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Readers response: What advice would you give someone visiting Australia?

<p>We asked our readers what advice they would give to someone travelling to Australia, including where tourists need to see and what hidden gems cannot be missed. Here's what they said. </p> <p><strong>Peggy Rice</strong> - Respect our rules, the outback needs to be researched, swim between flags, don't swim with crocodiles. It's the best country in the world, let's keep it that way. Also do yourself a favour and put Tasmania on your list of beauty.</p> <p><strong>Kay L Bayly</strong> - Number 1 advice! Check distances between desired destinations. It is a much bigger country than most people understand.</p> <p><strong>Michael Pender</strong> - Bring a sense of humour.</p> <p><strong>Toni Stewart</strong> - You will need a year at least to see all the different areas from desert, scrub, rainforest, cities, beaches, country side fabulous little towns and lots of festivals.</p> <p><strong>Maureen Prince</strong> - We don’t have Kangaroos running the streets. Koalas are not in everybody's back yard trees. Whilst we do have snakes you’d be very unfortunate if you were to come across a venomous one. We don’t all go around saying “Good day mate”. Our scenery is incredible. Our food is superb and, best of all, we have good friends who do say “Good day mate”.</p> <p><strong>Tina Shaw</strong> - Leave preconceptions at customs. See who we are and you'll have a fantastic time.</p> <p><strong>Dianne Savage</strong> - Put Tasmania on your must do list.</p> <p><strong>Margaret Higgs</strong> - Use sunscreen, wear a hat, drink lots of fluids.</p> <p><strong>Cheryl Anne</strong> - Don't assume you can cover the whole country in 6 weeks.</p> <p><strong>Sarah Hayse-Gregson</strong> - Obey the beach culture. The flags, lifesavers are there for a reason. If a sign says, “beach closed” there’s no one to assist you if you get into difficulty. Our lifesavers are volunteers, don’t forget that. They give up their free time to monitor the beaches and are highly trained. Never turn your back to the sea.</p> <p><strong>Ann Lusby</strong> - Watch out for drop bears.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Domestic Travel

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Readers response: Have you ever seen or met a member of the royal family during one of their visits?

<p>When the royal family make one of their special, dedicated visits to Australia, some royal fans are lucky enough to catch a glimpse, or even have an interaction with them. </p> <p>We asked our readers if they have ever seen or met a member of the royal family, and the response was overwhelming. Here's what they said. </p> <p><strong>Mike Rogerson</strong> - I saw the Queen and Prince Phillip on the Princes Highway at Blakehurst, NSW. They were on their way to Wollongong, NSW. We were a group of Blakehurst primary school children on the side of the road in 1954. I was eight at the time.</p> <p><strong>Lorraine Strand</strong> - First saw the Queen when the country school kids travelled by train to Adelaide. Then again in Darwin, when she was visiting houses built after Cyclone Tracy. On a more recent visit by the royals, my husband and I attended the same St Paul’s Anglican Church Service in Canberra as the Queen and Prince Phillip.</p> <p><strong>Annette Maree</strong> - I saw the Queen when she was driven past my house in the 1960’s. She was stunning. I clearly remember her wave, her smile, and her “peaches and cream” complexion. It was one of those flashbulb moments that stays in your mind forever.</p> <p><strong>Glenda Grange</strong> - Yes in 1983 I saw Diana and Charles. They attended a royal command performance in Melbourne. I received a formal gilt edge invitation and was one person away from them. I was invited as a bush fire victim of Ash Wednesday.</p> <p><strong>Elaine Smith</strong> - I haven’t but my mum and grandpa did, in 1954 when she came to our small country town of Red Cliffs, VIC. My grandpa and mum were on a special platform with aged residents of country towns, even got to shake hands with her. I was in the crowd with my girl guide group.</p> <p><strong>Gary Johnson</strong> - 1970 when I was in first year high school we went to Perth airport to see Prince Phillip arrive. I had a school blazer on and Prince Phillip came over and asked what school I was from. If it wasn't for my mum forcing me to wear it, I wouldn't have that great memory.</p> <p><strong>Janice Yvonne Colman</strong> - Not in Australia, but in the UK when they passed by our village on way to a county close by. My brother &amp; I got the royal waves as we stood on the side of the road! We were quite thrilled as we were only 14 &amp; 12 at the time.</p> <p><strong>Jean Bryant</strong> - I saw Princess Margaret back in the 50's when she visited a British Air Force base in Germany.</p> <p><strong>Ian Hewitt</strong> - Yes! At NSW Government house in 1992. It was an honour to us to personally meet their majesties.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Domestic Travel

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King and Queen of Spain attacked during royal visit

<p>The king and queen of Spain have been attacked by furious locals during a tour of the flood-ravaged area of Valencia. </p> <p id="story-headline">King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia were met by an angry mob who have been dealing with the fallout of deadly flooding that has killed 217 people, with another 1,900 missing. </p> <p>Accompanied by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, the royal couple arrived in Paiporta on Sunday, when a crowd of hundreds descended.</p> <p>The crowd began to throw mud, rocks, sticks and rubbish at the group while screaming “murderer” and “shame”, with much of the vitriol seeming to be directed as the Spanish leader.</p> <p>The royals were struck with some of the debris, with vision showing the couple’s faces and clothing dirtied with mud.</p> <p>“It’s been four days, where have you been?” one onlooker yelled at the king. “You’ve just come here to pose for pictures. You have no shame.”</p> <p>Another screamed at a visibly frightened Queen Letizia, “You lack for nothing while we here don’t even have water to drink.”</p> <p>According to reports, security tried to whisk the royals away to safety but King Felipe insisted they stay and continue speaking with those who wanted to, with the couple later seen consoling survivors, with one man crying on the king’s shoulder. </p> <p>As they eventually got into their car to leave, a policeman shouted “long live the king”, which was met with howls of “guillotine” by some of the protesters.</p> <p>In a statement issued by the palace hours after the melee, it was announced a second visit by the king to nearby Chiva, another flood-affected town, had been called off.</p> <p>Juan Bordera, a local politician in Valencia, told the BBC that the king and queen’s tour was a “very bad decision”.</p> <p>“It’s logical that the people are angry, it’s logical that the people didn’t understand why this visit is so urgent,” Mr Bordera told the <em>BBC</em>.</p> <p><em>Image credits: GTres/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

Travel Trouble

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Readers response: What’s your favourite destination you’ve visited later in life and why?

<p>When it comes to travelling, some destinations are better than others for different points in your life. </p> <p>We asked our readers what their favourite destination they've ever visited later in life is, and the response was overwhelming. Here's what they said. </p> <p><strong>Robin Liersch</strong> - Africa! Not about the big cities but the animals, landscape and people are lovely. Nature at its best.</p> <p><strong>Karen Ambrose</strong> - Sri Lanka. A fabulous tour.</p> <p><strong>Sandra Way</strong> - Switzerland, such a beautiful country.</p> <p><strong>Deb Moore</strong> - Scotland! The highlands. Because of my ancestry, now that I have been there I feel so very drawn back.</p> <p><strong>Wendy Beckhouse</strong> - Cambodia, Angkor Wat is amazing. Beautiful people and great food.</p> <p><strong>Patricia Monro</strong> - Singapore. A beautiful safe country with spectacular scenery everywhere. Our family lived there for a couple of years so our visits were perfect. Simply love Singapore.</p> <p><strong>Christina Hutchings</strong> - Norway. Especially Geirangar. The people and places were fantastic. Would love to go back.</p> <p><strong>Barbara Mules</strong> - Uzbekistan, not at all what I expected. So many beautiful old buildings, good food and lovely people.</p> <p><strong>Elizabeth Jeffreys</strong> - Italy. Love the country, people and food.</p> <p><strong>Helen Dickenson</strong> - Antarctica, the Parthenon and Machu Picchu because I never thought I could physically do it but I’m glad I managed it.</p> <p><strong>Regina Johnson</strong> - South Island, New Zealand. Spectacular.</p> <p><strong>Ian J Wilson</strong> - Japan, without a doubt.</p> <p><strong>Val Goodwin</strong> - Croatia, wonderful place and people.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Travel Tips

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Readers response: What is the most expensive place you've visited?

<p>When it comes to travelling, there are some destinations around the world that are definitely more expensive than others. </p> <p>We asked our readers which place left them the most out of pocket, and the response was overwhelming. Here's what they said. </p> <p><strong>Angela Budden</strong> - Switzerland for sure. </p> <p><strong>Vera Hunt </strong>- Italy, but it's a beautiful place so worth every cent.</p> <p><strong>Pat Isaacs</strong> - Probably London, back in 2011. Such a contrast to Bali, in 2013. Had two weeks there, total cost was under $1600, including air fare, accommodation, food etc. Just the air fare to London was more than the total cost of my time in Bali.</p> <p><strong>Eileen Dunford</strong> - The Amalfi Coast.</p> <p><strong>Roz Harris</strong> - Ashford Castle in Ireland, but I would give anything to go back again and stay for longer.</p> <p><strong>Valerie Southam</strong> - Iceland and Finland.</p> <p><strong>Peter Connolly</strong> - I think Qatar, although the Netherlands wasn't that far behind.</p> <p><strong>Marirose Piciucco</strong> - Tahiti and Copenhagen.</p> <p><strong>Maree Newhouse</strong> - Iceland, I just came back from there. $48 for a bowl of lamb soup and $52 for a hamburger!</p> <p><strong>Gail Ladds</strong> - Positano in Italy. Cost me $25 for a milkshake about $7 years ago. It was the cost of the view I think.</p> <p><strong>Kevin Chapman</strong> - Hawaii, but worth every penny.</p> <p><strong>Peter Brady</strong> - Everywhere in the US given the lousy exchange rate, the plethora of additional government taxes, and the mandatory 20% tip.</p> <p><strong>Chaz Maree</strong> - Scandinavian countries are very expensive to visit but so beautiful, so who cares.</p> <p><strong>Catherine Cotterell</strong> - Venice, where the traders sting you as fiercely as the mosquitos.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p>

Travel Trouble

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The must-visit winter travel destinations

<p dir="ltr">As winter rolls around, many people are looking to flee the confines of their chilly homes and routines in search of sunshine and adventure. </p> <p dir="ltr">Aussies have been already planning their getaways to follow the sun, as <a href="about:blank">Booking.com</a>'s latest search data has revealed the top ten international holiday spots for this year.</p> <p dir="ltr">The results show that while many travellers are heading to tropical destinations this winter, others are searching for a different kind of holiday. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>10. Kuta, Bali</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">While Bali has long been a popular tourist destination for Aussies, many chose to head to Indonesia to enjoy the sandy beaches and escape the winter chill. </p> <p dir="ltr">With winter temperatures hovering around 25°C each day, there's no better place to escape the cold.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>9. Paris, France</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">In 2024, Paris is on many people’s travel lists ahead of the Olympics in July. </p> <p dir="ltr">With charming restaurants, trendy boutiques, chic cafes, and amazing museums on offer, as well as warm temps, there’s no better time to head to Paris. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>8. Ubud, Bali</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Another Bali region to make the list, Ubud is an inland paradise amongst rice paddies and lush jungle.</p> <p dir="ltr">The food heaven destination is also known for its gorgeous climate, making it a perfect holiday spot. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>7. Queenstown, New Zealand</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">For those who don’t want to venture too far from home, Queenstown is an amazing spot for anyone seeking an active holiday.</p> <p dir="ltr">As the only spot on the list which isn't about escaping winter, Queenstown - and New Zealand in general - is often visited by keen skiers and those looking to amplify their winter travels. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>6. Canggu, Bali</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Another Bali spot making the list, Canggu is a beachside area surrounded by terraced rice paddies and known for good surf.</p> <p dir="ltr">Accommodation in the area ranges from beachside villas and gorgeous guesthouses, with something for everyone. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>5. Singapore</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">While Singapore has long been a default stopover city for travellers on their way to Europe, it's also a great destination in its own right.</p> <p dir="ltr">With a stunning mix of old town charm and modern skyscrapers, it's the perfect place for a mid-week getaway or long weekend.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>4. Legian, Bali</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Legian Beach is right next to the popular spot Kuta, though is a bit more relaxed and laid-back, and perfect for travellers who want to chill out.</p> <p dir="ltr">According to booking.com, Legian has become increasingly popular with travellers in the last year. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>3. London, England</strong> </p> <p dir="ltr">For anyone embarking on a Euro summer, London is a must-see destination for any keen traveller.</p> <p dir="ltr">There's something in London for everyone, from amazing museums and sprawling markets, to iconic landmarks and rich history.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>2. Tokyo, Japan</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">While tourism in Japan has surged in recent years, there’s a good reason why, as many travellers are flocking to the nation to experience its rich culture. </p> <p dir="ltr">On top of it being an affordable destination, the unique experience has Aussies heading to Japan in droves, with Tokyo seeing a 25 per cent search increase among Aussies in the last year. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>1. Seminyak, Bali</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Unsurprisingly, a Bali destination has topped the list, as Seminyak offers luxury hotels and villas, high-end dining, and famous beach clubs.</p> <p dir="ltr">Located between Canggu and Kuta, Seminyak has long hosted thousands of tourists looking to escape the cold, with travellers and locals alike basking in the picturesque sunsets. </p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Shutterstock</em></p>

International Travel

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The best countries for food lovers to visit

<p dir="ltr">When it comes to travelling, one of the best things about exploring a new place is sampling the local cuisine. </p> <p dir="ltr">From cafes adored by locals and the best of fine dining, to charming markets and unassuming but delicious street food, discovering a country’s culture through their food is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in all the world has to offer. </p> <p dir="ltr">According to TripAdvisor’s 2024 Traveller's Choice Awards, some cities are better than others for foodies, with their top ten list showcasing the best destinations for lovers of food. </p> <p dir="ltr">Coming in hot in the number one spot for foodies to visit is the city of Hanoi, situated in the north of Vietnam. </p> <p dir="ltr">With a plethora of street food, fresh markets, and hole-in-the-wall restaurants, you won't be leaving hungry in this popular tourist destination. </p> <p dir="ltr">The national dish of Vietnam, a noodle soup called Pho, is a speciality for visitors to fall in love with, and compare between the hundreds of restaurants that offer the delicious meal. </p> <p dir="ltr">Other foods to try there include banh mi, rice pancakes, and Bun cha, or Vietnamese meatballs.</p> <p dir="ltr">Check out the entire top 10 list of foodie destinations below. </p> <p dir="ltr">10. Phuket, Thailand </p> <p dir="ltr">9. Lisbon, Portugal </p> <p dir="ltr">8. New Orleans, Louisiana, USA</p> <p dir="ltr">7. Barcelona, Spain</p> <p dir="ltr">6. New Delhi, India </p> <p dir="ltr">5. Florence, Italy</p> <p dir="ltr">4. Cusco, Peru</p> <p dir="ltr">3. Crete, Greece</p> <p dir="ltr">2. Rome, Italy</p> <p dir="ltr" role="presentation">1. Hanoi, Vietnam</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

International Travel

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The world’s least visited countries revealed

<p dir="ltr">The world’s least visited countries have been revealed for those who like their holidays to be well and truly off the grid. </p> <p dir="ltr">These 10 countries should be on the travel bucket lists of those who prefer to be away from everyone and everything, and who revel in a crowd-free getaway. </p> <p dir="ltr">According to the <a href="https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/least-visited-countries" target="_blank" rel="noopener">United Nations World Tourism Organisation</a> 2023 report, these ten countries welcome very few tourists for a range of logistic reasons. </p> <p dir="ltr">Some of these remote countries are lying in hard-to-reach corners of the globe, while others are just “too small to host vast numbers of tourists”. </p> <p dir="ltr">However, they're all worth the effort for a traveller after a certain kind of holiday, as they offer golden beaches, crystal clear waters and blissful isolation. </p> <p dir="ltr">The country that came in at number one, as the least visited country in the world, was the country of Tuvalu, which welcomes just 3,700 annual visitors. </p> <p dir="ltr">Tuvalu is located 1,000km north of Fiji in the west-central Pacific Ocean, just below the equator. </p> <p dir="ltr">The three coral islands and six atolls that make up the country have a total land mass of around 10 square miles, making it the fourth-smallest country in the world. </p> <p dir="ltr">Sadly, the future of Tuvalu is uncertain, as the small country is expected to be a victim of climate change, with rising sea levels putting the country and its residents in danger. </p> <p dir="ltr">Tuvalu is also tricky to reach, with no direct international flights, and only three flights a week running to the island from Fiji. </p> <p dir="ltr">Here is the full top 10 list of the least visited countries in the world. </p> <p dir="ltr">10. Guinea-Bissau. Annual visitors: 52,000</p> <p dir="ltr">9. Comoros. Annual visitors: 45,000</p> <p dir="ltr">8. São Tomé and Príncipe. Annual visitors: 34,900</p> <p dir="ltr">7. Solomon Islands. Annual visitors: 29,000</p> <p dir="ltr">6. Montserrat. Annual visitors: 19,300</p> <p dir="ltr">5. Micronesia. Annual visitors: 18,000</p> <p dir="ltr">4. Kiribati. Annual visitors: 12,000</p> <p dir="ltr">3. Niue. Annual visitors: 10,200</p> <p dir="ltr">2. Marshall Islands. Annual visitors: 6,100</p> <p dir="ltr">1. Tuvalu. Annual visitors: 3,700</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images / Shutterstock</em></p>

International Travel

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5 international cities you should never visit alone

<p>It’s no secret that there are plenty of corners of the world that, while incredible to experience as a tourist, aren’t particularly safe to visit if you’re travelling alone.</p> <p>From taxi scams to pickpockets, gang violence and civil unrest, these locations present threats many travellers aren’t aware of when they’re booking their flight.</p> <p>We’re going to look at five cities you shouldn’t travel alone in. If one of these cities finds its way into your itinerary, make sure you bring a friend (and travel insurance)!</p> <p><strong>1. Mexico City, Mexico</strong></p> <p>One of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, Mexico City fascinates first time visitors with its size and scope. And while it’s generally easily accessible, the city has something of a violent streak at night with muggings and pickpockets a constant problem.</p> <p><strong>2. Lima, Peru</strong></p> <p>The gateway to Machu Picchu, Lima has a vibrant food scene and many enchanting attractions for anyone looking to experience South America. But, due partly to the high tourist numbers, illegal taxi services and hijackings have become a big problem.</p> <p><strong>3. New Delhi, India</strong></p> <p>Sprawling, chaotic, yet endlessly fascinating, New Delhi is a must-visit location for anyone exploring the ins and outs of the sub-continent. Unfortunately however, it’s not the safest place to visit by yourself, with sexual assaults a huge problem in the city.</p> <p><strong>4. Jakarta, Indonesia</strong></p> <p>A popular destination for many holidaymakers, Jakarta offers travellers a unique tropical getaway. That being said, there are many threats that can turn a dream holiday into a nightmare. Terrorism and kidnappings in the region are particularly problematic.</p> <p><strong>5. Bogota, Colombia</strong></p> <p>The vibrant, historic capital of Colombia produces some of the finest coffee in the world. However, it’s also one of the most dangerous places for western travellers, with terrorist organisations, drug cartels and armed street gangs a persistent problem.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p>

International Travel

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8 fictional places you can visit in real life

<p>Step into the world of your favourite book, movie or TV show with a visit to these fictional locations that represented the original.</p> <p><strong>Hogwarts, <em>Harry Potter</em></strong></p> <p>You won’t see anyone playing Quidditch on the lawns, but Alnwick Castle in Northumberland in the UK played Hogwarts in the first two Harry Potter films (with a little digital trickery thrown in). The castle has been the home of the Dukes of Northumberland for more than 700 years and is in high demand with film and TV crews – it also stars in the <em>Downton Abbey </em>Christmas specials.</p> <p><em><strong>Jurassic Park</strong></em></p> <p>The lush jungle foliage and towering waterfalls of the island of Kauai in Hawaii served as the backdrop for Stephen Spielberg’s rampaging dinosaurs in all three <em>Jurassic Park</em> movies. You can rent a four-wheel drive and travel through the national park where the movie was filmed though, sadly, none of the dinosaurs remained behind after shooting wrapped.</p> <p><strong>West Egg, <em>The Great Gatsby</em></strong></p> <p>F Scott Fitzgerald modelled West Egg on Great Neck in Long Island, New York. This area on the north coast of Long Island was known as the Gold Coast because of the huge mansions, polo fields, golf courses and country clubs built there by America’s super wealthy (think Vanderbilt, Astor or Guggenheim). The very grand Oheka Castle in nearby Huntington partly inspired Gatsby’s house.</p> <p><strong>Amity Island, <em>Jaws</em></strong></p> <p>Don’t go in the water! The beach on Amity Island was the setting for the first scene in the classic 1970s horror movie, <em>Jaws</em>. As well as looking the part of the perfect American seaside resort, the shallow water of the bay made it easier for the crew to operate the mechanical sharks.</p> <p><strong>Hundred Acre Wood, <em>Winnie the Pooh</em></strong></p> <p>Just over an hour from London you can walk in the footsteps of Winnie the Pooh and Christopher Robin through Ashdown Forest. There’s only about 25 square kilometres of wooded area left from what was once a mighty forest, but it is still quintessentially English and one could almost expect Pooh, Tigger and Piglet to come bounding around a shady corner.</p> <p><strong>Greenbow, <em>Forrest Gump</em></strong></p> <p>Life is like a box of chocolates in Varnville, South Carolina, which served as the fictional town of Greenbow in the Oscar winning movie <em>Forrest Gump</em>. The old Southern mansion that Forrest and his mamma lived in was a fake however, built just for production (and torn down right after), and even some of the Vietnam War scenes were shot around Varnville. Thank goodness for special effects.</p> <p><strong>King’s Landing, <em>Game of Thrones</em></strong></p> <p>The historic Maltese capital of Mdina played the part of Kings Landing in the first series of <em>Game of Thrones</em>. The medieval walled city is in the centre of the island and has a population of just 300 – many of whom weren’t happy about the series. Maltese officials complained about the damage done and filming moved to Croatia for the following series.</p> <p><strong>Hobbiton, <em>The Lord of the Rings</em></strong></p> <p>The three Lord of the Rings movies were such a smash hit that the village of Hobbiton was completely rebuilt in the original film location near Matamata in the North Island of New Zealand. You can step inside the tiny hobbit holes, visit the Green Dragon Inn and (of course) buy a souvenir at the gift shop.</p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

International Travel

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4 seemingly boring cities worth visiting

<p>They might not have all the flashy bells and whistles of the world’s top tourist destinations, but these ‘boring’ cities actually make for excellent travel destinations.</p> <p><strong>1. Geneva, Switzerland</strong></p> <p>Switzerland regularly tops polls for the best country to live in or the happiest country in the world. Yet for many travellers, the fact that it’s a great place to live doesn’t seem to translate into a great place to visit. Sure, a city that’s known for making watches and housing the UN doesn’t sound like it would be much fun, but we think it’s definitely worth a visit. First of all it’s beautiful, strung gently around the shores of Europe’s largest alpine lake. A multicultural population makes for friendly people and good dining, and the high-end shopping is among the best in the world (even if you can only afford the window variety).</p> <p><strong>2. Adelaide, South Australia</strong></p> <p>Poor Adelaide, always the butt of Australian jokes. People claim that it’s woefully backward, has no culture and is full of bogans. The mayor of Melbourne even said it has so little going for it that it should be shut down. We disagree. Adelaide is an elegant colonial capital surrounded by acres of lush parkland and gorgeous beaches, and it’s home to an emerging small bar scene to rival any other Australian city. Then you’ve got the incredible wineries of the Adelaide hills, which are reason enough to put this South Australian gem on your list.</p> <p><strong>3. Brussels, Belgium</strong></p> <p>A TripAdvisor survey found Brussels to be the most boring city in Europe and it’s a sentiment that most experts agree with. As the ‘capital of Europe’ and the seat of the EU, most people regard Brussels as a centre for boring political types and not travellers. Look beyond that though and you’ll find a fascinating city filled with hidden architectural marvels, a buzzing café scene and a contented population living a very good life. And then there’s all the delicious chocolate, waffles and beer you can eat. What’s not to love?</p> <p><strong>4. Toronto, Canada</strong></p> <p>Toronto has always been happy to accept its boringness and leave the flashy, good-time fame to cities like Vancouver or Montreal. Not anymore. The city has undergone enormous growth in recent years and has emerged as a prosperous, stylish, well-adjusted destination that that is emblematic of the ‘new Canada’.  Toronto is one of the country’s most multicultural cities, so you can eat and drink your way around the world, and the shopping is equally good. It’s Canada’s largest city, but still manages to be arguably the safest city in North America.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Shutterstock</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="../travel/international/2016/09/10-stunning-shrines-and-temples-to-visit-in-kyoto/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>10 stunning shrines and temples to visit in Kyoto</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="../travel/international/2016/08/magical-french-region-of-alsace/"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>France’s Alsace is like something from a fairy-tale</em></span></strong></a></p> <p><a href="../travel/international/2016/08/10-of-the-most-enchanting-churches-in-france/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">10 of the most enchanting churches in France</span></em></strong></a></p>

International Travel

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Why you should visit Lake Toba in Indonesia

<p><em><strong>Anne Sinclair, 68, was born in England but spent most of her youth in Darwin, Northern Territory. Now in a position to travel and explore the world, Anne looks forward to sharing her personal experience and encourages others to step out and have fun. </strong></em></p> <p>If you are travelling in Indonesia, why not consider visiting Sumatra? Are you perhaps seeking that very special spot for a holiday and soak up peacefulness, then this little gem might be right up your alley?</p> <p>This little jewel of Indonesia, is tucked away within lush green mountainous terrain, and almost perfect weather, lakefront villas and a community of most obliging people. And it’s all here at Lake Toba, the waters surrounding Samosir Island -  an island, within the island of Sumatra.</p> <p>The catastrophe of a giant volcano eruption some 70,000 years ago (as quoted in Wikipedia notes) created this most incredible crater and dare we say, gave mankind this new piece of paradise; a peaceful contrast to its beginnings I would think? Then, in the immense scheme of things we have total enjoyment of nature’s inexplicable creation. </p> <p>According to the Toba Catastrophe Theory, proposed by S.H. Ambrose of the University of Illinois and Urbana-Champaign in 1998 – the effects of the Toba eruption may have decreased the size of human population to only a few tens of thousands of individuals. This hypothesis was not widely accepted though as similar effects on other animals had not been observed.</p> <p>But that was then, and this is now…</p> <p>To get you to this little piece of paradise, is relatively easy. If you do some Google searches you are bound to find an airline heading this way. Probably a morning arrival at Medan (Kuala Namu airport) would best serve your plans, as the drive out to Lake Toba from the airport, is around four hours. Very well worth it! The taxi drivers are very accommodating and will most assuredly stop at a café, or do a wash room stop for you to freshen up along the way.</p> <p>The taxi will likely pass through some very interesting little villages, showing you the mixture of cultures with Mosques and both Protestant and Catholic Churches almost built side by side. Little villages are filled with busy locals adding to the exciting culture of Sumatra. Very attractive structures could coax the camera snapping time, and wonderful cultural villages which could well deserve some memorable photos.</p> <p>Once you arrive at Parapat, the little township where you catch the ferry across Lake Toba, everything is quite organised; with the colourful ferries departing from Parapat mainland almost at every half hour. Ferry crews are very obliging and will assist you and any cases or bags on to the ferry, and safely placed for the half hour journey across this ocean-blue Lake Toba. The Journey could be a little longer, just depending on which attractive Villa you have chosen to be home for your stay.</p> <p>There is an abundance of Villas and Resorts, with prices ranging to suit any budget. Some of the bigger Resorts (like The Carolina) do have swimming pools, but the water of Lake Toba is quite safe and most inviting for a refreshing swim.</p> <p>You will be helped again by the crew as you come ashore on Samosir Island. An Island donned with amazing waterfront villas. My choice for this visit has been Tuk Tuk Timbul. </p> <p>Overlooking the calm waters on Lake Toba, one could well think one was perhaps relaxing and gazing across the cold yet delicately blue water of Lock Ness. But no, the waters of Lake Toba are much warmer than Lock Ness. This body of water is a natural lake occupying the caldera of a super volcano. This Lake is around one hundred kilometres long.</p> <p>The Island of Samosir is unbelievable attractive. With nature providing cool weather all year round with such dynamic views of the mountainous ranges, and waterfront villas in abundance, fresh food and fabulous prices. It’s all here.</p> <p>This grand ocean-blue lake, found high amongst Sumatra’s volcanic peaks, is where the amiable Christian Batak people reside. Their folk dance and villages are excitingly captivating as their Batak buildings still stand, some in reasonably good condition. It’s nice to see this cultural growth with their Batak homes standing proudly alongside more of what we might refer to as, modern structures.</p> <p>Again, whilst you are on Samosir and also worth a visit is the small village of Tuk Tuk which has a great concentration of tourist facilities; and Tomoki village too, being the main village on the east coast of the Island. The people who reside here are very approachable and responsive, and will help you at any time. Many speak English so, it’s easy to communicate and find your way.</p> <p>If you are seeking somewhere extra special with peaceful surrounds, then Lake Toba at Samosir ticks all the boxes for you. Please keep this little story your personal secret, as Lake Toba lazily boasts uniqueness, with its distinction of utter calm and natural beauty - derived from natures force. </p> <p><em>Images: Getty</em></p>

International Travel

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“A ray of sunshine”: Catherine’s heartwarming visit to miracle baby

<p>A mother from West Sussex has recounted the experience of having Catherine, Princess of Wales, meet her young daughter Amaya-Rae. </p> <p>When Amaya-Rae was born at only 23 weeks and classed as a “late miscarriage” in August 2021, her parents were left heartbroken. </p> <p>Amaya-Rae had already beaten the odds by surviving what was described as a traumatic birth, but the family’s medical team didn’t have high hopes for the baby girl, advising her parents to say their goodbyes. </p> <p>Over the course of 360 days in hospital, Amaya-Rae’s family were told on eight separate occasions that she was not going to make it, but she had other ideas. </p> <p>“It’s nothing short of a miracle,” her mother, Mischa, said, “I’m not religious but I really do believe she has had someone watching over her, telling her it’s not her time to go yet, sending her back.</p> <p>“At first, each time we were told to say goodbye to her, our world just crumbled.”</p> <p>Amaya-Rae went on to prove her mum right and her doctors wrong, defying all of the odds in her fight to survive. Now, she is almost eighteen months old, and safe at home with her family. </p> <p>Despite the heartbreak that came with their time in hospital, Amaya-Rae’s mum has opened up about one bright moment in the dark: a visit from Princess Catherine. </p> <p>“When we were in the Evelina Children’s Hospital, we were totally stunned when Catherine, Princess of Wales, made an unexpected visit,” Mischa recalled. “Catherine was so lovely, she listened intently to Amaya’s story, and genuinely seemed so taken with her and asked such a lot of questions.</p> <p>“She seemed totally besotted, complimenting her smiles and her outfit. Amaya couldn't take her eyes off her, she was transfixed. </p> <p>“Someone suggested we take her to see a Disney Princess show at Christmas, but we joked she only deals with actual royalty now.”</p> <p>Amaya-Rae’s need for specialist care saw her transferred to the Evelina London Children’s Hospital, where she stayed for 166 days before getting to go home. It was there, at the children’s hospital, that she came face-to-face with the real-life princess. </p> <p>Catherine, who is the hospital’s patron, was there on the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee weekend. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CnxfEqxs3v2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CnxfEqxs3v2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by amayarae_ story (@amayarae_story)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>As Mischa explained, she was “with Amaya and her nurse came in and said we had someone who’d like to visit us. I was stunned when I realised who it was, I kept saying it couldn’t be her because it was the Jubilee weekend.” </p> <p>The nurse, she said, told them that Catherine had come to visit the families who couldn’t be out celebrating, and that after being told about Amaya-Rae, she had requested to meet her. </p> <p>“There were no press there, we didn’t see any bodyguards,” Mischa said of the meeting, “she just popped in to meet the children. She was so lovely.”</p> <p>In an interview with the <em>Mirror</em>, Mischa added, “when the nurses told me she was in the hospital and wanted to meet Amaya-Rae, I completely panicked.”</p> <p>“She was in her nappy. I ran around finding something presentable for her to wear. But as soon as Kate walked in through the door, all the nervousness disappeared."</p> <p>After speaking on Catherine’s calming demeanour, and how Amaya-Rae was “transfixed” with the princess, Mischa reflected on their experience and the surprise introduction, saying, “there are some really dark days in a children's hospital, and for our family - and lots of others - there isn't much to look forward to. </p> <p>“Everybody who met Kate said it gave them such a pick-me-up. She was a ray of sunshine in a really frightening time."</p> <p>Mischa’s miracle, her ray of sunshine, is now home. Though Amaya-Rae will require oxygen for another few months, and faces some underlying conditions that Mischa hopes will be manageable and won’t hold Amaya-Rae back, she is happy to report that her daughter is just like anyone else her age. </p> <p>“She is doing so well. She’s such a happy, chilled out little girl. You’d never know what she’s been through.”</p> <p><em>Image: Instagram</em></p>

Caring

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Family learns they visited wrong gravestone for nearly 20 years

<p>A family from the UK have been left devastated after discovering they have been visiting the wrong grave for almost 20 years. </p> <p>The Bell family, who buried their familial patriarch Thomas back in 2005, regularly visited his gravestone at Holy Trinity cemetery in Wingate, County Durham, for 17 years.</p> <p>According to the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-tees-63858303?at_bbc_team=editorial&amp;at_format=link&amp;at_medium=social&amp;at_link_type=web_link&amp;at_link_id=C514075C-74A5-11ED-997B-754D2152A482&amp;at_link_origin=BBC_News&amp;at_ptr_name=facebook_page&amp;at_campaign_type=owned&amp;at_campaign=Social_Flow&amp;fbclid=IwAR0hoRUkg38_Q-s8CoEe70ObHtrYX4-QbVvA7KH2hCTmcEd34a28BuYzfeI" target="_blank" rel="noopener">BBC</a>, it wasn't until Thomas' wife Hilda - who was due to be buried beside him - also died this year that the mix-up was discovered.</p> <p>The family discovered that a mix-up at the cemetery has seen Thomas's headstone been "placed on the wrong grave", due to "insufficient process" and "poor record keeping".</p> <p>An inquiry into the incident found "a perfect storm" of problems led to the crushing mistake, believed to be due to the human error of a stonemason.</p> <p>Bob Cooper, the Archdeacon of Sunderland, said that the error was a "great sadness" caused by a number of wrong protocols being followed.</p> <p>"The term 'a perfect storm' is used all too often in modern parlance, however on this occasion it seems particularly apt," Cooper said.</p> <p>"It cannot be guaranteed that historic cases like this will not reoccur because there will be gaps in the records for many reasons in parishes across the Diocese of Durham and further afield."</p> <p>A number of recommendations are set to be implemented within the parish to ensure the mix-up does not occur again.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Google Maps</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Three reasons to visit Stockholm

<p>Stockholm has so much more to offer than bucket loads of beautiful blondes. Known as the cool capital of Scandinavia, from food to fashion and from service to sites, it’s our new “It destination” for a European getaway. Here’s our round-up of must-dos and local treasures.</p> <p><strong>EAT<br /></strong>Swedes are so passionate about coffee and spending time in cafés that the activity has its own verb: fika. With excellent cafés and bars almost everywhere, do not miss the opportunity to relax in true Stockholm style. For breakfast, brunch or lunch, head to Urban Deli. One of a few combined grocery shops, seafood bars and restaurants in the city, its menu runs the gamut from breakfast to traditional dishes including shrimp salads. </p> <p><strong>SHOP</strong><br />From one-off boutiques to slick shopping centres like Mood, it’s no wonder the Scandies are so well dressed. Grandpa is a must-visit with fashion, interiors and a basement full of carefully selected vintage items like old lab bottles, school chairs and biology posters. </p> <p><strong>SEE</strong><br />If you’re not drawn to a bike ride around the parks or taking a boat on the archipelago (both of which are utterly serene experiences), then opt for a stroll around The Old Town. It’s especially beautiful in wintertime with all the Christmas decorations. One not to miss is the remarkable Vassa Museum. This 17<sup>th</sup>-century Swedish warship sadly sank on her maiden voyage with all hands on board, but now sits, 95 per cent intact, in a purpose-built museum. The personal effects and mind-blowing facial reconstructions of the crew are as incredibly moving as they are fascinating and instructive.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

International Travel

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6 award-winning Aussie tourist spots to visit in 2016

<p>The winners of Australian Traveller’s People’s Choice Awards have been announced, with six iconic Aussie tourist spots named. If you’re planning a big Aussie getaway for 2016 or just need a little bit of inspiration for your day dreaming, we can’t think of anything better than this list.</p> <p><strong>1. Most desirable island escape – Hamilton Island</strong></p> <p>If you want an island escape in Australia the people have ruled that Hamilton Island is your best option. It’s not just the world class results, divine restaurants and the gorgeous location next to tropical paradise, but the relaxed vine in the air that makes a visit to Hamilton Island so good.</p> <p>Runners up: <br /> - Hayman Island<br /> - Tasmania<br /> - Lord Howe Island<br /> - Kangaroo Island</p> <p><strong>2. Best family holiday spot – Gold Coast</strong></p> <p>The fact that Dreamworld, Movie World and Wet ‘n’ Wild are all clustered together makes this a no-brainer for anyone under the age of four, but the Gold Coast has a lot of offer older travellers as well with literally kilometres of pristine beaches to keep every type of traveller satisfied.</p> <p>Runners up:<br /> - Noosa and the Sunshine Coast<br /> - Cairns and Port Douglas<br /> - Byron Bay<br /> - Phillip Island</p> <p><strong>3. Best beachside town – Byron Bay</strong></p> <p>If you’re looking for a laidback beachside town you can’t do much better than Byron Bay. Combine out of this world beaches with chic boutiques, an excellent standard of dining, glorious nature life and a number of other exciting attractions and you’ve got one trip that’s bound to please.</p> <p>Runners up:<br /> - Noosa<br /> - Port Douglas<br /> - Lorne<br /> - Broome</p> <p> <strong>4. Best city break – Melbourne</strong></p> <p>The Sydney vs Melbourne debate will probably go on for years and years to come, but in 2015 the people chose Melbourne as the best destination for a city break. And why not? This city offer cafes, jewellery, galleries, boutique fashion and a culture fix that most cities simply can’t match.</p> <p>Runners up:<br /> - Sydney<br /> - Brisbane<br /> - Hobart<br /> - Adelaide</p> <p><strong>5. Cosiest winter destination – Blue Mountains</strong></p> <p>If you’re looking for a place where you can roll up in a ball beside the fire you can’t do much better than the Blue Mountains and the people seem to agree with this suggestion as well. Combine awe-inspiring sights with beautiful landscape and quaint mountain hikes and you’re onto a winner.</p> <p>Runners up:<br /> - Cradle Mountain<br /> - Thredbo <br /> - Daylesford<br /> - Melbourne</p> <p><strong>6. Best town off the beaten track – Birdsville</strong></p> <p>With a population of just 115 Birdsville is the very definition of off the beaten track, but it’s definitely worth going if only for the sense of achievement that comes with making it to the classic pub. Highlights include Birdsville Races, the desert ultramarathon and Big Red Bash concert.</p> <p>Runners up:<br /> - Broome<br /> - Broken Hill<br /> - Mudgee<br /> - Coober Pedy</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2015/12/walking-the-heysen-tail/"><strong>How I walked the 1,200km Heysen Trail</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2015/12/next-big-attraction-in-australia/"><strong>Meet Australia’s newest BIG attraction</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2015/12/underappreciated-aussie-swimming-spots/"><strong>8 underappreciated Australian swimming spots</strong></a></em></span></p>

International Travel

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You could visit the Queen’s residences sooner than expected

<p dir="ltr">In his first major announcement as a monarch, King Charles III has revealed he will be reopening the Queen’s former residences to the public - and it’s sooner than you might expect.</p> <p dir="ltr">On Thursday, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace, and the Queen’s Gallery in Edinburgh will be reopened to visitors following the ten-day period of national mourning for Queen Elizabeth II.</p> <p dir="ltr">However, the late monarch’s home of Windsor Castle will remain closed until Thursday, September 29, potentially due to the royal family continuing their mourning period for another week after the Queen’s funeral.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-1bd59aeb-7fff-b40c-aa50-d4c8e5d09429"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The Royal Collection Trust has confirmed that the State Rooms and Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace - which is set to become King Charles III’s new London home - won’t reopen this year.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CiuShGctuI_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CiuShGctuI_/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Royal Collection Trust (@royalcollectiontrust)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">It comes after the commemorative Platinum Jubilee displays at the royal residences were permanently closed following Queen Elizabeth II’s death.</p> <p dir="ltr">The exhibition Masterpieces from Buckingham Palace, currently on display at the Queen’s Gallery, will also be extended until Monday, October 31.</p> <p dir="ltr">It is understood that King Charles III may open more of Buckingham Palace to the public to increase revenue which will help pay for the reservicing of the home.</p> <p dir="ltr">“He will use Buckingham Palace because he knows that is his duty,” a royal aide told The Telegraph.</p> <p dir="ltr">“But he might choose to use fewer rooms and open up more of the building to the public.”</p> <p dir="ltr">It has also been suggested that the 73-year-old could gift Balmoral Castle to Scotland in the near future, making the Queen’s formerly private home open to the public all year round.</p> <p dir="ltr">As well as supporting his plans to slim down the monarchy and increase revenue, royal biographer Penny Junor told the UK newspaper the move would likely be a bid to reduce maintenance costs as well.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I think he might bring in more income from the royal assets because he is quite an entrepreneur,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“If he allowed more visitors into Balmoral that would be a good earner.”</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-70fdc6ee-7fff-fe76-db5a-6954522a5d75"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Images: @royalcollectiontrust (Instagram)</em></p>

Real Estate

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Prince Charles' "impromptu" visits cause speculation over the Queen’s health

<p>While Queen Elizabeth II is currently on her annual summer break staying in the Scottish Highlands, concerns have been raised over her health due to regular unscheduled visits from her son.</p> <p>Typically her Majesty would be joined by family in Balmoral, but the frequency of Prince Charles unscheduled drop-ins has become cause for concern.</p> <p>According to multiple British media outlets, the Prince of Wales’ visits to the Queen have been “impromptu”.</p> <p>The Queen remains absent from her regular Sunday church services near Balmoral and will be staying at the estate to appoint Britain’s new Prime Minister instead of trekking to London or Windsor for the audience. Ongoing mobility issues are believed to be the reason behind the decision, as the trip would otherwise be 1600 kilometres return.</p> <p>To assist with comfort, the Queen is set to meet Britain’s outgoing and incoming prime ministers in her Scottish home on September 6 where she will accept Boris Johnson’s resignation and either appoint Liz Truss or Rishi Sunak as the new PM.</p> <p>This is the first time in year 70-year-reign that she will be conducting such a ceremony at Balmoral. It is believed she personally rejected Prince Charles or Prince William, both Counsellors of State to perform the formality on her behalf.</p> <p>Following her arrival in Balmoral, she cancelled her traditional public welcome to the estate - opting to hold the ceremony privately. She has not been seen in the public eye since the end of June where she attended a few events at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh.</p> <p>Her Majesty is said to be "carefully considering" whether she feels well enough to attend the Braemer Games, located only 15 kilometres from Balmoral, this coming weekend.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

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How to get the most out of your next art gallery visit

<p dir="ltr">Art galleries and museums are places of splendour and inspiration that can open doors to other worlds, cultures and historic secrets. </p> <p dir="ltr">Despite the joy many experience within the walls of an exhibition, others can find it dull, exhausting and even in some cases, boring. </p> <p dir="ltr">With all this in mind, there are a few ways you can capitalise on your next gallery experience to get the most out of it without being left feeling exhausted by the end of the day. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Don’t try to see everything in one visit</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">When you step inside a gallery, the first impulse many feel is to soak in as much art and culture as you can. </p> <p dir="ltr">Justin Paton, the head curator of international art at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, says there's no shame in only looking at the things that really grab your attention. </p> <p dir="ltr">"I think you walk through openly, you walk through curiously, you walk through with your antennae up," he <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/the-art-show/how-to-look-at-a-painting/10826778">told ABC RN's The Art Show</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">"Look for that physical response — it might be adoration, it might be arousal, it might be revulsion.”</p> <p dir="ltr">"Those bodily cues, those ungovernable responses, are exactly what should make us look twice, make us look a third time.”</p> <p dir="ltr">"See what the wall label says about it, and if that doesn't correspond with the way you're feeling about it, look again, go and find out more."</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Slow down</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Studies have shown that many people tend to zoom their way through galleries, with research finding many people move on after <a href="https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2016-10247-001">less than 30 seconds</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr">When you're not rushing through trying to see everything, you can afford to slow down and appreciate the things that speak to you. </p> <p dir="ltr">"If you spend good time with one work it is infinitely more valuable than doing a grainy tour of a museum and coming out exhausted," Paton says.</p> <p dir="ltr">"A great painting will flip switches and unlatch thoughts."</p> <p dir="ltr">This helps when you’re looking at what you’re connecting with, rather than what art or exhibitions you feel like you should be seeing. </p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Get to know the art</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">When first observing art, we all have the instinct to judge a piece on its immediate appearance, prompting comments such as “I love it” or “I hate it” or “Surely a child could’ve done this”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Resisting this urge will let you connect with the artist and their intentions on a deeper level, and reading more about a certain work will give you a more elaborate insight into an artists’ inspiration. </p> <p dir="ltr">"It's nice to think about artworks as you would think about people: not rushing into a judgement too fast," says Paton.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Lighten up! Don’t take it too seriously </strong></p> <p dir="ltr">Alongside the reverence and reflection that comes into art, there is also plenty of room for humour and silliness. </p> <p dir="ltr">"People in the past, they had a sense of humour, they liked to have a joke. They weren't a stuffy, serious culture," says Art historian Mary McGillivray.</p> <p dir="ltr">"When you're looking at a painting and you think, 'That's a bit suspect,' it almost certainly will be.”</p> <p dir="ltr">"There's a lot of penis jokes in art history, let me tell you."</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Do your homework</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">A little planning can go a long way when it comes to your next art gallery visit. </p> <p dir="ltr">Looking at what exhibitions are currently on, utilising digital maps, or even booking in a guided tour will help you get the most out of any museum. </p> <p dir="ltr">"Those tours will give you so much more insight into what you're looking at, and it's way more engaging to hear someone talk about art in a collection that they're interested in," says McGillivray.</p> <p dir="ltr">Public programming can also include art and dementia programs, tactile tours for kids, student learning initiatives, and programs created for, and facilitated by, First Nations people.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Don’t feel like you don’t belong</strong></p> <p dir="ltr">You absolutely do!</p> <p dir="ltr">Public art galleries and museums are open to everyone for a reason: to share a love and appreciation of art, history and culture with as many people as possible. </p> <p dir="ltr">"Galleries are not meant to be elitist, they're not meant to be just for some people to understand and everyone else to stay away from. Everyone deserves to have a go at enjoying those collections," McGillivray says.</p> <p dir="ltr">"You're allowed to talk, you're allowed to laugh, you're allowed to joke, you can walk through really quickly or you can slow down or sit down. There's no right or wrong way."</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

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Meghan Markle visits memorial of school shooting victims

<p>Meghan Markle has visited a memorial dedicated to the 19 children and two teachers killed at school earlier this week. </p> <p>The victims of the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas were between the ages of seven and 10, including teachers Irma Garcia and Eva Mireles.</p> <p>The Duchess of Sussex arrived at the memorial on Thursday and lay a bouquet of white roses among several others.</p> <p>She also walked past each of the white crossed which had the names of all the victims who lost their lives on Tuesday. </p> <p>Gunman Salvador Rolando Ramos, 18, was armed with a gun when he stormed the elementary school on Tuesday and killed the young victims and their teachers.</p> <p>He was then allegedly killed by the responding officers.</p> <p>The murdered children have since been identified as 10-year-old Amerie Jo Garza, 10-year-old Alexandria Aniyah Rubio, 10-year-old Annabell Guadalupe Rodriguez, fourth grader Eliahana Cruz Torres, 9-year-old Eliana “Ellie” Garcia, 10-year-old Jackie Cazares, 10-year-old  Jailah Nicole Silguero, 10-year-old cousins Jayce Luevanos and Jailah Nicole Silguero, 10-year-old Jose Flores, 10-year-old Makenna Lee Elrod, Maite Rodriguez, Nevaeh Bravo, 10-year-old Rojelio Torres, Tess Marie Mata, 8-year-old Uziyah Garcia, and 10-year-old Xavier Lopez.</p> <p>Teachers Irma Garcia, 46, and Eva Mireles, 44, selflessly put themselves in front of the children in defence but were also killed.  </p> <p><em>Images: Twitter</em></p>

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