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Melissa Woodley

Melissa Woodley

Travel & News Editor, Time Out Australia

Melissa Woodley is the Travel & News Editor for Time Out Australia, where she inspires locals and travellers to explore the best of the country, including places to visit, things to do and spots to eat.

Before joining Time Out as the Branded Content writer for Sydney in 2022, she freelanced as a food writer for The Urban ListSBS Food and Broadsheet, among others. She also had a short stint in hospitality PR, has experience in the social media and digital marketing world, and even started a social enterprise at 21.

When Melissa is not playing with words, you’ll find her running laps around Sydney, volunteering at the OzHarvest Refettorio, telling you how cute her dog is and eating her way through the city. She has a soft spot for pastries and pickles, is passionate about paying it forward, and is likely planning her next holiday right now.

You can reach her at melissa.woodley@timeout.com or connect with her @sporkdiaries on Instagram. 

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Articles (101)

The 18 best things to do in Perth

The 18 best things to do in Perth

It’s the only capital city in Australia where you can watch the sunset over the ocean, but that’s not the only reason Perth is one of the coolest places to visit. Once solely known for its pristine beaches and perfect weather, Perth’s booming restaurant and culture scenes, and its trendy sister city Fremantle (located just half an hour from Perth) have put WA’s capital city on the international radar. If you're visiting, it's well worth the flight over (which is a little over four hours from Sydney or Melbourne), we promise. RECOMMENDED: These are the best restaurants in Perth right now.

The best Italian restaurants in Sydney

The best Italian restaurants in Sydney

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 white Italian cuisine differs throughout the 20 incredible regions – broadly speaking the northern regions eat more rice and polenta, and down south they feast more on seafood – Italians share a love of beautiful, seasonal produce, choosing simplicity rather than overcomplicating dishes, and cooking food with soul. No wonder we love it so much. Luckily, there are a wealth of excellent options to choose from when it comes to Italian dining in Sydney. Time Out’s editors and critics, including our Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, have picked our favourite eateries covering all bases – from casual red-sauce joints and classic pizzerias to fine dining restaurants – so no matter what mood you're in, there's something here for you. Not in the mood for pasta? Here are our picks of the best spots for Greek and French food in Sydney.

The 16 best hotels in Adelaide

The 16 best hotels in Adelaide

What makes a great hotel? In coming up with this list of the best hotels in Adelaide we considered a mix of factors. Good location? Comfy beds? A sweet as rooftop pool? Within convenient distance to the best things to do? Maybe it's a combo of the three. Luckily Adelaide's practically swimming in great hotels. Whether you're a visitor wanting to stay bang in the centre of town or a local in search of a cheeky staycation under an hour from the city, these are our picks. We've based our selection on an alchemical mix of value for money, a focus on service and access to amenities. Take a peek at the best hotels in Adelaide below. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Adelaide right now.

The 15 best hotels in Perth

The 15 best hotels in Perth

At the best hotels in Perth, you'll find proof that the West Coast's hotel scene is exploding. More than 25 new or renovated hotels have opened around the city in recent years, with many taking full advantage of the sparkly, new Elizabeth Quay waterfront development.  This pedestrian and arts precinct's design pays homage to Perth's First Nations people, with large public works by Noongar artists like Laurel Nannup, and a curving, flowing sense of space by the Swan River. Combined with never-before-seen luxury and late checkout times, you’re in for an exceptional stay. Here's our pick of the best hotels in Perth. Wondering what to do while you're here? These are the best things to do in Perth.

The 20 best things to do in Canberra

The 20 best things to do in Canberra

Don't let the designation of Australia's capital city fool you; there are plenty of diverse and exciting things to do in Canberra. It may be the seat of Australia’s political power, but the city’s reputation for being the Bush Capital is well earned. Despite the museums and monuments, Canberra has much the look and feel of a country town, right down to the kangaroos that bound around the city’s abundant nature reserves. Over the last five years, the capital has undergone a hospitality glow-up, with world-class wine bars, trendy restaurants and stylish boutique hotels opening in the rapidly developing cultural precincts of New Acton and Braddon. Although once only visited by eye-rolling schoolkids on excursions, culture vultures drawn to the National Art Gallery, and political wheelers and dealers, Canberra’s now a perfect weekend getaway spot, regardless of your interests.  RECOMMENDED: The 13 best restaurants to dine at in Canberra right now.

The 17 best things to do in Darwin

The 17 best things to do in Darwin

We're calling it – Darwin is one of Australia’s best-kept secrets. It’s that far northern city where people put ice in their beer, dodge cyclones and take their life into their hands if they ever step into the sea. And while there is something a little untamed about Australia’s northernmost capital city, that’s what makes it so much fun to visit.  Whether you’re here to access the majesty of Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, check out the incredible international food scene or just planning to kick back by the water in this tropical paradise while the rest of the country shivers through winter, there’s something in Darwin for everyone.  RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Darwin right now.

The 17 best hotels in Brisbane

The 17 best hotels in Brisbane

At many of the best hotels in Brisbane, you'll find evidence that the city's hotel scene is changing. The boutique revolution has well and truly hit town, with new operators looking to activate long-forgotten neighbourhoods, and the big chains inspired to produce tailored offerings for a more sophisticated clientele. The best hotels in Brisbane offer high-end experiences, laidback Aussie vibes and all the sun-kissed goodness of feeling like it’s summer all year round. The ultimate luxury stays are gushing with designer décor, bespoke art and unmatched city, river and mountain views. Can you see yourself emerging from an infinity pool overlooking Brisbane? Or how about rising from a relaxation pod, sipping a cocktail from an elevated piano bar, viewing bespoke author-inspired art or zip around in a Maserati? You can take part in these five-star experiences and more in Brisbane’s best hotels. Check out our picks of the best hotels in Brisbane below. Wondering what to do while you're here? These are the best things to do in Brisbane. 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.

The best hotels in Sydney

The best hotels in Sydney

The Emerald City is peppered with a whole host of stellar hotels that each individually carry their own little sparkly slice of je ne sais quoi. Whether you’re in town for one night, want a longer stay, are flitting through for business, or are travelling to Sydney for the very first time and want to make sure you’re in the best possible spot to properly explore the city, we have you covered. Having earned our stripes reviewing hotels across the country, our team of writers (including Lifestyle Writer Winnie Stubbs and our Travel and News Editor Melissa Woodley) have shared their top picks – along with top tips on how to make the most of your stay. From five-star luxury to boutique boltholes, this list is our edit of the best hotels in Sydney (in no particular order). Warning: it'll be hard for you to choose just one to stay at! Sorry, not sorry. Rather stay under canvas? Find the best glamping sites in NSW or the best camping near Sydney. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

The 19 best luxury hotels in Australia right now

The 19 best luxury hotels in Australia right now

Looking to live it up on your next Aussie getaway? We’ve got you covered. Our country is practically swimming in great hotels, from new boutique stays with heated infinity pools to revamped classics boasting five-star rooftop bars. 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 picks of Australia’s top hotels. RECOMMENDED: Australia’s most incredible resorts and lodges for your next getaway. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in every hotel or accommodation offering featured, we've based our list on top reviews, hosts 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.

The best musical and theatre shows to see in Australia in 2024

The best musical and theatre shows to see in Australia in 2024

From musicals based on much-loved and seriously messed up kids’ TV shows to gothic horror reimagined via icons returning to the stage after decades away, this year in theatre is shaping up to be one of the strongest we’ve seen in quite some time.Here are a few shows we know you’ll want to catch before it’s too late to say you were there. RECOMMENDED: Culture vultures, come and get your fix at these top Australian art galleries. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Australia newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. 

12 unmissable art exhibitions to see in Australia in 2024

12 unmissable art exhibitions to see in Australia in 2024

Whether you favour sculpture, painting, photography or textiles, there’s something for everyone spread across Australia’s biggest art exhibitions in 2024. Here are just a few of our favourites that have us booking flights in eager anticipation. RECOMMENDED: The best musical and theatre shows to see in Australia in 2024. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Australia newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. 

The 37 best things to do in Australia

The 37 best things to do in Australia

You know the landmarks and the laid-back culture, but there are plenty more things to do in  Australia than kissing koalas and yelling ‘g’day mate’. Australia is a nature lover’s paradise, with highly sought-after food experiences and impressive cultural heritage to boot. Whether you want to get amongst art parties in small coastal cities, see fairy penguins scurry across sandy beaches or watch the sunrise over Sydney Harbour from a kayak, there’s so much to explore across this incredible country. You’ll no doubt find something to inspire a holiday Down Under with our guide to all the best things you need to see right now in Australia. RECOMMENDED: The 20 top tourist attractions in Australia. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Australia newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. 

Listings and reviews (253)

Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets

Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets

The perfect balance of playful and luxe, this boutique hotel near Adelaide Central Market is a love letter to the city’s many legendary festivals. Edgy wall art and colourful furniture brighten up the space and tessellated tile patterns nod to South Australia’s copper mining past. The 145 rooms are equally striking and full of personality, decorated with hand-selected posters from past Adelaide festivals and fitted with premium king beds, two-head rainfall showers and Smart TVs.  Time Out tip: Off to see a show? Don’t stress about squeezing in dinner and make a dedicated pre-theatre reservation at the hotel’s lobby floor, Italian restaurant, Market and Meander. The attentive waitstaff will ensure you're out the door with plenty of time to spare.

Eos by SkyCity

Eos by SkyCity

Eos or Ios? Located in the historic Railway Station building on the banks of the River Torrens, this impressive hotel will have you feeling like you’re on a Greek island holiday. Take in sweeping views of the river and beyond from the award-winning heated outdoor pool and spa on the leisure deck, or unwind in the cedarwood dry heat sauna or eucalyptus wet steam room. Afterwards, indulge in time-honoured cocktails at Sôl Rooftop, one of the city’s most spectacular rooftop bars. A bespoke mixologist is also on-call for those who’d prefer a cocktail in the comfort of their room or suite, which you can request via the in-room tablet.  Time Out tip: Ditch the gallery and instead explore SkyCity’s 900 curated artworks, which were commissioned by more than 40 South Australian photographers, painters, glass blowers, and sculptors.

Vibe Hotel

Vibe Hotel

When they tell you it’s a vibe, it really is. This recently opened hotel is the perfect launchpad for exploring the city’s major landmarks – Rundle Mall, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Central Market and Botanic Gardens – or for a staycation during Adelaide Fringe and WOMADelaide. Natural light spills through each room’s floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing guests to gaze out towards the rolling Adelaide Hills or bright city lights below. Pack swimmers for a dip in the suspended outdoor pool, work up a sweat in the state-of-the-art gym and enjoy a delightful alfresco dinner at Storehouse Flinders East. Time Out tip: It’s worth booking the Urban Retreat King Room for the deep, open-plan bath. Dim the lights, sprinkle in the complimentary bath salts and melt into the warm water, as you watch the sun go down over the Adelaide Hills.

InterContinental Perth City Centre

InterContinental Perth City Centre

5 out of 5 stars

The welcome at the InterContinental Perth City Centre is akin to that warm, fuzzy feeling you experience when gathered around a campfire, toasting marshmallows with mates from out of town. This upmarket hotel nails the brief when it comes to making good first impressions – from the moment I stepped out of my Uber (only a speedy 20-minute drive from Perth Airport), I knew right away that I was in for a five-star stay. Nothing is ever too much trouble for the InterContinental’s friendly team, who are on-call 24/7 to take care of my every need (from delivering cutlery for a midnight snack just shy of 12am, to recommending the best local running routes, to offering a generously late check-out time of 12.30pm). Upon arrival, a smiling concierge leads me through two oversized doors into a sophisticated lobby, adorned with sandstone walls and calming tones. Check-in is a breeze and within minutes, I’m ascending to floor 14 where I’ll be staying in a King Cosy Room. Staying in the ‘heart of the city’ may sound cliché, but it’s a bang-on description of the InterContinental’s prime location on the corner of King and Hay Street. Guests are mere footsteps from buzzing galleries, impressive shows, alfresco dining, colourful street art and spectacular shopping, with the hotel located just across the road from His Majesty’s Theatre, one block from Hay Street Mall, a 12-minute walk from Elizabeth Quay or Perth Cultural Centre, and an eight-minute walk from Perth Railway Station. (Note: the I

QT Perth

QT Perth

QT Perth is a luxurious, designer, urban hotel in the centre of Perth City, ideal for those who love to shop, dine and indulge. A restaurant, bar and a fitness centre are on-site and free WiFi is included. Each lavish room is designed with local jarrah timber, rich velvet and polished brass. There are dark stone bathrooms, signature QT Gel Beds, a minibar and a coffee machine. Most rooms have city views. Guests staying at QT Perth can take a 12-minute walk to Elizabeth Quay to enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes. Art Gallery of Western Australia is 6 minutes' walk away and Perth Underground, Murray Street and Hay Street are all 4 minutes' walk from the property.  

Moss Hotel

Moss Hotel

If the convenience of opening your front door and stepping right out onto Salamanca Square appeals to you, then you can’t do better than Moss Hotel. Consisting of two buildings, number 39’s blink-and-you’ll-miss-it entrance is smack bang on Salamanca and number 25 is just one block up. One of the most popular spots in all of Hobart, the area is full of galleries, shops, restaurants, bars, historic tours and of course, the world-famous Saturday markets from 8am. Despite its bustling location, the inside of Moss Hotel is a quiet sanctuary, with some rooms looking onto hanging gardens and others boasting huge green soak tubs. Time Out tip: Number 39 (the Salamanca Place building) is right on top of The Whaler, a pub boasting one of the best chicken parmigianas in Hobart.

Deco Hotel

Deco Hotel

A short walk from the hip and happening Lonsdale Street, this luxury hotel has the perfect set-up for both pleasure and business travel. It’s all about first impressions at the Deco Hotel, with guests warmly welcomed into the dramatic double-height lobby featuring statement paintings and abstract sculptures. From here, you can ascend into the spacious, light-filled one- or two-bedroom apartments that are fitted with all the modern comforts, including rainfall showers, decked-out kitchens, separate work desks and movies-on-demand. 

Burbury Hotel and Apartments

Burbury Hotel and Apartments

With all bases covered, Burbury Hotel and Apartments boasts a mixture of schmick, classic hotel rooms, fully equipped apartments, smaller studios for bigger groups and wheelchair-accessible rooms. Close enough to the action that you can practically taste it, Burbury shares amenities with its sister hotels across the street, five-star Hotel Realm and Little National Hotel, including their health club, day spa, hair salon and restaurants. Bike hire is available, as are front-row seats at one of Canberra’s best rooftop bars, Leyla, where you can take in sweeping skyline views with a creative cocktail in hand. 

Hyatt Hotel Canberra

Hyatt Hotel Canberra

For a true five-star experience, you can’t go past one of Australia’s oldest and most treasured hotels. The Hyatt has been a home away from home to rock stars, royals and politicians for almost 100 years, with the property celebrating its centennial year in 2024. Nostalgia echos throughout the heritage-inspired setting and perfectly manicured gardens, with attentive service making it all feel like you’re officially Canberran royalty. The Art Deco rooms are spacious, private and exceedingly clean, which is exactly what you’d expect from a Hyatt property. The spacious marble bathrooms are a standout (especially the deep bathtubs). Don’t you dare skip breakfast, either. The Hyatt’s Promenade Café puts on an impressive buffet spread with all the fixings.

Avenue Hotel

Avenue Hotel

Plan a Canberra adventure with some pals and set up camp inside this cool New York-inspired hotel. Situated a stone’s throw from the hip suburb of Braddon, Avenue Hotel is as cosy as slipping into flannelette pyjamas, but with luxurious touches you wouldn’t expect. With 213 spacious rooms, you can take your pick from no-nonsense king rooms, one-bedroom apartments that boast floor-to-ceiling views of the CBD, two-bedroom apartments with private balconies or a wheelchair-accessible room. Each is fitted with plush ‘Bliss Beds’, dreamy rainfall showers and a fully equipped kitchen in the apartments. You can even splurge on Avenue Hotel’s super-luxe spa suite, which comes complete with a spacious two-person bath.

Peppers Gallery Hotel

Peppers Gallery Hotel

Part of the urban village that is the NewActon Precinct, Peppers Gallery Hotel has set up shop in a renovated 1926 apartment block. The perfect base for exploring the city or for a quick business trip, Peppers’ contemporary rooms range from standards to suites and deluxe rooms with deep baths, plush bedding, rain showers, marble finishes and easy access to Lake Burley Griffin. The hotel also has an impressive sculpture garden, fully-equipped gymnasium, 24-hour room service, library bar and a homestyle Italian trattoria, Bicicletta, right on site.

Midnight Hotel

Midnight Hotel

When the clock strikes twelve, you’ll want to be fast asleep under the luxe linen sheets at Midnight Hotel. Each guest room features a bespoke custom artwork by New York-born artist Thomas Bucich, a walk-in rain shower and a complimentary mini-bar stocked with boutique food and beverages. Style takes centre stage downstairs too, where you’ll find a large central garden atrium, cascading water feature, complete wellness centre and sophisticated diner, Braddon Merchant, serving modern Australian dishes paired with an award-winning wine list.  

News (116)

How to see the Lyrid meteor shower in Australia this week

How to see the Lyrid meteor shower in Australia this week

Eyes on the prize? More like eyes on the skies. Another astronomical spectacle is expected to take place this April, around the same time as the once-in-a-lifetime Devil’s Comet. Flying through the sky at lightning speed, the annual Lyrid meteor shower happens around the world from mid-to-late April each year. In Australia, it will peak in the early hours of Tuesday, April 23, with roughly 20 shooting stars streaking across the atmosphere per hour. Here's everything you need to know about the 2024 Lyrid meteor shower.  What is the Lyrid meteor shower? Lyrids are one of the world’s oldest meteor showers, with their origins tracing back more than 2,500 years in Chinese texts. The celestial spectacle is created when the Earth makes its annual journey through the dust trail left by comet Thatcher (C/1861 G1). When the small chunks of debris collide with our atmosphere, they disintegrate, forming fiery streaks in the sky that look like shooting stars when viewed from Earth. When is the Lyrid meteor shower visible in Australia? The Lyrid meteor shower is visible for around two weeks every April. In 2024, the Lyrids will be at their most active between April 14 to 30 and are expected to peak around 1am AEST on April 23. During this time, you can expect to witness around 20 shooting stars per hour, with sporadic flashes of light visible at night throughout the two-week period. This handy interactive map will tell you exactly when to look up based on your location in Australia.  How c

Get your happiness fix at this multi-sensory dopamine museum coming to Australia

Get your happiness fix at this multi-sensory dopamine museum coming to Australia

In need of a quarter-year mood boost? We’ve got just what the doctor ordered. A fully interactive museum dedicated to everyone’s favourite happiness hormone, dopamine, is making its Australian debut in Brisbane this May. Straight from London, Dopamine Land will send your happiness levels through the roof with pillow fights, ball pits, mirror mazes and more. Just the thought of it is already making us smile. The game plan is easy to follow when you arrive at Dopamine Land. Kids and kidults can adventure through ten themed rooms, with each featuring mesmerising optical illusions and audio sensations designed to awaken your inner child and trigger your happiness hormones.  You can take a trip down memory lane in the glowing ball pit room, featuring pulsating LED lighting, ’80s electro beats and the scent of Pina Coladas. Or, let off steam in the pillow fight room, inspired by lolly boxes and Mexican wrestling. Warning: things might get heated in here. Photograph: Supplied | Dopamine Land If you need to calm down post pillow fight, then head to Lucid Dreams, an ASMR-led visual journey featuring surreal projections by Australian digital animation artist, Cassie Troughton. There’s also the dedicated Keep Calm Forest where you can meditate in a soothing woodland featuring LED trees, mirrored spaces and a relaxing soundscape, plus a Musical Tiles room where you can compose a personalised light and sound composition with your movements. Photograph: Supplied | Dopamine Land It hasn

We’re giving away a $10,000 trip to the Northern Territory – and here’s how you can win

We’re giving away a $10,000 trip to the Northern Territory – and here’s how you can win

To celebrate the launch of Time Out Australia, we’ve partnered up with Tourism NT to give away the ultimate holiday to the Northern Territory worth $10,000. The lucky winner will score a $2,000 flight voucher for getting to and from Darwin, a car hire for eight days of exploring, and seven nights of luxe accommodation for two travellers. That’s not to mention the whirlwind of activities, including a private helicopter ride over Litchfield National Park, a thrilling jetski tour and a jumping croc adventure. How to enter? Create a video showcasing your favourite things to do, eat, drink, shop and/or watch in Australia.  Post the video on your Instagram and hashtag #BestofAus and tag @timeoutaustralia. Make sure your profile is on public so we can see your entry. Make sure you’re following @timeoutaustralia and @ntaustralia.  Time Out tips: Use our competition Instagram Reel as a template for your entry. Just click the ‘Use template’ button on the post. Make sure your profile is public so we can see your entry. Keep an eye on your DMs – the competition closes at 11.59am AEST on May 3, 2024 and the winner will be contacted on the same day. Photograph: Supplied | Northern Territory TourismMaguk, Kakadu National Park What’s included in the $10,000 prize? Your adventure in Australia’s Red Centre starts in the capital city of Darwin, an underrated destination that sits in summer year-round and might just be one of Australia’s best-kept secrets. Check into your guest room at the

This rugged remote island is officially home to the 13th Great Walk of Australia

This rugged remote island is officially home to the 13th Great Walk of Australia

Australia is full of picturesque pockets of nature, but the ones accessible only by foot are even more remarkable. You’ll find plenty of places to venture off the beaten track in Tasmania, especially now that the island state is home to the newest Great Walk of Australia – one of only 13 across the entire country. Earlier this year, Flinders Island Walking Adventure – In Comfort joined the exclusive club of Australia's greatest multi-day guided walking experiences, all done in eco-luxe style. Dubbed the “hidden hiking jewel of Tasmania”, the six-day guided experience covering 42 kilometres of wild bushland and rugged coastline is now the state’s sixth Great Walk. Photograph: Tourism Australia | Flinders Island Walking Adventure You don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to conquer the Flinders Island Walk, which is rated easy-to-moderate in difficulty. Carrying only a day pack, hikers follow two expert guides along the beautiful coastline, through enchanting woodlands, around striking granite mountain ranges and to the summit of Mt Killiecrankie and Mt Strzelecki, where they can take in epic 360-degree views over the entire island. (Packing a pair of togs for a swim or two in the island’s crystal clear waters is recommended, but it may feel like more of an ice bath in the colder months.)  If spending a week in the wilderness still isn't floating your boat, then hear us out. You won’t have to fend off creepy crawlies, pitch tents in the dark, or hunt for food. Like any of the Gre

Australian drag superstar Kween Kong's favourite places to visit in Adelaide

Australian drag superstar Kween Kong's favourite places to visit in Adelaide

Fresh from her debut as the first Australian queen on a global season of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Logie-nominated superstar Kween Kong is here to show Time Out Australia her favourite places in Adelaide. You can’t skip out on visiting a cellar door or two when in Australia’s wine capital. And in true Kween Kong fashion, you have to swing by a show (time your visit with Adelaide Fringe which happens in February and March each year) and dance the night away at one of Adelaide’s liveliest nightclubs. Check out Kween Kong’s must-visit spots in Adelaide below. RECOMMENDED: We’re giving away a $10,000 trip to the Northern Territory – and here’s how you can win. Photograph: Duy DashD'Arenberg Cube D’Arenberg You can’t visit South Australia without experiencing the state’s sprawling wine country, and as per Kween Kong’s recommendation, D’Arenberg in McLaren Vale is an absolute must-visit. Renowned for its award-winning architectural design, this all-glass Rubik’s cube stands as the poster child for all South Australian regional wineries. Ascend to the tasting room on the top level and sip your way into D’Arenberg’s dizzying array of reds and whites (the Dead Arm shiraz and Broken Fishplate sauvignon blanc are perennial faves). Then launch into lunch at the spectacular D’Arry’s Verandah Restaurant in the adjacent 19th-century homestead – still one of SA’s best regional restaurants. Kween Kong’s insider tip: “Take a quick pee break at the campest loo in the state.” These toilets are anyth

This world-famous DJ is bringing his Drum and Bass bike rave to Australia for the first time

This world-famous DJ is bringing his Drum and Bass bike rave to Australia for the first time

Riders and ravers, you’ve never seen anything quite like this before. International sensation Dom Whiting, aka DJ on a Bike, is bringing his hugely popular Drum and Base bike ride to the streets of Darwin on May 4, in his first and only Australian event. He’ll be spinning records while spinning wheels, with everyone invited to join the fun (for zero dollaroos).  Trust us, this traffic jam is one you’ll actually enjoy getting caught up in. Plus, you don’t have to be a lycra-loving cyclist to join the pedal-powered party. You can ride, scoot, skate, walk or even dance through the streets alongside Whiting himself, with a pumping live music party waiting for you at the finish line. Photograph: Supplied | DJ on a Bike During the high-energy 90-minute ride from Darwin City to Darwin Waterfront Precinct, Whiting will blast electronic tracks from his mobile DJ booth. While it sounds chaotic, his Drum and Base bike rides are a proven success, drawing thousands of music enthusiasts and avid cyclists globally, with millions of fans tuning in to his energetic DJ sets via live stream.  Arriving just in time to kick off Darwin’s Dry Season, this is the exact hype-up you need to head up north and explore the wonders of Australia’s tropical Top End. Be sure to bring your own two wheels and meet at the start line for the DnB bike ride, which will begin at 4pm on Saturday, May 4. You can find out more here.  Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Australia newsletter for more news,

World-famous Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa is touring Australia in May

World-famous Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisa is touring Australia in May

Anyone who knows good food – and likely even those who don’t – will recognise the name Nobu. It’s easily the world’s most famous contemporary Japanese restaurant, with more than 50 venues in some of the fanciest hotels around the world. Whether you’ve dined at all three of Nobu’s Aussie outposts or have been saving up your whole life, this is the time to splurge. World-famous chef and co-founder of the global empire, Nobu Matsuhisa, is venturing far from his namesake restaurant in Beverly Hills for a grand Australian tour in May. He’ll grace the kitchens at his Nobu establishments located within Crown Sydney, Crown Perth and Crown Melbourne, giving fans and foodies a rare chance to brush shoulders with the celebrity chef himself. Matsuhisa will touch down in Sydney for his first series of ticketed events, starting with a sophisticated pool party overlooking Sydney Harbour on Thursday, May 2. At $475 per person, you’ll get to sample the finest sushi and sashimi, along with classic cocktails featuring Don Julio tequila. A-list live celebrity entertainment and a dip in one of Sydney's most spectacular infinity pools will make this a night to remember. If you prefer something more intimate, then Matsuhisa will also host a Gochiso sushi lunch on Saturday, May 4. Tickets are $120 per person and you can expect to taste some of Nobu’s signature dishes – black cod miso, we’re looking at you – plus a glass of Oatley wine.  Photograph: Supplied | Nobu Chef Matsuhisa will then take his

The rare Devil Comet will be visible in Melbourne's skies for the first time in 70 years

The rare Devil Comet will be visible in Melbourne's skies for the first time in 70 years

We don't get the chance to see many celestial sights Down Under, so when there's an astronomical event taking place in Melbourne's skies, we get pretty excited. If rare space events also pique your curiosity, this is one you definitely won’t want to miss. On Monday, April 22, a super rare celestial event will grace Melbourne's skies. At triple the size of Mount Everest, the Devil’s Comet (officially known as C12/P Pons-Brooks) will be visible to the human eye for the first time in more than seven decades – and it won’t be soaring past the sun again until 2095. Here's everything you need to know about the Devil’s Comet; like what it is, when it's happening and how to see it in Melbourne, so you can make the most of this special celestial experience.  When will the Devil’s Comet be visible in Melbourne? The Devil’s Comet will be visible in Melbourne for a brief time after sunset of Monday, April 22. The celestial body is actually named C12P/Pons-Brooks, but is more commonly referred to as Devil Comet due to its resemblance to a horned tail. You should be able to see the comet without equipment, however, a pair of binoculars or a telescope is recommended for the best viewing experience. Experienced stargazers will be able to observe the comet over the following weeks using advanced telescopes, as the comet approaches the sun before moving back into the distant parts of the solar system. Where can I see the 2024 Devil’s Comet in Melbourne? The Devil’s Comet should be visible in M

A once-in-a-lifetime Devil’s Comet will be visible in Australian skies for the first time in 70 years this month

A once-in-a-lifetime Devil’s Comet will be visible in Australian skies for the first time in 70 years this month

Aussies love a good astronomy moment, and this is one you won’t want to miss. On Monday, April 22, a super rare celestial event will grace the skies above Australia. At triple the size of Mount Everest, the Devil’s Comet (officially known as C12/P Pons-Brooks) will be visible to the human eye for the first time in more than seven decades – and it won’t be swinging by the sun again until 2095. To make the most of the experience, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about the Devil’s Comet; like what it is, when it's happening and how to see it in Australia. What is the Devil’s Comet (C12P/Pons-Brooks)? Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks was officially discovered on July 12, 1812 by French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons, but records show it may have been first observed by Chinese astronomers in the early 1300s.  Although officially named 12P/Pons-Brooks, the celestial body is more commonly referred to as Devil Comet due to its resemblance to a horned tail. This is understood to be the result of cryo-volcanic eruptions of millions of tonnes of ice that happen as it heats up near the sun. When viewed at the right angle, these tails of gas, dust and ice appear as devil horns. When will the Devil’s Comet be visible in Australia? The Devil’s Comet will be visible in Australia after the sun sets on Monday, April 22. You should be able to see the comet without equipment, however, a pair of binoculars or a telescope is recommended for the best viewing experience. Experienced stargazers will be

The once-in-a-lifetime Devil’s Comet will be visible over Sydney for the first time in 70 years

The once-in-a-lifetime Devil’s Comet will be visible over Sydney for the first time in 70 years

If the popularity of stargazing escapes in NSW is anything to go by, Sydneysiders love a good astronomy moment, and this is one you won’t want to miss. On Monday, April 22, a super rare celestial event will grace the skies above Sydney. At triple the size of Mount Everest, the Devil’s Comet (officially known as C12/P Pons-Brooks) will be visible to the human eye for the first time in more than seven decades – and it won’t be swinging by the sun again until 2095. To make the most of the experience, we’ve broken down everything you need to know about the Devil’s Comet; like what it is, when it's happening and how to see it from Sydney. What is the Devil’s Comet? Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks was officially discovered on July 12, 1812 by French astronomer Jean-Louis Pons, but records show it may have been first observed by Chinese astronomers in the early 1300s.  Although officially named 12P/Pons-Brooks, the celestial body is more commonly referred to as Devil Comet due to its resemblance to a horned tail. This is understood to be the result of cryo-volcanic eruptions of millions of tonnes of ice that happen as it heats up near the sun. When viewed at the right angle, these tails of gas, dust and ice appear as devil horns. When will the Devil’s Comet be visible from Sydney or NSW? The Devil’s Comet will be visible in Australia for a brief time after sunset on Monday, April 22. You should be able to see the comet without equipment, however, a pair of binoculars or a telescope is recomme

Australia’s finest wineries have just been crowned for 2024 in these prestigious annual awards

Australia’s finest wineries have just been crowned for 2024 in these prestigious annual awards

Want to escape to wine country? We’ve got plenty of places to pick from Down Under – Yarra Valley, McClaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Margaret River or the Hunter Valley, just to name a few. Within each region, you’ll find plenty of world-class vineyards and estates, offering top-tier drops at every price point. We're here to steer you in the right direction with our guide to the best wineries in Australia, but you can also take advice from The Real Review, one of Australia’s leading authorities in wine, who has just unveiled its highly anticipated annual list of the Top Wineries in Australia. Taking out the top spot for Winery of the Year Australia 2024 was Yarra Valley winery Yarra Yering. It's the fourth year in a row that a Victorian winery has taken out first prize. And it's not the first time Yarra Yering has taken the crown, having won it back in 2021. The judges gave special mention to Yarra Yering’s Carrodus Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, which achieved an almost-perfect score of 99 points, along with its 2022 Chardonnay and its Dry Red Wine No 1 Cabernet Blend. We'll take a case of each, please. And maybe the vino-tasting job, too?  Photograph: Supplied | Yarra YeringWinemaker Sarah Crowe This prestigious prize was awarded by a panel of the nation's top critics who sampled more than 10,000 wines around the country – but their final decision isn't made lightly. To ensure consistency, the ranking is determined by a proprietary algorithm, which considers the rating and recency

Escape chilly Melbourne with cheap as chips airfares thanks to this huge Qantas sale

Escape chilly Melbourne with cheap as chips airfares thanks to this huge Qantas sale

If the cold snap in Melbourne has got you dreaming of an escape to a warmer oasis, then perhaps it’s time to pack your bags and book an impromptu trip. If you can act fast, you can nab an absolute steal of an airfare, as Qantas has just launched a surprise sale with discounts on more than one million seats across 100 domestic routes. How about a trip to Kangaroo Island or Byron Bay, anyone? This sale comes hot on the heels of Qantas’ new Classic Plus rewards seats expansion, which will see the airline release more than 20 million more Frequent Flyer seats each year on international flights. However, you only have 72 hours to snap up seats in the domestic sale, as it wraps up just before midnight on April 11.  While saving up your annual leave and dosh for next year’s Euro summer, you can book a (half-the-price) domestic getaway for as little as $105 one-way (for travel from May to December 2024). There are more than 60 locations to choose from, with 15 routes on sale for under $200. Melburnians can fly to destinations like the Gold Coast, Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Hobart, Launceston, Adelaide and many more for less than $200. If you’re keen to head further afield, you could even travel to Alice Springs, Cairns, Broome and more for between $300 and $500. On top of checked baggage, complimentary food and free Wi-Fi, passengers will also score complimentary alcoholic drinks on all domestic flights from midday onwards. You can jump on the sale here.  Stay in the loop: sign up