, family trips today are often camping safaris through Africa or visits to remote lodges in Bhutan.

Today’s travellers are braver than ever and are prepared to travel well off the beaten track. They are looking for something unique and individual.  As new destinations emerge, traditional tourist hotspots and resorts have to rethink their approach in order to stay relevant.

I have just returned from Luxperience, an unmissable annual get-together for all those associated with the high-end travel industry. It was a meeting which exposed all the newest and best operators, and showed where this growing part of the industry is heading.

I have selected five products which show the level of luxury and diversity that is now available to world travellers. Any of them would be an experience of a lifetime for most people.

Deccan Odyssey

This is a luxury train in India comprising 21 luxuriously appointed coaches; 11 are to accommodate guests and the rest are used for different purposes such as dining, lounge, conference car and health spa. All the cabins of Deccan Odyssey are fully equipped with air-conditioning, internet connectivity, and personalized guest amenities that make sure that your journey is a comfortable and memorable one. There are two restaurant cars available which serve Indian, continental and oriental delicacies.

deccan

There are six itineraries which travel to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an excellent vineyard, palatial residences, sun-kissed beaches, magical cities, and tranquil backwaters. All is done with the luxury and pomp that only India can muster. Truly, this is the journey of a lifetime.

Over the Top

This New Zealand helicopter company based in Queenstown provides more than just a helicopter ride. You can visit alpine glaciers and remote lakes, for hiking, boating, extreme golfing, winery visits, heliskiing or fly fishing. For guests wanting an interaction with some distinctive New Zealand characters, you can fly with eco-guides, chefs, artists – genuine New Zealanders who delight in making your stay a once in a lifetime experience.

over-the-top-golf-tee

One activity that is gaining in popularity is Over the Top Golf. This provides access to New Zealand’s most picturesque golf hole. Nestled at 4500 feet in the New Zealand alps this par 3 hole overlooking Queenstown has four tee boxes so you can attempt your hole in one. Players have to fly in, drive, chip and putt out on the top.

The Racha

This deluxe island hideaway in Thailand is set on a pristine beach on Racha Island 18 km south of Phuket. The resort features 85 luxurious villas and strives to be recognized as a leader in responsible and environmentally sustainable tourism. The island is known for its natural beauty and for its excellent corals and marine life. It is also a wonderful place for relaxation and for doing nothing.

lighthouse-pool

Many rooms have a large living area and a spacious private terrace. Each villa is superbly designed and features a luxurious bathroom and a rain-shower outside. The Earth Cafe is a contemporary chic international café serving Western and Thai food in air-conditioned comfort or on the terrace. Sunset Beach is a casual restaurant serving local specialties and snacks for lunch and fresh barbequed seafood and steaks for dinner right next to the beach. Firegrill is a fine dining restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine.

R.M. Williams Tour

R.M.Williams was an Australian hero who did much to put the Australian Outback on the map. His famous boots became a symbol of toughness and style which continues to this day. The Tailor, in conjunction with R.M.Williams, has designed the ultimate tribute to RM Williams. In RM’s Footsteps is a 4-day journey which traces his personal history, telling the story of how he created the famous leather boots now sold around the world.

This amazing trip offers guests a rare opportunity to explore the legend of RM Williams by visiting several magnificent Outback destinations, such as the Flinders Ranges and Lake Eyre, enjoying traditional country hospitality and eating delicious regional cuisine. Guests travel in ultimate luxury aboard a Swiss-built Pilatus PC12 aircraft.

nilpena-station-with-the-flinders-ranges-behind

The trip begins in Adelaide with a private tour of the RM Williams workshop, factory, and museum, plus a chance to be fitted with your own boots, clothing and other bush apparel. You will receive a complimentary pair of Craftsman Boots. Another highlight is a visit to the historic Nilpena Station, a tour of the nearby red desert dunes, and a rare visit to the heritage listed Ediacara fossils made famous by the likes of Sir David Attenborough.

The Strand Cruise

On a languid journey along the Ayeyarwady River, the new luxurious Strand Cruise reveals the core of Burma in exceptional comfort. Cruise itineraries include 4 nights from Bagan to Mandalay and 3 nights from Mandalay to Bagan. While cruising you can clear your mind with a rejuvenating massage, or relax by the swimming pool. Enjoy the magnificent sunset from the upper deck while the sommelier delights you with a wide variety of wines. At dinner, the Chef will take you on a journey through refined cuisine.

slide-strand-cruise-b

Pampering and relaxation are the goals of the spa. You can heighten the experience with a massage in either an individual room or share the experience in our double room. The foot reflexology station will leave you ready to take on a new day of exploration and discoveries. The fitness room comes complete with treadmills, weights, and other gym equipment; everything needed for an invigorating workout.

Excursions allow you to explore the royal cities of Mingun, Amarapura, and Ava by horse-drawn cart; take in landmarks such as the U Bein bridge; and marvel at the enduring beauty of the country’s innumerable temples and monasteries.

Further information:

Deccan Odyssey: http://www.deccan-odyssey-india.com/

Over the Top: http://www.flynz.co.nz/

The Racha: http://www.theracha.com/new/index.htm

R.M.Williams Tour: http://www.thetailor.com.au/rmwilliams/

The Strand Cruise: http://www.thestrandcruise.com/

www.LenRutledge.com

Australia

Mountain Biking through Australia

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Australia’s backland is intersected with unsealed roads and trails that offer some of the world’s best mountain biking adventures. For the majority of these trails you need to be well armed with equipment, mountain biking experience, and time. Although some of them are also suited for absolute beginners. Here are our favourites.

Kakadu National Park, NT

The flat terrain of the Northern Territory is ideal for mountain biking through. This makes riding down the highways a popular sport here. However, riding on the sealed roads, you will not see much. To really explore the Kakadu National Park and to reach the most interesting sights, you will have to get into the dirt. Koolpin Gorge, Gunlom, Maguk, and Twin Falls are well off the road. Take the adrenaline up a notch by paying a visit to the crocs at Cahill’s Crossing. Be extremely careful, though. Those warning signs were put there for a reason.

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Cape York, QLD

Stunning views, changing vegetation, from arid savannah to tropical rainforests, rich birdlife, and beach trails. Or simply – Cape York. This is one of the most amazing and most challenging trails in Australia. The terrain is pretty hilly, the heat can be unbearable, and the distances a bit frightening. You might need to set aside a couple of weeks for this adventure. But it is worth it.

cape york

Tasmanian Trail, TAS

If you are not as fit as a fiddle, you better skip this roller coaster of a ride. It is a total body workout all day long. This trail through the heart of Tasmania includes a lot of steep hills, unsealed roads, and fire trails. There is some heavy pedalling and an occasional push-a-thon involved, and do not be surprised if you find yourself boulder hopping at some point. Also, get ready to get wet in one of the numerous creeks and bridgeless river crossings.

4228460073_745df5877f_z

Narrow Neck, NSW

North South Wales has a lot to provide for Australian first-timers of all tastes. As it goes, adventure travellers can find the cream of the crop here. One of the best Blue Mountain trails, the Narrow Neck trail will take you deep into the wilderness of the park. The ride is suitable for novices as well as seasoned cyclists and involves just the right amount of steep climbs to raise your adrenaline. The views are breathtaking, and there are photo opportunities waiting for you at every turn. The scenery is changing from open forest to heath and swamplands. Do not miss a chance to enjoy spectacular views over Lake Burragorang.

mountain biking

Munda Biddi Trail, WA

The Munda Biddi trail is not a family mountain biking tour since it is fairly physically demanding. Prepare for a lot of sweating and hardship. You should not be heavily loaded, and make sure your bike has fat tyres. The terrain is generally undulating, and there are some really difficult gravelly and sandy track sections, which are at times impossible to ride over. But then, there are also long stretches of flat and downhill roads to enjoy. The trail can be a bucketload of fun as long as you do not underestimate it.

Namadgi_National_Park_walking_trail

Which trail would you hit first if you had the choice?

Destinations, Editor's Picks, Sport and Adventure, Travel Blogging, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

3 Extreme Sydney Adventures You Can’t Miss

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In the land down under, there is no shortage of things to do. If you’re traveling to the most populated city in this land of extremes, you may be searching for the most extreme experiences to write home about. Here’s a few of the adventure sports Sydney has to offer your starved adrenaline glands.

Shark Dive in Sydney

Great_white_Dyer_island_2010-07
This Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary shark dive will take your breath away. Well, not literally, as they do provide oxygen for all divers. But when you dip your toes into the main oceanarium and you see sharks, stingrays, and turtles circling you, you’ll wish everyone could witness you frolicking in this underwater wonderland. At 30 minutes long, this dive may seem short, until you remember you’ll be surrounded by sharks with sharp teeth that might bite you if they weren’t well-fed. After contemplating that, 30 minutes sounds like more than enough time to get a shot with your favorite enormous sea creature.

Jetboat Sydney Harbour

Jet_Boat_Sydney_Harbour_(15967179529)
If you haven’t heard of jetboating, imagine sitting in a boat with your closest family and friends. Now imagine a madman takes the wheel. That’s the gist, and it’s way more fun than it sounds. This boat is designed for maximum speed and maneuverability, so you’ll be getting drenched as your skilled driver makes 180 and 270-degree spins, intense fishtails, turns and powerslides at high speeds. Every now and then, you’ll get a chance to breathe and take in the beautiful sights of Sydney Harbor as well. Just hold on tight!

Canyon in the Blue Mountains

Jamison_Valley,_Blue_Mountains,_Australia_-_Nov_2008
If you’re looking for a challenging abseiling experience that mashes the thrill of witnessing pristine nature and adrenaline-pumping physical activity, canyoning in the Blue Mountains is for you. You’ll adventure through the highest and deepest of the canyon as you navigate the breathtaking terrain. Trek, climb, jump, swim, and rappel your way through Australia’s most beautiful region to get a personal look at untouched caves and magnificent waterfalls. There’s two difficulties to choose from, so if you aren’t up for the challenging Rainforest Canyoning experience, the beginner-friendly Empress Canyon welcomes you.

There’s plenty to do in Harbour City, but these experiences are guaranteed to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping. Whether you’re an underwater adventurer, fan of extreme water-sports, or a hiker who enjoys a challenge, you’ll be happy you made it to Sydney.

Australia

Going from Tourist to Expat in Australia

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To really feel what is the life like at some place, you need to stay a bit longer than those two weeks of vacation. When you stay somewhere over a month or two, you start paying the bills and even looking for some part time job, you are seriously getting closer to the title of expat. If you are about to stay in Australia for this amount of time, here are some great and useful tips that you will definitely benefit from.

Going from Tourist to Expat in Australia

Finding Suitable Accommodation

If your stay is about to be closer to two months than just two weeks, you need to make sure that you avoid hotels and even hostels. That would be too expensive for you. You need to choose cheaper options. One of the ways to do this is to register at AirBnB and benefit from longer stay discounts, or find some similar localized websites. The price is usually negotiable. Another option is house sitting, and this is the best deal you can make, if you make it – it is a bit hard to get on house-sitting waiting lists. People from Australia who also love to travel, sometimes hire people to stay at their homes. To avoid extra fees when paying, do your best to pay your rent on time and do it online if possible.

Going from Tourist to Expat in Australia

Planning Your Budget

It makes a really big difference if you are in one of the big cities or in a smaller one. Obviously, the bigger cities have higher living costs, but trying to live in a small town in Australia is quite specific. They are smaller than what you would expect from a small town in USA. Their population is measured in hundreds. Australia is very oriented toward cities and the life is more comfortable there. Therefore, if you want to be comfortable in Australia, you have to be prepared to spend from $50 to $100 on electricity, around $150 on groceries, $30 to $60 on Internet. These costs may vary significantly, but that is the rough budget.

Going from Tourist to Expat in Australia

Getting Around

You can always print out your own maps and visit famous sights on your own if you prepare well. However, Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne are well covered on Travelfore. Wherever you plan to go, check the Grayhound buses, but always check the flights, as well. At times, the difference in price will not be that great. Saturday afternoons and Tuesdays are the cheapest days to fly. Always use CouchSurfing or similar websites to find people to share taxi fares or simply to show you around. It will give you the best insight into the city you are visiting.

Cooking_Class_at_Mozaic_(8056044088)

Getting Involved

The best way to understand how people think and how things work at a new place is to try and participate in the community events. History walks and classes, dance lessons, meditation sessions and many more can be found for free. Visiting free courses can help a lot with getting involved in everyday life of your city without spending money.

The last but not the least – drinking in Australia will cost you a fortune. You should focus on getting to know this country’s people and sights without enjoying local wine and beer too much. There is no cheap way of doing this.

Australia

Springtime Events in Sydney: Culture and Taste buds

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The spring season is upon us and joie de vivre is all around while Sydney is brimming with events and things to do and see. With so much going on, it can be difficult to choose, so we’re giving you a short guide through the season and we hope you find something of interest.

September

  • Sydney Fringe festival – during the entire month – September the 1st through September the 30th, this is the largest independent arts festival in NSW, spreading across five cultural villages. Check out the festival e-guide to plan your route from over 300 productions in over 50 venues. http://www.sydneyfringe.com/ticketing/festival_e-guide/

sydney fringe festival

October

  • Balcony Styling workshops – a well known garden designer ,Judith Sleijpen, will be teaching about design, furniture, accessories, plants and everything you need to know to make a great garden and patio for yourself. This is a 3 hour workshop including brunch. http://www.petiteretreat.com.au/

balcony styling workshop

  • The Greats: Masterpieces from the National Galleries of Scotland – Sydney is home to many exquisite galleries the whole year round, with both regular and guest exhibitions to fascinate even the most critical of enthusiasts. You should book a Sydney tour and see them all, but take special note of the Art Gallery of NSW this spring and summer – October the 4th through February the 14th, 2016, is the right time to feast your eyes on the sight of 70 masterpieces from the greatest European artists including Botticelli, Leonardo, Cézanne, El Greco, Gauguin and Monet. The exhibition will be presented exclusively in Australia by the Art Gallery of NSW as part of the Sydney International Art Series.
The Greats: Art Gallery NSW
Sandro Botticelli
The Virgin adoring the sleeping Christ child, c1485 (detail)
  • Sydney Morning Herald Growers Market – October the 3rd through November the 7th, held in Pyrmont Bay park, this market has been a tradition for the last 14 years, selling everything from seafood, vegetables and fresh fruits to locally roasted coffees on tap. Specialty breakfasts are served outdoors by the harbor, and a special celebrity chef cook-off will take place at the Market Chef Stage.
Growers' Market Best of the Brunch
Growers’ Market Best of the Brunch
  • Night Noodle Markets – October the 8th through October the 25th, held in Hyde Park, with over 50 food stalls as part of the Good Food Month, the world’s largest food festival and the best time for outdoor cooking and dining. Enjoy the rich flavor, sounds and smells of Asian cuisine and the buzz of a festival.
Good Food Month in Sydney
Photo by Shannon Reddaway

November

  • Twilight Racing – October 30th sees the start of the sailing season that will continue till March. You can join the Pilgrim Sailing crew on a beautiful yacht and help sail the boat or just sit back and enjoy. You will get sailings instructions if you want to get involved but the crew will try and win the race. Races are held on Wednesday and Friday nights. Book in advance.
  • Sydney Open – this November the 1st, presented by Sydney Living Museums, this event gives visitors the chance to see some of the city’s best heritage, architecture and urban design. This year, the focus will be on buildings across the CBD, Ultimo and Chippendale.

Sydney Living Museum

  • Chinatown Night Market – going on from mid September to January, every Friday night as part of Good Food Month, take a moonlit walk among food stalls and lanterns along Little Eat Street and enjoy the flavors, from Hong Kong to Hanoi, with yum cha, tepanyaki, takoyaki, sushi, Sichuan, pho and more!

Springtime is here, the buzz is on, get out and enjoy all the wonders this amazing city has ready for you!

Australia, Celebrity Chefs, Destinations, Food, Restaurant Reviews, Street Food Guide

The New Asian Cuisine Hub: Must-Visit Restaurants in Brisbane

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Brisbane has become the epicenter of modern and creative Asian cuisine. Incidentally, Brisbane’s Asian restaurants are also some of the best restaurants in Brisbane. For your road trips in Australia, these restaurants are a must-visit. 

FantAsia

FantAsia

FantAsia Brisbane offers Asian fast food. By using traditional cooking methods and local, seasonal produce, FantAsia delivers fresh and authentic Asian flavors without the price and wait of typical Asian cuisine restaurants. 

The main attraction at FantAsia is the Tokyo Beef entree, which complements the lemongrass and ginger tea. 

Sake 

Sake Restaurant and Bar focuses on contemporary Japanese cuisine with hints of California and European flavors. The restaurant offers private dining rooms as well as communal banquet dining area. 

Sake’s signature dishes include steamed prawn dumplings and ‘glacier 51’ tooth-fish lettuce cups.

Asian-Szechuan Bang Bang Cuisine

Inspired by the traditional cuisine of the Sichuan Province, Asian-Szechuan has brought Southwest China flavors to Brisbane. Cooking methods that date back 2,000 years add to the customary tang.

Black fungus and tofu skin salad with garlic and chili oil is offered as an entrée. The less adventurous can opt for a classic dish like Sichuan beef hot pot.

Golden Barbeque

Focusing on classic Chinese BBQ, Golden Barbeque offers large portions and authentic flavors. This hidden gem offers a mom and pop environment with economic prices. Check out their staple dish of BBQ duck.

Garden Restaurant

Taigum Gardens

Taigum Gardens has a vast array of Chinese cuisine options inspired by multiple Chinese delicacies. Large portions and high-quality meats can be expected from this quint restaurant, which is geared to adults. Must-try dishes include the crispy honey beef, the traditional roast duck, and the mango ice cream. 

Happy Boy 

Located on Mein St., this hidden gem focuses on Chinese cuisine with hints of French and Italian inspiration. Happy Boy offers a small, charming space in a converted warehouse. Recommendations include the dried fried green beans, salt and pepper prawns and pork belly sliders. 

Bird’s Nest Yakitori & Bar

Bird’s Nest brings traditional Japanese Yakitori to Brisbane. Using solely fresh, free-range meats and organic produce, Bird’s Nest offers multiple gluten-free and vegetarian options. They specialize in skewers with beef, chicken, veggies, tofu and/or pork belly. 

Paddington Curry House

Specializing in Indian and Nepalese cuisine, Paddington Curry House provides complementary rice with every curry order. Staples include paneer tikka, an Indian cheese marinated in tandoori spices then grilled to perfection, and traditional chicken malai tikka. Their goat curry is a staple for every curry fanatic.

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Citron Restaurant

For anyone who enjoys modern twists to their Asian cuisine will fall in love with Citron. Owned and operated by Robert Foley, previously of Piccolo Restaurant, and notable chef Mark Newman. Citron is the only restaurant in town where eaters can find green tea salt calamari with ginger chili dipping sauce.

Fat Noodle Restaurant

Fat Noodle was created by famed chef Luke Nguyen, and includes a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, Thai and Malay dishes. Nguyen’s signature dish is Fat Pho Noodles, which consists of a 20-hour beef broth, bean sprouts, fresh Thai basil, fresh chili and rice noodles. 

Australia, Destinations, Travel Planning, Travel Tips

Top 5 Aussie Road Trips

The vast territory that is Australia has much to offer. Each region is unique and has spectaculars landscape that must be explored and experienced. Indulge in a holiday of a lifetime and plan a road trip to see the country. Take a week or two, pack the bags, gather the family, load the vehicle and take snacks for the best Aussie road trips. Driving ensures that you do not miss anything between starting and finishing destinations. Take your time and visit some of the most amazing areas on the continent.

1) Great Ocean Road-Victoria

The journey along the southern coast requires a few days in order to make the most of the trip. The destination is renowned around the world for its natural beauty and sites. The famous iconic adventure spans more than 250 kilometres from Torquay to Warrnambool. In addition to the wondrous coastal scenery, the drive provides the chance to stop and encounter wildlife, go hiking, gaze at cascading waterfalls and grab a meal at one of the local beachside communities. Take photographs of the unique formations known as the 12 Apostles. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm waters of the Lock Ard Gorge. See the adorable koalas at Kennett River.

2) Red Centre Way-Northern Territory

road-780544_640While many prefer to take the Stuart Highway from Alice Springs to Uluru, the Red Centre Way is infinitely more scenic. Along the way, you will happen upon picturesque canyons and gorges that feature camping and hiking locations. Make a point of being there for an amazing sunrise or sunset. Watch Uluru change colour throughout the course of the day. Take the base walk. Guests of all ages enjoy the memorable camel rides. Stop at nearby Kata Tjuta. Trek through Kings Canyon and along the shores of Glen Helen Gorge. Take a dip in the cool waters of Ormiston Gorge.

3) The Savannah Way-Queensland

Start in the east at Cairns and venture the 3,700 kilometres to Broome in the west. While in Cairns, drive to Undara Volcanic National Park and explore the ancient lava tubes. Gem fossicking is also popular here and might gain a participant anything from aquamarine or quartz gemstones to gold. Make a point of going south of Millaa Millaa and see the most photographed falls in the country. Stay on the lookout for the Ulysses butterfly. Maybe catch a glimpse of a platypus later in the afternoon. The destination is a popular swimming spot and perfects for BBQs and picnics. There are also changing rooms and toilets.

4) Cairns to Cape Tribulation

An eastern coast adventure brings guests to the tropical environs of North Queensland. The iconic scenic region is considered one of the most enchanting destinations on the planet. The reduced humidity during the winter months is more desirable. There are also fewer stinging insects to spoil the trip. Highlights here not to miss include the chance to snorkel or scuba along the Great Barrier Reef. Scramble across the rocks at Mossman Gorge and learn more about the area at the Daintree Discovery Centre.

5) Sydney to Brisbane

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The Legendary Pacific Coast remains one of Australia’s most popular road trips. The 900-kilometre drive offers something for visitors of all ages. Tour a winery and sample the vintages in Hunter Valley. Stroll along the coastal promenade at Port Macquarie. Take in the sunset at Coffs Coast or Byron Bay. Take the whole family swimming in the clear blue protected waters of Kingscliff.