Melissa Woodley

Sometimes all you need is a mammoth mouthful of deliciousness. Flame-grilled. Dripping in sauce. Oozing with cheese. With or without beetroot – oh yeah, we’re talkin’ about burgers. Once the cravings hit, there’s just no going back. From proper American classics to tempting vegan numbers, our food writer Dale Anninos-Carter has sunk her teeth into these juicy numbers to round up the very best burgers in Adelaide right now. All you need to decide? Do you want fries with that.     Editor’s favourite burgers in Adelaide     For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza in Adelaide🍽 The best restaurants in Adelaide🍣 Adelaide's best Japanese restaurants

It's no secret that Australia's landscape plays host to a range of wonders. But when you're well and truly caught up in living the city life, it's easy to forget the unmistakable jolt of electricity you feel when encountering the unreal majesty of our natural world. We've picked out some of Australia's rarest and most spectacular natural phenomena that are worth travelling to the far corners of our country for. From the mystical Aurora Australis and the world's largest wildflower show to the giant red crab migration and bioluminescent plankton, these spectacles have to be seen to be believed. But be warned: natural phenomena are fickle and they don't play by the human calendar. So, you'll have to let go and give in to the universe's mysterious natural rhythms – surely that's part of what makes seeing them so incredibly special? 🌈 Australia’s most colourful landmarks🌅 The most spectacular sunsets in Australia✨ Where to go stargazing 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. 

Moving to Australia? You've landed in the right spot. With its promise of sun, sea and Crocodile Dundee, Australia lures millions of visitors to its shores every year. And for many of those arrivals – including thousands from Britain, Ireland, New Zealand and India – a love of the Land Down Under quickly grows from a holiday fling into a long-term commitment; more than 200,000 people choose to permanently immigrate to Australia every year. It’s easy to see why so many expats fall for our nation – culturally, we have a lot in common with other Anglosphere nations. But that doesn't mean every facet of Aussie life feels immediately familiar, and our quirks can be especially bewildering for those from non-English-speaking countries. From the slang to the wildlife, here are things you only learn during your first year of living in Oz.   Photograph: Taylor Johnson via Unsplash     1. There aren't dangerous critters everywhere Australia’s native fauna has a well-earned rep around the world for being extravagantly deadly. New arrivals fully expect funnel webs and brown snakes to be leaping out at them at every turn. But relax, there aren’t murderous animals hiding in every shadow. In fact, it's highly unlikely you'll ever run into one if you live in the city. Magpies, on the other hand – that's another story. 2. The ibis is not a mystical and revered creature To be fair, these long-legged savagers are far more peculiar and fascinating than most city-bound birds in other countries,

If Canberra had to pick a culinary crush, it would be Indian. The city is full of curry-craving residents, many of whom would much rather indulge in the real deal than settle for their own half-hearted attempts at home (let's face it, it just never tastes quite as good). Luckily for them, Canberra has a plethora of places serving everything from the smoky flavours of the tandoor oven and the fiery heat of a North Indian curry to South Indian dosas and a cooling lassi. We asked ex-MasterChef contestant and food writer Mimi Wong to recommend the best Indian restaurants in Canberra, and her list takes you right across our capital. The only question is, can you handle the heat? Editor's favourite Indian restaurants in Canberra: ✨ Best local favourite: Rama’s Fiji Indian Restaurant 😋 Best cheap and cheerful: Indian Pantry Restaurant 👌 Best institution: Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant 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 Italian in Canberra

​​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. Editor's quick picks: Best for sunset views: YHA Sydney HarbourBest for a socially impactful stay: Song Hotel SydneyBest airport accommodation: Moxy Sydney Airport 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

Heading Down Under? You've come to the right place. For almost 60 years, Time Out has been inspiring people to get off the couch and experience the very best of cities worldwide – and now we're here to do the same for Australia. You know the landmarks and the laid-back culture, but there are plenty more incredible things to do in Australia than kissing koalas and yelling ‘g’day mate’. We're a nature lover’s paradise, with highly sought-after food experiences and an impressive cultural heritage to boot. Our team (including Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley) have sifted through every attraction, experience, event and landmark our nation has to offer and put together the only Aussie bucket list you'll ever need. Whether you want to get amongst art parties in small coastal cities, see fairy penguins scurry across sandy beaches or watch the sunrise over Sydney Harbour from a kayak, there’s so much to explore across this incredible country. Here's our guide to all the best things to do in Australia right now. Editors must do activities in Australia: ⭐️ Best city landmark: BridgeClimb, NSW 🖼️ Best for culture: MONA, TAS 🍷 Best food and drink: Barossa Valley, SA 🌊 Best outdoor adventure: Whitehaven Beach, QLD 🐿️ Best wildlife encounter: Rottnest Island, WA Jump to list:  Landmarks | Culture | Food & Drink | Outdoors | Wildlife 🇦🇺 The top tourist attractions in Australia🌊 The best beaches in Australia

Believe it or not, another school holiday is just about to begin in NSW. And if the thought of keeping the kiddos entertained for the next two weeks sends you into a spiral, we have you covered. Below, you'll find the ultimate round-up of activities and experiences happening in Sydney for kids and families this spring. When is the spring school holidays in NSW?  The spring school holidays for 2025 run from Monday, September 29 to Friday, October 10 –this applies to both the Eastern and Western divisions of NSW. What to do in Sydney in the school holidays? There’s something here for the explorers, the budding scientists, the mini-athletes, the musical prodigies and just about everyone in between. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Looking for somewhere affordable to eat out with the kids? Check out our guide to the best cheap eats in Sydney. Or visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

There’s never been a quiet year for theatre in Australia. From the bright lights of Broadway and West End to our very own stages in Australia, we’re lucky to play host to some of the world’s biggest and best musicals. We’re also a hotbed for homegrown gems, with fresh and experimental shows lighting up stages across the country every month.  From the grand return of a British “mega-musical” starring cats to the Aussie premiere of a musical based on Pretty Woman, this year’s theatre line-up is shaping up to be one of the most exciting yet. We highly recommend nabbing tickets to The Book of Mormon, which just opened in Sydney and will hopefully announce more cities soon. Or, hold out for tickets to Broadway hit Anastasia, which is making its long-awaited Aussie debut in Melbourne this December. Here are all the biggest musicals playing in Australia – in order of when they hit/are hitting the stage. 🖼 The best Australian art galleries🔍 Australia's greatest museums 👀 The best art exhibitions in Australia

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. Note: These are ranked in no particular order. Editor's favourite burgers in Australia: 🍔 Best icon: The Gidley, NSW ⭐️ Best gourmet: Le Rebelle, WA 😋 Best cheeseburger: Charrd, VIC For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🥧 Australia's best pies🌭 The best sausage rolls🍕 The best pizzas in Australia

Call us biased, but we think Australia is the most incredible and diverse country on the planet. A sizeable place (you know, continent-sized), it can be overwhelming to decide where to go on your first, fifth or 50th trip – but that's where our expert travel writers come in. From turquoise beaches and ancient rainforests, to flaming red deserts and buzzy metropolitan cities, our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley (who has visited every Aussie state and territory) has picked out the top places to visit in Australia right now. First-timers should start with iconic destinations, like the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru and Whitsundays, while seasoned travellers can uncover hidden treasures in the Scenic Rim, Kangaroo Island and Ningaloo Reef. No matter who you are or what you like – be it art, wine, sports or festivals – rest assured, there's something on this list for everyone. Here's your official guide to the best places to visit in Australia. Editor's favourite places in Australia: 🌊 Best for beaches: Rottnest Island, WA 🪸 Best for natural wonders: Great Barrier Reef, QLD 😍 Best for iconic landmarks: Uluru, NT 🏝️ Best island escape: Whitsundays, QLD 💎 Best hidden gem: Adelaide Hills, SA Jump to list:  QLD | NT | WA | NSW | SA | VIC | TAS 🇦🇺 Top tourist attractions in Australia🌈 Australia's most beautiful places🚘 Regional towns worth visiting

What are the best restaurants in Australia? With such a diverse and world-class dining scene, picking the best of the best is no easy feat – but don't worry, we've done the hard work (and the eating) for you. Our expert editors, including resident foodie Melissa Woodley, have tasted their way around the country to curate this list of the best restaurants Australia has to offer, from fine-dining institutions to hidden neighbourhood gems. So, what’s the secret recipe to an exceptional dining experience? In coming up with Time Out’s list of the best restaurants in Australia, we considered a mix of ingredients. Talented chefs? Stylish decor? Lively ambience? Top-notch drinks? And of course, food that you can’t stop thinking about for days, months, or even years. Luckily, Australia’s restaurant scene is sizzling with spots that check all these boxes, plus so much more. Here are the best restaurants in Australia right now. Editor's favourite restaurants in Australia: ⭐️ Best bucket-list: Saint Peter, NSW 💎 Best hidden gem: Warrior Restaurant and Bar, QLD 🥂 Best for special occasions: Wildflower, WA 🌊 Best view: Quay, NSW 🌍 Best sustainable: The Agrarian Kitchen, TAS Jump to list:  NSW | VIC | QLD | WA | SA | TAS | ACT | NT For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍹 The best bars in Australia⭐️ The best hotels in Australia

Say farewell to fast fashion and hello to shopping secondhand, as Australia’s biggest pre-loved treasure hunt – Garage Sale Trail – returns for two massive weekends this November. We suggest getting a headstart on that spring clean-out to make room for lots of newfound treasures at bargain prices.This year’s event is going down on November 8-9 and 15-16, with hundreds of sales set to pop up across the country. From vintage clothes to classic cookbooks, cult vinyl and rare Lego, Sydenysiders willing to hit the streets will get their hands on some pretty special treasures. If you're roaming through your suburb on the day you'll likely stumble on a sale or too, but it's worth checking out the map if you want to plan out your shopping journey with coffee breaks in mind. Garage Sale Trail started with two Bondi guys, Andrew and Dazz, who decided they would set up a secondhand stall at a local event in the suburb. ‘Don’t dump it. Sell it.’ was their tagline. Fast-forward 13 years, and Garage Sale Trail has become a nationwide festival with more than 300,000 Aussies hitting the trails each year, and Garage Sale Trail sellers making an average of $457.In 2024, 297,792 Australians sold or shopped at more than 13,000 garage sales nationwide – saving 755,261 items from landfill. Plan your route by building a trail of sales to visit using the Garage Sale Trail map, here. If you want to turn your stash into cash, you can register for the Garage Sale Trail for free here. Stay in the loop:

When it comes to sustainable dining, Refettorio OzHarvest is in a league of its own. By day, the not-for-profit café serves nourishing three-course lunches to Sydney’s vulnerable communities, free of charge. But every Wednesday and Thursday night, ‘the Ref’ opens its doors to the public for Pay It Forward Dinners, where every ticket pays for four people in need, to dine the following day. If that's not enough, the gourmet meals are completely vegetarian and zero-waste, made using up to 95 per cent rescued produce. It's a win-win-win for your palate, the planet and those in need. The Refettorio, which takes its name from the Latin word meaning "to re-make" or "restore," is a first-of-its-kind social impact collaboration in Australia, brought to us by the food waste warriors at OzHarvest and celebrated Italian chef Massimo Bottura’s not-for-profit organisation Food for Soul. Unlike Bottura's three Michelin-star restaurant, Osteria Francescana, the Ref opens its doors to folks facing food insecurity, serving around 500 guests each week. Talk about a delicious way to make a difference. Part of the Ref’s charm is not knowing what’s on the menu until you’re comfortably seated. Head chef Jez Wick keeps things exciting by changing the three-course menu on a weekly (or sometimes even daily) basis, embracing wonky vegetables and imperfect produce, which have been donated or rescued from local suppliers, supermarkets and farms. Not a scrap goes to waste – any leftover food is fermented,

If I asked someone to name Australia’s most luxurious hotel, they’d probably pick somewhere in Sydney, the Gold Coast or perhaps Hamilton Island. But here’s the thing – they’d be wrong. I’m officially handing that crown to a boutique hotel in Perth, run by a brand that most East Coasters haven’t even heard of. Housed within the 19th-century State Buildings – which formerly served as a post office, land titles office and treasury – COMO The Treasury is the epitome of urban luxury. In 2015, these three historic buildings were seamlessly merged into a single grand hotel, featuring just 48 rooms and suites, a luxurious spa, a heated indoor pool, a gym, and a collection of swish restaurants, bars and independent shops. As the first and only COMO property in Australia, the hotel perfectly blends old-world grandeur with the Singapore-born COMO's signature minimalist style. I lucked out with some torrential rain and winds during my time in Perth – but honestly, there’s nowhere I’d rather be stuck indoors, giving me the perfect excuse to luxuriate in my room and explore all the State Building’s stellar dining options. What stay at COMO The Treasury? As my taxi pulls into a small side street off St Georges Terrace, I almost feel like I’ve stepped into a Victorian-era fairytale. The grand redbrick façade of the State Buildings feels old, yet new – a mere taster of the grandeur that awaits inside. The rain is pounding down, so I’m quickly ushered into the warmth of the arrivals lounge f

Fremantle has a lot going for it right now. In the same week it was crowned Australia’s Top Tourism Town 2025, the city welcomed a brand-new boutique hotel: Garde. The name nods to the building’s past life as Fremantle’s old police headquarters, and just its former occupants, the hotel positions itself as the new ‘guardian’ of the city. RECOMMENDED: I visited Australia's best tourism town for 2025 – here’s the verdict I stayed at Garde during its opening week in September and got a glimpse of life beyond the historic limestone walls. While the wellness retreat and signature restaurant, Anglesea, were still being put through their final touches, it was clear that this boutique hotel is set to become a standout addition to Fremantle. Why you should stay at Garde Hotel? Surrounded by Fremantle’s best eateries and bars, the Heritage-listed Fremantle Prison and the popular Fremantle Markets, Garde really puts you right on the doorstep of the city’s top attractions. It’s technically part of the burgeoning Convict Quarter precinct, with every detail designed to honour Fremantle’s past, while looking into the future. Garde is the perfect base for first-time visitors to Fremantle, but equally ideal for Perth locals seeking a stylish staycation. I loved having everything within walking distance and could’ve spent hours unwinding in the in-house wellness space, featuring a sauna and ice shower – ideal for anyone in need of a little rest and relaxation. What are the rooms like at Garde H

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

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)

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

Update Tuesday, September 30: The Australian Space Weather Forecasting Centre has issued an Aurora alert, confirming a geomagnetic storm is currently in progress. According to the alert, the "Aurora may be observed during local nighttime hours in good observing conditions at high latitudes." Sightings are most likely in Tasmania, Victoria and South Australia – however, cloud coverage may impact visibility. 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 this year, we could be in for 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? Australia’s first big Aurora Australis of the season occurred on Sunday, June 1, sparked by a severe geomagnetic storm. To stay updated, you can subscribe to their geomagnetic storm alerts here, track Aurora activity using this real-time map, or join this Facebook group for posts about the most recent sightings around Australia.  What is the Aurora Australis? The Aurora Australis is a breathtaking natural light display that glows across the southern skies, also

I’ve eaten a lot of weird things in my life. I’ve slurped llama soup in Peru, snacked on fried grasshoppers in Mexico and fondly recall a basil-flavoured gelato in Rome. These days, though, I gravitate towards the vegetarian side of the menu, having tried everything from konjac ‘calamari’ and seitan ‘steaks’ to jackfruit ‘pulled pork’ and Beyond ‘beef’ patties. Truth be told, I’m not usually a fan of these meat substitutes – but when I heard Australia had just approved its first lab-grown meat, I was eager to put it to the test. In June, Australia officially became the third country in the world to approve cell-cultured meat. It took two years for Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) to give the green light to Sydney-based startup Vow, which has been selling its cultivated Japanese quail foie gras to high-end restaurants in Singapore for the past year. Quail might seem like an unusual choice for its market debut, but that’s exactly the point. Vow intentionally steered away from everyday meats like chicken or beef to avoid direct comparisons. Photograph: Supplied | Vow So, how does Vow make its cultured meat? In a big warehouse in Sydney’s Alexandria, animal cells are placed in a huge fermentation tank filled with a nutrient-rich liquid (designed to replicate the body of a living animal). There, the cells grow and multiply naturally. After 79 days, a ‘harvesting’ process occurs where the meat is separated from the liquid, like curds from whey, and then combined with

Camping on Sydney Harbour is seriously bucket-list stuff! While it’s normally off-limits, Sydneysiders are being invited to break the rules for one night – all in the name of charity. This free campout is part of Sleep Under the Stars, a nationwide fundraiser to raise awareness for Australia’s hidden youth homelessness crisis – and anyone can take part. Since launching in 2015, Sleep Under the Stars has transformed some of Sydney’s most iconic spots into overnight campgrounds – from Hickson Road Reserve to Taronga Zoo and even Cockatoo Island. As part of the event, locals are invited to trade their beds for sleeping bags or swags and help raise $1 million for Stepping Stone House, a local charity supporting young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. In 2025, Sleep Under the Stars will return to Stargazer Lawn at Barangaroo for a wholesome night of live music, storytelling, games and stargazing. The campout is free to join, with fundraising encouraged – every dollar goes directly to Stepping Stone House, supporting programs that provide long-term accommodation, education pathways, employment support and life skills to those in need. Photograph: Supplied | Sleep Under the Stars   Today, almost 46,000 young Australians under 25 are experiencing homelessness. In 2023-24, they made up almost half (49 per cent) of those supported by NSW Specialist Homelessness Services, highlighting just how severely young people are affected. Nearly two-thirds of those seeking help in

In our opinion, Newcastle is one of the most underrated cities in the world. It’s much more than sun, surf and sand – it’s also home to one of Australia’s hidden art treasures, set to reopen in February 2026. Following a multi-year renovation, Newcastle Art Gallery will double in size to become NSW’s largest public gallery outside Sydney, proving the city isn’t just about coastal charm – it’s culture-packed too. You might be surprised to discover that Newcastle Art Gallery was Australia’s first purpose-built regional gallery, officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in March 1977. Sitting opposite Civic Park, it has been the beating heart of the Hunter Region’s arts and culture scene for almost fifty years. The gallery closed in January 2022 for a major glow-up, which will add an extra 1,600 square metres of exhibition space to the imposing ’70s concrete brutalism architecture. Photograph: Supplied | Newcastle Art Gallery Over the decades, Newcastle Art Gallery has expanded its collection by more than 500 per cent. It’s now home to one of the nation’s finest public art collections, with more than 7,000 works valued at $145 million. The multi-million-dollar renovation will allow the gallery to present long-term displays of its world-class permanent collection for the first time, alongside ambitious Australian and international exhibitions. The lower levels will be dedicated to spotlighting the gallery's personal collections, while the upper level will host a diverse programme

 ‘Health is wealth’ is a saying that most Aussies live and breathe – and right now, our nation is deep in its wellness era. Bougie gyms are popping up on every street corner, sauna sessions have replaced after-work drinks and taking a mental health day is actually a legit excuse to skip work. It checks out, then, that Australia boasts one of the world’s fastest-growing wellness economies, now valued at more than US$126 billion (AU$193 billion). ‘Wellness economy’ might sound like another one of those woo-woo buzzwords, but the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) defines it as industries that help people incorporate wellness activities and lifestyles into their daily lives. Every few years, the GWI releases its Global Wellness Economy Report, tracking global spending on wellness – and for the first time ever, they’ve released a detailed breakdown for Australia. The report reveals that from 2022 to 2023, Australia’s wellness economy grew by a staggering 10.9 per cent to reach US$126.7 billion. This huge increase from US$94.7 billion (AU$145 billion) in 2019 pushed Australia from 13th to the tenth-largest wellness economy out of 218 countries. On top of that, we rank seventh globally for per capita spending on wellness, with each Australian shelling out an average of US$4,824 (AU$7,375) “With beautiful landscapes, a growing wellness real estate market and a strong fitness tradition, it’s no wonder that Australia ranks in the top ten wellness economies globally,” said Susie Ellis, GW

Did you even go on a hiking trip if you didn’t hit up Kathmandu first? This beloved outdoor retailer has been a saviour for adventurers around the world, selling everything from black puffer jackets (Australia’s unofficial winter uniform) to three-season sleeping bags, packable hammocks and collapsible coffee cups. But sadly, your local Kathmandu store could be closing soon. In September, KMD Brands – a New Zealand-based retailer that also owns Rip Curl and footwear brand Oboz – announced plans to shut more than 20 Kathmandu stores worldwide in the next financial year, including 14 in Australia. That represents just under ten per cent of the brand’s 170 stores across the country. Photograph: Nick-D via Wikimedia Commons The news comes as part of an “organisational restructure” revealed during KMD Brands’ latest strategy rollout, aimed at boosting profits in the next financial year. Despite a one per cent increase in sales last year, the business recorded a hefty annual loss of $83.1 million, with underlying net losses climbing to $25.12 million – a big jump from $980,000 the previous year. However, it’s not all bad news! As part of the shake-up, KMD plans to add six new stores to its global network, including three flagship Kathmandu concept stores. These will feature updated layouts, offer a more personalised shopping experience and integrate digital and data-driven initiatives to improve decision-making and supply chain management. On top of that, same-store sales for the

I’m yet to meet anyone who actually enjoys a long-haul flight. Hours in a cramped seat, recycled air and questionable aeroplane meals are enough to test even the biggest travel addicts. But there’s an easy way to make your journey more enjoyable: a stopover. Instead of slogging it from point A to B, you can turn a layover into a mini mid-trip holiday – and Sydney is one of the very best spots to do just that. To determine the world’s top layover destinations, AllClear Travel Insurance analysed more than 80 major international transit hubs, scoring each on six key factors: walkability, airport-city transfer times, cost of a one-night stay, proximity of top tourist attractions, onward flight connections and average daily spend. With a ‘Stopover Score’ of 78.3, Frankfurt soared into first place as the world’s ultimate city for a 24-hour stopover. Travellers can get from Germany’s busiest airport to the city centre in just 15 minutes, and its compact layout makes exploring iconic sights and medieval architecture a breeze. Frankfurt isn’t exactly a halfway point between Australia and Europe, but it could make a cheeky layover if you’re ever flying to Iceland or hopping between Greece and the UK. Photograph: Supplied | Destination NSW According to the study, Sydney is Australia’s top destination for a layover, landing 13th overall with a score of 72. Travellers can get from the airport to the city in just 13 minutes, with all of Sydney’s top tourist attractions sitting within a 1

If you still haven't recovered from the magic of the Eras Tour (it's me, hi!), have already listened to *that* New Heights podcast episode way too many times, and spent most of the weekend searching for pics of Taylor at Selena Gomez's wedding, this is for you. Swifties around the world have officially been counting down to the release of Tay Tay’s 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, which drops on October 3 in the US (so early on October 4 in Australia). And to mark the incredibly important occasion, more than 8,000 theatres around the world – including right here in Melbourne – are hosting exclusive screening parties across three epic days. Fans can look forward to the music video debut for ‘The Fate of Ophelia’, behind-the-scenes footage from the shoot, brand-new lyric videos and Swift's never-before-seen personal reflections on tracks from the upcoming album. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to The Official Release Party of a Showgirl in Melbourne. What is Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl? Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl is an exclusive cinematic event celebrating the pop superstar’s 12th album, The Life of a Showgirl. The 89-minute show is being released simultaneously in select theatres across more than 50 countries. In a post on Instagram, Swift said, “Looks like it’s time to brush off that Eras Tour outfit or orange cardigan… Dancing is optional but very much encouraged.” Vi

It’s that time of the year again! Time Out’s annual list of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods has just dropped – and two Aussie suburbs made the top 25. An unexpected multicultural hub in Sydney debuted in 16th place, while a charming inner-city suburb in Melbourne landed 24th. Both outranked neighbourhoods in Mexico City, Toronto, Hong Kong and San Francisco – proving Australia is way cooler than some might give us credit for. How did Time Out decide the final rankings? Our global team of writers and editors nominated the most vibrant districts in their hometowns, which were then scored against criteria including culture, community, liveability, nightlife, food and drink, street life and that hard-to-define sense of ‘nowness’.  In 2025, Sydney’s diverse Inner West suburb, Burwood, emerged as Australia’s coolest neighbourhood, landing 16th worldwide. A little unexpected? Maybe – but it ticks all the boxes. Photograph: Destination NSW Sydney local and Time Out Editor in Chief Alice Ellis says, “One of the best things about Sydney is its diversity – and Burwood is the fifth-most diverse community in the entirety of Australia. With that comes some of Sydney’s best food: Chinese cuisines dominate (the neighbourhood is home to the colourful Burwood Chinatown, after all), but you’ll also find some of the city’s best Japanese and south-east Asian food, alongside Uyghur, Greek and Italian.” During the day, check out Pillar, a wabi-sabi café serving specialty coffee from local micr

First came ‘Love Story’, then The Eras Tour, and now we’re all ears (and eyes) for Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl. Swifties around the world have been counting down to the release of Tay Tay’s 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, which drops on October 3 in the US (so early on October 4 in Australia). To mark the incredibly important occasion, more than 8,000 theatres around the world – including Australia – are hosting exclusive screening parties across three epic days. Fans can look forward to the music video debut for ‘The Fate of Ophelia’, behind-the-scenes footage from the shoot, brand-new lyric videos, and Swift's never-before-seen personal reflections on tracks from the upcoming album. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to The Official Release Party of a Showgirl in Australia. What is Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl? Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl is an exclusive cinematic event celebrating the pop superstar’s 12th album, The Life of a Showgirl. The 89-minute show is being released simultaneously in select theatres across more than 50 countries. In a post on Instagram, Swift said, “Looks like it’s time to brush off that Eras Tour outfit or orange cardigan… Dancing is optional but very much encouraged.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift) When does Taylor Swift: The Official Release Party of a Showgirl come out in Au

Nothing beats a refreshing ocean dip on a sweltering summer’s day. A cold shower and a wet towel do the job, but submerging your body in crystal-clear waters just hits different. Luckily, Sydney is brimming with breathtaking beaches and coastal walks perfect for a cool-down – and we’re not just talking about Bondi Beach. Beyond this famous sandy spot lie countless pristine, uncrowded gems that locals have been quietly keeping to themselves. And now, we’re ready to spill their secrets. In order to find Australia's hidden coastal gems, the team at BoatBooker scoured Google Maps data for terms like ‘secluded beaches’, ‘hidden beaches’ and ‘quiet beaches’ with less than 100 reviews. From there, they ranked each spot based on its overall rating, spotlighting the best off-the-radar coastal spots. Photograph: Destination NSW Located 35 minutes from the swarming summer crowds in Byron Bay, Norries Headland Boardwalk tops the list as Australia’s top hidden coastal gem. At the time of the research, it boasted a near-perfect rating of 4.9 out of five from 79 reviews – though we expect that number won’t stay under 100 for long. This beautiful 800-metre return walk is the only non-beach spot on the list, but don’t worry – it leads to Cabarita Beach, where you can enjoy a post-walk dip. Photograph: Destination NSW The only other NSW gem to crack the top ten was Sydney's Shelly Beach. Just a short stroll from the Manly shops and ferry wharf, it feels like a secluded island in comparison

Nothing says comfort food quite like a big, juicy burger – Australia’s burger scene is seriously stacked (pun fully intended). Whether you’re after a greasy hangover hero with spicy relish, a gourmet spin on the classic beef burger, or a double-patty delight with extra pickles, we’ve got the goods. In fact, Australian burgers shine on the national stage – we’re officially home to three of the best on the planet. So, who crowns the world’s best burgers? Each year, a panel of experts from the internationally renowned World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants come together to rank the World’s 25 Best Burgers. In 2025, one legendary Sydney spot cracked the top ten, while last year’s only Aussie entry and a recently opened Melbourne joint also cracked the list. Photograph: Supplied | Next Door The title of Australia’s best burger for 2025 – and the world's tenth best – goes to celebrated chef Neil Perry’s beloved American cheeseburger from Next Door in Double Bay, Sydney. When Time Out’s Sydney Editor, Avril Treasure, asked Perry what makes it one of the world's best, he said it’s all about using the best ingredients. “For the cheeseburger at Next Door, we take CopperTree Farms’ beef – a mix of brisket and chuck – grind it daily and hand-form the perfect 160-gram patty, cook it to medium, and serve it with melted American cheese, rose mayo (spiked with umami and tomato sauce), onion and pickles in a milk bun, with the option to add fresh chilli and bacon,” Perry says. Photograph: Chri