The Shangri-La Rasa Sayang in Penang lived up to the glamour of the hotel brand with luxury, open tropical gardens over 12 hectares, its grounds extending onto the soft white sands of Batu Feringgi Beach.
Attention to detail can be observed throughout the resort, in the exclusive Rasa Wing as well as the Garden Wing with classic Minangkabau style and elegance throughout. The pleasant staff were always available to address our every need.
The Shangri-La Sayang was the original Malaysian Shangri-La property, created in 1973 and was refurbished in 2005 to become an iconic Penang resort.
Shangri-La Sayang, Penang’s tropical gardens which roll onto the beach.
It had a great location, set on the edge of Feringgi township, a hub for tourists with a large offering of restaurants and shopping.
The resort included two parts of the hotel – the general Garden Wing and the Rasa Wing.
We had the honour of staying in the exclusive Rasa Wing which was a luxurious experience, offering exclusive privileges including access to the Club Lounge where afternoon tea comprising delectable savoury and sweet dishes was complimentary, as well as a complimentary cocktail session with a brilliant pianist, a plentiful range of hot and cold canapes, and various drinks available to order gratis, including cocktails, wines and non-alcoholic beverages.
Rasa Wing complimentary daily canapes and cocktails evenings.
The Rasa Wing included VIP privileges including a separate lobby and check-in area, a private swimming pool and Club Lounge access. Upon entry, we were warmly greeted by the General Manager, who kindly welcomed us to one of the three distinguished restaurants, where we were equipped with a menu housing a variety of delicious Western and Asian dishes.
In addition to access to an inclusive breakfast buffet at the main hotel’s Pinang Restaurant & Bar, Rasa Wing guests had the option of buffet and a la carte breakfast at the Ferringhi Grill, which was also a popular evening restaurant for non-resident guests.
Complimentary High Tea in the Rasa Wing Club Lounge.
The complex included two pools – an adults-only pool exclusively available to Rasa Wing guests and a huge winding lagoon pool in the Garden Wing, the main part of the hotel, which was set in leafy gardens with majestic ancient trees lining the perimeter.
Garden Wing lagoon pool
In the stunning Shangri-La gardens, a massive 150-year-old tree stands, and vines from its giant branches, creating a magical fairyland when alit in the evenings with dangling lights.
We had the honour of staying in Rasa Junior Suite King, in which a gift box awaited us with an assortment of exotic, local, dried fruits.
The room took on a luxurious resort feel, with a constant theme of dark wood branching through the magnificent room. The spacious accommodation included a king-size bed, a large dressing area, a lounge setting where a roller bed was set up to allow for the three of us, and an incredible balcony with a table and chairs, a daybed and a huge marble bathtub, from which to relax and look over the lush, tropic gardens.
Shangri-La Sayang Rasa Junior Suite King
The large bathroom was glamorous with ambient lighting, double sinks, a massive shower and a separate toilet.
The linen was luxurious – thick, fluffy robes, soft toweling slippers and high threat-count, silky sheets.
Adjacent to Shangri-La Sayang was its sister hotel, Shangri-La Golden Sands, which accommodates families extraordinarily well with a great children’s swimming playground featuring a water slide and splash areas, a Kids Club, mini golf, and Adventure Zone Entertainment Centre.
Shangri-La’s sister hotel Golden Sands children’s swimming and splash areas.
Residents of the Shangri-La had access to this family wonderland also, with easy access via a natural stroll through the extensive plush Shangri-La grounds.
Shangri-La Sayang also included a comprehensive photo gallery illustrating its history and memorable events and an aromatic Spice Market showcasing the wide variety of flavours which make Penang so renowned for its delicious cuisine.
Majestic 150-year-old trees at Shangri-La Sayang, Penang.
The was also a jewelry shop, a nail and hair salon, a substantial, well-serviced gym and the Chi spa where a range of massage, reflexology and beauty services were on offer.
Azerai Ke Ga Bay, Vietnam, is an oceanside sanctuary of peace and luxury, with a private beach and expansive ocean views. Salt air and a cool coastal breeze permeate the warm, lush tropical setting of the complex. Set on 4.5 hectares, this white stone resort has clean air, open space, and serenity.
We recently attended the resort’s grand opening, where we enjoyed a weekend of exquisite traditional Vietnamese cuisine, delectable canapes, a barbecue that ensued around 14 courses and live entertainment.
This exclusive resort is a peaceful getaway from the hubbub of popular Vietnamese tourist areas; it is largely undeveloped, not yet a fledging hub of commercialism.
A 2.5 hour drive along a newly-built road from Ho Chi Minh City, this is the third Azerai hotel in Vietnam, developed by renowned hotelier, Adrian Zecha. Sister hotels include Azerai La Residence in Hue and Azerai Can Tho, which is set on a private island on the Hau River and in the Mekong Delta.
Ke Ga Bay is an undeveloped, peaceful region
The hotel design is contemporary, spacious, and open. The original establishment has been redeveloped to create a seamless merging of the natural coastal surrounds with modern living. The Ke Ga Bay region feels untouched, and this resort nestles effortlessly within the unspoiled natural landscape.
It creates an ambiance of purity that feels in resonance with the local coastal natural elements. The building structures and furnishings have been sourced locally from native timber and stone.
The estate is expansive. Tropical leafy grounds line winding walkways, creating a maze through the tropical grounds. The tranquillity and quiet are perceptible.
It is a good walk from the spacious, open lobby, along the serene walkways which weave through verdant gardens, past several swimming pools, and into the capacious restaurant and bar area, which formed a backdrop for the two expansive swimming pools that overlook the ocean. This was framed by a five-kilometre stretch of white sandy beach.
The entrance to the restaurant structure is grand, lined with majestic, white alabaster pillars. It is spacious and open with modern, minimalistic furniture made of natural materials.
All of the 46 residential rooms and pool suites are secluded with private entrances and decks. They are light, bright, and airy; the décor is neutral in tone.
The bathroom was impressive with a large standalone bath, a shower, a separate vanity and dressing area with double sinks, and a separate toilet. The large wardrobe included luxury bath robes and slippers, and the towels were thick and fluffy.
Our private porch included a large white sofa from which to lounge and soak in the tranquillity of the green leafy surrounds.
We enjoyed a cocktail evening by the Ginger Pool, set among tropical gardens. Two frangipani pools provided another comfortable area to spend time basking in the sun, surrounded by leafy foliage.
The Oceanside pool offers uninterrupted views of the ocean, from which to take in the magenta, sapphire, and soft rose skies at dusk, which are reflected upon the infinity pool as the moon begins to rise.
The occasional Vietnamese wooden fishing boat can be spotted, as is Vietnam’s oldest lighthouse, situated on nearby Hon Ba Island, which can be visited by the hotel’s private boat tours.
Sunbeds, afternoon tea, and a la carte dining were offered poolside.
We sampled a variety of the menu which was extensive and delicious, including a barbecue of lobster, lamb, prawns, and steak; fresh, tasty salads; and traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
The breakfast buffet featured delicate pastries, fresh, juicy fruit, cheeses, cured meats, yogurts, and an a la carte menu that included perfect eggs benedict and a classic Western-cooked breakfast.
I experienced a delightful full-body massage at the resort’s Wellness Spa, which was rejuvenating – I came out feeling lighter and refreshed. Dawn yoga was also offered.
Vietnam is a fantastic place for families to visit! It is exciting, exotic, inexpensive, and offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, food, adventure, and fun.
I recently spent three weeks exploring this vibrant country with my 15-year-old daughter and 11-year-old son. I felt it was largely an undiscovered destination for Australian families. We generally tend to visit Bali and Thailand, yet Vietnam is so accessible, cheap, and very interesting.
I spontaneously bought tickets on a whim one evening – $1500 for three of us including travel insurance to fly with Scoot Airlines via Singapore. What a great decision that was!
I wasn’t familiar with Scoot, Singapore Airlines’ budget carrier, but it was adequate, despite ingratiating reviews. It was, however, delayed several times and we were compensated with a $90 meal voucher at the airport. The flight was comfortable, professional, and drama-free.
We spent five days in Singapore en route to Ho Chi Minh City.
Downtown Ho Chi Minh City
There is so much to explore in Ho Chi Minh! After complications with my initial accommodation booking, we ended up in the backpacking District 1 – this in itself was an adventure, exploring the nightlife of discos and pole dancers, as we sauntered through the zesty, lit streets filled with music and action. The energy was high and colourful.
Shops and street food fare were open until the wee hours as a mix of tourists, backpackers, and locals took to their delights along the streets, dodging the motorcycles.
The biggest challenge I found in Vietnam was the traffic mayhem and the absence of English-speaking people. A translating app was a Godsend; and crossing the streets was a feat!
After a quick Google phone search, I found a local hotel that had a roof-top pool – this was a priority as the humidity was sweltering.
Cityscape from rooftop pool of Prague Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City
We stayed at Prague, which was a budget hotel situated in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, within short walking distance to the nightlife, restaurants, and bars. It only cost $60 a night for the three of us and included a nice breakfast of fresh fruit, toast, cereal, and hot Vietnamese dishes. Fresh spring rolls to start the day were delicious! The rooftop pool was small but clean, and comfortably warm, and offered interesting views of the motley Ho Chi Minh cityscape.
Rip-off designer sunnies from Ben Thang markets and acrylic nails from a street salon.
I enjoyed having an assortment of cheap massage and nail salons on our doorstep. $18 for a terrific Vietnamese full body massage, compared with the $85 I pay in Perth, was a treat. We walked to the Ben Thanh markets and purchased impressive replica Prada handbags, Converse and Nike shoes, a North Face jacket, designer T-shirts, activewear, and Ray Ban sunnies.
We had a short-hour flight to Nha Trang for around $70 per head, where we soaked up the quintessential tropical palm-lined, enduring soft sand beaches.
The waves were abundant, and the water was warm. Nha Trang is an interesting centre – many Russian tourists and menus are written in Vietnamese, Russian and French. English speaking was sparse.
Nha Trang beach
We stayed at Novotel, which was ideally situated beachfront in the town centre, so within walking distance to the markets where we bought $9 bikinis and $18 pearl necklaces. The food was exotic and experimental as we deciphered the local menus through a translation app. It was so cheap. Our first night, I had two large cocktails, the kids each had a mocktail and we shared three large main dishes for $20. The service was great despite communication challenges.
Peppered with bars and eateries on the sand, the beachfront in Nha Trang is terrific with bay views of the islands.
It is a resort town popular with the Vietnamese for holidays and international travelers. We were there in May during the Independence Day celebrations so accommodation was scant and travel services such as trains and buses were booked out. (It is advisable to reserve travel plans well ahead if travelling at this time, a rookie mistake I made.) We were unable to get a train or bus on our preferred dates and last-minute accommodation options were limited. We stayed at The Ibis, which was clean, modern and adequate, although not luxury.
Island views from Nha Trang beach
As such, instead of road or rail transport, we flew to the popular beachside resort city of Danang, Vietnam’s third largest city, where we stayed at a basic hotel, A25, for only $40. It was clean, included robes and tea and coffee facilities, an ensuite and breakfast.
I lost my credit card at an ATM in Danang and amazingly someone found it and tracked me down through the company details on my card. This was a great testament to the honesty and kindness I experienced throughout Vietnam.
I hired a private driver to take us from Danang to our next destination, Hoi An, which was an hour away and cost $20.
Hoi An night artisans
Hoi An is a magical city, rich in culture, the arts, and history. It is renowned for tailor-made clothing services. I could have a dress made to measure within 24 hours for under $20! The old town centre lights up at night with a buzzing nightlife, markets and artisans selling their wares. Iconic French-Vietnamese restaurants and music-filled bars are plentiful.
We stayed at Victoria Hoi An Beach Resort and Spa which was a perfect blend of traditional Vietnamese architecture, style, and sophisticated elegance. Nestled between the beach and lagoon, with water winding through the hotel grounds, and a sparkling swimming pool, there was a peaceful naturalistic ambiance that created a feeling of harmony and peace.
Poolside Victoria Hoi An Resort & Spa
We then had a fun train ride of 3.5 hours to Hue. I booked a second-class sleeper berth which was comfortable with six beds, which we shared with several local women.
The views were magnificent – high cliffs over the ocean, dense valleys and hilltops, and small villages amidst emerald fields and jungles, were the scenic entertainment.
Scenic views from the train
Food trolleys rolled outside our cabin and there was a small food service area that offered basic refreshments. I wasn’t game to try the local warm Vietnamese street food on offer but we enjoyed packets of nuts and popcorn.
2nd class 6 berth train carriage
Hue is unique – the Imperial city – abundant in culture and history. We visited the Citadel and took a tour of the old palace which had been home to 13 Emperors and maintained an aura of majesty and regal tradition. The tour was fascinating, learning about the old ways of Vietnamese royalty where one such Emperor had 400 wives and 142 children. I found the history of eunuchs disturbing, learning that adolescent boys born of servants were selected, and had their testicles removed without anesthetic medicine. Many other truths were shared including how the ancient civilization was destroyed by French colonialization, and again by US bombings during the Vietnam War.
Street food in Hue
Aside from the Imperial history, Hue is a rich hub of the Arts. The riverside markets display the artisanship embedded in this city – painting, jewellery, music, and fantastical food creations stream the walkway.
Azerai La Residence
We stayed at the majestic Azerai La Residence, which was the French Governor’s residence and then an embassy, and has since become a luxury resort offering 122 elegant rooms and suites. It offers views over the Perfume River and Citadel and is in close proximity to the downtown shopping and entertainment region.
Azerai Ke Ga Bay
We flew back to Ho Chi Minh City and drove out to Ke Ga Bay to the newly opened Azerai resort hotel. It is an oceanside sanctuary of peace and luxury, with a private beach and expansive ocean views. Set on 4.5 hectares of unspoiled landscape, this white stone resort has clean air, open space, and serenity. It has three swimming pools including an infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
After a few relaxing days at the peaceful coastal resort, we headed back to Ho Chi Minh City where we stayed in a modern two-bedroom suite at the Residences, Intercontinental Saigon. This is an exclusive luxury hotel with stylish décor, furnishings and modern facilities. The Residences are ideal for families due to their spaciousness and privacy.
Residences Intercontinental Saigon
We visited the War Museum which was a highly educational but very confronting account of the Vietnam War. It challenged my thinking on the allied forces’ (USA, Australia etc) involvement in the war. The atrocities were illustrated graphically – soldiers’ brutality, Napalm bombings, and Agent Orange – sights that sear the mind. My son didn’t fare well, he chose to sit outside through most parts, my daughter was silent but intrigued and I sobbed through the whole experience.
War Museum, Ho Chi Minh City
I met a local Vietnamese-Australian man, Linh Le, who is the owner of Luxperia, a bespoke travel company that specialises in tailoring travel packages to suit the individual. He was very helpful with our travel arrangements, including a fantastic tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels and a magnificent stay at Mia Saigon.
Cu Chi Tunnels
We took a speedboat tour down the Mekong River to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, which illustrated how Viet Kong conducted warfare from beneath the earth’s surface during the Vietnam War. It was incredible, eye-opening, and worthwhile.
Mia Saigon
We spent two delightful nights in the Presidential Suite at the superb Mia Saigon, a refined boutique hotel situated on the Saigon River. This was a luxurious treat to complete our wonderful trip through Vietnam.
I recently explored Singapore with my children for the first time and found it to be such an easy, accessible and enjoyable place for families.
A five-hour direct flight from Perth, in the same time zone, and predominantly English speaking, makes it very convenient for a quick and stress-free getaway.
We flew with Scoot, Singapore Airlines’ budget carrier and, despite reading incriminating reviews, the experience was pleasant. Although our flight was delayed several times, they offered us a meal voucher for $30/head. The flight was comfortable and professional with lovely staff.
We spent five days in Singapore which was adequate to explore the city’s sights and tourist peaks. We didn’t shop as were on-route to Vietnam and only had carry-on luggage. Although, the quality and range of fine-quality clothing were plentiful, but not cheap and on par with Australian prices.
I loved the warm, tropical climate of Singapore, and was surprised by the omnipresence of green, lush vegetation in a bustling international city. It was extremely clean and pleasant to walk through.
The city is so easy to get around. Communication was stress-free, English speaking and services top-notch – from the taxi drivers, or Grab (the Asian Uber equivalent car service), to retail staff and in the hotels.
The Singaporeans and overall energy of the city were relaxed and welcoming; which was surprising given its high density and large population of 5.45 million over a mere 758 km2, compared with Perth’s 2 million people over 6.4 square kilometres.
It was apparent why Singapore Airport was voted the world’s best. It has several tropical gardens, including a butterfly garden, as well as a robotic train that commutes between terminals, and check-in was seamless. High-end shopping was plentiful and food options ranged from Burger King to Singaporean street food.
Pan Pacific Singapore
We stayed three nights at the Pan Pacific Singapore which was a very modern 5-star resort with excellent amenities, including multiple dining options, and a warm, large swimming pool. The hotel’s breakfast and dinner buffets at Edge offered variety and flavours beyond what I had experienced. The Pan Pacific has a fantastic location – within walking distance of the Esplanade and popular Marina Wharf. And the staff service was exceptional.
Gardens by the Bay
On our first day, we walked from the Pan Pacific hotel to the Gardens by the Bay, which was a lush sanctuary of 101 hectares in the heart of the city. Set on the banks of Marina Bay, there were many aspects to explore in among the diverse flora, including winding pathways, majestic tall trees, a children’s playground and a community vegetable patch. My kids enjoyed tinkering on the top-nick piano. I was surprised to see no vandalism or abuse of these free available services.
Gardens by the Bay
Adjacent to the Gardens by the Bay, was the exclusive and massive The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands – a mall of luxury brands such as Gucci, Versace, Tiffanys, Chanel and Prada. It featured a waterway, with boats traversing a seemingly endless array of shops. The futuristic architecture along the Esplanade was impressive, including standalone buildings for Apple and Louis Vuitton.
Shangri-La Singapore
We spent two delightful nights in the opulent Shangri-La Singapore’s Valley Wing, which, set close to the shopping and dining hub of Orchard Road, was a luxurious treat. Built in 1971, this was the world’s original Shangri-La, and maintained its olde-worlde charm and glamour. The personalised service created a very welcoming feeling. The décor, ambiance and sparkling feel of the exclusive wing was a special experience away from the hubbub of the city. This hotel is in the top five places I’ve stayed worldwide.
White Bengal tiger in Singapore Zoo
Golden-headed lion tamarin in River Wonders
We visited the famous Singapore Zoo. Set in a rainforest environment, the main zoo featured 4200 animals over 1 zones including Australasia, Africa, China and a Fragile Forest housing lemurs and sloths. We meandered along the flourishing trails admiring the vegetation as much as the animals. The kids were excited to see a Siberian tiger, a red panda, a chameleon and naked mole rats. The zoo also provided complimentary tram rides. Feeding sessions are on offer with animals such as giraffes and zebras, as well as animal shows with elephants in the presentation of Elephants of Asia and sea lions in the Splash Safari. There was also an Amazon River Quest boat ride featuring leopards in River Wonders.
The zoo had two additional parks – a SEA Aquarium showcasing 100,000 animals including sharks, manatees (Sea Cows) and giant otters, and the Night Safari featured nocturnal animals such as the Big Cats, owls and porcupines.
I was hospitalised in Singapore as a result of an unfortunate accident, so can attest to the exceptional medical standards. Communication was effortless, treatment immediate and hotel staff accompanied me to the medical centres to provide personal support, which was unnecessary as the medical teams were extraordinarily diligent.
Throughout Singapore, I only experienced respect, cleanliness, and a free flow of traffic and order.
Childbirth is a transformative milestone in any woman’s life. The experience is something that changes you entirely and allows you to embark on a new chapter. According to holistic sex and relationship coach, Kim Anami, there are different ways that it can manifest.
“Was your birth orgasmic or psychedelic?” Kim Anami recently asked her listeners on her podcast. “Was it pain free? Do you think this is even possible?”
Labor often gets a bad rap as a painful ordeal — something women have to go through to have a child. However, as Kim Anami explains, it doesn’t have to be that way. When we go back to the route of what childbirth should be, it changes the narrative.
“Not only is it possible, this is what childbirth is meant to be: a deeply pleasurable, transcendent self-actualizing and psychedelic experience,” she says. “It is an initiation that unifies you with the cosmos and solidifies your role as a channel for the divine. You are the vessel for life force to come through. You are a portal to other dimensions.”
As part of the episode, Kim Anami spoke to Amanda, a “well-f*cked all star,” who has experienced psychedelic childbirth. By surrendering to her own intuition during labor, she was able to become the truest and most confident mother. In the following article, we will recap the experiences she shared and the mysteries of this deeply-connected experience.
The Orgasmic Psychedelic Birth Experience
The orgasmic psychedelic birth may sound like a myth. However, as Amanda recalled on Kim Anami’s podcast, she has experienced it first hand. With her first two pregnancies, she says that childbirth was “painless, orgasmic, super-pleasurable.” So, when she fell pregnant for the third time, she knew what to expect. The morning that she was about to go into labor, her intuition told her that the time had come and she prepared in the bath.
“I grabbed onto the bathtub, was completely taken over and I’m not sure one or two pushes maybe. She literally flew out,” says Amanda. “There wasn’t much pushing. Well for me my body was completely doing it. Total fetal ejection reflex. I was already experiencing orgasmic pleasure waves throughout that hour.”
Upon holding her third child, Amanda was thoroughly overtaken by a newfound feeling of pleasure and joy. Rather than being exhausted from the experience, she was in a higher state. This all came after having psychedelic visions and trusting her own intuition.
“I took her to my chest and she was very tightly wound with her cord and I had to undo it,” says Amanda. “But the interesting thing is that she was my most vital baby. She was instantly totally pink, crying very loud and it was just complete and utter euphoria. It’s completely natural for you to have just a beautiful, blissful, pleasurable birth.”
The Journey Towards Holistic Pregnancy
Experiencing an orgasmic and psychedelic childbirth doesn’t happen by accident. Amanda worked closely with Kim Anami to take mastery over her sexual self and become in tune with the natural needs of her body. Through this process, she was able to embody what it means to be “well-f*cked” and get in touch with the highest version of herself too.
As Kim Anami puts it, there is a direct link between learning to have truly vaginal orgasms, creating a voracious libido, and having radical ecstatic labor experiences. When you put the time into this process of transformation, you can become a completely new woman.
“Yes, every woman can,” says Kim Anami. “She just needs to clear the blockages and programming she’s taken on via a corrupt medical system and a culture at large that seeks to remove a woman from this power. I help you to restore it.”
The eight-week online salon Sexy Mama Salon is open for registration now. Over the course, Kim Anami shares how to have an entirely holistic pregnancy and ecstatic childbirth with expectant mothers. The salon is also open to those who are not yet pregnant but would like to learn how to connect more deeply with their sexuality.
“[In the salon], we systematically go through every stage from conception through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum to reprogram you with all of the strength and power and ecstasy to make these peak life-affirming experiences and to create an imprint of bliss for life, both for you and for your baby, and for your partnership,” says Kim Anami.
6 Financially-Savvy Waysto Stay Money-Smart While Travelling
Now that borders all over the globe have reopened, thousands of people are re-embarking on their once dormant travelling goals. After 2 long and arduous years of staying inside and keeping ourselves safe from COVID-19, airports are once again bustling at their full capacity. If you are one of the many people who have decided to plan an upcoming holiday, this is the article you have been looking for. With so many things to plan for your upcoming trip, it can be all too easy to get carried away with travel expenses. Thankfully, here are 6 tips that are guaranteed to help you stay money-smart on your next overseas adventure. Read on to find out more!
Card, Not Cash
The easiest way to track your spending overseas is to use your credit card instead of cash. Using your card can also be the safer option in a foreign land, and can greatly reduce your chances of being mugged and left stranded. When it comes to credit cards, you are not liable for unauthorised charges made if your credit card is stolen. Thank heavens for that! Aside from helping you track your spending and keeping you safe, many credit cards offer cash back, points or rewards that you can enjoy every time you make a purchase (even just a cup of coffee). Looking for the best credit card to tag along on your next journey? Be sure to compare credit cards online to find one that suits your needs best.
Purchase Travel Insurance
Even with the best plans, it can be helpful to prepare for the worst. This is where travel insurance comes into play. By purchasing travel insurance, you will be protecting any money that you’ve invested into your trip. If your trip does have to be cancelled for some reason, travel insurance can help you by compensating for any costs you’ve already incurred. Additionally, travel insurance is always a great idea as it covers a variety of scenarios including theft, baggage loss, accidents, emergencies and medical costs overseas.
Brush Up On Exchange Rates
It is always a wise idea to do some research and to brush up on exchange rates in the country or city you are visiting. Finding out the value of your money against a foreign currency will help you avoid getting scammed or overcharged when you purchase goods during your trip. Being aware of the exchange rate also means that you won’t be taken advantage of by money changers that charge tourists exorbitant fees. An easy way to stay on top of exchange rates is to check online currency converter and daily news. All these helpful tools will allow you to find the best currency conversion rates available!
Avoid Peak Holiday Times
One of the easiest and most effective ways of saving lots of money on your next trip is to avoid travelling during peak holiday times. This includes the school holidays, long weekends and public holidays. Generally, it’s cheaper to travel in the off-season when demand and prices are low. This may not be an option if you are travelling with kids, but if you can hold out for a little while, you’ll be amazed at how much you can save on both airfares and accommodation. Additionally, your best bet for scoring the cheapest airfare is to book in advance. Prices tend to soar closer to the date of travel, so be sure to book your tickets sooner rather than later.
A Home Away From Home
Don’t get us wrong – we love staying in hotels. Hotels are the epitome of luxury when you’re travelling, but the downside is that the bill can quickly add up, especially if you’re travelling in a large group. If you’re trying to stick to a modest budget, we highly recommend services such as Airbnb that will save you money and give you more space and amenities.
Top Tip: Select rentals hosted by Airbnb ‘Superhosts’. Superhosts must host at least 10 trips a year, maintain at least a 90% response rate, receive five-star reviews 80% of the time and must not cancel their reservations.
Avoid Rental Cars
If possible, we always suggest opting for public transport over car rentals. Afterall, there’s no better way to get to know a new city than by walking everywhere. The cost of an overseas car rental can quickly add up even on a short holiday, and driving on unfamiliar streets with different road safety rules can be an overwhelming experience for new travellers. Not to mention, fuel prices are at an all time high at the moment! When you do need a ride, we suggest opting for public transportation.
Top Tip: Frequent-travel cards — the Oyster card in London, the Passe Navigo in Paris, the Octopus in Hong Kong — are more affordable than single fares.
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And there you have it — everything you need to know to enjoy your next travelling adventure without having to break the bank. What are some of your favourite money saving tips when you’re exploring the great wide world? We want to hear them, so be sure to drop a comment and let us know!
With winter well and truly here warm, nourishing dishes are surely what the family is craving right now.
Australian Pork has created an exciting new series of recipes that are sure-fire hits, and even better, they are quick and easy to create.
Pork is such a versatile meat that can be used in so many ways beyond chops and roasts that might usually come to mind. Pork is full of flavour and provides that value we are all looking for right now with ever-climbing food bills.
Buying Aussie pork, whether you pick it up at your local supermarket or your butcher, means you are supporting our local farmers, with all fresh pork products made in Australia.
Mid-week dinner inspiration is a slam dunk the kids with the base Easy Slow Cooker Pulled Pork recipe. Using everyday pantry ingredients and boneless Aussie pork shoulder, in just 6 hours (while you’re at the office, or looking after your little ones) a beautiful and tasty pulled pork is ready to go.
From this base slow-cooker recipe the possibilities are endless!
Pick up some slider buns or bread rolls, your favourite coleslaw and gather the family around in the production line, to enjoy the end result; mouth-watering pulled pork sliders.
If the flavours of Mexico are a hit in your household, pork is the perfect complement protein to dishes such as tacos and quesadillas. Fillings for both can be changed up so that you can source seasonal vegetables getting the best value in your shop. Take your tacos and nachos to that next level to keep the family on their toes with this Double Decker Pork Tacos and Loaded Pulled Pork Nachos recipes.
And for a new twist on a classic favourite, why not try substituting mince with pulled pork for your next Shepard’s pie. Comforting on those colder nights and also on your wallet too.
If you’re entertaining or need a quick snack to keep the family going look no further than pulled pork pastry puffs and the classic jaffle, with pulled pork, cheese and corn.
Whether you are single, loved up, or looking for ways to celebrate with friends or family, these suggestions will have even the most cynical feeling the love this Valentine’s Day
Perpetually the most hated holiday of the season, V. Day can stir up apprehensive emotions andtension around celebrations for singles and couples alike. This year, instead of refusing to celebrate and succumbing to dread, how about relish in the day of love, by celebrating with one of these unique ways?
Whether spending this Valentine’s with a loved one, alone, or with family and friends make it one to remember.
1. Breakfast in bed
Start the day off with a little extra endearment and wake up in the most romantic and relaxing way possible. A breakfast in bed can be shared with your significant other or you can choose to make it a family and kid-friendly experience. Have the kids help prepare and organise in the kitchen, this will have your entire family, or partnership, feeling the love from the get-go, whilst relaxing in the comfort of their pjs under covers.
2. Celebrating with kids
When you have children, Valentine’s Day is a little more crowded. If you can’t spend this Feb 14th alone, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the day just the same. This is the perfect day to spark the inner child in you and have fun with the ones you love. Head to an arcade, park or check out our summer activity guide for exciting ways to spark the fun and love back into your life. A family activity day is inclusive and ensures that you and your partner can still be together with theinvolvement of your children.
3. Play tourist
Feel the love by exploring the city with fresh eyes. This can be done in couples or with friends and children. Explore the streets and stores of the city, local landmarks, parks and tourist destinations . This will highlight a sense of gratitude for not only the ones you love, but for the city you live too.
4. Galentines
For those single, it is the perfect day to share the love with your nearest and dearest girl gang. “Galentines” celebrates platonic friendships, showing appreciation for a love that is equallyimportant to romantic love. Celebrate with a brunch, paint and sip, floral arrangement class or champagne slumber party. Add a touch of V. Day flare, with gifts and girly gossip, play a game of Never Have I Ever, or elaborate on past dating disasters. You and your posse can spend a night of fun as romantic couples may appear to be frolicking at every turn.
5. Exchange love letters
Many fail, or struggle to express the care they have for those in their lives. Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to unleash all the soppy feels. Communicate to anyone you are grateful to have in your life, just how and why you love them. The more specific and personal the better, as they just might read over it when they need a little extra love. This communication in letter format, will not only spark love into the ones reading, but those who are expressing too.
6. Games Night
For those looking to celebrate with a little added competition, enjoy the day of love with Games Night. The perfect night-in for the young and “young at heart”. Games night can be celebrated with your loved one, or in groups of friends and family. A little fun can go a long way when celebrating with the ones we love, and it is the perfect opportunity to see a different, more competitive edge in our relationships.
7. Picnic
Whatever time of the day you can spare (extra points for sunset), a picnic is always a special way to celebrate in a romantic and comfortable setting. Spending quality times with the ones you love, whilst overlooking a beach sunset or river is a relaxing and comfortable way to kick back, enjoy quality time as well as points for affordability. Get out the picnic blanket, chocolate coated strawberries and enjoy!
8. Share a night under the stars
There’s something magical and enchanting about the night sky and planning a date under the stars can add to pre-existing romance this Valentine’s Day. There are numerous ways to spend arelaxing night under the stars with the person or people you love. Look out into the bigger picture by laying under the night sky with blankets and pillows, go camping, to a drive-in or the observatory. A night stargazing, also reminds observers how small life’s problems are, sure to send sparks flying and open hearts and minds.
9. Movie Marathon
A movie marathon is an affordable and easy way to cosy up with your S.O. or family and friends. Snuggle into the ones you love with blankets, popcorn and some candles. For romantic partners, a movie night is also the perfect way to set the mood for Valentine’s night romance. For singles or a family situation, it’s a great way to spend quality time and relax with the ones you love.
10. Let the music play
There’s nothing that brings people together quite like music. This Feb 14th, you can celebrate with song and dance. Head to a gig or summer concert, watch a live show or turn up the tunes at home. Whether enjoying from the mosh pit or from the comfort of your own home and record player, grab a drink and your favourite dancing partner and enjoy.
11. Book a night at a hotel or Air BnB
Booking a home away from home or staycation is the perfect way to spice up your usual routine this February 14. Relaxing with a night away will have you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Book a night at a local hotel or Air BnB, enjoying the comfort of fresh sheets and towels whilstcelebrating in style.
12.Bake something sweet
Valentine’s Day can bring out the sweet spot in even the most hard-to-crack cases. Bake something sweet with or for your loved ones. Cakes, cookies and brownies will warm the hearts of your nearest and dearest. Putting in a homemade quality touch communicates you care, and gifts the greatest of all, an act of service and time. Spread a little love by sharing and gifting them to your mum, friends, partner or neighbours. For those who aren’t particularly good in the kitchen, you can also alter the baking to a chocolate fondue night or platter option instead.
13. Craft and create
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to create in the name of love. Crafting will let you express your love and give the gift of a personal touch.Make Valentines cards, decorations or DIY gifts is the perfect activity to show you care, mail or gift them to anyone special you wish to show appreciation to in your life.
14. Eliminate a spot off your bucket list
Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate love on a grand scale. Our usual calendars and schedules can become so built up, that we fail to do the things we have been aspiring to tick off. Use this holiday as a day to check out a new bar that has opened, visit a holiday destination or a restaurant in town that you’ve been wanting to go to for months. You may also want to get hearts racing with adrenaline, experiencing something out of the ordinary with your partner, such as skydiving, shark cage-diving or swimming with the whale sharks. Crossing off your bucket list with someone you love will give you a sense of fulfilment as well as a memory to reflect back upon with the person or people you love.
My experience as the middle child in my family has taught me to accept all of my quirks that set me apart from my brothers, to embrace my individuality and to stand on my own two feet.
Ever since I was little, as the middle child in my family, I have always felt like somewhat of an alien in my house – the oddball misfit. From the outset, the stark differences between my brothers and I were painfully obvious – where they were sporty and steered by scientific fact, I was geared towards using my imagination and natural creativity. As a child, I never felt as though I belonged to the family. I would joke I must’ve been swapped at birth.
Both of my brothers favour maths and science over humanities and played soccer like it was their divine birthright from an early age. Me? I saw a maths equation in prep and thought, “Nah this is some bullshit,” and never looked back. Soccer on the other hand, is unfortunately not the meaning of my life. I wanted to read and write during school hours, then dance and act after classes.
Being the eldest, middle or youngest child in a family is said to affect personality or tends to box siblings into certain perceived identities. The eldest tends to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders, the youngest notoriously gets the most attention and the middle child is just sort of “the other one”.
Somehow my parents got landed with me – a hyperactive, loud and outgoing daughter, with an overactive imagination, more interested in memorising the lyrics to every Taylor Swift song or reading Harry Potter for the ninety-seventh time than sport or maths. I wanted to spend my time on arts and crafts, writing stories on scrap pieces of paper and reading with my torch under the covers after lights out. Yes, I know I was such a rebel.
I was the strange middle child who thought soccer was the most overdramatic and ridiculous sport on the planet and questioned why maths was even taught in the first place.
Clearly, there was always something fundamentally different about what I enjoyed and valued compared with my brothers.
Teachers at my high school always acted as though my older brother was God’s gift to the planet, a maths-science gun ready to save the world with his genius. I’d arrive to maths class every year with teaching staff who’d hear my surname, and their eyes would light up with joy, expecting another prodigy. Instead, ten minutes later, they’d realise I was not a Ferrari of a student, I was a rickety old tow truck whose eyes would glaze over at the sight of maths equations.
I was more interested in drawing hearts in the margins or egging on the teaching staff with philosophical questions like, “but why?” or, “how do we know that maths is even real?”
I would ask myself why are there letters with numbers, how does this apply to the world and most importantly, why should I care? It sounded like a load of waffle to my high school self. Maths wasn’t something at which I excelled, unlike both of my brothers.
And I also couldn’t comprehend the fuss about soccer. Players run around a pitch for ninety horrifyingly dull minutes, nobody scores whatsoever, and the team acts as if every game is a matter of life or death. I wish I was kidding.
I also somehow lacked the sense of direction that both of my brothers magically possessed. They knew what they wanted to do and who they wanted to be. I had absolutely no idea what I was supposed to do with my interests and odd skill set.
I liked to read stories, shout lyrics and act in school plays. I didn’t know where my life was going to take me. I was the odd one out.
Outsiders to the family noticed it too. Family friends would ask why I wasn’t “like” my brothers, or they’d address me as the “little sister”. They saw me as adjacent to my brothers, rather than a person on my own. They wouldn’t ask how I was doing; they’d ask how my brothers were doing.
Some would simply forget I existed in the first place. I’d hear “oh wait there’s a third sibling?” all the time. I would think to myself, yes, Jennifer you and I have met on several occasions, you just didn’t happen to notice that I too am a fully-fledged and functioning member of society. Also, eat my shorts.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m quite close with both of my brothers, they aren’t monsters or anything. They’re the best! It’s just that sometimes I’d feel as though I was chocolate, and they were both pasta. Both foods are great in their own right, they’re just quite different and you wouldn’t exactly put them together.
Sometimes, I would let it get to me. I would get so worked up at everyone. How could they not see that I was there too? I mean sure I wasn’t like my brothers in some respects, but I knew I was just as valid and valuable. I just wanted other people to recognise it!
When I was in Year 11, one of my teachers who was in the crowd with me while my older brother was receiving yet another award turned to me and said, “Don’t worry, your time will come!”
Such a small phrase was a massive turning point for me. In true middle child fashion, I was unsurprisingly morbidly offended and went home to cry in my bedroom. I was 16 years old and coming of age myself. I was excelling in other areas like English and theatre, but somehow still being brought to a lower level than my brother. I was still being cornered into the mould of the somehow lesser middle child.
I didn’t want to wait around until my brother stopped being fabulous. I believed that my time was now.
I had spent years thinking others would only ever see me as a sister rather than a person myself and I was struggling with the fact that I didn’t know how to break away from my brothers and stand on my own. It was at this point that all the stars and planets aligned, the universe opened, and I realised that all it took was a change in my mentality.
I had to ignore outsider opinion or comments and I had to accept that I was not the same as my brothers and use those differences to my advantage.
I focused my studies on English. The best part of my week was when I would get to write my essays. I loved it! Now, it was my brothers turn not to understand me. I could do it all day. It wasn’t anything like the rigidity and one right answer structure of maths. It was creative, opinionative and fun. All of those years of reading, music listening, lyric bellowing and drama pieces pointed to a love for both words and the stories they tell.
I had finally realised that this was my passion. As the different middle child. I was the odd one out, and that was okay!
I am now almost 21 and have turned my love for humanities into an arts and law degree, majoring in literary studies. My family still watches soccer every Saturday and I do begrudgingly join them now. If you can’t beat them, join them. My brothers still harp on about maths and science and I still think it’s the strangest thing in the world and that’s also okay! They don’t understand some of my passions and I certainly don’t understand some of theirs.
I myself still don’t always know what I am doing with my life. I still have moments where I feel like a coco pop in a family of rice bubbles. I still don’t always have the answer.
Maybe I’ll become a lawyer or a publisher or a writer or choose from the endless options humanities has to offer. Or maybe I’ll move to Hogwarts to become a witch. Or maybe I’ll be a unicorn when I grow up.
I mean, who knows what I’ll do. I am the middle child after all.
In a world dominated by technology, it is inevitable that children will interact with and become a part of the digital space. Whilst there is a plethora of safety issues that accompany online interaction, employing education over censure communicates the benefits of technology and enhances children’s digital literacy.
When it comes to digital security, it is vital that we ensure children are educated so that they may interact with the online world in a safe way. Equipped with the right information, parents can take responsibility for their child’s safety and encourage digital well-being.
Daniel Bowen, Technology Strategist in the Education Department at Microsoft, provides us with the skills we need to keep children safe online.
According to research conducted by the Australian Institute of Family Studies in 2015, most Australian children spend more than two hours a day behind screens.
Between the ages of 12 and 13, kids average more than three hours of screen time per weekday, meaning that 30% of their time awake is spent using technology.
With these figures only increasing, children’s exposure to the online world, whether it be through phones, laptops, iPads, or other devices, is inevitable and fast-growing.
The most prominent digital safety concerns are often placed in the background, with darker apprehensions such as grooming at the forefront of parents’ minds.
Whilst the seriousness of these issues needs to be acknowledged, Dan highlights that they are not as frequent as other digital safety problems.
It is inevitable that children are exposed to technology, whether it be at school, with their friends or in their home environment.
Jocelyn Brewer, registered psychologist and founder of Digital Nutrition, has created an organisation dedicated to guiding people towards healthy technology habits.
Dan is supportive of Brewer’s efforts, describing it as, “a healthier angle to talk about digital safety. We must remain positive as technology becomes an integral part of our children’s lives.”
From his own personal experience as a dad of three, Dan shares his go-to when it comes to keeping his kids safe online:
“I have always believed in open communications over censure. I do monitor my kid’s devices; their PC’s and XBOX’s are connected to Microsoft Family Safety so I can see their online behaviour and receive weekly emails that aggregate their game time, internet use, and applications used on their laptops.
“I also have parental controls set on their Apple iPhones an iPads so have control of that ecosystem too. Things are not limited too much but offer me information so I can have conversations about their usage and heathy habits.
“I present a lot to school parents and use the resources heavily. You can even request a session for free at your local school on their site run by the AFP and industry representatives.”
Be open with children and have regular conversations with them about safety.
When approaching children about digital safety, it is important to consider different methods of communication based on their age bracket.
4–7-year-old
Talk about friendships and explore technology together. Ensure parental controls are set. Supervise your child while they are online.
Be non-judgemental and explain that you would never blame them for anything that might happen online. Initiate conversations about online safety and what bothers them, what makes them worried or scared. Make sure they can talk to adults who they trust.
8–10-year-olds
Begin to talk about privacy and keeping information private online. Express the importance of not sharing photos and personal information online.
Talk to them about the apps they are using such as TikTok and Roblox and issues surrounding connecting with friends on XBOX and PlayStation. Be knowledgeable about their activity by checking their usage and apps. Ensure parental controls are set.
11–13-year-old
At this stage children will start to lock devices and not let you see the content and messages. Make sure parental controls are set and be firm about the usage of the devices.
Start communicate about identity theft and maintaining strong online security such as passwords, online connections and friendships. Children are vulnerable at this age as they think they know more about the apps and technology they are using but remember you are the parent.
14 and older
Focus on online digital footprints. Communicate key issues that arise around this age group such as livestreaming, gaming, pornography, online sexual abuse (webcam and images), sexual grooming and online dating. Remember to always ensure your children have a trusted adult who they are comfortable talking with. Communication is the key.
If things go wrong or there are any issues, your children need to know it is safe to talk to you.
Top digital safety tips for parents
Education over Censure
Be open with children and have regular conversations with them about safety. Kids have a knack of evading restrictions which can often lead to them being exposed to things they shouldn’t have access to at certain ages.
Treat technology with equal importance to other safety issues; educate kids about the multiplicity of dangers, from malware and viruses to online contact and sharing personal information.
Supervision and Parental Controls
If possible, always set up your child’s device for them. Do not leave this responsibility to them. This will allow you to manage payments, enable screen time limits and restrict their online behaviour across Windows, XBOX, PlayStation and mobile devices.
Information on ways to secure the following technology:
The Wi-Fi router in your home is your friend. Change the admin password so that it is secure.
This is a great way of managing the time your kids spend on their devices; not many people know that the Wi-Fi allows you to lock out devices from the internet.
Be open and approachable if your child needs help
If things go wrong or there are any issues, your children need to know it is safe to talk to you. When kids become targets of online grooming, for example, they may feel as though they cannot tell anyone, and the result can be catastrophic.
For those single, it is the perfect day to share the love with your nearest and dearest girl gang. “Galentines” celebrates platonic friendships, showing appreciation for a love that is equally
I was more interested in drawing hearts in the margins or egging on the teaching staff with philosophical questions like, “but why?” or, “how do we know that maths is even real?”
I had finally realised that this was my passion. As the different middle child. I
