Leah Glynn

Sometimes you just need to take a time out – and here at Time Out, we’re experts at doing just that. We’ve scoped out the very best health and wellness retreats in Australia, where you can soak away your worries and be pampered like absolute royalty. From an award-winning natural hot spring with 50 bathing experiences to the Southern Hemisphere’s largest spa with rare Somadome meditation pods, these places will cater to all your relaxing needs. Make a day trip of it or sneak off for a dedicated week-long detox – whatever you choose, you’ll leave feeling like a whole new person. These are the best health retreats in Australia right now. Editor's favourite wellness retreats in Australia: 🧘🏽‍♀️ Best yoga retreat: Billabong Retreat, NSW  ✨ Best luxury hot springs: Alba Thermal Springs & Spa, VIC 🥰 Best wellness experiences: Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat, QLD JUMP TO:NSW | VIC | QLD | WA | TAS ✨ The best luxury hotels in Australia🌳 The best resorts and lodges in Australia

When the sun comes out to play, Melbourne's glorious rooftop bars draw in flocks of thirsty revellers with their crisp, cool bevvies and sweeping city views. Maybe it's the higher altitude, but drinking is just more fun from above. So start climbing those stairs – or keep your fingers crossed for a lift – and check out Melbourne's best rooftop bars now.  Editor's favourite rooftop bars in Melbourne: 🥂 Best for a special occasion: Beverly 👠 Best for a hot date night: Her Rooftop 🍴 Best for snacks: Johnny's Green Room 🌇 Best for sunset views: Naked in the Sky or Harvie 👯 Best for a friends' catch-up: Morris House Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Still thirsty? We've rounded up the best wine bars in Melbourne.

We love this beautiful city of ours, but sometimes it's nice to get out into nature. So, dust off those hiking boots, pack that scroggin, fill your Camelbak and get ready to explore some of the most gorgeous hikes within an easy drive of Melbourne. Regional Victoria is brimming with picturesque walks great for getting your heart pumping, including temperate rainforest wonders (hello, Dandenong Ranges National Park) and seaside spectacles like the Mornington Peninsula National Park. Our editors have trekked across the state to bring you the best walking tracks. Keen for a getaway? These are the best day trips from Melbourne.  Want to immerse yourself in nature? Discover the best waterfalls around Victoria.  Rather stay close to home? Here are some great Melbourne walks. 

It's the weekend, baby! You made it! To celebrate, we've gathered all the hottest festivals, shows, exhibitions and openings in one place – you're welcome.  The last weekend of February is a stacked one, folks – so buckle up! Melbourne's massive celebration of Greek culture, the Antipodes Festival, is back, and you can expect plenty of gyros, live music and even the hugely popular Zorba 'Til You Drop dance competition (if you win you'll score return flights to Greece). If bubbles are more your thing, the annual Prosecco Festival has returned for some effervescent fun at the Abbotsford Convent. It's a jam-packed weekend for music lovers, starting with St Kilda's Palace Foreshore – the line-up for this one includes the ever-iconic Grace Jones, plus Marina, King Stingray, The Streets and Peach PRC. Over in the northern 'burbs, the Brunswick Music Festival is kicking off with the Sydney Road Street Party – think live tunes, market stalls, delicious food and heaps more. If you're a fan of garlic (and let's be honest – who isn't!?), you won't want to miss the South Gippsland Garlic Festival. It's Victoria's largest celebration of Aussie garlic, and we reckon it's  going to be a glorious (albeit pungent) day out. And remember, you can always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums,parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of 100 things to do in Melbourne before you die.   Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter f

Social calendar looking a bit empty? Don't worry, we've got you. There's always something happening in Melbourne, and this week is no different – so let's dive right in!  A brand new exhibition has just opened at the State Library, and it brings together handwritten letters, private diaries and deeply personal objects to weave a tapestry of passion, heartbreak and devotion. With the F1 Australian Grand Prix just around the corner, it's a fantastic time to check out F1: The Exhibition, which features everything from championship-winning cars and rare memorabilia to video interviews and archive footage. St Kilda's Palace Foreshore kicks off on the 26th, and the line-up is stacked – we're talking Grace Jones, Marina, King Stingray and The Streets. On the other side of town, the Brunswick Music Festival also begins with a bang thanks to the Sydney Road Street Party, which will see live music, market stalls and delicious food transform the northside hub.  Plus, don't miss the beloved Greek Antipodes Festival (enter the Zorba 'Til You Drop dance competition and you could win return flights to Greece), the ever-bubbly Prosecco Festival or the South Gippsland Garlic Festival – you'll want to pack mints for that one. When in doubt though, you can always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums, parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of 100 things to do in Melbourne before you die.   Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne n

February 2026: It may be a short month, but that doesn't mean you can't pack as much art into it as possible. In such a food-obsessed city, it would be a shame to miss the Immigration Museum's 'Order Up: A City Fed by Many Cultures' – which explores the city’s eclectic food culture through thousands of dockets and migration stories. The Potter Museum of Art is back with its second exhibition after reopening, titled 'A velvet ant, a flower, and a bird' – it's set to reimagine intelligence through art, science and nature. A new landmark exhibition at the NGV is spotlighting 300 works by pioneering women photographers of the 20th century, while 'Our Wondrous Planet' at Melbourne Museum celebrates the interconnected magic of life on Earth.  There's always something to see in this all-embracing city of ours, so don't let the month pass you by without getting your fix of the best art, culture and exhibitions in Melbourne. When in doubt, you can also always rely on our catch-all lists of Melbourne's best bars, restaurants, museums, parks and galleries, or consult our bucket list of 100 things to do in Melbourne before you die.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Keen to add some art to your home? These are the best places to buy art in Melbourne.

Whether you're coupled up, hoping to date, happily single or eager to spend Valentine's Day with your friends instead of moping alone at home, there's something for everyone to do in Melbourne around February 14. From romantic dinners to bougie hotel stays, this city will be leaning into love, no matter what form it comes in. Heaps of our city's most beloved attractions will be hosting special V-Day events, so there'll be plenty of ways to feel the love. Have a read of these lovely-dovey ways to spend Valentine's Day and say "I do" to a few. 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 love? Here are the most romantic restaurants in Melbourne.

Dreaming of your next luxury getaway? It's time to check in – and fully check out – at one of the best luxury resorts and lodges in Australia. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon or a milestone family holiday, Australia’s top resorts deliver unforgettable experiences in every corner of the country. There, you can connect with the very best of Aussie culture, take in the most stunning landscapes and embark on some of the nation’s most bucket-list experiences. Our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, has been lucky enough to stay at some of these five-star properties and has rounded up all the ones to add to your bucket list. Here are all the best resorts and lodges in Australia for your next getaway.  Editors' favourite resorts in Australia: 🌊 Best for views: Southern Ocean Lodge, SA 🏝️ Best for privacy: Lizard Island Resort, QLD ⭐️ Best for families: Jamala Wildlife Lodge, ACT QLD | NSW | VIC | SA | TAS | WA | NT | ACT ✨ The best luxury hotels in Australia🤩 The hottest new hotel openings 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 help us to bring you more recommendations every week. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

February 2026 update: In the mood for love – and a drink?! There's no better way to celebrate the most romantic month of the year than with a cheeky tipple. Luckily, Melbourne is home to plenty of sweet, sexy and suitably charming spots to grab a drink with that someone special in your life (especially if that someone special is yourself – solo bevs for the win!).  Melbourne has some of the greatest bars in the world, whether you're looking for the laser-like focus of 16-seater Above Board or the rock‘n’roll ‘she’ll be right’ spirit of Lulie Tavern. You can find temples heroing whisky and palaces dedicated to gin, hole-in-the-wall nooks for sipping natural wines or classy spots for suited-and-booted cocktails. How about a prawn club sanga and a bottle of Champers from tiny charmer Apollo Inn? Or crocodile bites and ice-cold Martinis from Black Kite Commune?  We've rounded up the top 46 bars that we're really loving right now – and we're sure you will, too.  Editor's favourite bars in Melbourne: 🥂 Best for a special occasion: Apollo Inn 👠 Best for a vibey date night: Kirk's Wine Bar 🍸 Best for cocktails: Bar Bellamy 🫒 Best for bar snacks: Bar Olo 🍻 Best for a friends' catch-up: Young Hearts Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED READ: Hungry? We've got you covered  with the best restaurants in Melbourne right now.

‘Overtourism’. It’s more than a buzzword – in the world’s most popular destinations, it’s a problem that affects almost every aspect of local life, from the environment to the cost of renting, transport and eating out. And when a place is overwhelmed by people, it’s not only locals’ quality of life that suffers; the quality of your trip does, too. But it’s not all bad. Destinations are coming up with ways to redistribute tourism from densely crowded hotspots to lesser-visited regions. Travellers are seeking cooler climes and embracing slow travel, allowing space to discover somewhere new. And they’re still riding the ‘destination dupes’ trend, where overrun holiday destinations are swapped out for less crowded, less expensive, but just-as-good alternatives. On our newly updated list of the world’s most underrated travel destinations, you won’t find your Bangkoks or your Balis, your Amalfis or your Amsterdams. What you will find is the hidden side of Yosemite, the French Riviera’s overlooked twin, a place where penguins outnumber people, and plenty more travel inspo where that came from.Why trust us? Because we’ve been to them all. Every spot on this list was picked by one of our expert editors and globetrotting travel writers, recommended because they offer great (or quiet) alternatives to the classics – and in many cases, because they’re places that actually want tourism. In other words, travelling to any of these 33 criminally overlooked destinations is a win-win situation.

New York has Broadway, London has the West End, and here in Melbourne, it's all about the East End. We're an all-singing, all-dancing city which means we're spoiled for choice when it comes to the musicals taking centre stage in the historic East End Theatre District in the CBD. From glitzy theatrical numbers and singalong musicals to smaller-scale productions, Melbourne is an absolute haven when it comes to all things razzle-dazzle. See for yourself by checking out the new and upcoming musicals making their way here in 2026. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. Book the best spot with our guide to scoring the best seats in every Melbourne theatre. Keen on all kinds of theatre? Here are the best shows happening this month.

Our theatre critics spend a scary amount of time sitting in dark rooms, so they usually know what it takes for a production to light up Melbourne's stages. Here are all their tips for the hottest shows to see right now, how to score cheap tickets and where to sit in the city's most iconic theatres for the best views. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Melbourne newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox. After more fun things to do in our city? Check out the best events happening in Melbourne this week.

Calling all fashionistas! On March 21 and 22, the National Trust's beloved annual vintage sale is returning to the Abbotsford Convent. This year, the sale will be taking place at the massive Magdalen Laundry. You'll be able to peruse a huge selection of vintage and pre-loved designer clothing and accessories – in the past, brands like Armani, Alexander McQueen, Diane von Fürstenberg and Marimekko have been up for grabs. A lot of household linen, furnishings, dress fabrics, shoes, bags, jewellery and even haberdashery will also be on offer. New stock will be released on the Sunday morning (perfect if you’re planning a second visit) and from 3-5pm that afternoon you will also be able to take 50 per cent off all remaining items. Plus, if you're a member, you can score early access from 9-10am each day – you can join up here when allocations open in early March. Bring a gold coin donation for entry and prepare to refresh your wardrobe with fun new designer finds for a fraction of the price. Best of all, proceeds from the sale support the work of the National Trust in conserving our state's cultural and built heritage. Donations are also accepted in the lead-up to the event, so if you have some quality items you'd like to offload in the name of a good cause, now's your chance. For more information on donating and the event, visit the website 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 shop

It's your last chance to power up, unlock that final level and beat the big boss, because ACMI's Game Worlds is about to be clocked (aka it's finishing up soon). So don't let it be game over before you get a chance to enter this immersive, fully playable exhibition. Perfect for fans of The Sims, Neopets or World of Warcraft, this blockbuster celebration of video games will transport you into the worlds of more than 30 iconic titles, including Final Fantasy XIV Online, Minecraft, Doom and Stardew Valley. Also featured are classics like Maze War and Zork, fan faves with cult followings like The Elder Scrolls Online, and new releases like Guardian Maia. Spanning games from the 1970s right through to this year, you'll be able to check out rare concept art, original design materials, early hands-on protoypes and so much more. There are 44 fully playable experiences (think Celeste speedruns on two huge screens), and four new microgames by emerging and established Aussie game developers have been specially commissioned for the exhibition.   “Our exhibition honours the real-life experiences that are made possible by and through videogames, highlighting the players and developers – and stories that bring videogame worlds to life,” said co-curators Bethan Johnson and Jini Maxwell. Want to take a part of the exhibition home with you? There's limited-edition merch and exclusive books available for purchase at the ACMI shop. Game Worlds is now on at ACMI until March 29. For more informa

When it comes to ice cream, are you a classic chocolate-and-vanilla type of person, or are you game for more experimental flavours? (Hello, caramelised fig blue cheese mascarpone – yes, really!) Whatever you fancy, the annual Ice Cream Festival has something tasty for you.  The famous Yarra Valley Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery, along with its sister venues on the Great Ocean Road and the Mornington Peninsula, are hosting the annual scoop-a-thon from February 11-22. And in news that is sure to have you salivating, 10 new flavours will be dropping every four days – so you're gonna want to go back for seconds (and maybe even thirds). The line-up of flavours is set to include coconut limoncello margarita, pistachio tiramisu and matcha blueberry. Yum! There will also be old-school choc tops, gluten-free, vegan and no added sugar serve options available, so no one misses out on the fun. And that's not all... true ice cream aficionados can partake in a 45-minute tasting session, during which you'll sample the one-off flavours and make very own ice cream chocolate sauce. Bookings for these workshops are essential, and cost $28. There will also be a DIY scoop lab and if you enter the Guess the Flavour competition, you'll be in the running to win 12 of your favourite flavours to enjoy in take home tubs – yes please! Entry to the festival is free, with mega scoops starting from $6.75. For more information, head to the website. Craving more icy treats? These are the best ice cream and ge

Prosecco: refreshing, versatile, bubbly. It's a winning combo. Melburnians will once again be able to indulge their love of sparkling wine when the Prosecco Festival takes over the Abbotsford Convent on Saturday, February 28. Returning for its ninth year, the event will feature more than 50 international and homegrown bubbles from coveted brands. These include Aussie superstars like Dal Zotto Wines, Brown Brothers, Tar and Roses, De Bortoli and Innocent Bystander, plus Italian heavyhitters like Babo, Bellusi and Cipriani Bellini – along with loads more.  If you're sober curious or the allocated deso driver, Edenvale is one of the official partners and will have you sorted with a range of alcohol-free vinos and cocktails. Plus, all the growers, makers and importers will be on-site to chat about their wine. And if you want to get particuarly festive, you're in luck. Hydrodol will be on the ground all day, providing recovery 'wallets' that will be stacked with their suite of pre-drink vitamin and rehydration products. But it's not all about the bubbles. To line your stomach there will be sweet and savoury treats from local vendors like Abruzzo Lab (one of our fave street food eats around Melbourne), Taste of Puglia and Arancini Art. Vegetarian and gluten-free options will also be available. You can even book in for a VIP masterclass with Melissa Brauer (aka the Prosecco Queen and founder of the event), which will teach you everything there is to know about the effervescent tippl

Werribee Open Range Zoo is bringing back its Sunset Safari for an eighth season in 2026, inviting visitors to embark on an immersive safari adventure at dusk when the animals tend to be at their most active.  Every Saturday until February 21, visitors can hop on a bus at the zoo and watch as the summer sun sets and illuminates the open range. You'll get to witness majestic animals like zebras, ostriches, giraffes, rhinos and lions as they roam the savannah, and learn from zoo guides about efforts to protect them from endangerment and extinction. And for the first time ever, you'll be able to explore the waterhole and incredible elephant trail (which only opened last year) after hours when everyone else goes home. In addition to the after-hours safari tour, you can also explore the walking trails (among meerkats, monkeys and wild dogs) at dusk and catch live performances of drums, song and dance. Food and beverage options include an African-inspired barbecue, à la carte dining and cocktails at the Elephant Terrace (these are all sold separately). The Sunset Safari experience runs from 5.30pm to 9pm on Saturday nights, and costs $62 for adults and $32 for children. Head to the Zoos Victoria website to purchase your tickets.  Looking for more fun in the city? Here's our round-up of what's on in Melbourne this weekend.

It's officially that time of year again when the Moonlight Cinema returns to Melbourne for the summer. There's just something special about snuggling into a bean bag and catching a film under the stars in the Royal Botanic Gardens – with an ice cream or a wine in hand, of course.  Australia's favourite outdoor cinema has dropped its summer screening schedule, with tons of  blockbusters, nostalgic favourites and comedies on the program. February and March highlights include new releases like Wuthering Heights, Hamnet, Marty Supreme and a special screening of Charli xcx’s mockumentary The Moment. Those looking to splurge can opt for Singapore Airlines' Gold Grass that comes with prime viewing, express entry and food and drinks delivered to your seat. Anothere cool option is the Connoisseur Lounge ticket that includes a bean bed plus a yum Connoisseur ice cream. And did you know the Moonlight Cinema is pooch friendly? For the first time ever you'll also be able to order a doggie bag meal from the food menu thanks to Lyka. Doggy date night, anyone? Screenings kick off at sundown, so bring your picnic rug, your snacks and your friends. Tickets are now available via the website. Want more fun in the sun? Here are the best things to do in Melbourne this December.

Once upon a December night in Melbourne, the polished production of Anastasia finally made its long-awaited Australian premiere at the Regent Theatre. As a fan of the 20th Century Fox Animation film of the same name, I was excited to see this seminal work from my childhood come to life on the grandest of stages. A sweeping tale of adventure, romance and finding your way back home, Anastasia feels destined to deliver theatrical magic. And in many ways it does – the costuming, particularly the opulent ball gowns and Russian court-style ‘fits, are gorgeous. The songs, catchy in the film, are given real oomph with the backing of a ten-strong orchestra. And the charming cast is undeniably talented. But – spoiler alert! – this is not a wholly faithful adaptation, with the most notable change being the erasure of the deliciously wicked Rasputin (justice for the criminally underrated banger ‘In the Dark of the Night’). Here, he’s been replaced by Gleb (Joshua Robson) a Bolshevik general who develops conflicted feelings for our titular heroine, but doesn’t quite incite the same fear as the original, supernaturally-gifted animated villain. What’s the premise of Anastasia? Offering a romanticised take on Russia’s last imperial dynasty, the Romanovs (heavy on the romanticised part – this is by no means a historically accurate take on the infamously unpopular family), Anastasia follows the story of Anya, a young street sweeper with a convenient case of amnesia. With rumours swirling that

Is there a more breathtaking oasis than the Blue Lotus Water Garden? At more than 50,000 square metres in size and covered by a multitude of water lilies and lotus flowers that are spread across dozens of picturesque ponds and two lakes, we don't think so. It's the ideal spot to take a stroll around the gardens and peek inside the four greenhouses that grow rare plants – including the Giant Amazon Lily, the world’s largest lily species.  Even though it's only a 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the gardens feel thoroughly tropical thanks to the palms, lagoons and waterfall (yep, there's even a waterfall). Aside from the huge water lily display, Blue Lotus Water Garden also features a colourful selection of perennial flowers, a highly 'grammable bridge walk over the largest lake, plenty of native plants and wildlife, a café and barbecue area. It's all a bit magical, an element amplified by the fairy garden and dragon sculptures that the kids are guaranteed to love. This top-notch garden is a seasonal display garden, meaning it’s only open for a very short time throughout the year. The next water lily season starts on December 26, 2025, and will run until April 19, 2026.  For more information and to plan your trip, visit the website. Psst... want more? These are the best secret gardens in Melbourne.

Every trip to Melbourne Zoo is different. Despite being Australia’s oldest zoo, this vibrant animal world is constantly evolving, with new exhibits, events and, of course, creatures great and small.  A trip to Melbourne Zoo done right takes a day. The largest exhibit is the majestic Wild Sea, where penguins and seals bask on land before slipping into clear waters and showcasing their elegant aquatic skills. Another highlight is the sprawling Orangutan Sanctuary, where a family of beautiful, intelligent orangutans swing from tree to tree, play with each other and feed high off the ground. Then there’s the Trail of the Elephant: an immersive Asian village and garden where five Asian elephants thrive.  We could go on and on about the lions, lemurs, meerkats, butterflies and native animals that you’ll encounter, but we’ll let you discover it all for yourself. Throughout your Melbourne Zoo experience, you’ll learn about all the conservation work that happens behind the scenes; saving wildlife, conserving habitats and raising awareness of initiatives like palm oil labelling. For children and adults alike, a trip to Melbourne Zoo is a way to reconnect with our animal friends and gain a closer understanding of the delicate ecosystems of the world. Can't see enough during the day? Melbourne Zoo also runs 'Roar 'n' Snore' overnight camp, where you can sleep at the zoo in the historical elephant exhibit. Drift off to sleep listening to the calls of the animals, and when you wake in the

Did you know that 3.8 million Aussies played golf in some form last year? Or that new adult golfers who started playing in the last two years are aged, on average, 36, which is a drop of ten years? How about that new players are now 49 per cent women? Yep, in case you hadn't realised, golf is having a moment.  These stats are why we anticipate this year's Crown Australian Open – aka the oldest and most prestigious golf tournament on the PGA Tour of Australasia – to be the most exciting one yet. The action takes place from December 4-7 at the renowned Royal Melbourne Golf Club. It's here that top-ranked players like Rory McIlroy (the current Masters champion), Adam Scott, Marc Leishman, Min Woo Lee, Lucas Herbert and Cam Davis, will take to the green in an attempt to be crowned the 2025 winner.  But away from the bunkers, fairway and the teeing area, there's action of a different kind taking place – and it's set to appeal to the die-hard golfing afficianados as well as any newbies to the scene. The 19th is the social heart of the tournament where live entertainment, gourmet food offerings and fun activations come to life.  A bunch of beloved local restaurants will be on-site cooking up a feast, including 400 Gradi, Fonda, Zeus Street Greek, La Manna and Mr Miyagi, while the drinks will be flowing courtesy of Asahi, Isla Vodka and the Liqourland Lounge. You'll also be able to have a crack at the Crown Spin and Win or take part in the putting challenge. There will be plenty of p

When you think of famous hotels along the French Riviera, spots like the Grand-Hotel du Cap-Ferrat or the Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo come to mind. But there’s a beautiful old dame in Nice who deserves her flowers, too: Anantara Plaza Nice, which boasts a storied history as rich as the vibrant city it resides in. And with a few new contemporary touches, its legacy looks set to continue long into the future. Why stay at Anantara Plaza Nice? A long-time stalwart of Nice’s hotel scene, Anantara Plaza first opened in 1848 as the Hotel de France – a beautiful, all-seasons resort where France’s rich and famous would come to holiday. It’s had many names and iterations since then, but in 2022 it reopened under the Anantara banner after extensive renovations by the award-winning David Collins Studio in collaboration with local architect Jean-Paul Gomis and TBC Interiorismo Studio. What hasn’t changed is that grand Belle Epoch-style facade, the opulent amenities and a commitment to delivering world-class service to every guest that walks through the doors. With 151 rooms to suit all types of luxury traveller, it’s clear no expense has been spared in giving this historic beauty the facelift she deserves. And now, Anantara Plaza is ready to charm a whole new generation of holidaymakers who have come to explore Nice. What are the rooms like at Anantara Plaza Nice? To say my room was a sight for sore eyes when I arrived after a long travel day would be an understatement – but it wasn’t unti

What do you get when you transform a 1960s car park with Brutalist-era architecture into a chic hotel with modern interiors by New York studio Roman and Williams? La Fondation, of course. Having only opened in April of this year, it’s a fairly new addition to Paris’s legendary hotel scene, but has quickly made its mark on the city – especially if the line of beautiful-looking people waiting for the elevator up to the rooftop bar is any indication.  Why stay at La Fondation? This is a hotel for travellers who want to shake off the tourist label and throw themselves into local Paris life. Conveniently located in the 17th arrondissement, it’s positioned close enough to reach all of the city’s important sites, but just far enough away from the hustle and bustle that you won’t be swiped by a hop-on, hop-off bus as soon as you step outside. What this gives La Fondation is just the right amount of allure – as if only the coolest people in Paris know of its existence. And who doesn’t want to be in on that secret?  Combine that with the aforementioned design cred – think loads of contemporary art, pops of rich colour in tones of mustard, emerald green and ruby red, and clashing materials – and some excellent drinking and dining digs, and you’ve got all the correct components for a swanky stay. What are the rooms like at La Fondation? There are 58 rooms, including three suites, spread across seven levels of the building. I’m staying in a Deluxe Room (24sqm), which features a heavenly k

It's been almost three years since Ed Sheeran serenaded crowds of 110,000 and 108,000 people over two epic nights at the MCG in March 2023, and now he's back in Melbourne and ready to rock Marvel Stadium.  As one of the best-selling music artists of all time (not to mention everyone's favourite wedding first dance artist), Sheeran has already performed in Perth, Brisbane and Sydney as part of his Loop Tour – and from what we've heard, he does not disappoint. Expect to hear hits such as ‘Castle on the Hill’, ‘Thinking Out Loud’ and ‘Perfect’, as well as songs off his brand new album Play. Excited? You bet we are. If you're heading to see Ed Sheeran in Melbourne, here’s everything you need to know... When is Ed Sheeran's Loop Tour in Melbourne? Sheeran is taking over Marvel Stadium for three massive shows on Thursday, February 26; Friday, February 27; and Saturday, February 28. How to get to Ed Sheeran's Melbourne concerts Marvel Stadium is right next door to Southern Cross Station, so public transport is by far the best option to get to the concert. Simply walk over the convenient footbridge to get from the platforms to the stadium entrance. For info on how to plan your public transport journey, head over here.  What time will Ed Sheeran come on stage? Gates open at 4pm, and Sheeran is expected to begin by around 8pm. The support acts will kick off around 5.15pm (more on that below). What can I bring to Ed Sheeran's Melbourne shows? There are specific rules for what you can an

Just when you thought a stay at Jackalope couldn’t get any more enticing, the stunning luxury hotel in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula’s wine region has announced the return of its pop-up outdoor cinema that will screen blockbuster flicks, cult classics and romcoms all through March. Created in collaboration with Lexus Australia, season two of Jackalope Cinema will open on Sunday, March 1, with a viewing of the Leonardo DiCaprio and Margot Robbie smash-hit, The Wolf of Wall Street. Other excellent movies on the month-long line-up include La La Land, Silver Linings Playbook, Black Swan, Lost in Translation and The French Dispatch.  Photograph: Griffin Simm This fully immersive experience a film buff’s dream, and will begin with the opportunity to enjoy a pre-movie bite at Doot Doot Doot (Jackalope’s renowned on-site restaurant) – think a menu loaded with delicious dishes showcasing the region’s local produce. Guests can then either head to their room to catch the flick from their vineyard-facing private terrace or get cosy on the infinity pool deck under the twinkling night sky. Bluetooth headphones will be provided to ensure top sound quality, and there will be plenty of snacks on offer, including unlimited popcorn (yes, really!), ice cream and other nostalgic treats. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Melbourne (@timeoutmelbourne)   “Having studied film before pivoting to designing spaces and experiences, the pillar of storytelling

Hey now, hey now! If you're a millennial of a certain age, these words are guaranteed to awaken something deep inside. They are, of course, the opening lyrics of Hilary Duff's (aka Lizzie McGuire) seminal 2003 track 'What Dreams Are Made Of' – which is widely considered one of the best songs of all time (according to me, that is). And now, we have news that is certainly what dreams are made of: Hilary Duff is officially coming to Melbourne. Duff has recently been on the comeback trail, having dropped hot new singles 'Mature' and 'Roommates' ahead of the release of her album luck… or something. After a string of intimate shows in London, Toronto, New York and Los Angeles as part of her Small Rooms, Big Nerves Tour – her first live performances in a decade – she's just announced a huge global tour. The Lucky Me Tour will hit Australia in October *squeals!* and it's for everyone who never thought they would get to see hits like 'Come Clean', 'So Yesterday' and 'Wake Up' live in person. Without further ado, here's everything we know about Hilary Duff's Melbourne shows. When is Hilary Duff in Melbourne?  Duff will perform at Rod Laver Arena on Monday, October 26 AND Tuesday, October 27, 2026. Lucky us! When do Hilary Duff Melbourne tickets go on sale? General ticket sales for Duff's Melbourne show will begin at 1pm on Friday, February 20. You can find out more via Live Nation. When is the Hilary Duff Melbourne presale? If you pre-order Duff's new album from the official Warner Mus

Lily Allen fans, you won't want to sleepwalk through this announcement! Earlier this week, British pop superstar Lily Allen hinted in a radio interview with Triple J that she might be visiting Down Under before the end of the year – and now we finally have confirmation. Allen is heading to Australia this spring for six mega shows across the country, including two in Melbourne. After seven long years without new music, the British icon returned to the airwaves in late October with West End Girl, a 44-minute-long chronicle of her marriage breakdown to David Harbour (aka Jim Hopper in Stranger Things). Appropriately, the tour is titled Lily Allen performs West End Girl – and she’ll be playing the entire album front-to-back, exactly as it appears on the record. Yes, we can already predict that seeing 'Pussy Palace' IRL is going to change our lives. We're also crossing our fingers she’ll perform some old-school bangers, like ‘The Fear’, ‘Smile’ and ‘Not Fair’. Keen to grab a ticket? Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to Lily Allen’s Melbourne shows. When is Lily Allen in Melbourne? Allen will perform at Rod Laver Arena on Wednesday, October 28 and Thursday, October 29, 2026. When do Lily Allen Melbourne tickets go on sale? Tickets for all of Allen’s Australian shows (including the Melbourne ones) go on sale at 1pm local time on Monday, February 9 via Frontier Touring. When is the Lily Allen Melbourne presale? Telstra Plus members get first dibs on ticket

When the Foo Fighters performed a one-off concert in the quiet Tassie city of Launceston last month, it's safe to say fans around the country felt pretty jealous. Well, now the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers – Dave Grohl, Nate Mendel, Chris Shiflett, Pat Smear, Rami Jaffee and Ilan Rubin – have announced they are returning, bringing their Take Cover tour to seven Aussie cities. And yes, Melbourne has made the cut! Here's everything you need to know about getting tickets to the Foo Fighters when they head to Australia this November. When are the Foo Fighters coming to Melbourne? The Foo Fighters will take to Marvel Stadium for one huge show on Saturday, November 14, 2026. When do Foo Fighters tickets go on sale in Melbourne? General public tickets go on sale on Wednesday, February 25 at 11am local time. Grab yours via the Frontier Touring website here. Is there a Foo Fighters presale? There always is! Telstra Plus Members score first dibs on tickets, with a presale kicking off on Friday, February 20 at 12pm local time via telstra.com.au/plus. A second presale for Frontier Members starts on Monday, February 23 at 12pm local time, and you can sign up for that one here. How much are tickets to the Foo Fighters in Melbourne? There are multiple ticket options, ranging from $99.90 for D reserve seating to $249 for A reserve seating and $249.90 for front general admission standing. Who is the support act for the Foo Fighters in Melbourne? The Foo Fighters will be joined by different sp

The Australian Open. The Formula One Grand Prix. The AFL Grand Final. The Boxing Day Test. Melbourne has long been known as Australia’s sporting capital, but in case you needed further proof, here it is: this year, the city will play host to Australia’s first-ever regular season NFL game, as part of a massive multi-year deal.  The match will feature the Los Angeles Rams as the ‘home’ team, with the San Francisco 49ers recently confirmed as the opposition. The game will be played at the MCG – aka the sporting heartland of Melbourne – in the second half of the year, although the exact date for kick-off is yet to be revealed.  “It’s a win for jobs, a win for businesses and a win for fans who will get to see American Football played in the best stadium in the world,” said premier Jacinta Allan.  Supplied: Office of the premier of Victoria NFL, also known as American Football, is the USA’s most popular sport. That means footage of Melbourne as the host city will be beamed live to the almost 20 million Americans who tune into each game (not to mention the millions more who watch from across the globe). The 49ers are one of the NFL’s most illustrious franchises, having won the Super Bowl five times. Best of all, they share an intense rivalry with the Rams, which is sure to make the Melbourne match-up a hugely important – and potentially fiery – game. The Super Bowl continues to grow in popularity among Aussies, with many of Melbourne’s pubs, sports bars and live sites throwing vi

It's officially that time of year when the summer glow starts to fade, work begins to ramp up again and you start to question whether the 9-5 grind is really for you. Well, we've got the antidote to your February slump: book a holiday. And luckily, Qantas has just announced a surprise sale – and it's one of the Flying Kangaroo's biggest global sales of the year.  Qantas has released more than 500,000 discounted seats to 30-plus popular international destinations. Dreaming of a Euro summer? Keen to explore Asia? Ready to cross the ditch and visit New Zealand? If it’s on your travel wish list, chances are it’s on sale. This mega sale comes off the back of new Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data revealing Aussies took more than 12.5 million overseas trips in the 12 months ending November 2025. That’s an almost nine per cent jump on the year before, proving our appetite for exploring the world beyond our shores isn’t slowing down anytime soon. The Qantas sale runs for just one week, ending at 11.59pm (AEDT) on Monday, February 9. You don’t even have to wait long to jet off, with travel dates ranging from this month to December 11, 2026. So, where can you go? The 500,000-seat global sale covers more than 60 routes, with reduced fares to more than 30 international destinations across Europe, North and South America, Asia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the Pacific. Economy return fares from Melbourne to Bali start from just $659, while Melbourne to Singapore is $769. Ot

Update Thursday, February 5: The latest alert from the Australian Space Weather Forecasting Centre (ASWFC) today confirms a geomagnetic storm is in progress. According to the alert, the "Aurora may be observed during local nighttime hours in good observing conditions at high altitudes." The best chance to see the lights is 75 minutes after sunset, with likely spotting in Tasmania and Victoria, plus parts of South Australia, Western Australia, ACT and NSW, if skies are clear. As if the past few weeks of sparkly sightings haven't been enough of a celestial spectacle, today, the Australian Space Weather Forecasting Centre (ASWFC) issued another Aurora alert. Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the Southern Lights from Victoria. Where in the world can you see the Aurora? Bright, beautiful and bedazzling, the Aurora Borealis is a big-ticket bucket list item for pretty much everyone on Earth. Only those who have witnessed the Northern Lights with their naked eyes can truly understand its ethereal magic. But you don’t need to fork out on a ticket to Scandinavia to see the dramatic natural light display IRL. Australia has its very own version, called the Aurora Australis or Southern Lights – and last year was one of the brightest display in 20 years. Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the Aurora Australis in Australia. Will the Aurora Australis be visible tonight from Victoria? Australia’s first big Aurora Australis of the season occurred on Sunday, June 1, s

If there's one thing regional Victoria knows how to do well – you know, besides delivering gorgeous natural wonders and scenic road trips, of course – it's provide a warm welcome to weary travellers. From the far reaches of East Gippsland to the Grampians National Park, you're guaranteed a smile, a tip of the hat and a jovial g'day. But what are the townships that go above and beyond when it comes to friendliness?  Well, every year, Booking.com analyses more than 300 million verified customer reviews to determine the world’s most welcoming cities. From laid-back beach towns in Australia to historic hilltop towns in Italy and coastal gems in Taiwan, the 14th annual awards celebrate destinations known for hospitality that leaves a lasting impression with thoughtful touches, warm interactions, and hosts who go the extra mile. And in 2026, three Victorian destinations have made the official list of the most welcoming places in Australia. Landing in fourth is Port Campbell – located just past the 12 Apostles along the Great Ocean Road. With spectacular coastal scenery, some excellent dining spots and a close-knit, small-town energy it's no wonder this beach town was recognised.   Photograph: Supplied | Visit Victoria   Another seaside spot to be honoured was Ocean Grove, which nabbed eighth on the list. This Bellarine beauty came in fifth last year, so you know the good vibes are real. And making a repeat appearance in ninth spot is Daylesford. Also known as a haven of relaxatio

Nobody panic! It's been three years since Harry Styles last performed in Australia as part of his Love On Tour, and since that wrapped up all sightings of the international megastar have been few and far between – aside from popping up to run the odd marathon or being papped with Zoë Kravitz. But when Styles dropped the surprise announcement about his upcoming fourth album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally, on January 16, we knew something bigger was brewing. And now, in the best Friday news any of us could ask for, Styles has revealed plans for a massive seven-city global residency titled Together, Together – with Melbourne *squeal* scoring three shows. Best of all, it's happening THIS YEAR. Oh, and as if that wasn't enough to send us into a spin, Styles also released his much-hyped new single 'Aperture' on Friday, January 23. So, alert the group chat and get your game plan in action – these tickets are gonna go quick. Here's everything we know about Harry Styles' Melbourne shows so far. When is Harry Styles in Melbourne?  The music gods have blessed Melbourne with not one, not two but three shows as part of Styles' Together, Together tour. He will kick off the Australian leg with performances on Friday, November 27 and Saturday, November 28 at Marvel Stadium. An extra third show has also just been announced for Wednesday, December 2, also at Marvel Stadium. When do Harry Styles Melbourne tickets go on sale? General ticket sales for Harry Styles' Melbourne shows will b

Update Friday, January 30: It's Harry Styles day! General ticket sales begin today, kicking off at 11am AEDT for his three Melbourne shows and 2pm for his Sydney shows. Yes, it’s true! Harry Styles is coming to Australia in 2026! It’s been three years since the global pop sensation and former boyband member last performed Down Under as part of his Love On Tour (remember the feather boas?) – and since that wrapped up, all sightings of the international megastar have been few and far between – aside from popping up to run the odd marathon or being papped with Zoë Kravitz. But when Styles dropped the surprise announcement about his upcoming fourth album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally, on January 16, we knew something bigger was brewing. And now, in the best Friday news any of us could ask for, Styles has revealed plans for a massive seven-city, 50-show global residency titled Together, Together – with Australia scoring five shows across two cities. Best of all, it's happening THIS YEAR. Here's everything we know about getting tickets to Harry Styles in Australia. When is Harry Styles in Australia?  Harry Styles is performing a mega 50 shows across seven cities on his Together, Together tour, including five huge dates right here in Australia! He’ll kick off the Aussie leg in Melbourne with performances at Marvel Stadium on Friday, November 27, Saturday, November 28 and Wednesday, December 2 (NEW SHOW). Styles will then head to Sydney for two shows at Accor Stadium on Sat

Sydneysiders, stay cool. After a tough few Styles-free years in the Harbour City, the drought is officially coming to an end. It's been three years since Harry Styles last performed in Sydney as part of his Love On Tour, and since that wrapped up, sightings of the international megastar have been few and far between – aside from popping up to run the odd marathon or being papped with Zoë Kravitz. But when Styles dropped the surprise announcement about his upcoming fourth album, Kiss All The Time. Disco, Occasionally, on January 16, we knew something bigger was brewing. And now, in the best Friday news any of us could ask for, Styles has revealed plans for a massive seven-city, 50-show global residency titled Together, Together – with Sydney *squeal* scoring two shows. Best of all, it's happening THIS YEAR. Oh, and as if that wasn't enough to send us into a spin, Styles has also released his much-hyped new single 'Aperture'. So, alert the group chat and get your game plan in action – these tickets are gonna go quick. Here's everything we know about Harry Styles' Sydney shows so far. When is Harry Styles in Sydney?  The music gods have blessed Sydney with not one but two shows as part of Styles' Together, Together tour. He’ll be lighting up the Accor Stadium on Saturday, December 12 and Sunday, December 13. When do Harry Styles Sydney tickets go on sale? General ticket sales for Harry Styles' Sydney shows will begin at 2pm AEDT on Friday, January 30. You can find out more via L