Eliza Campbell

We love this beautiful city of ours, but sometimes it's nice to get out into nature for a stroll – or something more intense. Dust off those hiking boots, pack that scroggin, fill your Camelbak and get ready to explore some of the most gorgeous hikes within an easy drive of Melbourne. Regional Victoria is brimming with picturesque walks great for getting your heart pumping, including temperate rainforest wonders (hello, Dandenong Ranges National Park) and seaside spectacles (we're looking at you, Mornington Peninsula National Park). Our editors have trekked, tramped and trudged across the state to bring you the best tracks. And if you'd rather stay closer to home, here are some great Melbourne walks just a stone's throw from the city. Keen for a getaway? These are the best day trips from Melbourne. Want to immerse yourself in nature?Discover the best waterfalls around Victoria. 

Feeling like you need a little extra glow in your life? Or just need to take some time out from your jam-packed schedule? Tick both boxes with these luxurious skin treatments delivered by the city's best practitioners.  We've rounded up some of the most highly regarded facials that also appeal to a broad range of skin types, from dry skin and fine lines to acne and stressed skin. Whether you prefer a science-based approach, or something a little more holistic, there's a treatment for everyone here.  Get ready to hydrate, exfoliate and massage your way to complete rejuvenation.  After more self-care? Here are Melbourne's best spas and bath houses. Love a soak? Check out the best hot springs in Victoria.

At the beginning of spring when the sun comes out to play, Melbourne's glorious rooftop bars draw in flocks of thirsty revellers with their crisp, cool bevvies and sweeping city views. Maybe it's the higher altitude, but drinking is just more fun from above. So start climbing those stairs – or keep your fingers crossed for a lift – and check out Melbourne's best rooftop bars now.  Looking for an après-drink bite? Check out Melbourne's best late-night eats. How about another drink somewhere different? We've rounded up our favourite laneway bars in the city.   See full screen

Reservations for a group can be a pain, but these venues make light work of large parties. Offering a range of experiences from casual and comfy, to luxurious and memorable, they’re perfect for your next post-lockdown catch up, birthday, work function or Christmas party. Trying to impress someone? Check out Melbourne's best 50 restaurants.

Finding cute plus-size fashion is no easy task. You can go to shop after shop, scour rack after rack and still come up empty. But that doesn't mean there are no stylish plus-size options out there – you just need to know where to look. Australia is full of small businesses and local designers offering plus-size options for every occasion, but shop frontage is expensive and being stocked in mainstream stores just isn’t possible for many brands. So where can you find these brands? Online. I know online shopping is a daunting thought for many people, especially if you’ve had negative experiences before. But I’m here to tell you that you can do it. You just need a tape measure and this handy guide to Australian-based plus-size brands. Why the tape measure? Because the sizing of clothes across brands is inconsistent. So it’s time to ditch the number on the tag and pay closer attention to the size chart. Do yourself a favour; take your measurements, write them down somewhere handy and use them to choose your clothes from now on. Ignore the number on the tag. It has no moral value. After more of our city's best shopping? Check out our shopping guide here.

Whether you're alcohol-free, sober curious or just trying to give your liver a break, these Melbourne bars, restaurants and pubs have dedicated zero-alcohol options. From non-alcoholic beer and wine, to zero-percent spirits and cocktails that taste just like the real deal, there's something on offer for everyone. 

If you're looking for a break from the inner-city grid, there's no better cure than a day trip from Melbourne. The state of Victoria is full of friendly neighbourhood towns, whether you're in the mood for a winery tour, a road trip or a national park to explore. These one-day escapes are just what the doctor ordered, so get out there and explore Melbourne's beautiful backyard.  Keen to stretch your legs? These are the best day hikes from Melbourne. Looking for somewhere to stay? Here are five road trip-worthy motels.

What’s not to love about a doughy, spicy, fruity, buttery ball of joy, warmed to perfection in the toaster or the microwave, and slathered liberally with salted butter? Melbourne has a wealth of brilliant bakers, all of whom have been elbow-deep in flour, sugar and spice, perfecting their recipes for Easter. We’ve rounded up our favourite floury heroes and how to get them below. Knead more dough? These are the best bakeries in Melbourne.

Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons, with deciduous leaves changing colour to warm, crackly hues before dropping to the ground. If you're keen to make the most of this fleeting season, here are the best parks and gardens in Victoria to visit to see the changing leaves. Want more outdoor adventures? Here are the best day hikes in Melbourne. And if you want to see the gorgeous waterfalls of our state at their absolute peak, we've compiled a list of absolute stunners.

If you love the craic, you're probably familiar with knocking back a whiskey and a Guinness on St Patrick's Day like all good Irish folk do. The day falls on Sunday, March 17, and we're sure Melbourne's pubs and bars will be getting into the St Paddy's spirit with plenty of Irish pub grub and pints upon pints of Guinness, Kilkenny and Magners. Wear your greenest outfit and head to these venues – they'll be putting on the best parties for St Patrick's Day. Love beer? You'll love Melbourne's best pubs and our list of the 50 best bars around the city.

As the weather warms up, cravings for an ice-cold beverage intensify. For red wine die-hards, the summer can involve a luke-warm cabernet at a family lunch paired with nanna's bread and butter pudding – not a winning combo. But when it comes to summer wines, you can actually have your red and drink it too – just make sure to chill it first. Chilled reds combine the food pairing potential of red varieties with the cool appeal of a white or rosé. Typically, the lighter the better, but you can follow a few simple rules to help you pick the perfect variety to have on ice at your next picnic or summer celebration. Photograph: Parker Blain Check the tannin Heavier, more age-worthy varieties tend to have higher levels of tannin – think cabernet sauvignon, Barossa shiraz or nebbiolo. These wines are perfect for the cellar, but not so great for the fridge. As you chill them, delicate fruit flavours will become less prominent, with tannin and acid taking centre stage. Instead, opt for low-tannin styles that are designed to be drunk now. Check the ABV ABV stands for 'alcohol by volume'. The riper the grape when harvested, the higher the ABV – see also: wines grown in warmer climates. ABV also correlates to how full-bodied the wine is, so if you see something described as "big" or "bold" they're probably not a great candidate for chilling. Wines with an ABV of 14 per cent or more will taste 'warm' on the palate, so look for something 14 per cent or less. Know your varieties Light-bodie

Cada año, le preguntamos a miles de habitantes de ciudades de todo el mundo sobre la vida en su ciudad de origen. Indagamos acerca de la escena restaurantera y los mejores bares. Lo destacado en teatro y en las galerías de arte. También acerca de cómo son los vecinos y los barrios que consideran más cool. La idea es mostrar la vida global de cada ciudad y destacar los sitios que realmente entusiasman a los lugareños.   ¡Aquí están los resultados del Time Out Index 2022! Como siempre, hemos analizado todos esos datos y los hemos aprovechado para elaborar nuestra clasificación anual de las mejores ciudades del mundo. Durante los últimos dos años, la lista se ha enfocado en destacar cómo las ciudades se unieron durante la pandemia e hicieron de la vida (casi) tolerable durante los confinamientos. Pero ahora, después de dos años de restricciones para viajar, el mundo se está abriendo nuevamente y nosotros, como tú, estamos ansiosos por volver a salir. Nuestras principales ciudades este 2022 son las que cuentan con una vida nocturna próspera, comida y bebida increíbles, arte, cultura y museos en abundancia. También hemos aprovechado nuestra red global de editores y colaboradores expertos para obtener información privilegiada sobre lo que está de moda, lo que es nuevo y las tendencias. Si estás planeando una escapada por el mundo este año (especialmente si es la primera en mucho, mucho tiempo), estos son los lugares imperdibles.  

If you’re looking for clinical white spaces and products with names that you need a chemistry degree to understand, Little Company is certainly not that. This holistic wellness space focuses on treating skin from the inside out – whether that’s gut or liver health, stress or just taking a second to chill out. The treatment centre in Collingwood is a tranquil escape from hectic city life, with earthy tones, minimalist decor and warm, inviting textures.  Though the Little Company vibe is more akin to a Byron Bay yoga retreat than a skin clinic, it’s anything but intimidating. The staff welcome you with a genuine conversation targeted to ensure you get exactly what you need from your treatment. Enjoy a glass of chlorophyll-infused water as you fill out your skin questionnaire, including a “how stressed are you from one to ten right now?” field. Because as my facialist Emily explains, “some people really do need to just come here and breathe”. You only have the option of two treatments – and that’s because both come highly personalised to each and every patient. The Ritual is a full mind and body experience, designed to renew much more than just your complexion. You’ll get all the best parts of a facial here, but with full body massage combined with meditative soundscapes and aromatherapy.  The Remedy is designed to treat more specific skin concerns. Your facialist will quiz you on your current skincare routine, skin history and what you’re trying to achieve in the appointment. F

When Sorrento's Continental Hotel (affectionately known as 'the Conti') reopened its doors in March this year, it was pretty close to complete. There was the chic public bar (the Conti), an outdoor dining space (Promenade), the late-night offering (Barlow) and Scott Pickett's stunning fine diner, Audrey's. But just one thing was missing – a place to stay.  After many years (and many, many millions of dollars), the public was prepared to wait just a little longer for the spa and hotel portion of the Conti's epic overhaul. So, was it worth it? At first glance, it's a unanimous, resounding yes.  Having officially opened its doors on August 1, the Intercontinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula continues the IHG Hotels and Resorts' legacy of occupying real estate in some of the world's most sought-after destinations. Sitting high on the hill of the seaside village's shopping strip, dotted with boutiques, bookshops, galleries and tranquil walking trails, the redevelopment has transformed Sorrento's landmark limestone manor – first built in 1875 – into an unmissable tourist destination. While the facade has mostly retained its heritage look, interior and exterior design comes care of renowned Architectural firm Woods Bagot (responsible for Flinder's stunning Tidal Arc House). The firm has reinterpreted Victorian and Deco eras into a jaw-dropping coastal retreat, complete with a huge classic-meets-contemporary collection of work by Australian artists – think 19th and 20th Century pho

Well, they do say you eat with your eyes – but how about viewing art through your tastebuds? For a limited time, you can do just that thanks to a new collab between the Sofitel on Collins and the NGV. As part of its Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series, the NGV presents The Picasso Century: a stunning retrospective of the life of Pablo Picasso through some of his greatest works. The Sofitel has expanded on this idea with a bespoke lunch menu at its No35 restaurant that covers the stages of Picasso's career through different courses. Eat your way through the 'Blue Period' with entrées like leek, blue cheese, blueberries and proscuitto – or opt for the 'Rose Period' beef tartare with patatas bravas. Cubism styling sings in the main course, with Picasso's Spanish heritage explored through a slow-cooked beef dish and dessert of Basque cheesecake with dulce de leche.  The No35 x Picasso lunch is available Thursdays and Fridays from 12.30-2.30pm, with an option for two or three courses, paired with Champagne. You can book your session by clicking here.

Only a fried chicken joint with the aesthetic of Belle’s could comfortably occupy the corner of Napier and Gertrude Street. A stretch traditionally inhabited by niche, locally stocked retail, galleries, boutique furniture stores and the odd café, it seems any run-of-the-mill American style-diner was surely doomed to fail. But Kiwi-born Morgan McGlone managed to nail the intersection between comfort food and Fitzroy spunk just perfectly when he opened the doors to Belle’s Hot Chicken back in 2014. Nearly a decade later, it’s a neighbourhood legend.  After leaving behind Sydney's fine dining scene, McGlone found himself as chef de cuisine at Tennesse's acclaimed Husk restaurant. It was there he fell in love with Nashville hot chicken, the fierier, lighter version of its indulgent Southern counterpart. Hallmarks include a serious amount of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper and chilli powder – yes, it's bright, bright red. Add an acid kick of house-made sour pickles and a spongy piece of white bread and you're in for a great time. Belle's was an instant hit. By now, Nashville-style chicken isn’t exactly hard to come by – but Belle’s still manages to carve out a particular niche. Accents of the brand's signature red mix with mid-century modern furniture and light fittings; timber panelling curves into a stucco plaster ceiling and a white subway tiled bar adds to a distinctly retro feel. A disco ball hangs earnestly from the ceiling near a vinyl player and huge windows frame leather b

Collingwood’s first sustainable wine dispensary is the summation of Rahel Goldmann and Ron Goldmann-Davis' 30 years of collective hospitality experience. After working in restaurants and wine stores across Europe and Australia, the German/Australian duo were inspired to find a way to bring sustainable wines to consumers – sans single-use packaging.  While vignerons and producers have been making great strides over the last decade, the delivery vessels of their enviro-friendly products offer up a jarring contradiction: sustainably made wines served in single-use glass, with single-use closures and single-use labels. Goldmann and Davis were inspired to rethink this process and find a way to reduce needless waste. With a bar/bottleshop in mind, the first step to achieving this was to eliminate disposable packaging in the process. Moving towards a dispensary model made perfect sense, taking wine straight from the barrel in the winery, to 30-litre kegs stored at the Smith Street venue. Much like buying a growler from your favourite brewery, at Glou you can purchase reusable glass bottles of your favourite wine to take home – and bring them back to be refilled when you’re ready. The added benefit? Roughly a 30 per cent discount compared to your average wine retailer.  So, what’s on pour? An ever-changing rotation of 16 locally produced wines – on tap, of course. Part of the appeal of Glou is being introduced to something a little different, so go in with an open mind and an adventu

Upon opening the door to the Light Practice's brand new Richmond studio, you're met with an immediate sense of calm. A large candlelit staircase is flanked by a sign asking you to take off your shoes, and soothing, smoky incense aromas waft down from the upstairs level. This is Elisa Silvert and Prue Barnes' second location – the first being a Morrabin studio that opened in 2021.  While working as a designer in the fashion industry and dealing with the loss of her brother, Barnes (literally) dreamt of leaving it all behind for a yoga studio, combining light and sound to facilitate restorative healing. A yoga novice at the time, the dream led her to quit her job and spend years travelling the world studying the ancient practice. Now, Barnes is a certified yoga and feminine frequency formula teacher with over 20 years of experience. Founding the studio with somatic healing expert Silvert made perfect sense. The duo set out to create a holistic healing space that combined the benefits of yoga with light therapy and nervous system regulation. Compared to typical studios, the Light Practice offers a multi-sensory experience targeted at improving mental and physical wellbeing at the same time.  The stunning Richmond space features soaring ceilings, hardwood floors and arched, fluted glass doors that open to a cavernous yoga studio complete with Tibetan singing bowls and traditional gongs. In terms of yoga, guests have the choice of a more intensive Vinyasa Flow or the calming Resto

If the words 'sushi' and 'taco' being in the same sentence didn't tip you off, Mr Miyagi is not your typical Japanese restaurant. In fact, it's not really typical anything. The now-institution hits somewhere between a bar and a restaurant – and similarly, ends up equal parts casual and fancy. The end product is just one thing: fun.  The Windsor hotspot shot to Instagram fame when it first opened almost ten years ago now,  thanks to a highly grammable interior. Think marble countertops bathed in pink neon lights, and cutesy quips from Mr Miyagi himself detailed throughout the venue. Everything in here is designed to be photographed – and that extends to the menu, too.  Made to share, the food offering can be broken down into small bites, medium snacks – plus the 'Raw Bar' section (it's just raw things, like sashimi, oysters and tataki) – and some larger mains. The famous sushi tacos and Mr M twist on a traditional bao bun are filling and quite substantial for the price. Smaller bites like the Duck Duck Betel and Golden Scallops are more expensive, but delicious. If you're dining with a larger group, order the Wagyu Tataki and impressive 'Salt Slab' of raw kingfish – the serves are just enough for a taste each and are very easy on the eye. The MFC (Miyagi Fried Chicken) is an obvious crowd-pleaser, and the Ramen Gnocchi will satisfy your more Italian-leaning diners. On the ramen theme, the broccoli side covered in buffalo ricotta has a surprising umami flavour punch thanks to s

Find Bourke Street’s Midcity Centre – a tired-looking arcade mixing retail shops with hair salons, phone repair stores and a ramen joint or two – and take the escalator to level one. Look immediately to your right and spot a singular circular sign floating next to a fluorescent ceiling light and fire hose reel. It’s all exceedingly unassuming, but that’s kind of the point. Because behind the curved wooden door is one of the most exquisite fit-outs I have seen in a while. “People thought I was crazy to put this much investment into this space,” says owner Jeremy Schinck. Schinck is also the owner of Pinchy’s, a lobster and champagne bar that occupies the adjacent room and peach-hued balcony. In fact, the only other entrance to Pearl is through a pink, fluted glass door directly from Pinchy’s. Once you make it over the threshold, you’ll understand what Schinck means about a large investment into what can only be described as a very small space. In its previous life, Pearl was a nail salon. There are no windows, the ceilings are low, and you’ll have to walk in single file to fit between the bar and sidewall banquettes. But instead of feeling at all claustrophobic, it feels exclusive – almost like being backstage somewhere. If Pinchy’s is pink and kitsch, Pearl is gilded and luxurious. The concept and design of the venue are all inspired by Jeremy and his wife Samara’s obsession (and I do mean obsession) with oysters. Crushed velvet stools and the waved underside of the bar are

Hubert Estate is the love child of the Ryan Hospitality Group (The Prince, Mitchelton Winery, Nagambie Brewery & Distillery) and one of the Yarra Valley's longest-standing producers, St Hubert's. The winery and cellar door is set to become the region's newest must-visit destination, with a complete redesign of St Hubert's existing footprint – transforming the stunning site into a dual-level estate. The reimagining of the venue is thanks to notable architectural and interior design studio, Cera Stribley. Hubert Estate now encompasses a modern Australian and Euro-inspired restaurant (Quarters), Indigenous art gallery (Hubert Gallery of Art), event space (Harriett), cellar door, and boutique wine store (Notes). Plans are already underway to increase the offering to include a hotel and wellness centre by 2024. "We are proud to introduce Hubert Estate, which brings to life a stunning, multi-purpose destination that has an incredible history set for new beginnings for locals and visitors alike,” says Andrew Ryan of Ryan Hospitality Group. “Winemaking will always be close to our hearts, but with the Estate we’ve broadened our table. Pull up a chair for lunch at Quarters, celebrate special moments with Harriett, or immerse yourself in Indigenous culture at the Hubert Gallery of Art. We designed the Estate to complement the landscape, and we’re inviting guests to find their place in the picture with us.” The original St Hubert's site was one of the first wineries to be established in

If you like your fresh pappardelle with a side of sophisticated interior design and a romantic atmosphere, Tipico is a trattoria worth your attention. The Windsor chunk of High Street continues to become a hotspot for elevated-casual dining, without the hectic nightlife atmosphere of its Prahran and South Yarra neighbours. This modern-italian restaurant from the pasta-pizza geniuses behind DOC, Trattoria Emilia and Grossi Florentino embraces art and design in a relaxed environment – perfect for a drop-in aperitivo or a leisurely, long dining experience. Established by Andrea Da Como (who previously worked at Melbourne restaurant institutions under the Lucas Group and McConnell Group), Tipico is the culmination of 15 years of industry experience. Diners can expect classic Italian flavours crafted with Australian ingredients and delivered by knowledgeable staff (let them pick your wine pairings and you won't be disappointed). Interior features such as the stunning terrazzo-concrete bar are all thanks to acclaimed designer Samantha Eades (from Mitchell & Eades), who was inspired to deliver elements of traditional Italian homes with creative and luxury re-imagining. Wood accents and the perfect level of dimmed-but-not-dark lighting bring a warm atmosphere. If you're looking for a southside dinner-date location, Tipico will put you in the mood. Standout dishes include the expertly balanced swordfish crudo with orange dressing, macadamia and peppermint jelly, or the melt-in-your-mo

On the Arts Centre-side of Southbank, you'll notice a huge, floating cornucopia of Australian spirits, produce, and good times. This is Yarra Botanica, a pontoon bar tucked situated on the banks of the Yarra River. This grown-up floating venue combines the novelty of aquatic hotspots like Ponyfish Island and Arbory Afloat with a conscious approach to home-grown ingredients.  The decor is upmarket, too. Instead of bright coloured market umbrellas, find natural materials paired with timeless, muted hues. The name 'Botanica' represents the bar's surrounding flora – live herbs that can also be used as drink garnishes. And the menu is a pescatarian's delight, with fresh, locally-caught seafood the centerpiece of the offering.  In fact, all the food and drink at Yarra Botanica is 100 per cent Aussie supplied or grown. In addition to seafood, there are plenty of easy share plates and snacks, with produce from familiar names like Mount Zero, That's Amore and Wattle Bank Farm. Expect wood-fired pizzas, generous grazing boards and even hemp soft-serve ice cream flavoured by indigenous ingredients. The drinks list is a similar story. All beers on tap are sourced from Victorian breweries, followed by a hyper-local wine list with drops from the Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley and Bellarine Peninsula taking up a significant amount of real estate. From the cocktail menu, try the Peculiar Pepper Berry Spritz made with pepper berries, Billson's Alfred Peculiar gin, prosecco, grapefruit an

Lanterns Viet Kitchen was established in 2019 by a group of family and friends wanting to bring the distinct and unforgettable flavours of Vietnam to the suburb of Berwick. Opening to a warm welcome from the local community, Lanterns is a home for the Vietnamese traditions of sharing a meal together as a way of bringing loved ones closer. Head chef Tuan has a head full of authentic recipes and a strong desire to do good. In keeping with the LVK ethos of community, Tuan works with youth programs and the NDIS to educate young adults and create employment opportunities for them. In terms of his skills in the kitchen, Tuan expertly and passionately nails simple Vietnamese classics such as banh mi, freshly rolled rice paper rolls or traditional clay pot. The Lanterns story is twofold: a fresh and authentic taste of Vietnam and a place of community and philanthropy. Dine in and do good – chúc ngon miệng (Bon appetite).  

We certainly know that we at Time Out love Melbourne. Now we know just how much you love it too – and why it's the 15th-best city in the world, according to the annual Global Time Out City Index. In March 2022, we asked participants from 53 countries to answer anonymously about the food, culture, arts and infrastructure that makes their cities great. Now the results are in, and we're absolutely stoked to share how little ol' Melbs fared.  Thanks to our diversity, arts and culture scene, and amazing drinking and dining, our city came in at number 15 on the most highly rated cities list, above such global powerhouses as London and New York. A huge 92 per cent of people said they rated our food and drink culture, which comes as no surprise given the calibre of new openings we have seen over the last six months. Keeping up with the latest bars, cafés and restaurants in Melbourne has always felt like a sport, but now it has reached Olympic levels.  Arts and culture received a similarly high 87 per cent – and you only have to look around after dark to understand why. The state is currently lit up and illuminated with arts festivals featuring live music, outdoor installations and stunning semi-permanent exhibitions. And that's all in addition to the huge roster of musicals, theatre and visual arts currently available for your viewing pleasure.  Melbourne also scored highly in categories of diversity (78 per cent), and lots of participants also agreed it was easy to get around via pu

While Australia’s borders were shut to the rest of the world and lockdown measures and health restrictions were in effect, the Land Down Under briefly managed to functionally eradicate influenza from its population. However, with borders now open again and almost all health protocols lifted, the flu is back in a big way – prompting the state government to intact a $33 million package of free vaccines until July 10. Cases of the flu in Victoria have already increased more than 30 per cent in the past week – from 10,000 to 15,000, more than the combined number of reported infections from the past two years. Health Minister Martin Foley emphasised that this new program would help keep Victorians safe as they approach what will undoubtedly be a challenging winter for sickness.  "What this will do is make it easier and more accessible for everyone else to come forward and get that free vaccination to keep themselves safe in the face of what looks like a really nasty flu season," he said. The flu jab has previously only been free for certain high-risk groups, including pregnant women, people aged 65 and above, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Now, all Victorians over six months of age will be able to access the vaccines at GP clinics and pharmacies – with more than 3,000 clinics participating in the rollout. People over 65, those with compromised immune systems and other eligible people are also being urged to get their second booster dose of a Covid-19 vaccine bef

The trials and tribulations of the last two years have claimed many a hospitality venue – but this one hits right in the sweet spot. After 12 beautiful, buttercream frosting-covered years, chef, author and owner of Beatrix, Natalie Paull, will close the doors to her beloved North Melbourne Bakery.  Taking to Instagram to make the announcement, Paull wrote "I am a blender of emotions as I let you know that I am closing the shop, with our last day being in early August. While I adore my shop and have always had a supportive and wonderful team around me, I run this cakehouse as a solo owner and I think I am a little puffed and need a hard break after 12 years."  Paull cited the relentless stress of crisis management as a factor in her decision to close the store, and the need for a very well-deserved rest. "Beatrix and I will still be around in a way," she said. "I’ll never be far away from an oven or a block of butter or an email if you get into baking trouble. See you ‘round like a doughnut." I'm not crying, you're crying.  Need to fill the cake-shaped hole in your heart? Here are Melbourne's best patisseries.

Did you find it especially hard to get out of bed this morning? Well, today you have an excuse. Temperatures across greater Melbourne absolutely plummeted in the early hours of Wednesday, July 6 – earning us the frostiest day of 2022 so far.  Senior meteorologist for the Herald Sun, Chris Arvier, said Melburnians had the coldest start in about 12 months, with the inner-city clocking just over 3 degrees celsius at 7.30am. The suburbs, however, had even more frigid temps. Essendon and Moorabbin dropped to 0 degrees and Coldstream in the Yarra Ranges was a (literally) freezing -3 degrees.  Thankfully, warmer mornings are ahead. “We’re still expecting a fairly cold night tonight, with a minimum of 5C,” said Arvier. “But then beyond that, the mornings are going to be a little bit easier to bear." Adelaide also had its coldest day of the year so far, and Brisbane recorded its coldest day in more than 20 years thanks to unusual weather systems sweeping across eastern Queensland.  Struggling to stay warm? Thankfully you can claim $250 of your electricity bill with this Vic Gov initiative. 

Look, after the last two years, most people are just happy to board a plane right now – let alone jet set internationally. But as international travel gains momentum, the age-old issue returns: why are economy seats so bloody uncomfortable? Thankfully, Air New Zealand has spent the last five years conducting consumer research to figure out how they could improve their offering across all cabins. The number one conclusion drawn from their findings was the importance of a good night’s sleep – and the need for more space and comfort. Cue the new Air New Zealand Dreamliner, set to arrive in 2024 and set a precedent for a far more humane way to fly economy.  The new fleet will give customers more choice than any airline in the world, providing the best possible sleep no matter which cabin you choose to fly in. In addition to the new horizontal offering – called the Skynest – Air NZ will also offer a new Business Premier seat and extremely bougie Business Premier Luxe Suite, designed for those looking for a little more space and privacy.  “New Zealand’s location puts us in a unique position to lead on the ultra-longhaul travel experience. We have zeroed in on sleep, comfort, and wellness because we know how important it is for our customers to arrive well-rested. Whether they are heading straight into a meeting, or to their first holiday hotspot – [customers] want to hit the ground running,” said Air New Zealand Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran. “We wanted to offer our Economy cu

Space travel, rocket science, astronomical research – logically, we know these things exist. And yet, when you observe them in practice, it's pretty damn mindblowing. We don't launch a whole lot of things into space here in Australia, so NASA's June voyage from the Nothern Territory is pretty groundbreaking. In fact, this launch represents more than one first for Australia – the first from the new Arnhem Space Centre and the first commercial rocket to be deployed by NASA outside of the USA.  Launching just after midnight on Monday, June 27, the 13-metre 'sounding rocket' will transport a viewing platform through the atmosphere to examine the Alpha A and B constellations. "Without getting too deep into the science, it was effectively a large X-ray camera looking at various astrological phenomena and trying to capture parts of boulders in the Milky Way and particularly the star cluster of Alpha Centauri,” said Arnhem Space Centre CEO, Michael Jones.  Though it's the first rocket to leave Australian soil since 1996, Jones said the Arnhem Land site's location and proximity to the equator positioned it as a hub for future space travel. “Being 12 degrees south gives us an astrodynamic and physics advantage over a lot of launch sites around the world and is highly desirable for large and complex orbital solutions in space.” The Arnhem Space Centre is located in East Arnhem, 31km outside of Nhulunbuy and is set to increase its capability to host 50 launches a year by 2024. You can fi

There are a few things Melburnians take extreme pride in: café culture, our commitment to the AFL and knowing how to rock an all-black outfit year-round. But aside from the obvious, Melbs for a long time held the title as Australia and the world's most liveable city. Actually, Melbourne reigned supreme for seven consecutive years from 2011, before being dethroned by Austria's Vienna in 2018.  This year, Vienna regains the top spot after claiming it back from Auckland – a city whose ranking has dropped thanks to the complexities of certain Covid-19 restrictions. And what about our humble city? Well, in not-amazing-not-terrible news, we've tied for tenth position with Osaka, Japan. Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth were previously all in the top ten, but have fallen to 27th, 30th and 32nd respectively in 2022.  Victorian premier Daniel Andrews said the results indicated that Melbourne as we know and love it is back on the rise. “It’s hard to get a table at a restaurant, it’s hard to get a room in a hotel,” said Andrews. “The city’s back. We are thriving, and Victorians can be very proud of what they’ve achieved.” The report, run by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), surveys challenges presented to an individual's lifestyle – and this year, relaxed Covid-19 restrictions led to big shifts compared to 2021. You can find out more and download the full list of 173 cities here. Consider yourself a clued-in Melburnian? Here are 35 things about the city that we bet you didn't know.

Victoria's stunning Phillip Island is about to become one hell of a tourist destination, thanks to a massive investment from the Regional Tourism Investment and Enabling Tourism funds. The two schemes, created in alignment with the Andrews Labor Government, will facilitate the construction of a hot springs and lodge development with sweeping views over Bass Strait, complete with seven new bathing pools and a waterfront restaurant. The updated venue will be completed in 2023, and will be named the Cape Woolamai Lodge and Hot Springs. In addition to the expansion of the existing Phillip Island Hot Springs site, the town will also get a new brewery and distillery. The facility will produce locally made craft beer and spirits, as well as act as an event space for masterclasses and functions. Located in the quiet fishing hamlet of Rhyll, the Rhyll Brewery and Distillery will reflect the maritime history of the region and contribute to Phillip Island's identity as a leading food and drink destination.  “This is such welcome news for Phillip Island to expand its offerings and experiences, and I’m thrilled that [the Regional Tourism Investment Fund] has enabled this project to get off the ground," says Jordan Crugnale, Member or Bass. "[It's] a great investment – great for our local economy and great for our locals and visitors alike.” The Rhyll Brewery and Distillery are expected to be complete in 2023, creating around 55 jobs in construction and up to 20 full-time roles upon compl

Get your telescopes out and prepare for things to get a little weird – Australia is getting a rare black moon on May 30. A black moon basically means the second new moon in a month, and it doesn't happen very often.  While the first new moon of May was in Taurus, this black moon is in Gemini. So, what does this all mean?  It typically takes the moon approximately 29.5 days to orbit the Earth, so from time to time, two lunar cycles may fall in one Gregorian Calendar month. When this phenomenon occurs, astrologers believe it can bring second chances or new beginnings. Gemini is also a sign of duality – so there could be significance for you if you’ve found yourself at a crossroads lately. If star signs aren’t your thing, this month’s black moon mainly presents a second opportunity to enjoy that bright, beautiful orb in the sky. Get out your telescope and charge up those crystals. Want to see stars up close? These are Melbourne's best planetariums. 

Get your telescopes out and prepare for things to get a little weird – Australia is getting a rare black moon on May 30. A black moon basically means the second new moon in a month, and it doesn't happen very often.  While the first new moon of May was in Taurus, this black moon is in Gemini. So, what does this all mean?  It typically takes the moon approximately 29.5 days to orbit the Earth, so from time to time, two lunar cycles may fall in one Gregorian Calendar month. When this phenomenon occurs, astrologers believe it can bring second chances or new beginnings. Gemini is also a sign of duality – so there could be significance for you if you’ve found yourself at a crossroads lately. If star signs aren’t your thing, this month’s black moon mainly presents a second opportunity to enjoy a sky full of uninterrupted stars. Get out your telescope and charge up those crystals. Want to keep looking up? Check out our list of the best places to star gaze around Sydney.

After a pandemic-induced hiatus, Sheraton has reopened its premier Fiji resort with a $48 million upgrade. Previously named 'Sheraton Fiji Resort', the new Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort is the country's only integrated five-star resort complex.  The resort offers 300 rooms, with a choice of oceanfront or garden views and private balconies or patios. And if you get bored of staring at turquoise ocean views? There's a championship 18-hole golf course on site, as well as five restaurants, five bars, four swimming pools, tennis courts, a fitness centre, a spa and private beach.  "The reopening of the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort brings a truly world-class setting, service and scale of hospitality to Fiji,” said Neeraj Chadha, multi-property vice president Fiji and Samoa, Mariott International, and general manager of Westin & Sheraton Resorts. "From casually curated, to exceptional and refined experiences, the Sheraton team elevates local spirit to leave the best possible lasting memories. Like the people of Fiji, the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort has a warm and generous community spirit, sharing the Fijian culture traditions, skills and heritage with all those who visit.” The new onsite restaurants are a particular drawcard: Tatavu Grill and Bar Restaurant embraces the essence of Fiji, featuring artisan cocktails and coastal flavours fresh from Fiji’s first multi-level bespoke vertical open grill; Island 619 offers culinary showmanship through open kitchen demonstrat

There are few restaurants that have stood the test of time like Moroccan Soup Bar – likewise, few dishes that have received as much adoration as the venue's famed chickpea bake. But now, owner and head chef Hana Assafiri OAM has made the difficult decision to close up shop after 24 years in business.  "We have decided to close the dine-in capacity for many reasons – one of which is rethinking our social and dining habits," says Assafiri. "The pandemic has made dining indoors difficult, both in terms of logistics and the health of our customers and staff."  Moroccan Soup Bar will close the doors at its St George's Road location on June 30th, as the team officially ends dine-in services and gives up the lease. But Assafiri is planning to regroup and return with a new, more socially minded business model. "The pandemic has radically transformed our lives and requires a rethinking of the way we socialise around a meal," she says. "Times are calling for us to innovate and lead by example – the future of the Moroccan soup bar 'dine-in' will look like conversation salons and pop-ups at various locations across Melbourne to satisfy the palate, feed the mind and engage with the social issues for our times In near future, you'll be able to get your chickpea bake fix through delivery or pick-up (once the MSB has found a new location). Eventually, Assafiri hopes people will be able to invite the team into their homes for conversations about social justice, for catering events or to learn