Melissa Woodley

There’s no doubt about it, Sydneysiders can’t get enough of Italian food. And who can blame us? There’s something about a bowl of perfectly al dente pasta paired with a luscious, rich ragu that just hits the spot. And while Italian cuisine differs throughout the 20 incredible regions – broadly speaking, the northern regions eat more rice and polenta, while down south they feast more on seafood – Italians share a love of beautiful, seasonal produce; they choose simplicity rather than overcomplicating dishes and cook with soul. No wonder we love it so much. Luckily, there are plenty of excellent options for Italian dining in Sydney. Time Out’s food writers and editors – including Editor Avril Treasure, who has eaten her way through Sicily, Sorrento, Rome and Florence – have picked our favourite eateries, covering all bases. The only catch? They just need to provide a feel-good environment and dishes you’ll want to come back for. From casual red-sauce joints and classic pizzerias to fine-dining restaurants, you’ll find them all here. 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. Not in the mood for pasta? Here are our picks of the best spots for Greek and French food in Sydney.

​​No one’s accusing Sydney of being cheap, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few budget-friendly hotels to be found in this sparkling diamond of a city. To find the best affordable hotels in Sydney, we’ve done some digging – and have put together this guide based on location, vibe, comfort and, naturally, cost. Our team of writers (including long-time Sydney local Alannah Sue) have tried and tested each stay to make sure the low cost doesn’t mean you’re compromising on quality. Hotel obsessive (Time Out Sydney’s Travel and Hotels Editor Winnie Stubbs) has triple checked the list to make sure it’s up to scratch.   From an off-the-beaten-track four-star secret (Cremorne Point Manor, we’re looking at you) to a fun youth hostel right on the harbour, these are the very best affordable stays in the city.  NB: Be warned, peak season in Sydney has dizzying highs and even the most reasonably priced accommodation can spike over the New Year’s Eve period. So, shop around if you're looking for a place to lay your head over the holidays. 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. RECOMMENDED:Can’t stretch to that? Pack your tent and check out the best camping spots near Sydney.Or book a glamping tent at this island campsite in the middle of Sydney Harbour. Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial

Whether it’s a morning pick-me-up, a lazy weekend brunch or just a cup of joe, Perth folks are no strangers to our local cafés. As lovers of coffee and daytime dining, we’re known for trying out new spots all around the city and are always eager to find the next best café in Perth. For city workers, that might mean Howard’s Groove, for southsiders, it’s likely Timber Café, and for those out west, Good Things is no doubt frequented.  We’ve relied on our Perth contributing writers and local eatin’ enthusiasts, Emma Ruben and Dale Anninos-Carter, to create this guide on the best cafés in Perth – so trust that there’s some good eggs and equally as good coffee on the table. Keep reading to find the elite brews and brunch bites to match your tastes. For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.  🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth🥐 Perth's best bakeries☕️ The best coffee in Perth

It feels a little lazy to say that eating yourself silly is one of the best things to do in Perth, but it would be disingenuous to suggest otherwise. The culinary scene here is exquisite, with each eatery bringing its own quirks and flavours to the table. And you're in safe hands when it comes to choosing one of the best restaurants in Perth to dine at – our contributing food enthusiast and writer, Dale Anninos-Carter, has lived in The West for 17 years and keeps a keen eye on the hospitality scene for all your devouring needs.  From a charming European bistro tucked inside a heritage hotel to Australia’s very first Hokkaido soup curry house hidden down a laneway, we've scoured out the best restaurants in Perth that are well worth visiting. So, put that appetite of yours to good use and get feasting. Update August 2025: Since our last update, we’ve added a few standout newcomers to the list – The Bridge House, a new mod-Oz charmer in North Fremantle, and Baan Baan, a beloved Thai street food joint in Northbridge. For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍷 The best bars in Perth🍝 Perth's top Italian restaurants☕️ The coolest cafés in Perth

If there was any lingering doubt that Queensland's capital is a world city, it was put to rest with the announcement that the 2032 Olympics would be hosted right here in Brisvegas. And truth be told, for a long time the River City has been much more than just a pit-stop on the way to the Gold Coast. In QAGOMA, the city has two of the best-designed art galleries anywhere in the world, and blockbuster art to show in them. We have great barbecue spots, sure, but there are also some great fine dining experiences too. With an incredible climate (although slip, slop, slap please, we implore you) and a great set of river walkways and public transport connections, it’s also easier than ever to get around. Our local writers have rounded up the best things to do in Brisbane right now. If Time Out's Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, could pick three must-dos, she'd recommend a trip to Howard Smith Wharves, watching the sunset from Kangaroo Point and going for a picnic in Roma Street Parklands. Ready to explore? 🌳 Free things to do in Brisbane🚗 The best day trips from Brisbane🥐 Brisbane's best bakeries

Perth might feel like it's in a world of its own, but anyone who's been there will tell you it's absolutely worth the trip (which is a little over four hours by plane from Sydney or Melbourne). Once solely known for its pristine beaches and perfect weather, Perth’s booming restaurant and culture scenes, and its trendy sister city, Fremantle (just 30 mins from Perth), have put Western Australia’s capital city on the international radar. Our expert writers, including Time Out's Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, have collated this mega guide on the best things to do in Perth. From a breezy stroll through Kings Park to a dip at the stunning Cottesloe Beach, the essentials are all here. We also reckon day trips to Fremantle and Rottnest Island are absolute musts. Happy exploring! 🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth🖼️ Perth's best museums and galleries⭐️ The best hotels in Perth

Spring 2025 update: Spring has sprung so heading out early in the morning for a yum brekkie feels less chilly and more fun. Our current fave picks include sandwich and coffee spot Angus Marrickville, Potts Point's Room Ten, and Parramatta’s Middle Eastern-inspired go-to Circa Espresso (it's the people's fave, too – it took the title of People's Choice Favourite Café in this year's Time Out Sydney Food & Drink Awards). Sydneysiders are café people. We're constantly on the hunt for the city's best coffee and we love nothing more than donning our finest sport-luxe activewear and catching up with mates on a weekend morning over eggs, fritters and crusty artisan sourdough. So, whether it's a reward for tackling one of Sydney's most beautiful walks, an indulgent hangover fix after a night at one of the city's best bars, or a workday coffee stop, these are the best Sydney cafés, according to our in-the-know Time Out Sydney writers, including Editor Avril Treasure. We'll have one B&E roll, please.  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. Is it lunch time? Check out our guide to Sydney's best restaurants right now.

Adelaide owes much of its flavour to its thriving Italian community that's been shaping the city’s culture and cuisine for well over a century. From bustling pasta bars to elegant trattorias, Italian dining is woven into the fabric of the city. Adelaide loves Italian food – and the locals do it exceptionally well.  Whether you’ve got a hankering for the legendary woodfired pizzas at Amalfi, want to celebrate in style at Fugazzi (MasterChef’s Laura Sharrad is a founding owner), or (re)visit a beloved institution like Luigi Delicatessen in the CBD, Adelaide’s best Italian restaurants have it all. Take your pick from our favourites below.  For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.  🍷 The best restaurants in Adelaide🍕 Adelaide's best pizza joints☕️ The best cafés in Adelaide

If you’re competing for the prize of favourite child this year, then it’s time to get cracking with your Father’s Day festivities – Father's Day in Australia is on Sunday, September 7, 2025. Forget the silly socks or the six-pack of beers and opt for some good ol’ quality time with the man instead – or grandpa, uncle, step-dad, brother, or any fatherly figure out there.  What are the best things to do on Father's Day in Sydney?  Whether it’s a relaxing catch-up at the pub, an ocean swim at the crack of dawn, a lunchtime trip to the fish markets, an afternoon craft brewery tour, or a delicious dinner at one of Sydney's best restaurants, we’ve got the ultimate playbook for winning dad over. PSA: Most of these things to do are free and cheap, because, we all need that kind of energy right now, and so does your dad.  While you’re at it, make sure to remind him that having you as a child is the greatest gift he could ever wish for. 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.

From piping hot bowls of ramen to artistic plates of sashimi, Canberra is brimming with Japanese restaurants that prove there’s so much more to the cuisine than your standard sushi roll. Across our capital, you’ll find chefs putting their own stamp on traditional dishes, blending precision, artistry and a love of seasonal produce. Some spots like Yakitori 38 are perfect for a late-night hang with friends, sake in hand, others like Koto Dining invite you to linger over multiple courses, while suburban gems like Raijin dish up comfort food along with awesome customer service. Our Travel Editor Melissa Woodley has teamed up with ex-MasterChef contestant and food writer Mimi Wong to recommend the best Japanese restaurants in Canberra for your next feed. For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Canberra🍽 Canberra's best restaurants🥘 The best Indian in Canberra

A good burger is easily one of life’s greatest pleasures, and Australia is teeming with top-notch options, most of which fall comfortably into that hits-the-spot territory. A burger’s simplicity – take a pillowy bun, place a juicy patty inside it, maybe add cheese or salad, drizzle over a sauce or two, then apply to face – makes it hard to stuff up. The flip side, however, is that it also makes finding the ultimate burger a bit of a challenge. Time Out’s hungry team of local Aussie writers have bravely put their jaws and stomachs on the line (in the name of exceedingly difficult research, you understand) to compile this list of the best burgers in Australia. We've told you exactly which burger to order at each spot, from the award-winning Fillet-O-Shrimp at CBCo Brewing Port Melbourne to the world-famous Gidley Burger in Sydney. Now it’s up to you to crown the true buns of glory.  🥧 Australia's best pies🌭 The best sausage rolls🍕 The best pizzas in Australia

Spring 2025 update: From sunny beer gardens to refreshing pints, make the most of the cracking spring weather with our guide to Sydney’s best pubs. What do they all have in common? Great vibes, great drinks and ace food. Bring your mates. 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. On a hot day, it's all about having a welcoming beer garden, and on a Sunday, it's all about a cracking roast. 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! 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. 

The first thing that strikes me when I enter SO/ Auckland’s lobby is a glossy black sofa, tipped sideways. It’s fun, yet fully functional – just a taster of the hotel’s playful personality that I’m about to spend the next three nights getting to know. This avant-garde, indoor playground, which doubles as a sleek hotel, was the perfect urban base for exploring Auckland City on my first trip to New Zealand. But it’s not just for tourists – it’s a hip, central stay for business travellers or locals craving a staycation. Once the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, the building sits right in the heart of the action – just two blocks from the waterfront and a short stroll from Queen Street, Auckland Art Gallery, the iconic Sky Tower and many of the city’s most popular eateries – including Giapo, where the world-famous hokey pokey gelato is made just across the road. But you don’t need to leave the hotel for top-notch food and drinks, as SO/ Auckland has a Parisian-inspired café, stylish lobby bar, fifteen-storey restaurant and one of the city's hottest rooftop bars. Ride the elevator in the other direction, and you’ll discover an underground spa, heated indoor pool, jacuzzi and 24-hour fitness centre. We haven’t even mentioned the rooms yet – but its amenities are enough to sell us on a stay. Why stay at SO/ Auckland? Views, views, views! SO/ Auckland’s 130 design-led rooms and suites stretch across 14 floors, each offering striking vistas of Auckland City or Waitematā Harbour. After soa

I’ve stayed at countless luxury hotels and adults-only retreats across Australia, but this might just be my new favourite. I had high hopes for The Crocodile Hunter Lodge – Australia Zoo’s luxe accommodation offering tucked in native bushland on Queensland’s stunning Sunshine Coast. It’s won countless awards, including World’s Best Nature Hotel 2024 and Best Boutique Lodge in Oceania 2025 – and after a quick one-night stay, I can confirm it exceeded all expectations. Inspired by Steve Irwin’s life, legacy and love of the wild, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge is the ultimate tribute to the ‘Crocodile Hunter’ himself. Terri, Bondi and Robert opened this remote wilderness retreat in his honour in 2022, unveiling four new double-storey cabins late last year. The Lodge isn’t just a haven for humans, but a vital sanctuary for both beloved Aussie animals and critically endangered plant species. Its conservation efforts earn serious bonus points, as do unlimited entry to Australia Zoo, a heated infinity pool, and the award-winning Warrior Restaurant and Bar, where guests are treated to complimentary breakfast each day. Trust me, this is the wild side of luxury at its very best. Why stay at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge? Tucked away in native bushland between Queensland’s breathtaking Glass House Mountains and the Sunshine Coast’s stunning beaches, this wilderness hideaway strikes the perfect balance of nature and nurture. An icon in its own right, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge pays tribute to t

Life in Townsville is very much set on the waterfront. With 180 kilometres of coastline extending out to the heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, it makes total sense that most of the city’s hotels and resorts offer views of the sparkling Coral Sea. But if you want to match those five-star vistas with five-star service, Ardo is the place to be. Having welcomed its first guests in December 2023, Ardo is the newest luxury resort to open in Townsville. And when we say luxury, we’re talking about the city's first and only five-star hotel. Staying here was the thing I was most excited about on my first-ever trip to Townsville. Tucked a little away from The Strand – a hub of waterfront shops, restaurants and parks – it almost felt like I was checking into a private island resort. From the eighth-floor rooftop, you can soak in sweeping views of the city skyline and Coral Sea. Plus, you won’t need to leave the hotel, which houses two chef-hatted restaurants, the town’s only rooftop infinity pool, a dazzling day spa and an impressive rooftop bar with views that will stop you in your tracks. Why stay at Ardo? If you’re craving private island resort vibes without the thousand-dollar price tag, Ardo is your go-to. Right by the water’s edge and on the cusp of the Great Barrier Reef, this five-star stay brings a new level of luxury to Townsville. Perfectly positioned just a five-minute walk from the Sealink Terminal for ferries to Magnetic Island and the Breakwater Marina, where boats head

In a harbour full of skyscrapers and chain hotels, Pier One Sydney Harbour is somewhat of a gem. There’s a high chance you’ve passed this enviably positioned waterfront hotel, located in the shadow of the Harbour Bridge overlooking Walsh Bay – whether on your way from Circular Quay to Barangaroo or while heading to see a show at the Sydney Theatre Company. But don’t let its understated Hickson Road façade fool you – step inside and you’ll discover a stylish boutique stay with character in spades. Strictly speaking, Pier One is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection – but there’s nothing remotely chain-ish about this boutique-vibe establishment. From the intimate lobby and hidden waterfront bar to the local-first approach of its top-shelf amenities and maritime-inspired decor, every aspect of Pier One has been crafted to celebrate the venue’s location and heritage, while creating a bespoke experience quite unlike anything else available so close to Sydney’s biggest attractions. Why stay at Pier One Sydney Harbour? Originally constructed as a cargo store and passenger terminal for the growing Sydney Harbour precinct, this wharfside warehouse was transformed into a hotel in the late ‘90s. But it wasn’t until Marriott acquired the hotel in 2014 that it underwent a stunning top-to-bottom refurbishment, with further 2019 renos adding a contemporary twist to the historic finger-wharf building. As you enter the timber-clad lobby, Pier One’s distinctive mingling of wrought maritime h

The weather is looking mighty fine this weekend – dare we say, it’s even beach-trip worthy. If you’re heading Bondi way, make sure to hit up Glory Days for the cutest matcha and flower pop-up. This beachside café has teamed up with Petal & Pup – the tastemakers of all things pretty – for a one-weekend-only collab, happening on Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20. Swing by from 8am to 1pm for a limited-edition pink matcha (or just a good old cup of coffee) and enjoy it while overlooking the glorious, famed stretch of sand. The best part is that every matcha or coffee purchase comes with a free bunch of blooms – absolutely adorable! 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. RECOMMENDED READS: In the area? Check out Bondi’s best restaurants. Feel like a drink? Check out our guide to Bondi's best bars. Up for more adventures? Here are the coolest things to do in Bondi.

For a city of its size, Hobart has more than its fair share of impressive hotels. There’s the sleek waterfront MACq01, the boutique adults-only Islington Hotel and Australia’s first dedicated art hotel, the Henry Jones. But it’s The Tasman that continues to turn heads – one of only two Aussie venues to make the World’s 50 Best Hotels list in 2024. You can imagine how giddy I was when I found out I’d be spending a night at The Tasman during a winter trip in Hobart. Although just for one night, I was excited to experience the luxury that’s earned this hotel global acclaim – and it absolutely delivered. Why stay at The Tasman? Anchored on Hobart’s buzzing waterfront, this charming historic hotel was well worth the six-year wait. The original sandstone facade houses 152 rooms spread across three buildings of starkly different eras: Heritage (1840s), Art Deco (1940s) and Pavilion (2020s). The Tasman doesn’t just impress with its award-winning design — it also delivers on dining, thanks to its acclaimed Italian restaurant Peppina and the moody, intimate cocktail bar Mary Mary. Plus, the hotel’s central locale is hard to beat, with the Derwent Harbour, Salamanca Place, Battery Point and Hobart’s CBD on your doorstep. What are the rooms like at The Tasman? The Tasman celebrates Hobart’s maritime heritage with 152 rooms and suites spread across three architecturally distinct buildings, spanning from the 1840s to the present day. I checked into one of the incredibly quaint Heritage r

At the start of the year, I predicted The Eve Hotel would be one of Australia’s most exciting openings of 2025 – and it looks like I wasn’t wrong. After earning a spot on Travel + Leisure’s list of the 100 Best New Hotels of the Year, I was itching to check in. Two blissful nights later, I can confirm: this boutique beauty lives up to the hype. Opened in February, The Eve is one of the newest kids on the block in the trendy Wunderlich Lane precinct, rubbing shoulders with some of Sydney’s hottest new restaurants, including Bar Julius, Lottie, Olympus and Island Radio. While the hotel has everything you need at your fingertips – from a heated rooftop pool to a luxe spa – it also makes a perfect launchpad for exploring the best of Sydney's inner city suburbs.  What’s The Eve Hotel like? Entering the art-filled lobby from Baptist Street, I almost felt like I’d accidentally stumbled into a contemporary gallery. Designed as a dream collaboration between SJB’s Adam Haddow and 360 Degrees’ Daniel Baffsky, the hotel is both a transporting urban oasis and a delightfully Sydney-centric celebration of place. Soft, organic curves and natural materials set the scene, while pops of colour from custom-made artwork by local artists bring the space to life. The Eve undoubtedly boasts one of Australia’s most stylish lobbies, complete with striking blue couches, burgundy wool banquettes, soothing natural stone walls and eclectic art. Two standout pieces particularly caught my eye: a shimmering

Come face-to-face with our country’s most topical and trending Australian characters at the nation’s only portrait gallery. From Archie Roach and Adam Goodes to Carla Zampatti and Cate Blanchett, these are the people and artists who have shaped our Australian identity. You can take a squiz at the hundreds of portraits, before popping just across the road to the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon or Old Parliament House.  Time Out tip: Can't make it to Canberra just yet? You can explore the gallery's impressive collection of notorious and glorious portraits online. Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes Price: Free (excl. some special exhibitions)

Anyone who knows good hotels knows the Shangri-La. The renowned hotel brand is synonymous with bringing a touch of luxury and peace to urban sanctuaries in more than 20 countries around the world – and the Shangri-La Sydney is no exception. It’s one of only two Shangri-La properties in Australia (the other’s in Cairns), with a third Melbourne hotel in the works. I know I live in one of the most beautiful harbourfront cities in the world, but sometimes it takes watching the sunset on the 36th floor of a famous hotel to remind me just how incredible Sydney really is. The Shangri-La’s biggest selling point is its unobstructed 270-degree views of Sydney’s glittering jewels – the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. But the panorama doesn’t stop there – it extends from the Blue Mountains in the west all the way to the Pacific Ocean in the east, meaning you can watch both sunrise and sunset without leaving your window (if you’re in one of the Horizon Club Premier Sydney Harbour Rooms). Why stay at Shangri-La Sydney? The unparalleled views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House are a good place to start. You can admire them from the sophisticated Horizon Club guest lounge on level 30, the top-floor bar and restaurant (which is also open to walk-ins), or from one of the harbour-facing rooms and suites. These are some of the biggest in Sydney, complete with every five-star luxury you could ask for. The hotel also houses a heated indoor pool, health club and one of the f

Update, May 2025: You can score up to 50 per cent off Noi’s signature three-course menu, featuring a starter, pasta, main and sides – all for just $59 per person. The menu rotates regularly and is available daily from June 1 to August 31. We may have found the cutest dining room in Sydney, and it goes by the name Noi. Tucked away in Petersham, this adorable neighbourhood restaurant comes to us from the same family behind Ormeggio at the Spit, Postino Osteria, Sails and the recently opened Akti – all of which are leaders in the ‘fancy-but-welcoming’ subcategory of Sydney dining. And while Noi is no black sheep, it definitely feels like a stand-alone project from owner Anastasia Drakopoulos (ex-LuMi) and chefs Alessandro Intini (ex-Aqua) and Federica Costa. Noi translates to ‘we’ or ‘us’ in Italian, and true to its name, the space strikes a perfect balance between intimate and communal. It’s the kind of dining room that makes you feel like you could wander up next to the pans and start chatting with the chef, or lean over to your neighbour and pour them a glass of wine. The long dining room is beautifully arranged, with clever lighting and the type of decor that feels effortlessly eclectic, yet you know every detail has been chosen with care. The menu is nice and tight, featuring playful spins on all sorts of Italian classics. Take the cacio e pepe ‘chips and dips’, or the housemade focaccia that stakes its claim on the bar counter. Entrées typically spotlight a single hero cut

Outback station stays aren’t a big thing where I’m from (yep, I’m a NSW kid). But after experiencing one for the first time in rural Western Australia, I finally understand the hype. There's a type of magic here that makes people drive thousands of kilometres to sleep under a sky full of stars, far from just about everything. Among WA’s many outback stays, Bullara Station is one of the most famous. In fact, I’d say it’s one of the most spectacular places to camp or glamp across the country. Bullara’s remote location is one of its biggest drawcards, located 1,170 kilometres from Perth and 90 kilometres from Exmouth. One minute you could be swimming with whale sharks in the Ningaloo Reef, the next you’re at camp, eating burgers with fellow travellers while watching one of the most surreal sunsets you’ll ever see. To beat the scorching summer heat, Bullara only opens from early April to mid-October. During the season, you’re bound to cross paths with all sorts of true-blue travellers – from those road tripping along the coast to folks doing a great big lap of Australia. Pair this with some of the warmest outback hospitality and food that seriously slaps (we’re talking contenders for Australia’s best beef burger), and you’ll never want to leave. What is the camping like at Bullara Station Stay? Camping is where the Bullara story began, and remains the heart and soul of the station stay experience. There are more than 150 powered and non-powered sites spread across this quarter-mi

June 5 update: Surprise! Tickets to this event suddenly went on sale on the morning of June 5. Get in quick to nab yours via the website.  Choo choo! The Train of Lights is back on the tracks for 2025 and ready to captivate passengers with a magical winter journey through the Dandenong Ranges for a fourth year. Australia’s favourite steam train Puffing Billy will be your conductor for this trip that illuminates the natural beauty of the region with thousands of dazzling lights. When is Puffing Billy Train of Lights on for 2025? This enchanting winter journey is only on for just over two weeks from July 4 to July 20.  What to expect for Puffing Billy Train of Lights? The whole experience is a two-and-a-half hour round trip. Departing from Lakeside Station, you’ll be immersed in a spectacle of neon colours as acclaimed lighting specialists Resolution X (White Night, Melbourne Fashion Festival) brighten up the countryside with sparkles, rainbows and hypnotic patterns. The historic train will also be adorned with stunning visual effects, which will light up the trees, tracks and passing towns along the way.  Puffing Billy will chug along the historic narrow-gauge track to Gembrook Station where guests will disembark for a 55-minute stopover. Here, you can warm up by the crackling open firepits with hot chocolate and live acoustic music, and enjoy a sausage sizzle by the Rotary Club of Emerald and District. Make your night even more magical by pre-ordering a Puffing Billy picnic

Anyone who’s lived in one place long enough has probably felt ‘the itch’ – that restless urge to leave the familiar behind in search of a fresh start. If you’re ready to scratch that itch, new data reveals exactly where Aussies are relocating to, plus the regions where the itch is spreading like a disease. The removalist experts at Muval recently dropped their annual migration trends index, combining data from 400,000 moving enquiries with a nationwide survey of 2,000 Aussies. While demand for home removalists has dipped 22 per cent over the past five years, one trend remains rock solid: more Australians are swapping the city hustle for the slower pace of regional life. Photograph: South Australian Tourism Commission Rising living costs and sky-high housing prices are undoubtedly the main drivers behind Australia’s current internal migration trends, with more Aussies chasing space, affordability, and a more relaxed way of life that most regional areas provide. So, where’s everyone moving? South Australia’s South East – also known as the Limestone Coast, including Mount Gambier, Robe and Coonawarra – leads with the highest inbound-to-outbound ratio of 1.59. In other words, for every 100 people leaving, almost 160 are moving in. Bunbury in Western Australia follows with a ratio of 1.55, while NSW’s Mid North Coast comes in third at 1.44. Both regions are blessed with natural beauty, easy access to uncrowded coastlines and convenient links to the city – perfect for families se

Got a trip to Bali coming up? See you (and half of Australia) at the airport! Our love affair with Indonesia runs deep, with it having been our most popular overseas destination for the past two years. But before you start daydreaming about Bintangs on the beach, you need to be aware of the new entry requirement that kicked in on September 1. As part of the updated entry rules, travellers to Bali must now complete an online declaration form before arrival. While another form might sound like a hassle, the new ‘All Indonesia’ declaration is designed to speed things up – meaning you’ll go from passport control to poolside even sooner. Previously, travellers had to complete separate forms for health, customs, immigration and quarantine. However, the new platform streamlines everything into one digital form. The ‘All Indonesia’ declaration was introduced on September 1 for all overseas arrivals at Ngurah Rai Airport in Bali, Soekarno-Hatta Airport in Jakarta and Juanda Airport in Surabaya. From October 1, it will become mandatory across all international Indonesian airports. The online declaration is free, and must be completed three days before your arrival – even if you already hold a visa or are visa-exempt. Once you’ve entered your personal details, travel plans, transport and accommodation info, plus health and customs declarations, you’ll receive a QR code to present at the border on arrival. We recommend screenshotting it, in case the Wi-Fi is dodgy when you land. Even wit

Surf’s up, folks! In big news for groms and grommets across the country, Perth has just been given the green light to start building what’s slated to be the biggest surf park in the Southern Hemisphere. Set to make a splash in late 2027, the $120 million proposal will feature a super high-tech 2.2-hectare surfing lagoon (with more than 25 types of waves), rooftop glamping accommodation, a bougie health and wellness centre, a beach club and more – all just 20 minutes from Perth CBD. Popping up in Cockburn Central (adjacent to the train station), Perth Surf Park will be the city’s first major tourism attraction to open in 25 years. It’s expected to welcome up to 1 million guests per year, meaning it’s a win-win for surfing fans and the local economy alike. Photograph: Supplied | Aventuur Australia is currently the only country in the world with two man-made surf parks, including Urbnsurf Melbourne and Urbnsurf Sydney. But when it came to Perth, Urbnsurf’s proposal was outpaced by a $120 million bid from Aventuur – a global surf park development team backed by Aussie surf stars Molly Picklum, Ace Buchan and Glenn ‘Micro’ Hall. Photograph: Supplied | Aventuur Construction on the sprawling Wavegarden-powered pool is due to kick off later this year, featuring a massive 2.2-hectare surfing lagoon – roughly the size of Optus Stadium. It’ll pump out 25 different kinds of waves, ranging from knee-high, kid-friendly white water to powerful pro barrels. How bloody good! Photograph:

They say life only gets better with age – and the golden years prove it. Sure, each birthday might bring a few extra wrinkles or grey hairs, but you grow wiser, tougher, more self-aware and, best of all, you stop caring what others think. So, where are all the oldies at in Australia? Fresh demographic data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has revealed where Australia’s oldest populations call home – and, for the first time in four years, a new city has been crowned the nation’s capital of wrinkles and wisdom. Adelaide has held the title of Australia’s oldest capital city every year since 2020 – but in 2024, Hobart out-aged it. Founded in 1804, the Tasmanian capital is actually Australia’s second-oldest city after Sydney, so the crown suits it well. Photograph: Alastair Bett Hobart’s median age of 39.3 years nudged past Adelaide’s 39.2, with Perth trailing at 37.5. While Hobart replaced Adelaide as the oldest capital city, South Australia remains the oldest state, boasting a median age of 47 compared to Tasmania’s 45.1. At the other end of the spectrum, Darwin is the youngest Aussie capital, with a median age of 34.8 years – almost five years younger than Hobart. Canberra follows as the second-youngest capital at 35.7 years, with Brisbane at 36.4, Melbourne at 36.6 and Sydney at 36.8 – all still younger than the overall median of 36.9 years for Australia’s capital cities combined. Beyond the major cities, it’s no surprise that the areas with the biggest populat

Love thy neighbour? These days, many Aussies couldn’t even name them. A shocking new nationwide survey reveals that nearly half of Australians don’t know all their neighbours’ names, with more than three-quarters agreeing we’re less interested in getting to know them compared to two decades ago. But it’s not too late to jump the fence! The Real Neighbours Report 2025 also found that most Aussies still rate their street mates as ‘helpful and likeable’, proving there’s hope to bring the neighbourly spirit back. In Real Insurance’s Real Neighbours Report 2025, more than 5,000 Australians were surveyed to find out which regions have the friendliest and frostiest neighbours. Each person scored their area on friendliness, likability, helpfulness, community spirit and noise levels, painting a pretty good picture of life in their ‘hood. A clear divide emerges between metropolitan and rural communities when it comes to positive neighbourly interactions. People living in regional areas are more likely to know all their neighbours’ names (32 per cent) compared to those in cities and metropolitan areas (24 per cent). A big reason for this is that only one-third actively introduced themselves, while ten per cent waited for their neighbour to make the first move – so it’s no wonder things aren’t adding up. While roughly two-thirds of Australians find their neighbours helpful and likeable, and 80 per cent value good neighbourly relationships for safety and emergencies, it’s not all sunshine

Banksy is undeniably one of the most influential artists of our time. From ‘Girl with Balloon’ to ‘Flower Thrower’, the famously anonymous street artist’s works are recognised and respected all around the world. Over the past decade, The Art of Banksy: Without Limits exhibition, featuring the unnamed artist’s most iconic works, has drawn 2.8 million visitors across 35 cities – including five stops in Australia. And while the exhibition ended its global tour last month, it’s paved the way for an exciting new chapter that’s making its world premiere in Brisbane this November. Photograph: Supplied | The Art of Banksy Launching exclusively at Uptown, Queen Street Mall, The Art of Banksy: Chapter 2 promises to be the most ambitious and expansive Banksy exhibition ever staged. Spanning 1,550 square metres – double the size of Brisbane’s 2023 exhibition – it will feature more than 300 artworks, three times more than last time. More than 100 of these are original pieces, with visitors invited to dive deeper into the enigmatic artist’s world through immersive installations, digital mapping shows, holograms, sculptures and never-before-seen works. Building on the original Art of Banksy: Without Limits exhibition, Chapter 2 goes deeper into the stories behind some of Banksy’s most iconic works, including ‘Cinderella at Dismaland’, ‘London Zoo’ and the ‘Ice Cream Van’. As the largest exhibition to date, Chapter 2 will also unveil a dazzling new hologram display, adding a futuristic dim

Is there anything better than stopping at a country bakery mid-road trip and treating yo' self to a thick, glossy slab of custard sandwiched between two crisp, flaky sheets of pastry? We sure don't think so, and now you've got a good excuse to hit the road this weekend because the best vanilla slice in all of Australia has just been crowned – and you can find it right here in Victoria.   Last week, bakeries from across the country headed to Merbein on the Murray River to face off in the Great Australian Vanilla Slice Triumph. This nationwide bakery battle has been running since 1998, when then-Victorian premier Jeff Kennett discovered what he claimed was the best vanilla slice. To settle the score, he launched a competition to crown Australia’s finest snot block – and the title has been hotly contested ever since. So, what makes a winning vanilla slice? According to the judges, “when tasted, the slice should reveal custard with a creamy, smooth texture and a balance of vanilla taste with a crisp, crunchy pastry topped with a smooth and shiny glaze/fondant”. Well, the vanilla slice at Sharp's Bakery in Birchip (a small rural town in north-west Victoria) certainly fit that criteria, because it has claimed the crown for 2025. Family-owned since 1977, the Birchip institution has previously won the title in 2009, 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2022, and was runner-up in 2024. "We made around 1,800 vanilla slices last week, and it looks like it will be around 1,500 this week," owner and ba

We know it’s a cliche, but this year really does seem to have vanished into thin air. It feels like just last week that we were changing the clocks for the end of daylight savings, marking the start of the cooler seasons. But, believe it or not, spring is now upon us, and we’re almost back in daylight savings season. Here’s everything you need to know about daylight savings in NSW, including when to turn your clocks forward, and what it will mean for your sleep pattern. When does daylight savings start in NSW? Daylight savings kicks off on the first Sunday of October at 2am local time. In 2025, this falls on Sunday, October 5. So you'll get an extra hour of daylight on the evening of Sunday, October 5 (which is also NRL Grand Final night, incidentally). Do we lose or gain an hour when daylight savings starts in NSW You’ll lose one hour of sleep when our clocks wind forward on October 5, with 2am turning into 3am daylight savings time. Losing an hour of sleep sucks for a second, but we’d happily trade it in for an extra hour of evening sunlight any day of the week. Bring on the sunset picnics!  Do I turn the clock back or forward for daylight savings in NSW? Your smartphone will surely do the job for you, but if you still use an old-school alarm or need to reset your grandfather clock, remember to move your analogue clocks and watches forward by one hour when you wake up on Sunday, October 5. Or: do it the night before so you’re not late for your Sunday morning coffee date. Wh

Holidays used to be all about rest and relaxation – now more travellers are lacing up their boots and planning trips around epic walks. From golden beaches to rugged outback, Australia has no shortage of stunning trails and hikes to take your globetrotting feet, including a brand-new coastal trail in South Australia that links two of the state’s most stunning beaches. Opened just in time for spring, the long-awaited Witton Bluff Base Trail connects the charming townships of Port Noarlunga and Christies Beach via a scenic 1.1-kilometre coastal pathway. The first stage of the project – a 420-metre boardwalk from Port Noarlunga to the tip of the bluff – was completed in December 2024, with the second and final stage now open to the public. Photograph: Supplied | City of Onkaparinga Just a 40-minute drive from Adelaide, the Witton Bluff Base Trail makes the perfect day trip from the city. Plus, it’s just a 20-minute drive from McLaren Vale – perfectly placed for a cheeky post-walk drink at one of the region’s wineries. The 1.1-kilometre trail’s completion adds another striking section to the South Australian government’s ambitious Coast Park vision for a 70-kilometre shared-use path from North Haven to Sellicks Beach. The elevated boardwalk truly shows off South Australia’s natural beauty, carrying walkers above the limestone shelf and offering uninterrupted views of the sparkling Gulf St Vincent and dramatic coastal cliffs. Even better, the three-metre-wide shared pathway is f

Beauty and adventure might inspire a traveller’s bucket list, but safety often seals the deal when it comes to actually booking a trip. After all, it’s hard to enjoy yourself in an unfamiliar place if you’re too scared to step outside your hotel room. That’s where the annual Global Peace Index (GPI) comes in handy. Every year, the Institute for Economics and Peace ranks 163 countries across 23 factors, ranging from rates of violence and crime to corruption, terrorism and international conflicts. So, where do you think Australia would rank? Turns out, a little lower than expected – sitting in 18th place. But hey, that’s a one-place jump from last year’s ranking, and we well and truly beat some of our western, English-speaking counterparts, such as the UK at 30th and the US all the way down at 128th. Australia ranked as the fifth-most peaceful country in the Asia-Pacific, a region that’s held onto its title as the world’s second-most peaceful region since 2017. Ahead of us were New Zealand (third overall), Singapore, Japan and Malaysia. Australia ranked in the global top 25 for societal safety and security, as well as for managing ongoing domestic and international conflict. But our score slipped in the militarisation category – a trend seen worldwide – where we came 82nd. Overall, the 2025 GPI found that global peace declined for the 13th time in the last 17 years. Curious which country took out the top spot? No surprises here – Iceland has held onto number one since 2008, tha

Another month, another full moon – but September’s ‘blood moon’ is anything but ordinary. In the early hours of September 8, a total lunar eclipse will paint Australian skies in an eerie reddish hue for 82 mystical minutes. This full moon is a big deal: not only is it the second and final total lunar eclipse of the year, but Australia’s also tipped to have its best ‘blood moon’ viewing of the decade. Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the last total lunar eclipse of 2025. When is the next total lunar eclipse? The total lunar eclipse will begin late at night on Sunday, September 7, but will reach full totality in Australian skies in the early hours of Monday, September 8. Those in Western Australia will score the best views, with the entire eclipse visible from start to finish. But don’t worry, East Coast skywatchers should still be able to see most of the eclipse phases, including the highly anticipated moment of totality. This spellbinding stage of totality will last 82 minutes, with the full eclipse stretching across roughly five hours. Here’s when full totality will start and end in Australia’s capital cities: Adelaide – 3am to 4.22am (peaks at 3.41am) Brisbane – 3.30am to 4.52am (peaks at 4.11am) Canberra – 3.30am to 4.52am (peaks at 4.11am) Darwin – 3am to 4.22am (peaks at 3.41am) Hobart – 3.30am to 4.52am (peaks at 4.11am) Melbourne – 3.30am to 4.52am (peaks at 4.11am) Perth – 1.30am to 2.52am (peaks at 2.11am) Sydney – 3.30am to 4.52am (peaks at 4.11am)

Reality check: it’s September already! Instead of fretting about how fast the year’s flown by, we’re celebrating the petals, pastel colours and pure joy of spring. Across the country, floral festivals are gearing up to bloom – from Canberra’s Floriade to Toowoomba’s Carnival of Flowers and Sydney’s recent Cherry Blossom Festival. But down south, Australia’s largest tulip field is prepping to host a massive, one-day flower fiesta – and chances are, you’ve never heard of it. Set on the banks of the Inglis River in Tasmania – a two-hour drive from Launceston – Wynyard Tulip Festival offers a chance to frolic through hundreds of thousands of tulips this spring. Since its launch 33 years ago, this one-day celebration has blossomed into a major event, drawing more than 20,000 visitors in 2024. Photograph: Supplied | Tulip Festival Wynyard Wynyard Tulip Festival takes place on the second Saturday of October each year, which in 2025, lands on October 11 from 11am to 9pm. This perfectly coincides with peak tulip season at Cape Range Tulip Farm, which is believed to be the largest tulip field in the Southern Hemisphere. The tulip farm is at the heart of the festivities, with free shuttle buses running every 30 minutes from the festival hub in Gutteridge Gardens to Table Cape Tulip Farm. While the tulips are the star of the show, festivalgoers can also look forward to a packed program of local entertainment, delicious street food and a grand fireworks finale. Photograph: Supplied |