Melissa Woodley

The nostalgia of biting into a piping hot pie by the roadside is a common bond shared by many Aussies. Whether you like yours with ketchup (correct choice), barbecue sauce (we’re judging) or loaded up with gravy and mushy peas, these hot pockets hit those comfort cravings in all the right places.  Australia's love affair with pies is so strong that tourists now consider them one of our ‘signature dishes’, and we even have dedicated national competitions to crown the best of the best. Our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, has been lucky to try many of these flaky beauties on her trips around the country (including in Sydney and Melbourne), and she's thrown in a few recommendations from fellow pie lovers she's met along the way. From classic beef and curried scallops to lasagne and palak paneer, here are the best pies in Australia worth hunting down. 🥖 The best bakeries in Australia right now🌭 Where to find Australia's greatest sausage rolls 🥐 The best croissants in Australia

Ah, food. Glorious, glorious food. There’s nothing more we’d rather travel around the country for. Almost every state, city and even town in Australia has its own foodie festival, bringing together the best chefs, farmers, producers and suppliers. Our Sydney Food & Drink Editor, Avril Treasure, raves about Orange F.O.O.D Week, our Melbourne Editor, Lauren Dinse, loves Pinot Palooza, and our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, dreams of experiencing Darwin International Laksa Festival. So, whether you’re a wine wanker, a seafood seeker, a beer buff or a truffle hunter, here are the best food and drink festivals in Australia worth travelling for. 🍽️ The best restaurants in Australia🎸 Australia's grooviest music and arts festival🍷 The best bars in Australia

No one’s accusing Sydney of being cheap, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t budget-friendly hotels to be found in this sparkling diamond of a city. We've rounded up the best affordable hotels in Sydney, from off-the-beaten-track four-star secrets to reliable chains that business travellers depend upon. We’ve also compiled the city’s neatest and most reliable go-to hostels for backpackers, many of which offer single and double occupancy and ensuite rooms, not just intimidating dorms. 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. 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.Otherwise, simply say YOLO to your bank balance and book one of the city's best luxury hotels. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

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 Food & Drink 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.

The Emerald City is peppered with a whole host of dreamy stays – from boutique boltholes with rooftop pools overlooking trendy city suburbs to sky-high towers with uninterrupted views of the Opera House. To help you choose which is right for you, our team of writers (including Lifestyle Writer Winnie Stubbs and Travel and News Editor Melissa Woodley) have shared their top picks for the best places to stay in Sydney – along with tips on how to make the most of your stay. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: These are the best glamping sites in NSW. These are the best camping sites near Sydney. And these are the best spots for a weekend away if you’re keen to get out of town. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel featured below, we've based our list on top reviews and amenities to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Sure, Canberra experiences a slightly chillier winter than the rest of Australia, but we think that makes it even more magical. Instead of cranking up the heater and bundling yourself in blankets, why not embrace the season?  From whimsical truffle hunts and fiery glass-blowing classes to world-class exhibitions and cosy eats, here are the very best things to do this winter in Canberra, according to our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley. 🍺 Warm up at one of Canberra's best bars⭐️ Stay at one of the best hotels in Canberra❄️ Discover the best winter activities in Hobart

When it comes to ultimate Aussie winter getaways, it’s hard to beat the chilly charm of our only island capital, Hobart. The pretty little city makes for a wonderful weekender, no matter the season. However, unlike other Australian cities, Tassie is built for the cooler months – with plenty of magical midwinter festivals, stargazing opportunities and heated indoor adventures. You can embrace the crisp, cool air on a scenic hike, seek warmth at one of Hobart’s best day spas, or cosy up by the fireplace at one of the nation’s top fine dining restaurants. A trip to Hobart’s famous avant-garde gallery, MONA, is a must – after which you can sink into a steamy bubble bath at one of Tassie’s most bougie hotels. Rug up, pack your puffer and prepare for the ultimate winter getaway with this list of the best things to do in Hobart in winter. 🍽️ The best restaurants in Hobart right now🌈 The best winter light festivals in Australia🔥 The best saunas in Tasmania

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

Melbourne and Sydney might hog the spotlight when it comes to Australia’s best baristas, but Canberra quietly brews up some of the finest cups in the country. Ona dominates the capital's coffee scene – that's right, their beans are proudly roasted right here in Canberra – while local favourites like Redbrick, Two Before Ten and Barrio serve up their own top-tier takes on liquid gold. Whether it’s your cuppa on the morning commute, a long brunch or a late-night craving, Time Out’s local writers along with our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley (who has spent a good hunk of time exploring the bean scene, mind you), have rounded up all the best coffee shops in Canberra. Get sipping! For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. ☕️ The best cafés in Canberra🥐 Where to find Canberra's best bakeries🍹 Canberra's best bars

No matter where you venture in Adelaide, you won’t be far from a café serving world-class coffee with brunch fare and sweet treats to match. Whether you’re looking for a cheeky cup of Joe to go or a big (perhaps boozy) brunch with all the trimmings, Adelaide has it all. Bloom is the place to be for woodfired plates by the River Torrens, while Hey Jupiter will transport you to Paris sans le long-haul flight. But if it’s new-wave breakfasts with all the flair that you’re after, Pixie and the Hawk is the place to be.  Time Out contributor and local food enthusiast, Dale Anninos-Carter, has been on the scene for more than a decade, and these hotspots have been given the all-clear, jointly with our local writers. The best cafés in Adelaide await your next catch-up with a pretty outlook and warm service just the beginning. For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍽 The best restaurants in Adelaide🍷 Adelaide's best coffee shops🥐 The best bakeries in Adelaide

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. Here are all the biggest musicals currently playing in Australia or headed Down Under in the next year or so. 🖼 The best Australian art galleries🔍 Australia's greatest museums 👀 The best art exhibitions to see in Australia right now

Call us biased, but we think Australia is one of the most incredible and diverse places 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 we come in. From turquoise beaches and ancient rainforests, to flaming red deserts and buzzy metropolitan cities, our Travel and News Editor Melissa Woodley (who has visited every Aussie state and territory) has picked out the most breathtaking places you should visit in Australia right now. 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.  Jump to list:  QLD | NT | WA | NSW | SA | VIC | TAS 🇦🇺 The 20 top tourist attractions in Australia🌈 Australia's most beautiful places to explore🚘 Regional towns worth visiting in Australia

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 box and blanket including a chef’s selection of cheese, dips, meats, crackers and marinated vegetables.  How to get tickets for Pufffing B

Sunday is probably my favourite day of the week. If I’m not travelling, it’s my self-care day to do all the things that make me happy – trail runs, ocean dips, lazy brunches and, of course, a cheeky arvo nap before the work week begins (something I kind of look forward to because I love my job). Hamilton Island’s newest boutique escape, The Sundays, has taken everything that I adore about Sundays and turned it into an everyday vibe. Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, The Sundays is easily one of the most anticipated hotel openings of 2025 – and after staying there, I can confirm it’s worth the hype. The $35 million price tag is just a hint of what to expect at this boutique beach hotel by the team behind The Whitsundays’ most iconic luxury resort, Qualia. It’s the first new hotel to open on Hamilton Island in more than 17 years and brings a fresh, family-friendly energy to the island. Foodies will be enticed by the Catseye Pool Club, the hotel’s waterside restaurant led by celebrated chef Josh Niland of Saint Peter. Here’s why you should pay The Sundays a visit. Why stay at The Sundays? A literal piece of paradise on an island paradise, The Sundays feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Yet, it’s actually just a few hours’ flight from Australia’s east coast (with direct flights from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne) or a breezy boat ride from Airlie Beach. All guests at The Sundays enjoy complimentary return transfers from the airport or marina

If you’re after more than just a space to work out or squeeze in a physio session, Power Potential is for you. This swish, new wellness sanctuary inside The Mill (just next door to The Grounds of Alexandria) offers high-tech treatments for both recovery and relaxation – think infrared saunas, contrast plunge pools, reformer pilates and remedial massages. The philosophy at Power Potential is simple: to combine the power of medical science with the depth of traditional wellness. The result? A two-for-one destination where you can receive treatment and recharge all under the one stylish roof.  What sets Power Potential apart from your run-of-the-mill gym or bathhouse is that every journey starts with a full body scan. From there, their integrative health professionals will create a personalised wellness program for your body’s individual needs. Talk about VIP treatment! While the state-of-the-art facility covers all the bases – physiotherapy, orthopaedic and exercise therapy – its unexpectedly luxe wellness and recovery space really steals the spotlight. Whether you’re an elite athlete seeking muscle relief or a busy journalist looking for stress relief (guilty!), you’ll leave Power Potential feeling so zen that buying a one-way ticket to India and starting a new life as a sunrise-loving yogi is a seriously tempting reality. The luxe wellness space features a three-way infrared sauna, with settings for detoxification, relaxation, recovery and circulation – all with customisable

You don’t need to book a trip to Bordeaux when South Australia has its own world-class food and wine scene. While the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale are the state’s most well-known wine regions, the Adelaide Hills is perhaps its most underrated. Located just 20 minutes from the city centre, this cool climate region is home to charming villages, world-class wineries, lush forests and five-star stays. One such gem is Sequoia Lodge – an exclusive adults-only lodge, sitting atop the misty Adelaide Hills.  Why stay at Sequoia Lodge? This ultra-luxe property is everything your adult dreams are made of. The 14 plush suites boast a large bathtub with panoramic views of the valley, a spacious private balcony, a sunken lounge room with a toasty fireplace, and a moon window for stargazing before bed. Your luxury getaway also includes 32 complimentary perks, like daily breakfast, a fully stocked mini bar, an inviting infinity pool, an artesian hot pool experience and morning yoga. Say no more! What are the rooms like at Sequoia Lodge? Each of Sequoia Lodge’s 14 suites is identical, meaning you’ll experience luxury at its finest, no matter what your room number. The moment I stepped into my suite, I was immediately struck by the panoramic views overlooking the fiery foliage of Piccadilly Valley below. Whether I was lounging on the plush king bed, relaxing on the comfy L-shaped sofa, stretching out on the expansive daybed outside, or soaking in the bathtub (after retracting the Chromecast

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 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, pickled, pres

The phrase ‘your phone eats first’ takes on a whole new meaning at The Grounds of Alexandria. In 2024 and 2023, this viral all-day café in Sydney – famous for its sprawling alfresco area, enchanting installations and, yes, huge weekend crowds – was named the world’s most Instagrammed café.  It’s been more than a decade since I last visited The Grounds. Back then, I had to convince my mum to drive me all the way across the Harbour Bridge for a pastry and, much to my shame, a photo op. Now, ten years later, I decided it was time for me to return and see if the café still lives up to the hype. Judging by its almost 400,000 Instagram followers, 123,000 posts tagged #TheGroundsOfAlexandria, and 5,600 Google Maps reviews averaging four stars, I got the gist that it was still going strong. One clear takeaway from my research was to avoid visiting The Grounds on the weekend, when crowds swarm in from all across Sydney – and the world, for that matter. Hoping for a quieter experience, I visited on a Monday morning, only to find the car park completely full by 10am. Those who enter through Bourke Road will first encounter The Grounds’ charming, rustic alfresco area, complete with a miniature animal farm. While I was disappointed to find that ‘Kevin Bacon’ (the café's infamous resident pig) was no longer there, his old pen is now home to two cheerful goats.  Keep strolling past the animal farm, and you’ll eventually find yourself in the gorgeous Garden Bar and BBQ. Here, chandeliers han

This century-old working winery is the birthplace of one of McLaren Vale’s most widely recognised wines – Wirra Wirra’s eternally popular all-rounder, Church Block. Ironically, it’s a blend (merlot/shiraz/cab sav), rather than a purist varietal – but when a blend is this palatable, there’s not much room for singular snobbery. Church Block is a stone-cold winner by any measure, but if you are after something more specific, Wirra Wirra does a classic McLaren Vale shiraz too (plus grenache, sauvignon blanc, riesling, chardonnay… all with a sustainable, biodynamic bias).  You could easily spend a whole day here, wandering the wine-stained bricks of the cellar and cavorting on the sun-dappled lawns. From just $40, you can explore the historic vaulted brick facilities (parts of which are 125 years old), gaining exclusive access to Trott’s Cellar and an opportunity to ring the three-quarter-tonne Angelus Bell (just be ready to put some muscle into it). But most folks come here to wine and dine. Tastings start at just $15, pouring some of McLaren Vale’s richest, most fulsome wines and decadent stickies. Directly across from the cellar door, Harry’s Deli offers a seasonally inspired modern Australian menu that you can enjoy inside by the wood-burning fireplace or out in the courtyard overlooking the gum trees. Share local cheeseboards with fine-cured meats and house focaccia, tuck into Harry’s famous Son of Trott Pie, or settle in for a long lunch designed by head chef Taiaha Ngawiki

  The Daintree Rainforest steals the spotlight as the crown jewel of Australia's rainforest scene, but it also holds a world record – it's the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth. Located in the high, emerald tropics of Far North Queensland, this living wonder has more than 180 million years of history waiting to be uncovered. As the largest tropical rainforest in Australia, it spans a staggering 1,200 square kilometres and is home to more tree species in just one hectare than in all of the United Kingdom. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Daintree Rainforest. Where is the Daintree Rainforest? The Daintree Rainforest is located in Far North Queensland, just a two-hour drive from Cairns or a quick 45-minute trip from Port Douglas. It’s located within the Daintree National Park, which is part of the broader World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics region, stretching from Townsville to Cookstown. This spectacular rainforest borders some of Australia’s most stunning beaches, serving as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. In fact, it’s one of the only places on Earth where a thriving rainforest exists so close to a living reef ecosystem. How big is the Daintree Rainforest? The Daintree Rainforest region covers approximately 1,200 square kilometres, stretching from the Daintree River to Cooktown to the Great Divide. This vast area represents the largest continuous block of tropical rainforest in Australia. How old is the Daintree Rainfo

What is it? Located atop a multi-storey carpark in Northbridge, Rooftop Movies screens films of all genres nightly from October to March. Why go? Round up your mates for a movie night at the cinema with the best views in town. Rooftop Movies plays a diverse line-up of films, with everything from Oscar-winning flicks and throwbacks to blockbuster hits and new releases. Of course, there’s also a candy bar slinging buttery popcorn, local ice creams, juicy burgers and refreshing cocktails.

The name 2KW is shorthand for No. 2 King William St – but don’t go searching for it at street level. This iconic rooftop bar is eight floors above your head, atop one of Adelaide’s most historic buildings. Getting there is part of the fun, involving a mysterious double elevator ride to the top storey. However, a little effort goes a long way for the showstopping panoramic views stretching from North Terrace to Adelaide Oval and beyond. With gorgeous greenery and a stylish mix of low and high-top bar seating, the outdoor terrace bar is the perfect spot to soak in the stunning scenes. But if the ripper view isn’t enough to win you over, 2KW’s ace menu certainly will. The terrace bar serves up a full drinks menu alongside finger-food snacks, build-your-own cheese boards and hand-stretched sourdough pizza. Signature cocktails complete the journey, including the namesake 2KW – a refreshing blend of gin with notes of peach, pear, honey and lemon, plus a foamy finish. For a cool, calm and collected lunch, the indoor restaurant is designed for both intimate dates and group feasts. Executive chef Sam Christopher champions South Australia’s finest produce with a share-style menu designed to impress. Start with gildas and blue swimmer crab toast, before scooping up salt-baked beetroot tartare with fennel seed crackers or spreading creamy Vannella burrata over sourdough flatbread. When it comes to mains, choose from grilled market fish in a smoked eel beurre blanc, slow-cooked lamb shoul

If running a half marathon is on your 2025 bucket list, make sure your race ticks three key boxes: a beautiful location, a fun crowd and an empowering atmosphere that makes you feel unstoppable. Good news for Sydney gals – your search ends here, with the chance to run in Nike’s exclusive, women-only half marathon in Sydney on April 12. Between 2005 and 2018, Nike hosted a hugely popular series of women’s races in some of the most incredible places across the world. Now, the mega sports brand is bringing back its beloved After Dark Tour, with the first race kicking off right here in Australia.  The immersive 21.1-kilometre course will start in Sydney’s Inner West and offer epic views of the city skyline as runners race from White Bay to Jones Bay Wharf to Pyrmont Bridge. Upon crossing the finish line at Tumbalong Park, participants can run straight into an epic post-race celebration, pumping with live music, recovery stations and fierce female energy. You don’t need to be a pro runner to sign up for the late-night half marathon. First-timers can access an official training plan via the Nike Run Club app and stay motivated by connecting with other participants in the lead-up. Yeah the girls! Entry to the Nike After Dark Tour in Sydney is $100 and includes everything from a personalised sports bra fitting (you get to keep the bra) to a race t-shirt and post-race celebration access. Registrations close on February 11, so gather all your gal pals and sign up as a group pronto.  Fo

A magician never reveals their secrets, so I can only spill so much about Penn & Teller’s eight-night stint at the Sydney Opera House. But trust me, the famous pair’s 50th-anniversary tour goes far beyond the classic disappearing handkerchief routine. As the longest-running resident headliners in Las Vegas history, this dynamic duo strikes the perfect balance of traditional magic, unconventional trickery and quirky humour. Their 50th-anniversary extravaganza is ever-evolving, with a nightly rotation of fresh tricks and past hits. If you’re seated stage left, stay alert, audience participation is woven into almost every act: from crazy card tricks and coin illusions to some truly absurd stuff – think a gorilla drinking soup, and a giant squirrel sipping Champagne in a bathtub – the surprises keep coming. The real magic, however, lies in the fact that Penn & Teller have been dazzling audiences together for half a century. You simply have to see it to believe it.  January 11–18, Sydney Opera House, $79–$169. Find tickets & info over here. RECOMMENDED: Here's our guide to the best shows to see in Sydney this month Check out our running list of reviews from Sydney Festival

You won’t find many festivals where you can plunge into icy Arctic waters, speed-date scientists, drink booze with death experts, or debate the science of sex – but that’s just a taster of the program at Beaker Street Festival. Returning to Tasmania in August 2025, Australia’s quirkiest science and arts festival is ready to blow your mind with more than 70 wild and wacky events, all focused around themes of death, pleasure and humanity. This year, the festivities will unfold during National Science Week – from Saturday, August 9 to Sunday, August 17 – with activations spanning from the Tasmania Museum and Gallery, City Hall and The Old Mercury Building, to lively pubs, bars and restaurants dotting the Hobart waterfront and CBD.  Photograph: Alastair Bett Forget boring school science experiments or dull university lectures – this year’s Beaker Street program is one of its biggest and boldest yet. The festival’s signature stage at Hobart City Hall will return with headline talks and raucous debates. You can learn about the science of better sex in Come Again? An Evening of Sex and Science, look for love in Melbourne’s cult nerd-dating show Human Love Quest: Your Chemical Romance!, question AI in What’s Your p(Doom)?, see Dr Karl in a headline solo show, and test your knowledge in the festival’s flagship Beaker Street Game Show. It’s a rite of passage for anyone visiting Antarctica to brave the cold with a polar plunge. Beaker Street Festival will once again bring this freezin

Aussies will soon have the chance to recreate an iconic Crocodile Dundee moment, as one of the country’s most famous waterfalls – featured in the film – is set to officially reopen on Saturday, May 31. Located in Kakadu National Park in the Northern Territory, Gunlom Falls has been closed for almost six years after Parks Australia built a walkway too close to a sacred rock art site belonging to the Jawoyn Traditional Owners. However, a new lease agreement between the Commonwealth and Kakadu’s Traditional Owners has paved the way for the reopening this May, just in time for the Top End’s dry season. Gunlom Falls, known as Echo Lake in Crocodile Dundee, is best known for its starring role in the classic film in a scene where Mick Dundee (Paul Hogan) takes Sue Charlton (Linda Kozlowski) for a swim in the picturesque natural pool at the top of the falls. The waterfall’s reopening couldn’t come at a better time, with a remastered version of the beloved film released globally in early May. Photograph: Tourism NT | Peter Eve Kakadu Tourism Chair, Lauren Ganley, said the reopening of Gunlom Falls also represents an important new era in Kakadu’s tourism future. “There is no destination in Australia more culturally unique than Kakadu, and so it is essential that we respect the heritage and culture of Traditional Owners in the way the Park is presented to visitors,” said Ms Ganley Along with the lower plunge pool, visitors will be able to access a series of natural infinity rock pools

Want to see elephants roaming in the wild but can’t quite make it to Africa? Your dreams are closer than you think. Australia is in fact home to the world’s largest open-range safari park, where a mighty herd of elephants and plenty of endangered species roam free. Spanning more than 1,500 hectares, Monarto Safari Park is so huge that you could fit every major Aussie zoo inside it and still have room to spare. Pretty wild! The park houses more than 500 exotic and native animals, with heaps of epic experiences that’ll make you feel like you’re on your very own African safari. Plus, you can even stay at the park’s brand-new luxury safari lodge, which welcomed its first guests in late May 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Monarto Safari Park. Where is Monarto Safari Park? Monarto Safari Park is located in the small South Australian town of Monarto, just an hour’s drive east of Adelaide CBD. For those without a car, LinkSA runs direct buses to Monarto Safari Park on weekdays, departing from Adelaide CBD in the morning and returning in the mid-afternoon. Photograph: Tourism Australia | South Australian Tourism Commission How big is Monarto Safari Park? Covering more than 1,500 hectares of open plains, Monarto is the largest safari experience outside of Africa and the biggest open-range zoo in Australia. What animals can you see at Monarto Safari Park? You can spot more than 500 exotic and Australian native animals roaming around Monarto Safari Park. The par

With our gorgeous beaches and sparkling harbour, Sydney is probably best-known for its blue and beige outdoor spaces. But look around, and you’ll see that the Harbour City is home to plenty of green spaces too – from magical hidden gardens to huge, sprawling parklands. In fact, according to a Time Out survey of locals around the globe, Sydney is considered the greenest city in Australia, and the third-greenest city in the world. To determine the rankings, we quizzed 18,500 locals across the planet about their green spaces and the access they have to nature. The 20 that made the list below had the highest share of ‘good’ or ‘amazing’ ratings. Dubbed the ‘city of eternal spring’, Medellín in Colombia ranks as the top city for green thumbs and nature lovers, where a whopping 92 per cent of locals positively rated its green spaces and access to nature. Boston claims second place with 88 per cent ‘good’ or ‘amazing’ ratings, while Sydney shares third place with London, both scoring 87 per cent. Our Emerald City (coincidence? We think not!) is bursting with green spots to escape the urban jungle, including the grand 189-hectare Centennial Park, the famous harbourside Royal Botanic Gardens, and the country’s oldest park, Hyde Park. Sydney doesn’t just boast excellent green spaces – it’s also a great base for getting out and exploring the great outdoors. On the city’s northwest perimeter, you’ll find the sprawling Blue Mountains National Park, while to the south, the spectacular Roya

When it comes to natural beauty, Australia is a technicolour dream. From the turquoise waters and white sands of our beaches to the sunburnt deserts and golden sunsets of our outback, life here is anything but beige. But where our nation truly shines is on the spectrum of green. Our rainforests, national parks, wetlands and vineyards are undeniably lush – however, our urban centres also boast plenty of leafy spaces that you can explore on your lunch break. In fact, according to a Time Out survey of locals around the globe, Australia is home to three of the world’s 20 greenest cities. To determine the rankings, we quizzed 18,500 locals across the planet about their green spaces and the access they have to nature. The 20 that made the list below had the highest share of ‘good’ or ‘amazing’ ratings. Dubbed the ‘city of eternal spring’, Medellín in Colombia ranks as the top city for green thumbs and nature lovers, where a whopping 92 per cent of locals positively rated its green spaces and access to nature. Boston claims second place with 88 per cent ‘good’ or ‘amazing’ ratings, while Sydney shares third place with London, both scoring 87 per cent. Photograph: Supplied | RBGS Our Emerald City (coincidence? We think not!) is bursting with green spots to escape the urban jungle, including the grand 189-hectare Centennial Park, the famous harbourside Royal Botanic Gardens, and the country’s oldest park, Hyde Park. Sydney doesn’t just boast excellent green spaces – it’s also a grea

The weather might be cooling down, but Australia’s love for hiking is seriously heating up. According to AllTrails, winter is officially peak trekking season, with Aussies recording their highest number of navigations during the cooler months. So, where’s everyone walking? The hike-mapping app has analysed the data and revealed the top ten most popular hikes in Australia this winter. See you on the tracks… Photograph: Supplied | AllTrails   1. Grand Canyon Track, Blue Mountains, NSW Australia’s most popular winter hike also claimed the crown as our nation’s favourite hike of 2024. This 6.3-kilometre circuit takes hikers on a magical journey through the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park, passing gently cascading waterfalls, giant ferns and moss-covered rocky overhangs that look straight out of a fairy tale.   Photograph: Creative Commons 2. Werribee Gorge Circuit Walk, Pentland Hills, VIC This 7.6-kilometre loop features a hiking trifecta: gorgeous views, rock scrambling and, for the brave, a post-hike swimming hole. Our favourite photo spot is the Eastern Lookout at the gorge, which offers panoramic views of the park’s coolest natural wonders.  Photograph: Supplied | AllTrails 3. Yarra Bend Park Loop, Melbourne, VIC Just a short drive from Melbourne’s CBD, this relaxed 9.2-kilometre track on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people weaves through the city’s largest natural bushland park. Look out for rainbow lorikeets, red-rumped parrots, yello

We’ve just found the dream job you never knew you wanted… babysitting Tasmanian devils. And that’s just one of ten quirky jobs up for grabs on Australia’s only island state this winter. As part of Tourism Tasmania’s annual ‘Winternships’ campaign, those eager to brave the cold could score gigs doing everything from shredding down mountain bike trails and foraging for wild mushrooms to sizzling away in a floating sauna. Bliss! Having all your travel expenses covered for these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities sounds almost too good to be true, and that’s because it kind of is. Only ten Aussies will be chosen for these exclusive winter jobs, designed to turn even the biggest sun-seekers into bona fide ‘winter people’. Fun fact: Tourism Tasmania found that only one-third of Aussies currently call themselves that. Our favourite role is the devil sitter gig at Devils@Cradle, where the lucky wintern will clock in at a cool 4pm to keep an eye on the cheeky little devils, who’d rather pull an all-nighter than nap through their social lives. Maybe steer clear of the bedtime kisses, as they’ve got some pretty sharp teeth. Photograph: Tourism Tasmania Animal lovers can throw their hat in the ring to be a goat doofer at Hideaway Farmlet in Penguin (yep, that’s legit the name of the town), where they’ll be tasked with putting on a mini music festival for a herd of vibe-seeking goats. Honestly, this could be the first goat bush doof in the world! Meanwhile, Borradale Stanley is hiring a c

Let me quickly clear the air: I personally don’t think Canberra is ‘boring’. I spent some of the best years of my life there as a student, so I totally understand why locals get frustrated with its reputation as the land of politicians, bus stops and roundabouts. Sure, Canberra copped a ‘notable mention’ in a 2023 global ranking of the Most Boring Cities in the World – but there’s far bigger news to talk about now. Australia’s capital has just been named the best city on Earth for quality of life, beating out the 1,000 largest cities worldwide. This ranking comes from the most recent Global Cities Index by Oxford Economics, which ranks the best cities in the world across five categories, including quality of life, economics, human capital, environment and governance. Both Melbourne and Sydney cracked the overall top ten in 2025, which is a big deal for them. And while Canberra narrowly missed out on a top 50 spot, landing in 52nd place, it outshone all the other Australian cities in the quality of life category. It even overtook Grenoble, France, which held the top spot for quality of life in 2024, when Canberra came in second. Photograph: Athithan Vignakaran via Unsplash Our nation’s capital was the highest-ranked Australian city in four of the six quality of life indicators, including income equality, income per person, housing expenditure and life expectancy. It also ranked second for its recreation and cultural sites behind Sydney, but fell short when it came to crime r

Summer is officially over, and here in Sydney, the event calendar of the cooler months is dominated by one word: Vivid. The multidisciplinary festival of lights, music, food and ideas has returned to the Harbour City for 23 sparkly nights this winter, promising its most creative and boundary-pushing program to date. Reimagined for 2025, the festival will unfold across five immersive zones – Circular Quay and The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, The Goods Line and Inner City, and Martin Place and the CBD – with a massive 75 per cent of the events program (and the entire Light Walk) completely free. Whether you’re travelling from overseas or interstate, or just a local keen to see what’s new, we’re here to guide you on the best things to see, places to stay and dining experiences to book at Vivid Sydney 2025. When is Vivid Sydney 2025? Vivid is on now, set to illuminate Sydney across 23 dazzling nights from Friday, May 23 until Saturday, June 14, 2025.  What to see at Vivid Sydney 2025? In 2025, Vivid Sydney is bringing us a reimagined program of light, music (you can check out this year's wildy-good music line-up here), ideas and food – all centred around the open-ended theme, ‘dream’. If you’re only in town for one night, the impressive Vivid Light Walk is a must, guiding you past all the biggest and best light projections from Circular Quay to Barangaroo and Darling Harbour. The best part? The Light Walk will be free for everyone to enjoy this year, along with 75 per cent

Update May, May 23: The Snowy Mountains received its first dusting of snow on May 1, with Mount Hotham and Falls Creek also experiencing their first pre-season snowfall on May 18. A cool chill has begun creeping across Australia, reminding us that winter is almost here. While many Aussies are clinging to beach days and balmy nights, skiers and snowboarders are crossing their fingers for a ripper snow season in 2025. The past two winters have been pretty disappointing for snow enthusiasts, with warm temperatures delaying the start of the season and rainy weather forcing Australia's top ski resorts to shut earlier than usual. Of course, we can’t be certain what Mother Nature has in store for this year’s ski season, but here’s what the weather gods are predicting so far. When is the snow season in Australia 2025? This year's snow season will kick off on June 7 (the King's Birthday long weekend) and run until October 6. The first Aussie ski resorts set to open for the 2025 season on June 7 include Falls Creek, Mount Buller, Perisher and Thredbo, with the exact start and end dates varying between other resorts. When is the best time to visit the snow in Australia? Peak snowfall is forecasted for August and early September – you can read more about the exact week for each ski field here. What will Australia's 2025 snow season be like?  As we've mentioned, snowfall is incredibly hard to predict. Currently, Weatherzone's forecast models are pointing to abnormally warm and dry condi

The idea of spending 20 hours on a plane isn’t a dreamy idea, but the fact that the world’s longest flight is set to take off from Sydney in 2027 definitely captured the attention of our city’s travel enthusiasts. Qantas’ ambitious plan to launch a direct 20-hour flight between Sydney and London has quickly become one of our most-read stories of the year. But given how far-flung our island continent is from the rest of the world, many of the longest flights actually already depart from Australia. Let’s take a look at the current top ten. As of 2025, the world’s longest flight is the 18-hour 50-minute journey between New York City and Singapore. First launched by Singapore Airlines in 2020, this 15,349-kilometre route is operated on an Airbus A350, which features 67 business class seats and just 94 premium economy seats (there are no standard economy seats on board). In that time, you could binge-watch all eight Harry Potter movies and still have one minute to spare. Jeepers! Singapore Airlines also runs the second-longest flight on Earth, an 18-hour and 45-minute journey spanning 15,344 kilometres from Newark, New Jersey to Singapore. If we’re measuring by distance, Qatar Airways’ Doha to Auckland route is the next longest, covering 14,535 kilometres in roughly 17 hours and 35 minutes. But if we’re going off estimated flight duration, Qantas’ Perth to London route takes the bronze, with the 14,499-kilometre journey taking around 17 hours and 45 minutes.  The fifth and sixth l

Right up there with the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, the Qin dynasty’s Terracotta Warriors aren’t just one of China’s greatest cultural treasures – they’re a wonder of the world. Now, Aussies have a chance to see part of the 8,000-strong army in an exclusive exhibition at Perth’s WA Museum Boola Bardip. Running from June 28, 2025 to February 22, 2026, Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Empire is set to make history as the largest museum exhibition Western Australia has ever seen – and you’ll want to catch it before it marches home to China. For more than 2,000 years, this life-sized army stood guard at the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, China’s first emperor, in Shaanxi province. Their existence remained a secret until 1974, when unsuspecting farmers digging a well struck archaeological gold. Photograph: Supplied | WA Museum Boola BardipMuseum of the Terracotta Warriors, Mausoleum of the first Qin Emperor, Xian, Shaanxi Province, China A rare delegation of eight Terracotta Army figures is marching into Perth for this exclusive exhibition – including a general, an armoured infantryman, a charioteer officer and a kneeling archer – plus a seated attendant and a saddled horse. Sure, eight out of 8,000 warriors feels a little measly, but ten is the maximum number of Terracotta figures China loans internationally at any one time – so we should feel pretty lucky! Joining the warriors are a whopping 225-odd treasures from ancient China, the majority of which have never