Alison Rodericks

Sydneysiders love a roasted chook. Across the city, rotisseries slowly spin around, luring us with their smoky aroma, coaxing us to abandon all plans of cooking dinner at home and order a chicken and chips instead – with extra garlic sauce, of course. From long-time Lebanese legends to humble Portuguese flame-grilled specialists, our chicken shops have been perfecting the art of the charcoal chook for decades. And while every suburb swears that its neighbourhood gem is the best, we’ve done the delicious legwork to round up the chicken shops that consistently deliver golden, juicy birds with side dishes that hit just right. The only question is: is your local chook shop on the list? Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news and things to do, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: Want more? Check out the Sydney's best restaurants right now. Looking to tighten your belt? Here's our list of the city's best cheap eats. 

No two ways about it, Sydney's wine bar scene is flourishing. Full to the brim. Spilling over. A decade ago, there were only a handful of wine bars. Now? They're all over town. And we're here to happily drink them up. What's more, these slick haunts are also some of the best spots in Sydney to grab a nice dinner with friends.  It makes no difference whether you're a novice or an expert, fancy something natural or classic, old world or new, or whether you want to spend moderately or extravagantly, Time Out Sydney's writers, including Editor Avril Treasure, have curated this list for every palate, at every price point. Bottoms up. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Can't get enough of that boozy stuff? Check out the absolute best bars in Sydney here.

A true-blue Aussie tradition, the gambling game of two-up is only legal in Melbourne on ANZAC Day. Brought over to Australia as 'pitch and toss' by the English and Irish, it was rife through the Gold Rush days and equally popular with soldiers during World War I. As a result, it’s become synonymous with April 25, during which select pubs and RSL clubs across the country host games. How to play two-up 1. Two coins are placed on a paddle (kip) by the ‘spinner’. You and fellow punters will need to surround them and commence bellowing things like “tennahead!” (read: I want to bet $10 on both coins landing heads up). 2. Want to take that bet? Lock eyes and vigorously wave your ten dollars in the head-better's direction, then give them your cash if they accept (heads holds the money). 3. The boxer (referee) yells ‘come in spinner’, to cease bet-making whereupon the coins are flicked in the air. They have to reach higher than the spinner’s head and fall within the circle to count as a valid toss. If it's heads, you lost. Tails? You won! One of each? The spinner keeps tossing till there's a result. 4. Celebrate/console yourself with beer. Repeat.

Did you know Australia’s last-standing pub theatre is right here in Sydney? Found below Woolloomooloo's 150-year-old Old Fitzroy Hotel, the Old Fitz Theatre is the place for boundary-pushing shows from some of the city's most talented creatives. If you find a night free, and feel like something different – and supporting indie work! – check out what's on here.  Scroll on for the best musicals, plays and more to see in Sydney this month. RELATED READS: It’s guaranteed laughs galore at the Comedy Store Make Tuesdays more fun with this affordable comedy show in the Inner West

You’ll have plenty of reasons to rise and shine in Brisbane. With an array of the Sunshine State’s finest cafés and some of Australia’s highest calibre coffee roasters, choosing where to go first is an unexpected (but fun) challenge.  To help you find your new favourite, our local food writers and Time Out's Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, have collated this guide to Brisbane’s best cafés, tried and tested. From hidden laneway gems and suburban corner stores to quirky Vietnamese spots, we've got you covered. All that’s left for you to do is eat your way through it. Editor's favourite cafés in Brisbane: 🥑 Best CBD brunch spot:  Felix for Goodness 😋 Best for fusion brunch: Café Disco ☕️ Best for specialty drinks: Kin For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.  🍽 Best restaurants in Brisbane🥐 Brisbane's best bakeries☕️ Brisbane's top coffee spots

I hope you’re having a happy and delicious April. I’ve been out non-stop checking out Sydney’s best new restaurants and bars to bring you this up-to-date list, including Turkish restaurant Hamsi Taverna by Somer Sivrioğlu, and Southeast Asian restaurant Lua by Luke Nguyen – both of which are now open at the new Sydney Fish Market. I really love affordable new Indo eatery Temu Kangen in Haymarket, and my favourite new bistro, South End in Newtown. Plus, there’s Las Palmas, a holiday-coded Mexican spot in Manly, a fancy British restaurant called The James, Besa, a hot new tapas bar from the Aalia team, and Vitelli's Upstairs, a New York-style Italian restaurant. We really do live in a delicious place, don’t we? (Yes, I’m full.) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for something to wash it all down with? These are our favourite bars in Sydney right now. Keen to eat your way around the city? These are the best restaurants in Sydney, from hot newcomers to the OGs.

With each passing year, Sydney’s skyline is being redefined – steel and glass structures are climbing higher, reshaping the harbour’s familiar outline. And while progress is part of any great city’s story, there’s a quiet urgency to protect the structures that give Sydney its soul – the sandstone facades, the ornate arcades, the bold experiments that once defined their era. Architecture literally shapes our city. The buildings that endure – from the grand to the quietly iconic – are more than just beautiful buildings; they are markers of memories and milestones while everything around us is changing so rapidly. Here’s our list of the buildings in Sydney that make us take a second look, from grand colonial houses to post-modern marvels. Our advice? Make sure to visit at least one of them very soon. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED:  The prettiest public gardens in Sydney The top 20 tourist attractions in Sydney The best things to do in Sydney this weekend

Term one is officially done, which means the autumn school holidays are here. The burning question: how do you keep the kids busy for two whole weeks – without going crazy yourself? As luck would have it, we've just rounded up all the coolest kid-friendly events, festivals, shows and activities to ensure that you never have to hear the kids wail, "I'm borrrred". If and when the sun comes out to play, grab your chance to visit some of Melbourne's best playgrounds and then swing by the best kid-friendly pubs in Melbourne – for when Mummy and Daddy need a break. You're welcome. 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 fun? Here's everything happening around Melbourne this weekend. 

Looking forward to the Easter long weekend? Us too. Chances are, we'll be in a food coma thanks to one too many choccy eggs, hot cross buns and seafood feasts. But if you're overcome with the quiet panic of “Wait, what’s actually open?” we're here to help. While many Melbourne venues take a well-deserved break, there are heaps of places that will keep their doors open. We've rounded up a list of Melbourne's finest restaurants that are ready to welcome you with their special Easter hours and offerings. Whether you're after a bougie brunch on Easter Sunday, a late-night snack on Good Friday or a cheeky drink with mates on Saturday arvo, here's where to go. Hop to it!  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Hungry for a sweet treat? These are the best hot cross buns in Melbourne.

Autumn 2026 update: Enjoy the change of seasons at one of Sydney’s cracking pubs. From sun-dappled beer gardens to refreshing pints and heart-warming roasts, these pubs are warm, welcoming spaces built for a good time – and even better if they’re pokie-free. Below, we’ve rounded up the best of the best. There's a lot that goes into making a great pub. They need to furnish you with an excellent meal and friendly service, and a game of pool or darts doesn't go astray, and we're fans of weekly trivia. On a hot day, it's all about having a welcoming beer garden, and on a Sunday, it's all about a cracking roast. Top-notch drinks are a must, obvs. There are a lot of rock-solid pubs in this city, and these are our picks of the bunch, pulled together by Time Out Sydney's local writers. Cheers! Editor's picks: 🍠 Best for a Sunday roast: The Bat & Ball Hotel ☀️ Best for a sunny beer garden: Courthouse Hotel 🍽️ Best for top-notch feed: The Dry Dock 🎸 Best for live music: The Lord Gladstone 🔖 Best for mid-week trivia: The Golden Barley 🍻 Best for a post-surf beer: Harbord Hotel Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. For something a bit less pubby, a bit higher end, see our picks of the best bars in Sydney. Hungry? Check out our ultimate guide to Sydney's best restaurants. 

Sydney has a bewildering range of eateries and cuisines, with almost every style of restaurant and region of the world represented. Many of them are looking to serve you and the people of Sydney for the cheapest price possible, you just need to know where to look. Choosing the best cheap eats is like picking the greatest songs ever made, there are countless options, and everyone will have a different opinion. Compiled by a team of local Time Out experts, this list brings together eateries from all regions of Sydney, with each pick being an outstanding option for that cuisine or style of eating. It’s not the cheapest meals in Sydney, but the best affordable options. We’ve tried, as best as possible, to include only venues where you can get a meal for one for under $25. We didn’t include many bakeries or cafés in the list, but you can find more affordable eats in our list of best bakeries in Sydney and best cafés in Sydney. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Want to spend less at the big-ticket players? Check out our cheap fine-dining hacks.

Ah, Noosa. The Sunshine Coast destination is a mix of everything that is authentically (and wonderfully) Australian. It’s all sun, sand and surf along Noosa Heads, trendy eateries and boutiques down Hastings Street, hectares of gorgeous greenery at Noosa National Park, and that Aussie outback hospitality across the hinterland. When it comes to staying the week, we reckon your best bet is setting up camp right in Noosa Heads, where all the action is. We’ve chosen the area’s best hotels for their welcoming nature, light-filled coastal rooms and proximity to the beach – some even beachfront; everything your sunny holiday should be. Here are the best hotels to book in Noosa right now.  Editor's favourite hotels in Noosa: 💎 Best for luxury: Elysium Noosa Resort 📍 Best for location: Tingirana Noosa ⭐️ Best for families: RACV Noosa ☀️ The best things to do in Noosa🍹 The best restaurants in Noosa🌴 The best beaches in Noosa 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 help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Step into Café Tanja on bustling Crown Street in Surry Hills and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a welcoming North African home. Earthy tones, woven baskets, flatwoven patterned rugs and textured cushions set the scene, while the welcome is always warm. Opened in 2024 by husband-and-wife duo Sanah Djebli and Nadim El-Zein, alongside Mama Linda, this family-run spot brings the rich culinary traditions of Morocco and Algeria to Sydney. The menu celebrates Maghrebi flavours that are still rare in the city. Expect everything from crisp brik pastry filled with tuna, potato and egg to comforting chicken with couscous and msemen flatbreads stuffed with spicy mince or chicken. The signature lamb tagine is a must – slow-cooked until the meat falls off the bone, it’s finished with almonds and sweet prunes and served with house-made matlouh bread, perfect for soaking up that sauce. For brekkie, the tchouktchouka (shakshuka) is a standout – eggs baked in a rich tomato and capsicum sauce – along with a Zaazaa smoothie, a nourishing blend of avocado, banana, honey and nuts that’s a must-have during Ramadan. No visit is complete without Moroccan mint tea (hatay), poured high from an ornate silver teapot in a ritual that feels both theatrical and comforting. Finish with something sweet like chebakiya or a pistachio ice cream sandwich, and it’s easy to see why Café Tanja has quickly become a local favourite. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, thi

Fluffy marshmallows, chewy raspberry lollies, crunchy roasted peanuts and snowy flakes of desiccated coconut all smothered in rich couverture chocolate. Yep, we’re talking about rocky road.  This May, things are set to get sweet when the Rocky Road Festival returns for the entire month, transforming the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie into dessert havens Beyond the classic flavour combo, there's an inventive offering of 31 limited-edition flavours. Think Dubai Dream, Very Berry Tiramisu, Peanut Butter Pretzel, Cherry Pistachio Baklava and Matcha Strawberry Latte. There are also vegan, gluten-friendly and no added sugar options, so nobody misses out. And it doesn’t stop there. You can also treat yourself to scoops of freshly churned ice cream, velvety hot chocolates and old-school milkshakes. You can even roll up your sleeves to create your own custom block or book into a hosted tasting session ($28 per person) held on select dates.  Each of the stores also boast a mega pick'n'mix counter to create take-home packs of your favourite blocks. Hate making delicious decisions? Opt for the Ultimate Rocky Road Festival Box featuring all 31 festival flavours.  Entry is free, with plenty of tastings and a showroom stacked with hundreds of handmade chocolate treats. For those who can’t make the trip, don’t worry – Rocky Road Festival delights can be delivered to your door. Get all the details here.  Stay in the loop: sign u

Sure, Robertson in NSW might lay claim to the Big Potato, but down in Victoria, we have the Great Trentham Spudfest. Returning for its 19th year on May 2-3, this is a carb-loaded weekend devoted to the mighty spud. Trentham’s fertile red volcanic soil has been producing top-notch potatoes since the 1860s, and this two-day celebration is a nod to the farmers who’ve kept that legacy alive – one perfectly roasted, mashed or fried potato at a time. Saturday, May 2 is Street Fair Day. The town transforms into a bustling, potato-packed playground with four lively precincts serving up everything from fresh produce and local wines to handmade treasures and live music. There’s the spectacular Spud Olympics with spud and spoon races, potato sack races and more; a bigger-than-ever Kids’ Zone with puppet shows and spud-themed crafts; and plenty of food stalls – including those delightful spud doughnuts. Come hungry. As night falls, things take a cheeky turn with Spudfest Up Late, a burlesque cabaret. Add in Cèilidh, a celebration of Celtic music and dancing, plus a four-course potato degustation meal at Restaurant Ensemble, and your day is complete. Sunday, May 3 is Discovery Day. Wander through Trentham on guided walks, farm tours and historic trails. The Town Square is the spud hub for freshly harvested potatoes, merchandise, scavenger hunts, horse and cart rides and live entertainment – plus tons of potato-forward food. Chip-on-a-stick, anyone? Or explore nearby gems like Daylesford,

If you’ve never wandered around the historic town of Ballarat – recently voted the happiest place in Australia – it’s time you made a trip. And what better time than May 21-24, when the Ballarat Heritage Festival returns with the theme 'Hidden Histories', inviting visitors to look beyond the Gold Rush and uncover the stories and events that have shaped this remarkable regional city. At the heart of the festival is Ballarat Revealed: Hidden Histories, Shared Together, an exhibition housed inside the historic Ballarat Mining Exchange. Here, personal stories and cultural narratives intertwine – from Wadawurrung perspectives on Country to the contributions of Chinese communities, brought to life with a striking replica of the 1901 Chinese Arch. The much-loved Ballarat Antique Fair fills Civic Hall with treasures from across the country – think fine jewellery, vintage furniture and one-off curiosities – while the streets come alive with the gleam of polished chrome at the Vintage Car Show, celebrating more than a century of automotive design. Food lovers are in for a treat at the Heritage Harvest Weekend at Sovereign Hill, where regional producers, chefs and artisans take centre stage. Expect bustling market stalls, live cooking demos and hands-on workshops, alongside appearances from much-loved food personalities. There’s also a playful side to the program. The Ballarat Beard and Stache Competition brings a dose of humour (and some seriously impressive facial hair), while steam t

✍️ Time Out Sydney never writes starred restaurant and bar reviews from hosted experiences – Time Out covers restaurant and bar bills, and anonymously reviews, so that readers can trust our critique. Find out more, here.  I’m in Lane Cove on a Friday evening and the energy is infectious – kids dart across the grass, teens play a robust game of ping pong and families spill out across the dining precinct at The Canopy. I’m on the hunt for Jules on Birdwood Lane. Ta-da! Its bright yellow sign beckons.  Opened just over a year ago by husband-and-wife duo Nathan and Julie, Jules has cemented itself as a neighbourhood gem – exactly what this pocket of the Lower North Shore has been craving. Relaxed and refined, it’s the kind of place you book when you want something a little bit spesh. The vibe My partner and I step inside the compact bistro-like space. The open kitchen and bar is humming; Nathan is shaking drinks while Julie orchestrates the pass with quiet precision. The crowd is a mix of modern suburbia: couples on date night, groups of friends easing into the weekend and even the odd family with kids in tow. The dim mood lighting adds to the vibe – but makes it hard to get good pics for the ‘gram. Service is friendly and efficient; our plates are whisked away and glasses are topped up seamlessly throughout the evening. The food Overseen by Nathan (ex-Bennelong and Bird Cow Fish) and head chef Jay (ex-Yellow and at Promenade Bondi), the menu at Jules moves from bite-sized snacks

Still scrambling for a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift? You – and your mum – are in luck. The Finders Keepers Sydney Design Market is returning to Carriageworks the weekend before Mother’s Day – May 1-3. It's your one-stop shop for a pressie that feels anything but last-minute. Or you can get a treat (or three!) for yourself. Bringing together more than 150 independent designers, makers and food producers, the market is a treasure trove of one-off pieces, limited runs and small-batch finds you won’t see anywhere else. Come with friends, come with family – heck, even bring your mum, and check out handmade ceramics, statement jewellery or niche beauty. Now in its 18th year, Finders Keepers is the place to discover emerging talent. There are more than 30 new stalls alongside returning favourites, including artist Eleonora Arosio with her beloved three-minute portraits (yes, they book out fast), and the delightful Merchants of Nonsense. There’s also a strong community focus, with Indigenous program recipient Jimawood selling hand-rolled incense from Broome and Regional Program recipient NOA Australia with handmade jewellery from Lakes Entrance. Add in a fresh wave of debut brands like Soluna and Eve (wellbeing and beauty), Bentley Dawn (fashion), Camille’s Creations (ceramics), Natasja Horne (art), Goose & Pebble (accessories), and Makai (jewellery), and you’ve got the ultimate excuse to shop small and shop well. Happy hunting! The Finders Keepers Design Market will be open from 4pm

There’s a fresh breeze blowing through Franca – and it’s transporting us to coastal Europe. Formerly known as Franca Brasserie, this Potts Point fave has dropped the “Brasserie” and French focus to embrace a more fluid, sun-soaked European identity. The shift isn’t so much about reinvention as it is about refinement; they say it’s a return to the idea of lingua "franca", the shared language that once connected cultures along coastal Europe. Under the direction of founder Andrew Becher and executive chef José Saulog (also at Armorica and ex-Parlar), the menu has moved away from heavier French brasserie fare towards something lighter and more expansive. Think food from the Mediterranean, North Africa and the Levant that’s anchored by classic French technique and designed to be shared. Franca has swapped traditional à la carte for a shared-style approach, encouraging a more relaxed rhythm at the table. "We feel the time is right to draw in flavours from Spain, Italy, North Africa and beyond," says Saulog. "The result is generous, confident food that we feel suits this city and suits this space." Start with moreish snacks like crab toast and a mushroom parfait tart before moving to tuna, scallop and prawn tartare with a finger lime dressing. We loved the grilled squid with chorizo and butter beans. The menu has a fresh pasta section – and the doppio ravioli with pumpkin and goat’s cheese in brown butter and sage is bellissimo. For mains, try the bonito with confit ratatouille, t

The Big Design Market returns to the Royal Exhibition Building with its ‘Almost Winter’ edition from May 22-24. As the temperature dips, this three-day showcase leans into all things creative, comforting and curated. More than 250 independent designers are setting up shop under the heritage dome selling everything from ceramics and jewellery to fashion, homewares and lifestyle products. There are more than 55 new brands joining returning favourites, each championing ethical production, quality craftsmanship and original design.  Some highlights include newcomers Mariella McKinley Glass, who specialises in homewares made from hand-blown glass; e’serdiv with a range of 100 per cent vegan premium women’s footwear made from an apple by-product; UKOO’s clean body care designed for the whole family; beautiful handmade table linen from Everyday Normall; and Saddler and Co with handcrafted saddles and leather goods.  This year, Melbourne-based artist Elaine Li of Xue Fei Art will transform the space with a large-scale installation of her artwork ‘Moon Dip’, bringing a sense of wonder to the venue. There’s also a dedicated kids’ creative zone, making it a fun day out for families. Come hungry – there’s an indulgent spread from more than 75 artisanal food and drink vendors offering gourmet bites, sweet treats and small-batch spirits. Think bánh mì from Ca Com, Portuguese tarts from Casa Nata, gnocchi and pasta from Ugo Burrata Bar, pastries from Cobb Lane and all-natural ice cream from

Spring, summer, autumn, winter – Vivaldi’s Four Seasons’ violin concertos have been enthralling music lovers for around 300 years. And now, there’s an enchanting new way to enjoy these classical pieces. The Immigration Museum is playing host to Eonarium Enlightenment, an immersive sound and light show from April 24 until May 31.  Dreamed up by Zurich-based art collective Projecktil, this globally acclaimed experience arrives in Melbourne for the first time, following an acclaimed run across Europe and the UK, and after making its Australian debut in Brisbane.  The majestic halls of the Immigration Museum's beautifully restored Old Customs House will come alive with sweeping 360-degree light projections as they dance across heritage walls and ceilings in awe-inspiring waves of colour – all set in time to Vivaldi’s iconic score. The cinematic visuals pull you right into the four seasons as spring blossoms, summer shines, autumn mellows and winter settles in. Equal parts meditative and mesmerising, this immersive sound and light show is perfect for the entire family. Whatever you do, make sure you arrive early for your booked time slot as the experience only lasts for 30 minutes. So, sink into a beanbag (premium seating) or a chair (standard seating) and look up! Find out more and get your tickets here. 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? These are the best exhibitions happening in

Dust off your turntable and make some space – Record Store Day is back on Saturday, April 18. Since launching in 2008, this global celebration of independent record stores has become a fixture on the music calendar, championing the culture, community and crackle of vinyl. Held every year on the third Saturday of April, it’s an ode to brick-and-mortar record shops – and the people who keep them spinning. In a market often dominated by digital music, it’s heartening to know that music lovers are returning to formats they can collect and connect with. Expect indie stores across the state to come alive with a day-long line-up of exclusive releases, live performances and in-store appearances by musos. Names like Empire of the Sun, Holy Holy, Ruel and Spacey Jane sit alongside favourites including Ninajirachi, You Am I, Confidence Man, Peking Duk x Darren Hayes, Ocean Alley and The Wiggles – proving there’s something here for every kind of listener. Across Victoria, there will be free, all-ages gigs popping up throughout the day. Queenie will bring her country music to Desert Highways; Nat Pavlovic and Merpire are set to soundtrack the day at Rocksteady Records; at Soundmerch, it’s a live music marathon with a great line-up of musos; Sensible J and Immy Owusu take over Bar Open from mid-afternoon. Northside Records is once again a major drawcard, hosting performances from Kee’ahn, Mokomokai and Steppers, plus a signing from Baker Boy. Geelong’s Popcultcha Records is lining up sets

Instead of hibernating under the doona this winter, rug up and head out to regional Victoria for the East Gippsland Winter Festival. Returning for its sixth iteration from June 19 to July 19, this month-long festival transforms the entire area of East Gippsland into a haven of art, culture, light installations, live performances, wellness workshops, immersive experiences and tons of delicious food.   The 2026 festival kicks off with the iconic Nicholson River Trestle Bridge Long Lunch on June 19, followed by the official opening at the Nicholson River Winery in the evening – a suitably scenic setting to toast the start of a packed festival calendar. Festive favourites are back, too. Channel your inner knight or medieval maiden at the Bruthen Medieval Winter Fire Festival on June 20, complete with sword fights, costumes and roaring bonfires. Wander along the waterfront for Lakes Lights on July 4 with gigantic lantern sculptures and roaming performers, plus a parade across the footbridge at the Lakes Entrance Foreshore. Or, if you’re feeling particularly brrr-ave, take the plunge at Gippsland Jersey’s Winter Solstice Swim; while not for the faint-hearted, it’s certainly unforgettable. Timed perfectly with the Victorian school holidays, the festival includes more than 130 events spread across 30 towns in from Bairnsdale and Bruthen to Omeo and Orbost. It draws thousands of visitors each year, injecting energy into the region during the quieter winter months while championing loc

The Sorting Hat. Quidditch. The Ministry of Magic. Platform 9¾. The Invisibility Cloak. Dementors. Can you believe it’s been 25 years since Harry Potter cast a spell over us mere Muggles?  In great news for all Potterheads, Harry Potter: The Exhibition is “apparating” straight to the Paddington Pavilion at Sydney Olympic Park from May 14, thanks to Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, Imagine and Eventim Live.  This spellbinding exhibition will bring together iconic moments, beloved characters and magical creatures from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films, as well as the stage production of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. With more than four million visitors already enchanted worldwide, it’s shaping up to be magical. Your journey begins in a Gringotts-style vault, where a first edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone awaits. The Marauder’s Map flickers to life, vignettes from Hogwarts school appear and you’ll come face-to-face with everything from those scary Dementors to the Whomping Willow. Step into the Great Hall with the Sorting Hat on display. Check out the four Hogwarts Houses (Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff – which one are you?), try your hand at potion -making or divination before you enter the Forbidden Forest and Hagrid’s Hut. With so much to see and do, you’ll definitely need a frothy mug of butterbeer – good thing it’s available, along with plenty of Harry Potter merch, at the exhibition. Adult tickets cost $30, kids are

You know that feeling of calm that washes over you when you go on a big bush walk or a relaxed stroll through a park? Time spent in nature is good for the body and great for the mind – it lowers stress, improves mood and boosts creativity.  It’s little wonder then that nature-first travel is booming in 2026. According to Google Trends, searches for the 'greenest city in the world' have massively surged over the past year. Travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer vibrant urban experiences as well as botanical gardens and city parks. If you're dreaming of a nature-filled escape, a new Green City Index has just ranked the world’s most nature-rich cities – and two are right here in Australia. The researchers evaluated cities around the globe on three key factors: the percentage of overall greenery, the share of accessible public green space and local air quality levels. After crunching the numbers, Canberra claimed the title of the fifth greenest city on Earth, earning an overall score of 58.7 and an elite air quality score of 11 – the third-best, behind Oslo (ranked first overall) and Helsinki (ranked third). Photograph: Tourism Australia | National Arboretum Often dubbed the 'Bush Capital', Canberra preserves around 45 per cent of its territory as protected national parks and reserves – so you're never far from a patch of grass or nature trail. Designed in 1913 as a garden city, it balances urban living with nature, centred around the picturesque Lake Burl

While you might know that Melbourne was recently crowned the world’s best city, do you know which area is leading the charge in terms of urban growth? Spoiler: it’s Melbourne’s western 'burbs. Once barely on people's property radar, this area is now the fastest-growing region in Australia.  According to a new report by realestate.com.au’s research arm PropTrack and developer Stockland, around one in three new Melbourne residents are choosing to call the west home. And the numbers tell a story. More than 245,000 people have moved into the area over the past decade. By 2046, the population is projected to reach 1.47 million – that’s a whopping 70 per cent increase. What’s driving the surge? In a word: affordability. With a median house price of around $729,000 compared to more than $1 million across Greater Melbourne, the west offers a more accessible way into the property market. For first-home buyers, new arrivals and young families, it’s the most affordable option. Suburbs like Footscray, Sunshine, Werribee, Altona, Williamstown and Melton are seeing strong demand from families, thanks to a mix of new housing developments, expanding infrastructure and job opportunities. Major projects such as the West Gate Tunnel and Suburban Rail Loop are also boosting connectivity, making the area even more appealing. Demographically, the west skews young, with about 77 per cent of households made up of young families, many of them new migrants.  Of course, rapid expansion comes with its c

‘Delmonte’ is Italian for ‘from the mountains’; at Carlton's soon-to-open Delmonte restaurant, the name is a nod to the history, heritage and hospitality of Valli del Pasubio in Italy’s mountainous Veneto region. After all, owner Jamie Valmorbida’s grandfather Carlo was born there. When he moved to Melbourne, Carlo took over the heritage-listed King and Godfree building on Lygon Street in 1955, shaping it into an iconic food destination.  This winter, Delmonte will open its doors inside this very same building, returning to those Italian roots of community, food and wine. The second of three new venues from hospo entrepreneur Valmorbida, Delmonte marks the next chapter in the revival of this historic landmark, which earlier saw the opening of Garfield Pizzeria.  Delmonte leans into something slower and more soulful: a neighbourhood Italian restaurant and wine room built around wood-fired cooking and exceptional wine. At its heart is a wood oven and grill, setting the tone for a menu that’s grounded in the simplicity of a classic Italian osteria, yet open to a more modern interpretation.  Leading the kitchen is head chef Diana Desensi from Daphne (ex-Saint George, Julie, Pt Leo Estate), who also worked alongside culinary director Karen Martini. She’s joined by executive chef Mark Glenn (ex-Cumulus Inc., Pialligo Estate, Dinner by Heston). Together, the team is creating food that feels familiar yet refined. The menu pays quiet tribute to the building’s past as one of Melbourne’

Ever wondered which corner of Sydney wakes up first? If you’re thinking, "It’s got to be the fit folk of Bondi", think again. New research led by Boss Coffee has found the earliest risers in our city live in South West Sydney. How come? Well, the high proportion of tradies in the area has a lot to do with it – the drivers, labourers, machine operators, shift workers and construction crew who keep Sydney running. So while some parts of Sydney wake up to green juices and sunrise yoga, large proportions of South West Sydney are clocking into shift work and early starts in construction, manufacturing and public services.  The Boss Coffee research found South West Sydney's collective alarms go off at 6.04am (average wake-up time). So, spare a thought for these people who are well into their morning when you hit that snooze button.  Coming in second earliest are the LGAs of the City of Sydney and the Inner West, rising at 6.17am on average – followed closely by The Shire and South East Sydney at 6.22am.  To make early starts yummier, the good people at Boss Coffee are rewarding the early birds. From Tuesday, April 21 to Thursday, April 25, a Suntory Boss Café coffee truck will be handing out free new Café Iced Double Espresso and Café Iced Long Black from 5am. They’re teaming up with cult-following bakery Self Raised, who will be slinging free breakfast goodies like savoury croissants, focaccias and Boston cream donuts. Yum. Morgan Loveridge from Suntory Boss Coffee and Future Bra

The NGV has enjoyed a stellar run of blockbuster exhibitions these past few years, with Yayoi Kusama, French Impressionism and most recently Westwood | Kawakubo. And with this year's Winter Masterpieces confirmed – a sparkling showcase of jewels by Cartier – it's time for another massive announcement. The fourth NGV Triennial will open on December 13 and run until April 11, 2027, bringing together nearly 100 artists from 35 countries in an immersive snapshot of contemporary art and culture. Expect more than 80 projects – including 25 world-premiere commissions that range from thought-provoking installations to playful, larger-than-life works – across every level of the gallery.  And the magic will start from the moment you arrive – you know the famous Waterwall that greets visitors before they've even stepped inside? This summer, it won’t just welcome you, it’ll stop you in your tracks. The iconic façade will be transformed by Wunambal Gaambera/Worrora artist Angelina Karadada Boona, who reimagines her signature Wandjina figure in light. These powerful ancestral beings that bring rain will rise across the Waterwall in a world-first installation that reminds us of our connection to Country. Other highlights include Lebanese-French artist Najla El Zein’s sculptural installation that will transform the NGV Forecourt into a tactile, communal space with carved limestone forms designed for sitting, reclining and gathering. Pamela Rosenkranz will present a new iteration of her 7.5-m

Chances are, you’ve wandered into a Vinnies op shop at some point – perhaps to donate barely used pots and pans when you moved home, to hunt down a neon leotard and legwarmers for an '80s-themed party, or simply to snag a bargain. Thrifting is always a win-win: good for your wallet and great for the planet. And while you might already be scrolling Depop, Facebook Marketplace or eBay for second-hand finds, did you know that Vinnies has also entered the digital era?  Almost one year ago, St Vincent de Paul Society – better known as Vinnies – took its treasure trove of pre-loved goods online. The charity's e-commerce platform, Vinnies Finds, has more than 20,000 second-hand gems just waiting to be discovered. We’re talking vintage clothing, designer handbags and everyday basics all available to browse and buy 24/7 – no rack-rifling required.  Behind the scenes, it’s a well-oiled machine. Donations collected across Vinnies’ 200-plus stores in New South Wales are sent to a central hub in Sydney, where a team sorts, categorises and photographs each item before it goes live. With hundreds of items uploaded daily, you never know what you’ll find. We’re talking designer Aussie brands like Aje to Zimmermann to international ones like Coach and Chanel. They've even sold a Christian Dior 'constellation jacket' and a beige Burberry trench coat. Photograph: Supplied | Vinnies In its first year online, Vinnies diverted 53 tonnes of textile waste from landfill. It’s a reminder that shoppin

Here’s another reason why our Land Down Under is called the Lucky Country: Australia has been named the third-best place in the world for career and education opportunities, according to the 2026 Henley Opportunity Index. Released as part of the Henley Education Report, the index looks at how residence and/or citizenship in economically progressive countries amplifies a good education and job prospects, leading to higher earning potential and long-term financial success. Why is the Henley Opportunity Index important? Glad you asked. The global ranking tool is designed to help internationally mobile families understand where education and job opportunities go hand in hand. It measures how likely a person is to succeed professionally after studying in a particular country, based on six factors: earning potential, career advancement, top-tier employment prospects, premium education, economic mobility and high liveability. It also considers how many top 250 universities each country has. One of the key takeaways from the report is that a good education alone isn’t enough; the real value of a degree depends on where you live and work after graduating. Countries with strong economies, global industries and professional networks give graduates a much better chance at professional success. Switzerland topped the list with a score of 86 out of 100, thanks to its stable economy, world-class education system and strong industries, like finance and pharmaceuticals. Singapore came in seco

In these 'cozzie livs' times, where Euro summers and luxury hotels are sure to hit the hip pocket hard, holiday parks are having a well-deserved moment. And honestly? We’re here for it. Caravan and camping parks offer the perfect mix of affordability and adventure, flexibility and fun (hello, pools, playgrounds and barbecues). So naturally, we were keen to see who took out top honours at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards held recently in Fremantle. These prestigious awards celebrate the very best in Aussie travel, spanning 26 categories across accommodation, attractions and visitor experiences. Finalists from each state and territory are nominated in each category, with the winners going head-to-head for the national crown, decided by a panel of tourism industry experts. It was BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park and Motel that won gold in the Best Caravan and Holiday Parks prize in 2026 – and it’s easy to see why. This place absolutely nails the brief, with something for every traveller and every budget. Kids love the eco-friendly playground and massive water park (watch out for that giant jumping pillow!), while adults love the range of accommodation options from powered sites to cabins, villas and motel-style rooms. It puts the ‘fun’ into functionality and is clearly a crowd favourite, having also won the crown in 2024. Photograph: Supplied | @thehydefive Taking silver was Mandalay Holiday Resort in Busselton, a dreamy base for exploring WA’s South West. Whether you’re

You’ve heard of eco-tourism and adventure tourism, but have you heard of sports tourism? 'Sports tripping' is the latest travel trend that has fans packing their suitcases for Grand Slam tennis tournaments or Premier League football matches, then building a holiday around the big event. According to new research by luggage storage network Stasher, sports tourism now accounts for around 10 per cent of global travel spending, with nearly one-third of people having travelled – or considering travel – overseas for a major sporting event. To uncover the world’s best destinations for sports-loving travellers in 2026, Stasher analysed 50 global cities. Rankings were based on factors including major sporting events hosted in 2025-2026, the number of professional sports teams, sports bars and sport-related attractions, as well as costs like food, drink, local transport, tourist safety and more.  So, who topped the leaderboard? London claimed the number one spot as the world's best city for sports tourism, thanks to it being a major sporting hub for tennis (strawbs and cream at Wimbledon, anyone?), football, rugby and cricket – with excellent sports-related attractions and iconic stadiums. Coming in at number two is Dubai, a rising sporting powerhouse that hosts major international golf tournaments and horse racing, backed by world-class stadiums (not to mention its luxe lifestyle). Rounding out the top three is Tokyo, a value-for-money sports capital with a packed calendar, including

Melbourne’s 2026 love affair with tennis doesn't just end with the Australian Open – in fact, we’ve got a new crush. This April, the Billie Jean King Cup is returning to Melbourne Park for the first time in 15 years, serving up some seriously thrilling tennis. Formerly known as the Federation Cup, this women’s team competition is now named after tennis icon Billie Jean King (American former number one). It sees nations go head-to-head in a high-energy team format that’s big on atmosphere. In our qualifier, Australia will go head-to-head with Great Britain on April 10 and 11 at John Cain Arena. Win, and we’re off to the elite eight-team finals in China this September.  Captaining this women’s team is Aussie tennis legend Sam Stosur. On court, all eyes will be on Australia's Emerson Jones and Storm Hunter, and a stellar line-up of rising stars, Talia Gibson, Kimberly Birrell and Ellen Perez. We spoke with Talia Gibson, who's quickly rising in the ranks thanks to a string of career highlights during this 2026 season – first, she reached the second round in singles and the quarter-finals in doubles at the Australian Open, then went on to achieve an awesome run at Indian Wells and the Miami Open, allowing her to crack the top 100 for the first time! With her sights now set on being seeded at the Grand Slams, Melbourne crowds are in for a show at the Billie Jean King Cup. We asked her what makes the Billie Jean King Cup worthy of getting around as a spectator. "When you’ve got two

Daydreaming of being on 'island time'? Picturing palm trees, an ocean breeze and azure seas? In a world that’s always switched on, the appeal of truly going off-grid is so, so appealing. Think places so blissfully remote and so naturally stunning, they make you forget your constantly pinging inbox (they probably have sketchy Wi-Fi, too). A new report from luxury yacht charter company Goolets has revealed the best off-grid travel destinations for 2026 – and two Australian islands made the list, with one even claiming the top spot. To compile the rankings, the researchers analysed 25 remote locations around the world, measuring how far they are from major infrastructure, including airports, bus stops, train stations, roads, hotels and restaurants. Each destination was given an overall 'off-grid' score out of 100. Photograph: Supplied | Evan Fawell Our very own Lord Howe Island came in first, scoring 73 out of 100 on the 'off-grid index'. Located roughly 600 kilometres east off mainland Australia in the Tasman Sea, the tiny volcanic island can only be reached via a small flight from Sydney or Brisbane. The island famously caps visitor numbers at just 400 people at any one time – and that limited access is deliberately done to protect its pristine environment and unique biodiversity. According to the study, Lord Howe Island ranks first for the average distance to nearby airports, bus stops and hotels – meaning it’s genuinely remote by global standards. The island is tiny – j

Whether it’s a quick work trip or a long-haul escape, wedged into economy or stretched out in business class, there’s still something magical about cruising above the clouds at 35,000 feet. The only thing that can make it even better? Flying with one of the world’s best airlines. The prestigious World’s Best Airline Awards have just landed for 2026, and Australia had multiple winners across several categories. These awards are based on the in-flight product and passenger experience rather than on public votes, with airlines grouped into full-service, low-cost and hybrid categories. Let's see how Australia stacked up.  Budget Airlines Leading the charge for Australia is Jetstar Airways, which has been crowned the world’s second-best low-cost carrier for 2026. While HK Express took the overall top spot in the low-cost category, it primarily operates short-haul routes, making Jetstar the number one budget long-haul airline. Jetstar also placed second in last year's awards, while previous winner AirAsia Group slipped to third. Jetstar's growing long-haul network across the Asia-Pacific, powered by its Boeing 787 Dreamliners, continues to win points for low fares and optional add-ons like meals, baggage, seat selection and in-flight entertainment. These small upgrades make a big difference when you’re flying long distances on a budget. The world’s 10 best low-cost carriers for 2026 HK Express Jetstar AirAsia Group AirBaltic Scoot FlyNAS Breeze easyJet Wizz Air Vietjet Air Hybrid