Adena Maier

Ah, lovely Launceston. Tasmania’s second city might not get quite so much love as more famous cities on the Australian mainland (or, for that matter, the island’s capital city, Hobart), but it most certainly should. This home of just over 75,000 people teems with stuff to see and do, from gorgeous sights and majestic nature to underrated restaurants. Our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, explored the city like a true local on a campervan trip and visited all of Launceston's top attractions. Here’s her guide to the best things to do in Launceston, combined with a few insider tips from the locals. 🌳 The best things to do in Hobart😱 The top places to visit in Tasmania🚘 The coolest day trips from Hobart

Long gone are the days in Melbourne when Japanese food was a trend and sushi was considered adventurous. In 2025, the world-renowned cuisine is one of the most popular and respected in Melbourne. It’s desirable in winter when noodle soups and ramen are the order of the day, and in summer when cold, fresh bites like sashimi and soba are all you want to eat. These are the city's finest places to enjoy omakase, tempura, yakitori, udon, sake and so much more. Whether you want to dip into a cosy inn-style café or hobnob with the glitterati at Melbourne's stable of very fine Japanese diners, you'll find what you're looking for here. We can also point you in the direction of Melbourne's best ramen shops, dumplings, teppanyaki joints and whisky bars to cap off your night.

The King's Birthday (we're still not used to calling it that) public holiday falls on June 9, but did you know that King Charles' birthday is actually on November 14? According to the BBC, this strange tradition of having two birthdays for the monarch dates back to 1908, during the reign of King George II. The King's actual birthday was in late autumn, but he was keen on a sunny outdoor celebration, so he selected a summer date for the celebration. The tradition stuck, and now Australians get to enjoy a long weekend over the second weekend of June. Whether you're keen on a short getaway, a big night out on the town or just want to rest and relax, we've rounded up heaps of ways that you can celebrate King Charlie's early birthday this year.  Keen to feast like a king this weekend? Here are all the restaurants open in Melbourne this long weekend. Looking to explore some of our city's coolest experiences? Check out our guide to 101 things everyone should do in Melbourne at least once.

Update – June 2, 2025: Did you see it? Across Victoria, people have shared sightings of the Aurora Australis on the night of Monday, June 1. On that first winter evening, Victorians in locations like the Mornington Peninsula and Werribee South reported they witnessed the Southern Lights. People bang on about the Northern Lights a lot, and who could blame them? The Aurora Borealis, a natural light display that happens in the Earth’s sky, is pretty spectacular. But you don’t have to head to Scandinavia to see this dramatic light display IRL. Australia has its own version, called the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights. OK then, what gives? Why aren’t the Southern Lights as popular as the Northern Lights? Well, it’s got a lot to do with land. In the north around the Arctic Circle, you’ll be able to see the Aurora Borealis from Greenland, Iceland, northern Canada, Norway and Russia. But due to the location of land down south, there are fewer places that reach down low enough to Antarctica to offer good Southern Lights viewing spots – it’s mostly just water. But if you’re not keen on stealing a ship and setting sail for the ocean past Tasmania, there are some less tricky viewing spots. Where can I see the Aurora Australis in Melbourne? Your best chance at witnessing the Aurora Australis is to be as far south as possible. Tasmania is the obvious choice, and you’ll want to aim for places away from city lights. Mount Wellington, Bruny Island, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Pa

It's cold. You're hungry. Need a pick-me-up? Nothing hits the spot quite like a saucy, smoky, red-hot Korean feast. Pair the bright zing of housemade kimchi with bibimbap cooked in a steaming stone dish; hit up authentic vendors for golden-fried chicken or flavour-packed army stew; get fired up with a coal-fuelled Korean barbecue gathering; or treat that sweet tooth to fruit and mochi-topped bingsu (drool) after midnight. Melbourne's Korean food scene is so much more diverse, generous and delicious than it's ever been before – and we can't get enough! Our top picks below offer an abundance of hot soups, hearty proteins and noodle dishes to warm your cockles on chilly city nights, plus every type of banchan imaginable. What are you waiting for? Time to plan your next feast. Looking only for Korean barbecue? We've got a whole guide dedicated to Melbourne's best. After something sweeter? Here are the city's best dessert bars.

There's something about Melbourne in winter. The moody afternoon light filtering through laneways; the warm glow of cosy wine bars; and of course, the plethora of events and festivals that keep the city buzzing.  This year, there's heaps to do including catching thrilling shows on the ice, feasting on wintery food and drink and exploring regional festivals.  Hungry? Grab a bite at these Melbourne pubs with fireplaces. Thirsty? Here's where you can get mulled wine in Melbourne.

Do you love anything sparkling, glowing or illuminated? You've come to the right place – there are plenty of gorgeous light-up events to discover in Melbourne. It's time to get your glow on. Want to explore regional Victoria? Here's our list of winter light festivals outside of Melbourne.

Victoria is lucky enough to be peppered with magnificent waterfalls right across the state – and forget what TLC said, because they are definitely worth chasing.  These cascading curtains of water all have a certain X-Factor that means we reckon they're worth a visit. Whether it be fast-flowing rivers, plunge pools you can swim in or being part of an awe-inspiring bush walk.  And we should know – we're locals who love road trips, so we've been to our fair share of waterfalls in our time. Take a look at our favourites below, then hop in the car and hunt down these stunning, splashy wonders. BYO bathers and a picnic and you're in for a guaranteed good time. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Looking for more day trip ideas? Here are the best ones to take from Melbourne. Want a longer break? Here are our favourite weekend getaways.

There's a reason the Yarra Valley is one of the most visited wine regions in the world. It's only an hour from Melbourne, making it the perfect day trip or weekend away. The region specialises in chardonnay and pinot noir grapes, which also happen to make perfect sparkling wine. But if you know where to look, you'll also find less common varietals, like nebbiolo, savagnin and chenin blanc. There are more than 160 wineries to try in the region, from tiny mum-and-pop operations to giant foreign-owned behemoths. Don't know where to start? These are our favourite wineries in the Yarra Valley right now. And if you can't find a deso, book yourself in for one of these guided tours.  For more mini-break ideas, visit our guide to Victoria's best getaways. Alternatively, stay close to the city and discover Melbourne's best wine bars.

Looking to live it up on your next Aussie getaway? We’ve got you covered. Australia is practically swimming in great hotels, from new boutique stays with heated infinity pools to revamped classics boasting five-star rooftop bars and close proximity to our country's best attractions. But with so many options, choosing where to stay can be a bit of a challenge. That's where we come in – our expert travel writers have slept their way across every state and territory to bring you the ultimate list of Australia's best hotels. Whether you’re a local looking for a gram-worthy staycation or a tourist eager to be in the heart of the action, here are our top picks for a luxury stay in Australia right now. ☀️ Australia’s most incredible resorts🤩 The best things to do Down Under🌏 All the best places to visit in Australia Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial content, but they do allow us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

If you’re seeking awe-inspiring natural surroundings and breathtaking hikes, the Grampians region is the place to be in Victoria. It’s known as one of the state’s best spots for a nature escape, with a majestic mountain range making for stunning sights. The spectacle of the beautiful natural attractions has plenty of substance, too – the Grampians is an area rich with history, as the home to one of the biggest collections of Indigenous rock art sites in southeastern Australia.  But did you know that the Grampians is also a thriving wine region? It hosts some of Victoria’s finest wineries, as well as some truly top-notch eateries. If you're planning a visit, the natural wonders are an obvious must-see – but you'd be remiss not to spend some time eating and drinking your way through the region's renowned local produce and cool-climate wines.  To help you plan your next weekend getaway, we've laid out the best things to see, do, eat and drink while you're here. And if you're looking for more Victorian escapes, check out our guide to the Mornington Peninsula, the High Country and the Great Ocean Road.  Can't get away for the weekend? No stress – here are the best things happening across Melbourne this week.

This city has countless hotels to choose from, but if you're after something a bit different, you should book a stay at one of the best boutique hotels in Melbourne. From Airstream caravans hoisted atop a rooftop car park to tiny 34-room hotels filled with kitsch lamps and furry rugs, these are the stays you'll want to write home about. We'll even reveal where all the celebs stay when they come to Melbourne...  And while you're not busy discovering all the delights of your accommodation, explore Melbourne's top activities, from a sunrise hot air balloon tour to its iconic zoo, or make the most if the city's culinary offerings by booking a table at the best places to eat in town – serving up Bankok-style boat noodles, panoramic views and everything in between.  RECOMMENDED: ✨ Check out the best fancy hotels in Melbourne💰 Melbourne's best cheap hotels for those on a budget🏠 Stay in one of the best Airbnbs in Melbourne At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

If you love playing dress-up and have wondered what life was like back in the golden era of the Victorian Goldfields region, then dust off your tweed jacket and drive up for the Ballarat Heritage Festival. The nine-day festival takes place from May 16 to 25 and features a program jam-packed with historic experiences, with a thrilling addition of aviation joy rides this year, as well as the classic steam train shuttles, delicious food and drink experiences plus much more.  We hope you've been oiling your facial hair because the annual beard and moustache competition is one of the festival's major events. Got a perfectly styled moustache, or a luscious beard? Head to Hop Temple on May 24 for your chance at the hairy crown, and for craft beer and delicious food as you await the results. Over both weekends of the festival, a selection of some of the region's finest makers will gather for the Craft Lab to share their heritage trades, traditional practices, lost skills and cultural rituals. You'll get an opportunity to try first-hand the practices of crafts like weaving, knife making, silverwork and more, and you can listen in on talk and panel discussions with passionate makers. New to the festival this year is the exciting addition of Entertainment of the Air, a celebration of air travel, with special events and performances at the local airport and aviation museum. Plus, airplane enthusiasts have the chance to go on joyride flights on vintage airliners. And it wouldn't be a her

While there are far easier places in Australia to grow wine than in the wild, windy eastern coast of Tasmania, ease doesn't often result in interesting wines. At Devil's Corner, the winemaking team prides itself on harnessing the challenging aspects of the landscape and bottling the resulting intense flavours.  The Apslawn winery and its cellar door is a frequent pitstop for travellers on their way to Cole's Bay and Freycinet, but if you're hankering for a trip, it's worth a visit in its own right. Journey down the Tasman Highway until you see the famous Cherry Tree Hill Lookout – a shipping container attached to a vertical observation post – set against sprawling vineyards, the Moulting Lagoon wetlands and the Hazards Range. RECOMMENDED READ: This award-winning Tasmanian winery has now launched a dreamy cellar door experience. The winery is home to Hazards Tasting Room, a top-notch space for immersive wine experiences and the Devil's Den, an underground cellar and space for masterclasses and functions. Long-term food partners The Fishers and Tombolo continue to offer up fresh local seafood and made-to-order wood-fired pizzas, but with new and improved kitchens and seating areas.  With winemaker Tom Wallace at the helm, the Hazards range and the Resolution range have both picked up a slew of awards. Taste your way through the ranges with either a self-guided tasting paddle for $25 per person or a premium hosted tasting at $30 per person. Or, you can choose to keep things simp

Australia's largest free festival is back this Labour Day weekend, and it's the perfect opportunity to make the most of Melbourne's still-warm March weather. From March 6 to 10, enjoy a jam-packed and mostly free program of family-friendly fun, including events like dance workshops, skate competitions, face painting and so much more.  Across the whole five epic days of festivities, stacked program of events will include the much-loved Moomba Parade; the hilarious Birdman Rally, where competitors hurtle themselves over the Yarra River in homemade flying devices; the Moomba Masters water sports competition; the Moomba Carnival; the Moomba Skate Park Program; and a variety of entertainers, performers, play zones, feature films and food and drinks experiences, plus so much more. There are more than 30 thrilling carnival rides this year, including one that launches riders 60 metres into the air. Plus, more than 60 performers and entertainers will keep the good vibes going all weeend. Top it all off with nightly fireworks across the Melbourne skyline and you've got yourself one helluva party.  To find out more, visit the Moomba website.  Planning out your weekend? Here's our guide to things to do over the Labour Day long weekend.

The chances are high that you saw heaps of videos of this fantastical games room splashed across your Instagram and TikTok feeds when it first opened. From the madcap minds of the Funlab team, which is behind mini-golf chain Holey Moley and late-night bowling spot Strike Bowling, this venue offers myriad 'challenge rooms' that are also a feast for the eyes.  Not familiar with the Hijinx? Well, let’s start by saying it’s not like your regular hotel. In fact, it’s not a hotel at all. More so, an extravagant, magical, and fully immersive experience where games and challenges rule supreme and fun is pretty much guaranteed. Oh, and there’s delicious food and ‘grammable cocktails, too. Upon entering, you and your fellow game players will step into what looks like a fabulous and quirky New York Hotel, complete with hilarious artworks, statement lighting and theatrical design (are the framed pictures real?!). There, you’ll adventure through a series of ten hotel rooms which house quick-play immersive games. Expect to find everything and anything in the nostalgia-inspired rooms from a ball pit to a massive piano and your favourite cartoon characters. The rooms are designed for between two and six players – so you can bring your mates or go with the family for a day out – and you’ll work together to complete and score points on a leaderboard. Though be warned: Hijinx Hotel will test and challenge your mind, sanity and quite frankly, your relationships. While we don’t want to give too

Curtin House is frankly ridiculous, brimming over as it is with a host of outstanding bars and club spaces. The Toff (formerly the Toff in Town) is one of the buzziest joints in the building. Climb the stairs and you'll find a private booth bar to the left (when we say private, we mean very private) and the excellent band and events space to the right.  This cosy little red-curtained room has hosted a wealth of talent, both from home and from far away. It's a decadent haunt and one that reeks of character in an already vibrant Melbourne scene. Get right up and sweaty at the foot of the stage or sit back and sample their menu of delicious snacks and the extensive range of drinks on offer.  On any given week there are plenty of gigs where you can get down on the d-floor, from live jazz every Tuesday night to DJs on Saturday nights – and often entry is free or pretty cheap.  Keen for a boogie? Here is a list of the best bars for dancing in Melbourne. 

The Victorian Pride Centre is the first purpose-built centre for Australia's LGBTQIA+ communities. Located in St Kilda, the space was first supported by State Government in 2016, with construction completed in 2021. The building's design was the result of a competition and pays homage to St Kilda's architectural heritage, with a Moorish influence. When you visit, you'll notice the space is filled with cylindrical shapes and patterns reminiscent of a beehive, reminiscent of a behave and a reflection of how it's a hub of activity. Inside, you'll find everything from co-working spaces and a theatrette to the offices of major LGBTIQ+ resident organisations.  When you enter, you can choose to either approach the volunteer-run concierge desk for assistance or use a handy digital screen that's loaded with helpful information like a directory and event listings. As visitors make their way through the ground floor, they'll also be able to check out a rotating series of exhibitions, areas to lounge and work, café and the Hares and Hyenas bookstore.  There are bookable spaces throughout the centre, including a multipurpose theatrette with soundproofed cork ceilings, an activity room for Rainbow families, meeting rooms, co-working desks and more. Accessibility has also been a major consideration, and you'll find features like a wheelchair-accessible stage, desks with adjustable heights and elevators that allow plenty of time for passengers to board.  The most eye-catching design aspect o

The Bellarine Peninsula is chock-full of award-winning wineries, but after the closure of Corio Distillery in the 1980s, not a single distillery called this region home. This was remedied in 2015 when Bellarine Distillery was established and the Whiskery cellar door popped up on the former site of a chicken farm. Since then, all spirits have been produced on-site, and the space has been churning out a range of award-winning gins and single malt whiskies  The exterior landscaping has created a lush, fairytale beer garden complete with grassy picnic pods, and in the cooler months, there are blanket-filled baskets scattered about. The cellar door exudes a rustic farmhouse vibe, making for a warm, unpretentious atmosphere for sipping spirits. During winter, the best spot in the house is by the crackling fireplace where you can sink into large leather armchairs.  There are several cocktails on offer, including the refreshing Teddy Bears Picnic (made with Teddy and the Fox gin, ginger, strawberry, cucumber and lime), but you'd be remiss not to start with a gin tasting paddle. It's the best way to get to know this special range of gins, and if you're not so fond of neat spirits, try this special trick for tasting like a professional.  At the time of writing, the permanent range of gins consists of five offerings: the zesty, citrus-forward Teddy and the Fox; the Scotchmans Hill pinot noir barrel-aged Rosey and the Rabbits; the savoury and navy-strength Old Dodger; the sweet and choco

We’re pretty lucky having a river running through our city – mostly because it means we get to do things like paddle a kayak along it and observe Melbourne’s skyline from an extra special vantage point. The crew at Kayak Melbourne specialises in guided kayak tours that take you along the Yarra River between Victoria Harbour and Melbourne Park. You can choose to soak up the sunshine with the afternoon City Sights Kayak Tour or you can explore our waterway by night with the Moonlight Kayak Tour. The nighttime tours include an on-water dining experience, and you'll be able to get some Instagram-worthy shots of our gorgeous city as the sun goes down.  There's even sunrise tour that includes a short yoga session to limber you up before you hit the water. The tours are an opportunity to see some of our city's beautiful landmarks, like the Bolte Bridge and Flinders Street Station, from a totally different perspective. The best part? Kayak Melbourne uses stable double kayaks that are easy to paddle, so you don't have to work up too much of a sweat.  To find out more and make a booking, visit the Kayak Melbourne website. Prefer to remain on dry land? These are the best parks in Melbourne.

After two Aussies set up an axe-throwing warehouse in St Peters in 2015, it quickly took off and sparked a chain of Maniax locations around Australia. Then the Marrickville location opened – the largest Maniax yet, catering to up to 350 wannabe Vikings at a time.  Step through the large roller door and you'll be transported to a Viking's paradise with an interior littered with antler chandeliers, furs and hides, crude weaponry and chalet-style fireplaces. They also serve up food and drinks to fuel your axe mania. When you're ready to bury the hatchet, Maniax's staff will guide you through safe axe-throwing practices before letting you hit the ground running. You can choose from private or group sessions, and those confident in their swing can take part in a tournament-style competition. And for those still not sold, you can try a one-hour 'quick chuck' session to give it a whirl before committing to a longer session. Walk-ins are welcome. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, things to do in Sydney, travel inspo, food and more, straight to your inbox.  Looking for more to do in the city? We've got the low-down on the best things happening in Sydney this week.

Since opening in 2016, the QT Melbourne has made quite a splash in the city. It can be hard to secure a booking at one of its 188 rooms – so if you've got your heard set on staying, make sure to organise in advance. The building has a grand entrance – all soaring ceilings, wood panels and marble. There's even a giant colour-coordinated bookshelf that needs to be seen to be believed. You'll find a large selection of mostly digital art flickering throughout the hotel, and the rooms boast an edgy-meets-industrial vibe, with slick designer finishes. You can expect timber floorboards, glamorous en suites, pops of colour and QT's signature “please-don’t-make-me-get-up-I-don’t-want-to-get-up” gel-topped beds.  Book into a suite and you could find yourself in a freestanding bathtub, set on an enclosed pavilion overlooking one of Melbourne’s hipper rooftop bars. As far as people watching goes, it’s an extreme experience. This being a posh joint, you’ll find high spec designer tech, free Wi-Fi and fresh new release movies, with valet parking, 24-hour room service and an on-site gym being the cherries on top of this fashionable Melbourne sundae. The Rooftop at QT has also recently undergone a major transformation, entering a bold new era. The fresh Mediterranean-inspired menu has been designed to be shared with friends, while the refreshed cocktail offerings balance elements of nostalgia and bold ingredients. As for the vibes, be prepared for a mix of boogie, soul and vintage disco with

Strap on your lederhosen and practise your best danke schön because Melbourne’s fave and original German restaurant Hofbrauhaus has announced the return of Oktoberfest for its 56th year. From September 21 to October 26, join the beloved beer hall for a vibrant celebration featuring traditional Oktoberfest fare, imported German premium bier and an electric atmosphere of live music and exciting competitions.  Drinking authentic German beer is a must at Oktoberfest, and there are 16-plus varieties to choose from. Of course, you’ll also be spoiled for choice with plenty of delectable German dishes like schnitzel and bratwurst to soak up all the bevvies. Head to Hofbrauhaus on Thursday and Friday nights from 6.30pm to celebrate Oktoberfest with your co-workers, or swing by on Saturdays from 12.30pm for a day party that can easily turn into an all-nighter. For families wanting to join in on the Oktoberfest fun, Sundays from 6pm is the best option for a more chill atmosphere.  Throughout the Oktoberfest period, patrons can test their strength in stein-holding competitions, with winners scoring free beer for a whole year. Plus, if you’re celebrating a birthday in September or October, book a function package with a minimum of four guests and you can enjoy a complimentary stein of bier and a round of schnaps for your table. If letting loose to German tunes tickles your fancy, make sure to book a table on Friday and Saturday nights for a special performance from an Oktoberfest band. Da

Previously located in Collingwood next to Lamington Drive, this premier art gallery in Brunswick is run by artists, for artists. Its group shows often feature upwards of 40 to 50 artists and are known to draw crowds of nearly 1,500 visitors.  Owners Jesse 'Jeswri' Wright, a First Nations artist from Gadigal Country in NSW, and Britt Devlin, who has a background in architecture and business, opened Honey Bones in February 2020 – just before the Covid-19 crisis thrust Australia into months of lockdown. Despite this, in 2020 and 2021 the gallery ended up hosting the highest number of art exhibitions by a single gallery in the whole of Australia.  Visitors can enjoy some free beverages while perusing the works on display and an environment a touch more informal than a traditional gallery. At the time of writing, the current studio residents include Izzy Faith V, Georgia Cavanagh, Sharya Wickramesooriya and Donika Fazliu. One thing that sets Honey Bones apart from other gallery collectives is that every artist receives equal treatment and an equal position on the 'hierarchy' regardless of how well-known they may be. The studio prioritises working with emerging artists and providing mentorship to help them learn how to produce killer shows.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Want more art? Check out the best exhibitions happening in Melbourne this month.

If you've already done your fair share of cross-country road trips, perhaps it's time to take to the water and experience Australia from an entirely new vantage point: the Murray River. It's been a long time coming, but the first ever luxury river cruise will officially debut later this year, departing from regional Victoria.  The winding 2,508-kilometre river will soon be home to a luxury 20-cabin vessel offering sightseeing cruises for 38 passengers at a time. The cruises will set off from the Port of Echuca, which was once Australia’s largest inland port and now is home to the world’s largest collection of paddlesteamers.  Currently in the final stages of construction, the PS Australian Star will stretch 35 metres, with a design that fuses heritage charm with contemporary luxury. And besides being Australia's first five-star river cruise experience, it'll also be the largest paddlesteamer in the Southern Hemisphere and the only wood-fired, five-star accommodated paddlesteamer in the world.  The paddlesteamer will be powered by a 9.5-tonne, refurbished wood-fired steam engine that's more than 100 years old, made back in 1907 by Richard Garrett & Sons.   "Australians love cruising, and they love the Murray River – but they want comfort and facilities akin to those on European rivers," says Craig Burgess, the Murray River Paddlesteamers director.  The 20 cabins will be a mix of both queen and king suites and queen and twin bed cabins, and all accommodations will open up to a

If you're an avid stargazer, we've got some exciting news for you. One of the best annual meteor showers will light up our skies very soon and it's looking like it'll be quite a magical display. The Geminids meteor shower is one of the final celestial spectacles for the year, and it's one worth seeing.  What is the Geminid meteor shower? While most meteor showers are the result of a comet, the Geminids come from debris shed by 3,200 Phaethon, a five-kilometre-wide asteroid that discards matter as it moves past Earth in space.  It first appeared in the mid-1800s, but it wasn't considered particularly notable at the time, offering just ten to 20 meteors per hour at its peak. The Geminids have grown considerably in scale across the centuries, today offering upwards of 150 meteors per hour in perfect conditions. This particular starry display is considered one of the best and most reliable annual meteor showers, according to NASA. When is the best time to see the Geminid meteor shower in Melbourne? This year, the Geminids will be gracing our skies from December 4 to 20. However, mark your calendars for December 14 – that’s when the meteor shower is set to peak in Melbourne. Up to 150 meteors will streak across the sky every hour, and the prime viewing window will be in the hours just before dawn.  How to see the Geminid meteor shower in Melbourne? Meteor visibility varies based on factors like moonlight and weather, and with the moon shining brightly over the weekend of Decemb

Calling all Sydney stargazers: the biggest meteor shower of the year will be lighting up the sky on the night of Saturday, December 14 and the morning of Saturday, December 15, with 150 meteors shooting above us when the meteor shower is at its peak. The Geminids meteor shower is one of the final celestial spectacles for the year and it's one worth seeing. Sydney is home to some pretty spectacular stargazing spots, but if you want to get the most out of the Geminids – get to the Blue Mountains to watch it with an astronomer by your side.While most meteor showers are the result of a comet, the Geminids come from debris shed by 3,200 Phaethon, a five-kilometre-wide asteroid that discards matter as it moves past Earth in space. It first appeared in the mid-1800s, but it wasn't considered particularly notable at the time, offering just ten to 20 meteors per hour at its peak. The Geminids have grown considerably in scale across the centuries, today offering upwards of 120 meteors per hour in perfect conditions. This particular starry display is considered one of the best and most reliable annual meteor showers, according to NASA.  This year, the Geminids will be visible in Sydney from around December 4 until December 20, with a peak set to occur on the night of December 14 to the morning of December 15. The visibility of the meteors can vary based on moonlight and weather, and since the moon will be relatively bright on the weekend of December 14, we’re not looking at prime condit

Grammy Award-winning electronic group Rüfüs Du Sol has come a long way since forming in Sydney more than a decade ago. Over the years, the trio has experimented with almost every sound texture imaginable, amassing a huge global following along the way. From the light and ethereal Atlas (2013), the house-inflected and synth-y Bloom (2016), the darker and more melodic Solace (2018) and the hypnotic and trancey Surrender (2021), it's easy to see how the group's diverse influences have propelled them from Australia to the world stage.  Now, Rüfüs Du Sol is returning Down Under to celebrate the release of its fifth studio album Inhale / Exhale, with several immersive shows planned across Australia in 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets. When and where is Rüfus Du Sol playing on its Australia tour in 2025? Rüfus Du Sol is sharing the love with five concerts in the group's homeland, including: Perth’s RAC Arena on November 7 Adelaide Entertainment Centre on November 11 Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on November 13 Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena on November 20 Brisbane Entertainment Centre on November 25 When do Rüfus Du Sol tickets go on sale in Australia? The battle for tickets officially begins at 10am local time on Thursday, October 24 via this link. Is there a Rüfus Du Sol presale? Isn’t there always? Mastercard cardholders will have access to a special Aussie presale, kicking off at 10am local time on Tuesday, October 22. How much are tickets to Rüfus Du So

For the past few years, Zoë Foster Blake's cult skincare brand Go-To has collaborated with Four Pillars to create a limited-edition peachy gin. And in a surprise to absolutely no one, getting your hands on a bottle has been pretty damn hard. Well, if you've missed out in the past, we've got good news: it's back just in time for G&T season.  The 2023 version of 'My New Go-To Gin' is peachier and fancier than ever, and features flavours of yuzu, lime, coriander seeds and lemon myrtle. And to add that extra zing, it has been infused with quandong, a native peach from Western Australia. Yum! It's the perfect base for everything from a classic G&T to a bubbly Bellini or a tart Peach Bramble.  Keen to sip on peachy beverages all summer long? The gin will be available from the Four Pillars website from November 22 – but hurry, we have a feeling it's not going to stick around for long. It will retail at $85 for a 700mL bottle and there is a limit of three per purchase.  RECOMMENDED: The world's best cities have been revealed and we think Melbourne should have been higher This is the annual income you need to be happy in Australia, a new study claims Melbourne has been declared the third most mispronounced place in Australia  

With the current state of Sydney's real estate market, playing a round of Monopoly is probably also the only chance most of us have at owning any property. But instead of dwelling on that, pack your bags and book your trip to Melbourne because a $20 million, 1650-square-metre Monopoly-themed indoor park has just opened in the southern state. After much anticipation, the $20-million dollar, 1650-square-metre indoor park is officially open at Melbourne Central, with tickets on sale now.  It's only the second of its kind in the world, and it's twice the size of the original location that landed in Hong Kong back in 2019. After passing go at the entrance, visitors will get to explore two distinct areas: Monopoly City and Monopoly Mansion.  Across the two zones, which are inspired by Melbourne and feature trams and street art, there will be a total of 15 attractions including a 4D theatre and a chance wheel. Punters can win Monopoly money that can then be spent at the park's café or retail store.  General admission tickets start at $38.50.  RECOMMENDED: While you're travelling, head to the NT for this amazing Red Centre Light Trail

Does talking about Monopoly simultaneously elicit feelings of rage while also bringing back fond childhood memories? If so, you're not alone. The bestselling board game critiquing the follies of capitalism has been the main character at countless family game nights over the years – and we'd wager at least half of those sessions have ended with a table being flipped over in a fit of rage.  With the current state of the real estate market, playing a round of Monopoly is probably also the only chance most of us have at owning any property. But instead of dwelling on that, focus on the good news: a $20-million dollar, 1650-square-metre Monopoly-themed indoor park is opening in Melbourne Central on November 15, 2023.  Photograph: Supplied It's only the second of its kind in the world, and it'll be twice the size of the original location that landed in Hong Kong back in 2019. After passing go at the entrance, visitors will get to explore two distinct areas: Monopoly City and Monopoly Mansion.  “The keys to Monopoly City and Mr. Monopoly’s Mansion are due for handover in September 2023," said Mark Connolly, general manager of Monopoly Dreams Melbourne. "We are excited to be able to officially give Aussies an opening day for the most anticipated attraction of 2023." Across the two zones, which are inspired by Melbourne and feature trams and street art, there will be a total of 15 attractions including a 4D theatre and a chance wheel. Punters can win Monopoly money that can then be

「モノポリー」と聞くと、子どもの頃の懐かしい思い出がよみがえると同時に、怒りの感情が湧き上がってくることはないだろうか？　もしそうだったとしても大丈夫、あなただけではない。 資本主義の愚行を批評するこのボードゲームのベストセラーは、何年にもわたり数え切れないほどプレーされてきた。そのうちの少なくとも半分は、きっと怒りに任せてボードがひっくり返されて終わっているに違いない。 多くの大都市の不動産市場の現状を思うと、ほとんどの人にとって不動産を「所有」できる唯一の機会は、モノポリーで遊ぶ時となっているのが悲しいところではある。しかし、それであればむしろオーストラリアのメルボルンへ行き、思いっ切りモノポリーで遊んでみるのはどうだろうか。 2023年9月、メルボルン・セントラルにモノポリーをテーマにした広大な屋内パーク「Monopoly Dreams」がオープンするのだ。 同テーマパークは2019年に香港で初めてオープン。メルボルンのパークは世界2カ所目で、香港の2倍の広さになる。エントランスを通過した後、来場者は「Monopoly City」と「Mr. Monopoly’s Mansion」という2つの異なるゾーンの探検が楽しめる。 メルボルンをイメージした路面電車やストリートアートが描かれた各ゾーンでは、4Dシアターやチャンスホイールを含む合計15のアトラクションが設置される。獲得した「モノポリーマネー」は施設内のカフェや売店で使うことができるという。 「これらの2つのゾーンへの鍵は、9月に引き渡されます。2023年に最も待ち望まれていたアトラクションのオープンを、正式にオーストラリアの皆さまへお知らせできることに興奮しています」と、Monopoly Dreams Melbourneのジェネラルマネジャー、マーク・コノリーは述べている。Monopoly Dreamsのオープンは、9月1日（金）で、チケットは30AUドル（約2,875円）からとなっている。 関連記事 『A $20 million Monopoly theme park is coming to Australia（原文）』 『メルボルン、2031年までにシドニーを抜き豪で人口が最大に』 『世界で最も過小評価されている14の旅行先』 『ファッションのテーマパーク「木更津コンセプトストア」でしかできない5のこと』 『東京、ベストテーマパーク4選』 『2023年に行くべき新施設とイベント10選』 東京の最新情報をタイムアウト東京のメールマガジンでチェックしよう。登録はこちら  

The House of Mouses's famous family-friendly cruises have been setting sail across the globe for decades now, and they're finally slated for a run in Australia.  The first season of Disney Magic at Sea (which sets sail this October) was so popular that Disney Cruise Line has now announced a new season of cruises departing Australia and New Zealand in 2024 and through to 2025. You'll be able to embark on two to seven-day cruises filled with Disney magic, and hang out with characters like Captain Mickey Mouse, Captain Minnie Mouse, Goofy and Pluto, as well as characters from the Star Wars and Marvel universes. As you'd expect with Disney, there will be plenty of entertainment, including musical performances and original theatrical shows. Of course, there will be plenty for small Disney fans, with the Disney Oceaneer Club taking small sailors on a Frozen-themed adventure. Kids can also play in a multi-level replica of Andy's room from Toy Story or learn to save the world at the Marvel Super Hero Academy. And while the kids are busy, adults can relax in the adults-only Quiet Cove pool, get pampered at the Senses Spa and Salon or enjoy fine dining (and adult conversation) at Palo restaurant.  The first of these magical cruises will set sail from Sydney Harbour on October 28, 2023. Bookings are now open for the 2024-25 season, which will visit ports in Noumea, Hobart and Eden. We recommend getting in quick, considering how far in advance the first season sold.  For more info or t

Sydney. If getting starstruck by celestial happenings is your thing, prepare to have your mind blown by the annual Lyrid meteor shower that’s coming at us in April 2023. In April every year, a torrent of blazing meteors whiz across the sky and burn in the atmosphere, creating otherworldly flashes of light. This annual shower will be visible across the world from April 16 to 25, 2023, and will be at its peak for Australian (and Sydney-residing) stargazers from April 22 to 23.  The Lyrids are one of the oldest recorded meteor showers in human history, with some historical Chinese texts mentioning their existence more than 2,500 years ago. The fireballs you see in this shower are created by debris from the Comet Thatcher, and at their most active, you’ll see up to 20 shooting stars per hour. But, even if you’re looking up outside of peak time, it’s highly likely you’ll see the occasional flash of light illuminating the sky.  Sadly for all us Southern Hemisphere dwellers, the Lyrid shower will not be as radiant and intense as it is for our Northern Hemisphere brethren. This being said, we’ll still get a pretty good look at it all (weather conditions dependent) after midnight on April 22, or a few hours before sunrise on April 23. You’ll get the best vantage point if you turn your feet towards the northern part of our sky, and look 45 degrees above the horizon. If you’re lost, this interactive map can tell you exactly where to look.  The best part about the Lyrids? You don’t need

Last year, we reported on how Melbourne Airport was crowned Australia's worst airport for delays and cancellations. We don't want to point any fingers at which airlines may be behind that unsavoury title, but we will say this: research conducted by S Money has found that Jetstar Airways is Australia's most hated airline. Not surprised? Neither are we.  Although Jetstar does offer some ridiculously good deals, lost and damaged luggage is a common theme for Jetstar customers, which is a bummer because who doesn't want to travel with their stuff intact?  So how was the research conducted? S Money unpacked thousands of Tweets that had tagged airline handles and analysed the volume of posts with negative and positive sentiment for each airline. The airlines with the most negative Tweet scores were determined to be the ‘Most Hated’, and vice versa. Because, of course, when travel turmoil arises, people turn to social media to grumble. Tweets tagging Jetstar were 67.5 per cent negative. Qantas better hold onto their tray tables, too, because the study results will also shake them up – their detours and cancellations have left a lot of people with some serious travel headaches, and a lot of people regard Qantas as greedy. They ended up with a 60 per cent negativity rating.  Virgin Australia came out as the third most common airline to peeve Aussies off (with a 50.7 per cent negativity score). But, considering Jetstar, Qantas and Virgin are the three most commonly flown airlines Down

In February, a bright green, two-tailed comet blazed through our skies; if you missed it, we're sorry to say you probably won't ever see it again (unless scientists perfect cryogenics) as it only comes around every 50,000 years. But don't be too sad: we come bearing news of another fascinating astronomical occurrence. From February 20 to March 10, Jupiter and Venus will appear close together in the sky in a phenomenon known as planetary conjunction. What exactly is a planetary conjunction? Well, it's a term for when two planets appear to meet in the same part of the sky. Jupiter and Venus are known as the brightest planets in our sky, and they've been slowly inching towards each other. For Australians, they are expected to appear closest together on Thursday, March 2. Afterwards, they'll begin to go their separate ways again.  It's not the rarest conjunction to spot in our night sky; Venus and Jupiter align with each other every 13 months or so. In comparison, Jupiter and Neptune had a conjunction in 2022 for the first time since 1856. Regardless, it's still a marvellous nighttime spectacle, and it should be visible to the naked eye, so find a primo stargazing spot and look up.