Browse Tag

press release - Page 3

5 must-visit destinations at the Golden Outback in Western Australia

Whether you are looking for a beach getaway or experience nature in all its glory, a scenic road trip along the Golden Outback is perfect for any kind of traveller.

Home to white beaches and technicolour fields filled with wildflowers, you can be guaranteed an amazing experience during your trip to this wonder of nature.

Set off on your adventure by flying into Perth on a short 5.5-hour flight from Malaysia.

From there, rent a car right at the Perth airport. Then, begin your adventure to these top spots along your drive to explore the Golden Outback.
1.Spend an afternoon exploring Wave Rock
Wave Rock 2
Couple viewing the unique Wave Rock, located near Hyden

From Perth, enjoy a four-hour scenic drive while admiring the wide vistas of wheat and canola fields to the Wheatbelt town of Hyden.

Over 2,700 million years in the making, Wave Rock rises 15 metres above the outback plain. Interestingly, one of Australia’s biggest waves that is located the furthest away from any ocean.

This 110-metre long multi-coloured granite cliff is shaped remarkably like a huge wave that is about to crash. Thus, making it a popular photo spot among tourists.

Pose on the rock face and “surf” the giant wave. Or see it from a different perspective by walking along the trails around the base and over the top. 

2.Stroll along the white sands of Lucky Bay
Lucky Bay 3
Kangaroo at Lucky Bay, Cape Le Grand National Park.

Located just under five hours away from Wave rock, Lucky Bay is the jewel among the string of spectacular beaches along the coast of Cape Le Grand National Park.

The white sandy beach, turquoise waters, and breath-taking views are sights to behold for nature lovers.

If you’re lucky, you might even come across a group of kangaroos lazing away and taking in some vitamin sea themselves. Now, that’s something you don’t want to miss!

While you’re there, grab a quick bite at Lucky Bean Café. It is located right on Lucky Bay. Plus, don’t forget to ennjoy their espresso coffees, fresh juices, freshly baked muffins and a variety of confectionery snacks and ice cream.

3.Get a bird’s eye view of the bubblegum-pink hues of Lake Hillier
Lake Hillier 1
Aerial view of Lake Hillier, Middle Island near Esperance

After your stop at Lucky Bay, take a pause from driving to inject a splash of pink into your trip with a journey to Lake Hillier, located on Middle Islands.

The lake is situated at a remote location 11 km away from the coast of Cape Arid National Park. It is accessible via charter plane or boat.

The breath-taking panorama of the contrasting deep blue ocean next to the bubblegum-pink colour of Lake Hillier is separated solely by a thin strip of sand.

This charming natural attraction of Golden Outback defies scientific explanation. The colour of the water remains unmistakably pink which makes it the perfect shot for your Instagram feed.

4.Amaze with colourful wildflowers in Fitzgerald National Park
FItzgerald National Park 2
Phymatocarpus maxwellii wildflower, found in Fitzgerald River National Park

Once you’re back on land, take a drive to Fitzgerald National Park. There, take in its pristine wilderness in all its glory.

Listed as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the park is the largest single national park in Western Australia. It is perfect for nature lovers and adventure-seekers.

Being one of the most diverse botanical regions on Earth, the park is home to about 1,800 species of flowering plants. These species include Royal Hakea, Qualup Bell, Sepulcralis, Weeping Gum, Pincushion Hakea, Woolly Banksia, and Bottlebrush.

With the diverse flora as the perfect backdrop, be sure to take plenty of pictures for that perfect Instagram post.

5.Visit the largest outdoor art gallery at Lake Ballard
Lake Ballard 1
One of the 51 sculptures on salt lake, Lake Ballard.

From the park, take a 10-hour drive to Lake Ballard to view the creation of award-winning artist, Antony Gormley.

The surreal landscape offers a stunning exhibition of 51 metal statuettes scattered along the expanse of the shimmering salt lake.

Furthermore, the vast 10 square kilometre land makes it geographically ideal to spend a night bush camping.

Be sure to walk and explore across the exhibition site to view the different sculptures.

Plan your visit between the cool months of May until October. This is when the lake surface is sturdier, making it much easier to explore the exhibition site.

The Golden Outback is the perfect destination for a road trip to experience the best of nature and go on an adventure.

With easily accessible facilities and destinations, you can easily plan a quick getaway during any of the upcoming long weekends!

For more information on Western Australia, visit their website at www.westernaustralia.com or their Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/ExtraordinaryWesternAustralia.

This press release is provided by Tourism Western Australia.

5 places to be awed by the night sky and Southern Lights

Sometimes, all we have to do to see magic is look up.

Catching the Northern Lights – a transfixing display of lights caused by charged particles entering the atmosphere – is one of the most sought-after experiences of all time.

Lucky for us, we don’t have to travel all the way to Iceland – their counterpart, the Southern Lights, is just right around the corner! There are so many places in Asia where we can chase after the beauty of the night sky and go star-gazing.

Here are five of them to get you started.

1.Lake Tekapo (South Island), New Zealand

In the day, Lake Tekapo offers a picturesque view of the dramatic Southern Alps – by night, it transforms into a whole new destination.

Part of the UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, the lake has some of the darkest skies in the world, forming the perfect viewing spot for the Southern Lights. Seize the winter season (June to August) to catch the illuminating lights display, with a full array of colorful lights dancing in the night sky.

You can also head to Mount John Observatory, which houses some of New Zealand’s largest telescopes, to get up close and personal with millions of stars.

New Zealand Southern Lights Lake Tekapo
Lake Tekapo during the day offers a picturesque view of the dramatic Southern Alps.

2.Flinders, Australia

There’s no doubt that the Melbourne city center has a lot to offer, but by nightfall, seek new attractions elsewhere. Make your way to the unassuming town of Flinders, a 90-minute drive away from the city.

Located on the southern coast of the Mornington Peninsula, the beaches of Flinders offer an uninterrupted view of the night sky and its magnificent lights. With an absence of noisy tourist crowds or sounds of the city, you can marvel at the other-worldly Southern Lights in complete serenity and peace.

Southern Lights Australia Flinders
The beaches of Flinders offer an uninterrupted view of the night sky and its magnificent lights.

Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne Flinders Street

Strategically located just steps away from the arts and entertainment district, DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne Flinders Street is a choice location for when you do spend time in the city. Start your trip with a warm DoubleTree welcome with their signature chocolate chip cookie, and take full advantage of the proximity to attractions like Federation Square and the historic Flinders Street Station.

3. Halong Bay, Vietnam

With its pristine emerald waters and towering limestone islands, Halong Bay has long become a fan-favorite among those looking to take a day trip out of central Hanoi.

The experience here gets even better at night! Get aboard an overnight cruise and set sail on a journey off into the starry, starry night. Without the smog and light pollution from the city, you’d have full view of the clear skies and constellations. The universe has never felt so vast.

Southern Lights 3. Halong Bay
Get aboard an overnight cruise and set sail on a journey off into the starry, starry night.

Stay: Hilton Opera Hanoi

When back in the city, head to Hilton Opera Hanoi to continue the rest of your travel adventures in style and comfort. This iconic landmark is situated in the historic French Quarter of Hanoi, and offers locally-styled rooms and traditional Vietnamese cuisine for the full Vietnamese experience.

4. Doi Chiang Dao, Thailand

If you are up for some adventure, look no further than Doi Chiang Dao, Thailand’s third highest peak! No matter how difficult the hike, it’ll certainly be worth it in the end. Literally translating to the “City of Stars”, Doi Chiang Dao offers ethereal views of star trails, and takes you so high up, the stars are almost within your grasp. If you are keen to sleep among the stars, overnight camping is available, but be sure to get a permit in advance.

Twilight at third hightest peak in Thailand
Twilight at third hightest peak in Thailand, Doi Luang Chiang Dao

5. The Maldives

The Maldives is often considered to be paradise on Earth, and for good reason – from untouched white-sand beaches, exhilarating sea-sport activities to the ultimate in resort-styled luxury, you’re sure to have the getaway of your dreams. By day, bask in the sunlight and soak up your fair share of Vitamin D; by night, kick back with a cocktail and take in the mesmerizing view of the sea of stars. With these clear Maldivian nights, you’re almost guaranteed to catch a shooting star. Time to make your wish!

Southern Lights Rangali Island
Catch a shooting star!

Stay: Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Set on Rangali Island, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is one of the Top 100 Greatest Destinations in 2018, and home to the world’s first undersea residence, THE MURAKA. With its distinctive design and focus on personalized experiences, you can even star-gaze from the luxury of your own living room.

Discover The Peranakan Gallery at Orchard Road, Singapore

Phoenix in flight, dancing dragons and peonies in full bloom; visitors to The Peranakan Gallery at Orchard Road will be enthralled by artful depictions of these colourful and iconic Peranakan symbols throughout a gallery space that focuses on tracing the 500-year-old story of the Straits Chinese population in Southeast Asia.

Beginning from the arrival of Chinese Admiral Cheng Ho’s fleet in the early 15th Century, the Peranakans embraced cultural practices and aesthetics from local Malays and occupying Europeans over 300 years to shape a hybrid culture rich in its own tapestry of traditions.

Discover The Peranakan Gallery at Orchard Road, Singapore

The Peranakan Gallery brings to life this remarkable heritage within a setting that is accessible and intriguing to visitors with all levels of understanding of the Straits Chinese culture.

At the entrance, guests are greeted by a typical Peranakan shophouse facade complete with an ornately-carved Pintu Pagar (fence door). It is a traditional privacy screen placed in front of the home’s main entrance.

Furthermore, there is a table set-up for a game of Cherki (a olden card game similar to gin rummy) beckons within. Meanwhile, another large section is dedicated to the art of embroidering and wearing the iconic Sarong Kebaya and Kasut Manek (beaded slippers) traditionally worn by Peranakan women.

Authentic Peranakan Flavour The Peranakan Gallery’s main exhibit centers around an elaborate 20-seater Tok Panjang table set. On the table, there are exquisitely-crafted Nyonya ceramics, Chinese porcelain and Waterford crystalware. This a nod to the Malay, Mandarin and European influences beloved by the Peranakans and assimilated into their aesthetic.

Tok Panjang is a grand spread of dishes laid out with great care upon a table, in celebration of special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries and hallmark birthdays.

Centering this table at the heart of The Peranakan Gallery spotlights the importance that Babas (men) and Nyonyas (women) place on their distinct culinary heritage.

Visitors will be heartened to know that this Tok Panjang table isn’t merely a museum display. The gallery’s adjoining restaurant, The Peranakan, is able to serve up an authentic Tok Panjang feast comprising over 12 signature items at the table.

Encircling this centerpiece are displays of items and furnishings typical to Straits Chinese homes of yesteryear. From black and white family portraits, treasured and antique Kam Cheng, there is even a collection of vintage tiffin carriers and even enamel chamber pots.

The Peranakan Gallery Facade
The gallery is a celebration of life

Baba Raymond Khoo, founder of The Peranakan Gallery and also executive chef of The Peranakan shares, “The Peranakan Gallery is a celebration of our Straits Chinese way of life, created to transport visitors to the golden age of Peranakan heritage through an experience that is visually captivating and highly-immersive. We hope the gallery inspires each visitor to discover more about our unique hybrid culture that embraces East and West, and to be an active advocate for all things Peranakan. Our efforts in encouraging people to participate in and promote Singapore’s Peranakan culture stems from a passion to preserve our ancestral heritage for generations to come.”

Sharing more on the Orchard district’s Peranakan history, Baba Raymond explains, “Orchard Road was home to one of Singapore’s original Peranakan enclaves in the 1800s. We hope this exciting project both celebrates the heritage of Orchard Road whilst transforming the typical mall visit with an enriching insight into Peranakan culture.”

The Peranakan Gallery Sarong Kebaya Display

The Peranakan Gallery is opened in collaboration with Claymore Connect, a mall by CDL Hospitality Trusts (CDLHT).

The Peranakan Gallery is open daily from 11am to 10pm and is conveniently located at Level 2 of Claymore Connect Mall, 442 Orchard Road Singapore 238879.

The admission fee of S$15nett per person is waived for all visitors who present a hotel key card or a receipt from any outlet located at Claymore Connect.

10 cafés in Sydney to experience food with a twist!

If Sydney has one thing to boast about other than its sightseeing and adventure offerings, it’s that it sure knows how to dine – with a twist.

Much to the delight of foodies out there, there’s always a new café or restaurant swinging open its doors in Sydney, each with its own unique take on common dishes to stand out from the crowd.

Here are 10 cafés in Sydney to experience food with a twist!
1.Devon Café

Devon Café, known for serving tongue-in cheek comfort food take on café staples, has become a favorite with locals.

Though the café differs slightly from branches, this foodscape never fails to serve up a delightful assortment of Asian-fusion mains and seasonal desserts.

Mostly, it is famous for its Japanese-inspired Breakfast with the Sakumas, a dish made up of a miso king salmon sprinkled with a smoked eel croquette and mayonnaise.

For those with a permanent sweet tooth, you can opt for the ‘DD Special’, a matcha and hojicha soft serve topped with well-seasoned hot chips.

If the hot-cold pairing is too much for your taste buds to take in, there are always other novelty desserts to choose from – a flaky pork floss cronut or a milk tea soft serve topped with black tapioca pearls.

WHERE: Devon Café Barangaroo, 19/200 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo, NSW 2000 | Open daily 7am – 4.30pm
Devon Café, 76 Devonshire St, Surry Hills, NSW 2010 | Open daily 7am – 3.30pm

2.Manly Wine

Craving mouth-watering and Instagram worthy food? Hit up Manly Wine this Spring with its recent menu additions, poké cones and kombucha cocktails (limited time only).

Wrap your hands around the Hawaiian-influenced poke cones filled with a choice of rice and salad and two available protein – salmon and crispy tofu – for a scrumptious snack.

Next, wash them down with three thirst-quenching and refreshing kombucha cocktails: Spring Sour, Cherry Pop and the Kombucha Mule.

Aside from their specials, hit up other menu items that are worth trying, such as their roasted Spanish mackerel with heirloom beets and goats curd. Don’t forget to stop by for a lazy stroll along Manly beach afterwards – voted one of the top 25 beaches in the world on Trip Advisor.

WHERE: 8/13 S Steyne, Manly, NSW 2095 | Open daily 7am – late

3.Maybe Sammy
002.Blue Corn Taco with Lavendar Marinated Salmon

Cue the newly opened Maybe Sammy, a classic cocktail bar with its interior screaming 1950s Hollywood and Vegas.

Though food is not the focus at Maybe Sammy, outshone by its extensive list of signature cocktails and a selection of spirits, wines and beers, it is certainly not an afterthought.

Helmed by Maybe Frank’s chefs, the kitchen whips up bar food offerings that complement perfectly with their drinks, such as a delicate paper-thin blue corn taco with lavender-marinated salmon, avocado, corn and coriander, or a bagel with chunk strips of Wagyu pastrami.

WHERE: 115 Harrington St, The Rocks, NSW 2000 | Open Tuesday to Sunday 4.30pm – 1am

4.Don Taco (Redfern Surf Club)

The owner-chef duo of Sydney’s Bar Ume and Ume Burger will be opening Don Taco inside the inner-city bar Redfern Surf Club, known for its laidback beach vibes and canned cocktails.

Here, the pair will be unveiling their take on a ‘Japi-Mexi’ taco rice bowl, an Okinawan specialty of koshihikari rice topped with Tex-Mex flavours, catered for both carnivores and veggie-lovers.

The chefs hope to roll out more funky assortments on their menu soon, but in the meantime, enjoy food from this holy union between the two cuisines. 

WHERE: 60 Botany Rd, Alexandria, NSW 2015 | Open Tuesday to Sunday 4pm – 12am

5.Sash

Yet another ‘Japi-Mexi’ food instalment, Sash focuses on eye-searing technicolor Japanese-style pizzas, tacos and sliders, most known for its “sashizza” – an award-winning sashimi pizza.

Built on either squid ink dough or oven baked rice, the toppings consist of raw fish, avocado, mango, strawberry and wasabi mayo.

Bite-sized chili mayo prawn sliders and spicy tuna tacos with avocado salsa are available for sharing as well. For the afters, head for their raspberry macaron ice-cream sandwich —a dessert that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

WHERE: 82 Wentworth Ave, Surry Hills, NSW 2010 | Open Monday 4.30pm – 11pm, Tuesday to Thursday 12pm – 11pm, Friday & Saturday 12pm – 12am, Sunday 1pm – 12am

6.Valet by V Lounge

Hopping on to the Butterfly Pea Flower trend is newcomer Valet by V Lounge, serving up their show-stopping Beach Balls – deep-fried sweet potato mochi balls paired with a blue butterfly pea flower custard as the dipping sauce – the embodiment of a summer beach on a plate.

To differentiate itself, this playful café is also introducing their liquid nitrogen infused Tiramisu bingsu and their udon topped with salted egg curry sauce that is both delicious and picture-perfect.

With that, this modern Pan-Asian cafe is not only bringing Cabramatta a wide array of decadent dishes, but also the new kid on the block for Instagram lovers.

WHERE: 38 Arthur Street, Cabramatta, NSW 2166 | Open daily 9am – 6pm

7.General Chao
080 General Chao Chatswood credit Anna Kucera
Generla Chao

Located in Sydney’s suburb of Chatswood, the kitchen of General Chao is not only busy preparing decadent culinary creations such as their Jasmine tea smoked duck dumplings and crispy caramelised pork belly salad, but also focusing on perfecting their in-house XO sauces.

Featuring flavours such as black truffles, abalone, dried scallop and shrimp, jamón and gold leaf, the XO sauces are a perfect accompaniment to the dishes.

Not forgetting the dessert lovers, indulge in an intriguing Shanghai Banana – a fried banana wrapped in crispy egg noodles served with coffee caramel and stem ginger ice cream, blending the flavours of east and west.

For something quirky, knock yourself out with their Thai green curry ice cream. Taking inspiration from street food of pan-Asian countries and preparing it with Western techniques, General Chao is definitely a go-to on days that you would like to tantalise your taste buds.

WHERE: District Dining, 436 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood, NSW 2067 | Open Sunday to Wednesday 12pm – 10pm, Thursday to Saturday 12pm – 12am

8.Mark + Vinnys
Beetroot Spaghettini 2
Beetroot Spaghetteni

Just when you think you know all about your pastas, hold that thought because you haven’t visited Mark + Vinny’s.

This intimate restaurant has a menu full of surprises that will tantalise your senses – from a neon-blue spirulina tagliatelle made with a nutrient-dense powdered alga topped with blue swimmer crab, bottarga and pangrattato, to a ruby-red beetroot spaghettini paired with truffle and cashew crème faiche and a charcoal-black bucatini finished with a vegan sweet potato “egg yolk”.

With a full menu of over 50 spritzes to offer, wash your meal down with a drink, or two. Perfect for the adventurous health-conscious millennials, this gem is the place to be. 

WHERE: G08, 38-52 Waterloo Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010 | Open Monday to Saturday from 6pm, Fridays for lunch from 12 – 3pm

9.Speedos

Over at Speedos, you’re certainly not short of Insta-worthy opportunities, but the one that takes the cake is their Caramelised Banana and Chia Vegan Pancakes – a mouthwatering stack of three fluffy pancakes, topped with poached berries, fig, pistachio crumble and maple syrup.

For a lighter but equally yummy option, try their Raspberry, Lime and Ricotta Hotcake, a drool-worthy combination of fig, semolina, strawberry, pistachio ice cream, rose and lime reduction.

Taking up residence in Bondi’s trendy north side, Speedos Café is a favourite among locals and those just visiting.

WHERE: 126 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi, NSW 2026 | Open daily 6am – 5pm

10.Cuckoo Callay
Pimp Mi Goreng
‘Pimp Mi Goreng’

Cuckoo Callay has surely established a name for themselves with their very own Mi Goreng chicken thigh burger – packed with maple bacon, house-made kimchi, avocado and coriander aioli on a potato burger bun.

That’s definitely one way to do a burger right. This very café is the brainchild of two minds not content with providing a location for die-hard coffee lovers, nor subsidising Sydney’s impressive café eateries – but bringing together the perfection of both. You’ll find the ‘Pimp Mi Goreng’ at both outlets.

WHERE: 413-415 Crown Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010 | Open Monday to Friday 7am – 4pm, Saturday 8am – 4pm, Sunday 8am – 3pm
BC1 Newtown Train Station, Newtown, NSW 2042 | Open Monday to Friday 6am – 4pm, Saturday 8am – 4pm, Sunday 8am – 3pm

 

This is a press release provided on behalf of Destination New South Wales.

Top five shopping spots in Sydney this holiday season

Sydney is known for its food and coffee culture, but it is also a top shopping destination brimming with luxury international brands, local artisan finds, and standout Aussie fashion.

If you are heading out early on Christmas shopping, here are top five shopping spots in Sydney, Australia:

1. Birkenhead Point

Birkenhead Point
Levels of discounted shopping at Birkenhead Point Outlet Centre, Drummoyne.Credits: Destination NSW

This is Sydney’s answer to Los Angeles premium shopping outlets. Birkenhead Point has a classic, shopping mall feel with loads of top brands under one roof.

To top it all, it offers a free nanny service, Visitor Passport, bus tour drop offs and a direct ferry service.

The Shopper Hopper ferry is a great way to see the harbor and get to Birkenhead. Just jump on board for the 20-minute ride to Sydney’s largest outlet centre for $13 one-way or $22 return.

Once inside, both domestic or international travellers can present their IDs to the customer service desk to receive a complimentary Visitor Passport with over 35 discount offers.

There are plenty of to shop from luxury goods, fitness gear, shoes and children’s clothing.

End your shopping trip by enjoying crispy squid with soft polenta, tomato and herbs with a glass of bubbles at Café Birkenhead.

2.Mosman

Mosman
Boutique and designer brands lining Military Road, Mosman in Sydney’s lower north shore. Credits: Destination NSW

Located on Sydney’s north shore, Mosman had a bustling village feel with many sophisticated multi-concept retailers.

Walk its pretty streets where you can find cafes, florists and beautiful boutiques. Then, make a stop to fuel up at The Mews, tucked into a laneway in Mosman Square. There you can give the Poke Bowl and a Green Peace Smoothie with kale and coconut water.

At the newly opened Moya, visitors can find a carefully curated collection of Equipment shirts, AG Jeans and Max Mara.

Or you can to Fox and Dove where you can pick a stylish sunglasses, a Zulu and Zephyr swimwear and an Oganised Life Zodiac notebooks.

3. Pyrmont

Pyrmont
Women enjoying a day of shopping for Australian designs at Urban Oasis, Pyrmont. Credits: Destination NSW

With luxury shopping at The Star Casino and unique retailers popping up a round Union Street, innercity village Pyrmont is having something of a shopping renaissance.

The luxe arcade in The Star has high-end brands Bottega Veneta, Chanel, Gucci, Moda Emporio along with G-Star Raw and IM Lingerie.

For unique finds, Urban Oasis has cute gifts such as S ’Well water bottles and quirky stationery.

Meanwhile, go to St Frock as it is popular for its Aussie-designed, floral-print midi dresses.

For lunch, just head to The Star’s top eateries—sample Asian street food at Fat Noodle, a burger at Fuel or coffee from Antidote.

Then, what better way to end your shopping trip than perusing the bookshelves and sipping a martini at Edition BookBar.

4.The Intersection, Paddington

The Intersection Paddington
The Intersection shopping precinct, Paddington. Credits: Destination NSW

The Intersection is the tree-lined point where Glenmore Road meets Oxford Street,Paddington.

The Chic enclave is the home of high-end Australian designer boutiques; niche art galleries and hole-in-the-wall cafes.

Start at Jackie’s Café with a lazy sunlit brunch in their leafy courtyard. After that, head to Lee Mathews for sophisticated blouses, skirts and dress.

There are plenty to shop at this part of Syndey, from a cashmere-blend shawl from Jac+Jack or a standout accessory from Sass and Bide.

Then, enjoy a vegan coffee with almond milk at Orchard street or a crisp rosé at historic Village Inn.

5.Surry Hills

Surry Hills
French antiques, accessories and furniture on sale at ici et la in Surry Hills. Credits: James Horan, Destination NSW.

If vintage is your style, this is the shopping spot for you in Sydney. In this vibrant inner-city suburb of working-class origins, you will find one-off vintage finds and seriously cool collectibles.

Start with a taste of Surry Hills at Kawa Café with a Chai Latte and Generous ‘Best Breakfast’.

From here, you can find some of the best vintage clothing in Sydney. Zoo Emporium is a treasure trove of vintage dresses and accessories.

It offers treasures throughout the eras, from 1920s art deco sequined numbers to faux-furc apes, 1940s suits and delicate jewellery.

Or go to Cream on Crown which is a busy secondhand den overflowing with seventies shirts, vintage denim and coats.

Across the road is Oscar and Friends Booksellers, with an interesting collection of non-fiction novels, teen tales and sweet giftcards.

For lunch, have a healthy buffet at About Life or settle into The Winery for their signature ‘Picnic’, $45pp and a glass of Bilpinapple cider.

This article is based on the press release provided by Destination New South Wales, the official tourism board for the state of Australia. 

10 things you should know about the spectacular Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge

Hong Kong Zhuhai Macao Bridge 4
The sunset view of Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.

On Oct 24, the world’s longest bridge and tunnel sea crossing was opened to the public.

With hope to provide a major boost to regional tourism, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge connects Hong Kong to cities throughout the Greater Bay Area of southern China.

This is also to bring the attractions of Macao and Guangdong within easy reach and to make Hong Kong a hub for visitors from around the world.

Here are the 10 things you should know about the magnificent Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge:

1.Undoubtedly a record-breaking architectural icon, the bridge is the first of its kind to combine road and tunnel sea-crossing in the Greater Bay Area of China.

2. It connects an artificial island near Hong Kong International Airport to Macao and the mainland Chinese city of Zhuhai. Plus, it shortens the journey from the airport to Zhuhai from four hours to just 45 minutes.

3.With the length of 55km spanning over the sea, it is 20 times longer than San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. The bridge comprises of 12km Hong Kong Link Road, 29.6km Main Bridge and another 13.4km Zhuhai Link Road.

4. Do you know that the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge contains enough steel to build 60 Eiffel Towers? The Guardian even has named it as one of the architectural Seven Wonders of the Modern World.

5. Amazingly, they designed it to last the next 120 years. That is two decades longer than the lifespan of most major cross-sea bridges in the world!

6.The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge will consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a hub for multi-destination travel within the Greater Bay Area. This area includes nine cities in China’s Guandong Province and two Special Administrative Regions.

Hong Kong Zhuhai Macao Bridge 5
The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao bridge connects Hong Kong to nine cities in Guangdong Province, China.

7.There are many attractions near and around the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.
For example the Hong Kong’s Lantau island is home to the city’s international airport and Disneyland.
Furthermore, visitors can ride the famous Ngong Ping 360 cable car to the Big Buddha statue and Po Lin Monastery.

8.If you ride a boat from Tung Chung to Tai O Fishing Village, you can clearly enjoy the view of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. Or you can see it during on the cable car ride.

9. On top of that, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge allows those who are in Hong Kong to conveniently visit Macao and Guandong’s tourists attraction spots.

These include the stunning ruins of St. Paul’s in Macao, the Statue of Fisher Girl in Zhuhai, the Kaiping Diaolou, the Seven Star Crags in Zhaoqing and many more. This means you can combine your Hong Kong and Greater Bay Area in one single itinerary!

Hong Kong Zhuhai Macao Bridge
You can take in the view of the bridge from a boat ride from Tung Chung to Tai O Fishing Village.

10.There is a fast and convenient cross-border bus service is available to take travellers over the iconic new bride between Hong Kong, Macao and Zhuhai. Additionally, it operates 24 hours a day! What are you waiting for? Time to plan that trip!

This article is based on the press release provided by Hong Kong Tourism Board. For more information, please visit http://www.hzmb.hk/eng/index.html

Hong Kong Zhuhai Macao Bridge 6
The world’s longest bridge and tunnel sea crossing was opened to the public last Oct 24.