Melissa Woodley

The Sunshine Coast’s ever-expanding dining scene is a double-edged sword: how does one pick between so many fantastic restaurants? Seasonal and locally sourced produce take centre stage across all cuisines, with everything from modern Asian and Middle Eastern to seafood, spaghetti and steak.  Once you’ve ticked off all the hot spots on Hastings Street in Noosa, make your way south to Mooloolaba’s bustling waterfront for fresh prawns and Asian street food, the sunny town square of Peregian Beach for a paddock-to-plate long lunch, or the scenic hinterland to dine at new farm-to-table restaurant ēthos. Here’s our guide to the best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast, straight from local tips and the well-fed experience of our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley. ☀️ The best things to do on the Sunshine Coast🌊 Your ultimate guide to Noosa🍽️ Where to eat in Noosa

Everything’s bigger in the Northern Territory: the horizon, the highways and the speed limit. It's the only place in Australia where you can drive 130 kilometres per hour on some roads, and it’s a good thing too, as there’s plenty of ground to cover.  Distances may be far in the Top End, but that’s part of the allure. Day trips from Darwin are less 'casual stroll through the countryside' and more 'action-packed adventure'. Whether it's exploring national parks like Kakadu or Litchfield to island escapes to Tiwi and Crab Claw, our local expert, Alley Pascoe, has rounded up the best day trips from Darwin. Strap in, you’re in for a ride (within driving/sailing/helicoptering distance from the city).  🚗 The most epic Australian road trips🌳 The best things to do in Darwin🥐 Darwin's best cafés

More hotels mean more holidays, right? With fancy five-star stays and groovy boutique properties popping up all around town, you’d be silly not to experience them all for yourself. We mean, who wouldn’t want to be the first to sink into a plump king bed or wrap themselves in a fresh white bathrobe at a brand-new hotel? We recently checked into two of Australia’s most exciting new hotel openings: Hamilton Island’s first new stay in nearly 17 years, The Sundays, and Sydney’s most anticipated inner-city stay, The Eve Hotel – both earning glowing five-star reviews. Next, we have our eyes on the African-inspired Monarto Safari Resort in South Australia and the coastal-luxe Mondrian Gold Coast. Keep scrolling to see our full round-up of the best new hotels in Australia, along with the ones to watch out for in the months (and years) to come. 🌴 Australia’s most incredible resorts and lodges⛺️ The best free campgrounds in Australia🧖🏾‍♀️ The most luxe day spas in Australia

The humble sausage roll is as Australian as a Bunnings snag on a Saturday. Whether it’s from your school tuck shop, the local servo or a fancy neighbourhood bakery, there’s never a bad time to chomp into one. If you’re a fellow fan of juicy, spiced logs of meat wrapped in flaky, buttery jackets of pastry, then you’ve landed in the right place. Our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley quizzed foodies around the country to bring you a list of the best sausage rolls in Australia. We've featured award-winners, like the one-kilogram monster from Kenilworth Bakery and the reigning national champion from Whittlesea Bakehouse, along with cult favourites like Bourke Street Bakery and Tivoli Road. No beef here – we’re not saying this is a full roll call, just ones that absolutely won’t disappoint. Get rolling! 🥧 The best pies in Australia🍕 Australia’s best slices of pizza🐟 Top spots for fish and chips 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.

France – the home of love, day drinking, red berets and impossibly stylish people. It’s also home to fine French fare: everything from soft cheeses and fresh baguettes to bouillabaisse bursting with the flavour of the sea. When your annual leave is all dried up, Francophiles can get their fix at one of Sydney’s many excellent French restaurants. Here are the best places to dine on French cuisine, from steak frites to silky crème brûlées, so you can feel oh-so French any day of the week. 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. While you're here, check out: These are the best Italian restaurants in Sydney Here's where to find the tastiest Greek food in Sydney Quench your thirst with our list of the best bars in the city

Looking for a travel adventure that goes beyond typical sightseeing? Combining wild, untouched landscapes with ancient history and fascinating culture, Australia’s Indigenous tourism experiences are hard to beat. They share the stories of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who have lived on this land for more than 65,000 years – a diverse tapestry of hundreds of nations and language groups, each with their own Dreaming stories, ceremonies and deep cultural knowledge. Our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley and experienced travel writer Rosamund Brennan have pulled together a list of eye-opening First Nations tours that'll take you deep into Australia's most pristine landscapes, all while teaching you about the world’s oldest living culture. From trekking with Custodians through the lush Daintree Rainforest and swimming with dugongs in the Kimberley to seeing ancient stories light up the sky over Uluru, these experiences may change the way you view the land Down Under. 🏞 The best national parks in Australia☀️ The greatest things to do Down Under😍 The most beautiful places in Australia

Rottnest Island is one of those incredibly rare places on Earth that looks even better IRL than it does in glossy travel magazines. Also known by its local Aboriginal name, Wadjemup, and ‘Rotto’ by locals, it’s an essential addition to any WA itinerary. Out-of-towners might know Rottnest for its friendly population of quokkas, but the island's also home to the most incredible azure blue waters you’ll come across, and nowadays, it has a selection of top-notch eateries and luxe accommodation, as well as camping grounds and low-key restaurants for the budget-conscious. Our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, recently took a day trip and spent five hours riding around the entire island, stopping for swims at all the beautiful beaches along the way. Here's her pick of the best things to see and do on Rottnest Island. 🏝️ The most beautiful islands in Australia🌳 Everything to do in Perth🚘 The best day trips from Perth

Escape the crowds in Perth, Broome and Margaret River, and head to this lesser-known coastal gem in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. ‘Amazing Albany’ is one of WA’s best-kept secrets, home to many of Australia’s bluest beaches – including Middleton Beach, Emu Point and Little Beach – all just minutes from the CBD. Sun and sand aside, Albany’s rugged coastline is dotted with striking rock formations, peaceful nature trails and panoramic lookouts perfect for spotting whales in winter. Plus, those looking to take it easy can explore its historic museums and sample local brews and bites. Don’t sleep on this coastal town any longer and start ticking off this list of the best things to do in Albany. How to get to Albany?  Albany is just a one-hour flight from Perth or a 4.5-hour drive (which makes for an incredibly scenic road trip).  When is the best time to visit Albany? Wildflower season in spring (September to November) is a popular time to visit Albany, perfect for hiking the Bibbulmun Track and catching the end of whale-watching season (May to October). Meanwhile, the weather from March to May is ideal for beach days and bushwalks along the coast without the summer crowds. How long to spend in Albany? We recommend spending two to three days in Albany to take in all the major sights. However, allow an extra few days if you plan to explore more of the 1,003-kilometre Bibbulun Track.  ☀️ Where to visit in Western Australia🌊 The best things to do in Exmouth😍 What

Perth might be one of the most isolated cities in the world, but we're lucky, as driving virtually anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes will take you somewhere new. If you’re wondering where to go on a quick day trip from Perth, we’ve picked a variety of locations you can explore from Perth for just a day. A scenic ferry ride will take you to our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley's favourite destination, Rottnest Island, or to the more secluded shores of Penguin Island. But if you'd prefer to stay on the mainland, drive 30 minutes south-west to the Swan Valley wine region, venture one hour south to Mandurah or head two hours north to The Pinnacles Desert. Take your pick from the best day trips near Perth. 🚗 The best Australian road trips☀️ The coolest things to do in Perth🥐 Perth's best bakeries

Almost exactly halfway between Victoria and New South Wales, Canberra is perfectly placed for excellent day trips that show off the very best of this corner of Australia. Whether you're sipping at bucolic vineyards in the Murrumbateman Wine Region, exploring sleepy seaside towns along the South Coast or chasing thrills in the Snowy Mountains, there's something for everyone just a short drive from Canberra's CBD. Our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley has road-tested almost all of these thrilling day trips from Canberra. Her top picks include the charming Southern Highlands (don't miss Baked in Berrima), the epic Gibraltar Peak hike in Namadgi National Park and the coastal vibes of Bateman’s Bay. So pack the car, grab your snacks and bring your sense of adventure. 🌳 The best things to do in Canberra🥐 Canberra's best bakeries🚗 The best hikes in Canberra

One of Tasmania's biggest selling points is its small size, meaning you can explore much of the state without driving too far. Even on a long weekend visit to Hobart, you can tick off a big hitter, like Wineglass Bay, Bruny Island or Launceston. Talk about bang for your buck. Whether you want to pull on the hiking boots for a strenuous side quest in Mount Field National Park, go for a stunning ocean dip at Binalong Bay (our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley's favourite) or get your history fix at Port Arthur, there’s a day trip from Hobart to fulfil your desires. All it takes is some planning, a tank full of petrol and in some cases, a National Parks pass. So strap yourself in (because safety!) and enjoy the ride. Here are the best day trips from Hobart. 🚗 The best Australian road trips🥾 The coolest hikes in Hobart🥐 Hobart's best bakeries

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tik tok, the wait is over – Kesha is coming back to Australia for her first headline tour in more than a decade. The multi-platinum pop superstar will bring her party anthems to four Aussie cities in February 2026 (sorry, Sydney!), and each stop will be full of sequins, sass and a whole lot of bangers. With more than 3 billion streams, ten top-ten singles and two number-one albums, Kesha is officially in her comeback era. Her bold and bedazzled Tits Out Tour celebrates the release of her chart-topping album Period – and we’re hoping the setlist will also feature 2000s classics like ‘Tik Tok’, ‘Your Love Is My Drug’ and ‘Blow’. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to Kesha’s 2025 Australian tour. When is Kesha’s 2026 Australian tour? So far, Kesha’s announced four Australian dates, including: Brisbane’s Riverstage – Thursday, February 19 Melbourne’s Margaret Court Arena – Sunday, February 22 Adelaide Entertainment Centre – Tuesday, February 24 Perth HPC – Thursday, February 26 It’s a bit of a shock horror that the pop powerhouse isn't stopping in Sydney. But she did already perform a sold-out House of Kesha headline show there earlier this year. There’s also speculation that Kesha's skipping Sydney as she might be heading there for Mardi Gras on February 28 (which happens to land just two days after she wraps up her Tits Out tour in Perth). When do Kesha Australia tickets go on sale? The general public sale kicks off on Friday, August 8 at 10am local time

One of the best things about Australia is our endless stretches of sun-kissed coastline, stretching from the tropical tip of Cape York to the rugged cliffs of the Great Ocean Road and the coral wonders of the Ningaloo Reef. And scattered along the way are some of the world’s dreamiest beach stays that deserve a spot on every summer (and winter) bucket list. If you’re craving island time or plotting your next summer escape, you’ve come to the right spot. Travel + Leisure has crowned the ten best beach and island hotels in Australia for 2024, and they’ll have you counting down the days till summer. In 2025, Travel + Leisure readers crowned JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa as Australia’s number one beach hotel. First shortlisted by the publication’s editors, the final decision came down to thousands of reader votes – and it’s easy to see why. This luxurious 28-storey hotel might be located in the heart of Surfers Paradise, but it radiates private tropical resort energy. Think a private marina, a serene spa sanctuary, floating pilates classes, seasonal cooking classes and tours through its lush, sustainable garden. Photograph: Supplied | JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa While the JW Marriott is just a five-minute walk from Surfers Paradise Beach, all guests get exclusive access to a dreamy saltwater lagoon, which features soft white sand, bright blue waters with tropical fish (yep, you can snorkel here), a streaming waterfall, Jacuzzis and plush poolside cabanas. Add in

Start filling your pockets with oysters – Royel Otis have just announced a major Australian tour. The ARIA Award-winning indie-rock duo – made up of Royel Maddell (guitars) and Otis Pavlovic (vocals) – have been tearing up the global festival circuit with recent appearances at Glastonbury (UK), Governor’s Ball (New York), Lollapalooza (Chicago) and Fuji Rock (Japan). Now, they’re bringing their cheeky tunes back home for a four-stop run this October, with shows locked in for Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Perth. Royel Otis’ Meet Me In The Car tour announcement comes fresh off the release of the pair’s latest album hickey, featuring their infectious new single ‘car’. After playing more than 100 sold-out shows last year, there’s no doubt their 2025 tour will be in seriously high demand. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to Royel Otis’ Australian tour. When and where is Royel Otis’ 2025 Australian tour? Royel Otis are set to play their biggest Aussie venues to date this October, with four massive shows lined up across the country, including: Melbourne’s Margaret Court Arena – Friday, October 17 Brisbane’s Fortitude Music Hall – Monday, October 20 and Tuesday, October 21 Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion – Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25 Perth’s Ice Cream Factory – Wednesday, October 29 When do Royel Otis tickets go on sale? If you’re keen to catch this dynamic duo live, then set your alarms – tickets drop on Monday, July 14 at 10am local time. You c

Life is meant for living, but some countries excel at it more than others – including Australia. We work hard, but our laid-back lifestyle does wonders for our overall wellbeing. From morning ocean swims and coffee catch-ups to lunchtime strolls and knock-off drinks, it’s the small daily rituals that keep us sane while increasing our productivity in the long run. But how does our work-life balance stack up against the rest of the world? Remote has just dropped its third annual Global Life-Work Balance Index (yep, that ‘life-work’ flip is intentional), which assesses the top 60 GDP countries on nine factors: annual leave, sick pay, maternity leave, minimum wage, working hours, healthcare, safety, happiness and LGBTQ+ inclusivity, granting each a score out of 100. For the third year running, our neighbours in New Zealand claimed the crown for the best work-life balance. They scored an impressive 86.87 out of 100 overall, which is a six-point improvement from last year. Australia held onto its spot in the global top ten for work-life balance, ranking eighth for the second year in a row. While our overall score dipped slightly from 72.10 in 2024 to 71.35, we’re still ahead of major players like the United States, Spain and Finland. That said, we’re trailing behind the likes of Dublin, Brussels and Berlin – so there’s still room for improvement. We Aussies are pretty proud of our laid-back reputation, and according to the report, our work culture broadly reflects that “no-worries”

Dust off your doof stick and strap on your fanny pack because Lost Paradise has just announced the return of its hotly anticipated 2025 festival. As always, this whopping New Year’s camping fiasco is set to shake up Glenworth Valley (just an hour north of Sydney) from December 28 to January 1. With a track record for selling out early year on year, you won’t want to miss snapping up tickets in 2025. The line-up for the four-day, adults-only fest is still top secret, but with past legends like the Arctic Monkeys, Jamie XX, Rufus du Sol, Peggy Gou, Carl Cox and PinkPantheress taking to the stage, we have no doubt that 2025 will absolutely slap. And Lost Paradise goes to great lengths to provide more than just a (killer) line-up of music – it also serves up a packed program of talks, workshops and wellness experiences. Here’s everything you need to know about securing tickets in 2025. When is Lost Paradise 2025? Ring in the New Year at Lost Paradise, which is going down from Sunday, December 28, 2025 to Thursday, January 1, 2026.  Where is Lost Paradise? Every year, Lost Paradise lights up the Glenworth Valley Campground on Darkinjung Country, just one hour north of Sydney. Set against lush natural landscapes, the festival transforms the valley into a vibrant playground bursting with music, art and spiritual activations. In 2025, you can experience the music line-up across three stages: Arcadia, Lost Disco and Paradise Club, with Shambala Fields facilitating talks, workshops, we

Are you experiencing a bit of mid-year burnout? Do the winter blues have you cursing those enjoying a cheeky Euro summer trip? Don't worry, we have just the cure: Qantas has just dropped a huge international sale, with discounted flights on more than 30 routes across Asia, the Americas, the United Kingdom, Africa and the Pacific. Yep, we can feel ourselves coming back to life already. Qantas’ one-week-only International Red Tail Sale kicks off today and ends at 11.59pm on Monday, August 4 – so you’ll need to act fast. With 350,000 discounted seats up for grabs across almost the entire international network, the sale covers various travel dates between July 2025 and May 2026. We won’t judge you for leaving the kids at home, but you can also bring them for the ride with many of the deals falling during Aussie school holidays, including the summer break, Easter and the September to October break. So, where can you jet off to? Get ready to say kia ora to New Zealand, because the cheapest return economy fares start from just $499 between Melbourne and Christchurch, Auckland and Wellington. Keen to spend a little bit more? You can also snag return flights to holiday havens like Singapore, Honolulu, Hong Kong, Bangkok and Tokyo all for under $979. Ahh, we can taste the Mai Tai on Waikiki Beach already.  If you don't mind a long-haul flight, there are also discounted fares available to London and locations right across the United States (including Los Angeles, Dallas, San Francisco

No, you’re not dreaming; your suburb really is being taken over by cavoodles, collies, cats and even cockatiels. If you live anywhere near a major city in Australia, chances are you, your neighbour or your barista has a furry (or feathered) friend. In fact, new research shows more than two-thirds (69 per cent) of Aussie households have one or more pets – putting Australia among the top pet-loving nations worldwide. Curious which Aussie suburbs are seriously pet-obsessed? Pet insurance provider Petsy has done the digging — read on to find out if your neighbourhood made the list! While Sydney might be known for its matchbox-sized apartments, it hasn’t deterred city dwellers from getting a pet. The inner-city suburb of Rosebery tied with beachy Maroubra for first place, while the bustling 'burbs of Alexandria (second), North Sydney (fourth), and Marrickville (fifth) rounded out NSW’s top five. Looks like high-rise apartment living hasn’t put a “paws” on pet ownership. In Victoria, it’s a similar story, with Melbourne City and Berwick (just outside the CBD) tied for first with the highest dog and cat populations. Other trendy spots like Preston, St Kilda and South Yarra also cracked the list. Meanwhile, over in Queensland, the Goldy is where pets reign supreme – Pimpama, Southport and Coomera have claimed their spots on the pet ownership leaderboard. In South Australia and Western Australia, where space isn’t tight, the trend flips – it’s all about suburbs with big backyards and

Winter is well and truly alive and kicking, the call of Euro summer is deafening, and mid-year burnout is real. We’re not medical professionals, but we do have one cheeky cure that will fix (almost) all of your problems: a holiday. And right on cue, Qantas has dropped a huge international sale, with discounted flights on more than 30 routes across Asia, the Americas, the United Kingdom, Africa and the Pacific. Qantas’ one-week-only International Red Tail Sale kicks off on Tuesday, July 30 and ends at 11.59pm on Monday, August 4 – so you’ll need to act fast. With 350,000 discounted seats up for grabs across almost the entire international network, the sale covers various travel dates between July 2025 and May 2026. We won’t judge you for leaving the kids at home, but you can also bring them for the ride with many of the deals falling during Aussie school holidays, including the summer break, Easter, and the September to October break. Photograph: Damon Hall | Pexels So, where can you jet off to? For $549, you could fly from Sydney to the sparkling white shores of Vanuatu and back, and $599 will score you flights to Fiji and back. Got a bit more budget? Snag return flights from Sydney to Hong Kong, Tokyo and Bangalore for $949. Fancy going further? Discounted fares are also on offer from Sydney to Los Angeles and Dallas, with discounted flights flying from other Aussie cities to Santiago, Vancouver, New York, Mexico, Johannesburg and London. You can explore more destinations

When you hear the words ‘Outback Queensland’, you probably picture long open roads, vast red dirt plains, blazing sunsets and legendary pubs. But wellness? That’s likely one of the last things that comes to mind – hence why I was shocked to discover that this rugged region actually has more artesian bathhouses and hot springs than any other in Australia. Covering almost two-thirds of the state, Outback Queensland’s breathtaking landscapes stretch from the red sands of the Simpson Desert to the tranquil waterholes of Cunnamulla. The lifeline of this vast region is the 200-million-year-old Great Artesian Basin – one of the world’s largest underground basins – which spans almost a quarter of the Australian continent, with 65 per cent lying beneath Queensland. Photograph: Supplied | Outback QueenslandSaltbush Retreat Packed with minerals that soothe skin and melt away muscle tension, its ancient water flows through Outback Queensland's 'Wellness Way' – a 2,050-kilometre route that features 25 hot springs experiences, from rustic mud baths and cattle station springs to heated mineral pools and bespoke bathhouses. The Wellness Way starts in Mitchell (a 6.5-hour drive west of Brisbane), then winds down to St George, across to Cunnamulla and up to Julia Creek, ending in Talaroo. You’ll find the biggest cluster of bathhouses in Cunnamulla, and indeed the whole Paroo Shire (including the towns of Eulo, Yowah and Wyandra), which proudly holds the title of Australia’s hot springs capit

We’ve hit that time of year when the mid-year slump starts taking its toll. We’re not medical professionals, but we do have one cheeky cure that will fix (almost) all of your problems: a holiday. And right on cue, Qantas has dropped a huge international sale, with discounted flights on more than 30 routes across Asia, the Americas, the United Kingdom, Africa and the Pacific. Qantas’ one-week-only International Red Tail Sale kicks off on Tuesday, July 30 and ends at 11.59pm on Monday, August 4 – so you’ll need to act fast. With 350,000 discounted seats up for grabs across almost the entire international network, the sale covers various travel dates between July 2025 and May 2026. We won’t judge you for leaving the kids at home, but you can also bring them for the ride with many of the deals falling during Aussie school holidays, including the summer break, Easter, and the September to October break. Photograph: Petalz_R via UnsplashAvon, Christchurch So, where can you jet off to? The cheapest return economy fares start from just $499 between Melbourne and Christchurch. For less than $599 return, you could also be sipping coconuts in Fiji, exploring temples in Bali, feasting in Singapore or soaking up the sun in Vanuatu – with flights departing from various major Aussie cities. Got a bit more budget? Snag return flights to Honolulu, Manila, Hong Kong, Tokyo and Bangalore for under $949. Fancy going further? Discounted fares are also on offer to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dal

Australia still has a long road ahead when it comes to gender equality – but we’re all about celebrating the small wins. This year, we’ve climbed from 24th to 13th place in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report. It’s our highest-ever ranking out of 148 countries, and proof that we’re heading in the right direction. Now in its 19th edition, the 2025 Global Gender Gap Index tracks countries against four key benchmarks: economic participation and opportunity, educational attainment, health and survival, and political empowerment. Australia’s 13th-place ranking marks our best performance since the report launched in 2006, and is a huge leap from our record-low 50th place in 2021. Australia’s rise in the rankings was largely driven by improvements in political empowerment, where we placed 19th overall – including 30th for the percentage of women in parliament and eighth for women in ministerial roles. We also came 32nd in economic participation and opportunity, with standout results in labour-force participation (21st) and the proportion of professional and technical workers (joint first), where the gender gap was just 9.78 per cent. When it comes to education, Australia scored top marks – ranking joint first in literacy, primary education and university enrolment. However, our overall ranking of 79th in this category was dragged down by lower enrolment rates in secondary education. We also have progress to make in the health and survival category, with Australia sli

“Loving can hurt,” but not as much as waiting for Ed Sheeran’s tour news. Luckily, the ginger prince has just announced that he’s finally heading back Down Under in early 2026! Sheeran hardly needs an introduction – he's sold more than 2.5 million tickets across Australia and New Zealand, has 12 tracks in Spotify’s Billions Club (yep, with a B), and is the platform's fourth-most streamed artist in history. It’s been two long years since Sheeran last graced Aussie shores, where he played to a record-breaking 200,000 fans across two nights at Melbourne’s MCG. Now, the ginger popstar is back with a massive run of shows for his Loop Tour in January and February 2026, including stops in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide. Those lucky to snag tickets can expect to hear fresh tracks from his new album Play, like ‘Sapphire’ and ‘Old Phone’, along with all the classics (we’re manifesting ‘Thinking Out Loud’ and ‘Give Me Love’). Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to Ed Sheeran’s Australian tour. When is Ed Sheeran’s 2025 Australian tour? Teddy will be bringing his Loop Tour to stadiums across Australia, including: Perth’s Opus Stadium – Saturday, January 31 and Sunday, February 1 Sydney’s Accor Stadium – Friday, February 13, Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15 Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium – Friday, February 20, Saturday, February 21 and Sunday, February 22 Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium – Thursday, February 26, Friday, February 27 and Saturday, F