Top 5 Reasons to Explore Brisbane Today

Brisbane, Australia’s third largest city, has shed its country town image for a more cosmopolitan edge, intriguing Aussies and travellers alike. In plain sight, the Queensland capital is blossoming into a destination rife with culture, chic hotels, world-class developments and a ‘one to watch’ foodie scene, commanding serious respect (at last) from its big sister cities Melbourne and Sydney.

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Local Guide: How to Watch Sports Like a Local Fan

There are few better ways into a place’s soul than through its sports teams. Step into the feverish atmosphere of a stadium or arena mid-match, and you’ll find locals who are usually relaxed in a state of agitation or elation, depending on the scoreline. Head to one of these sporting destinations, and you’ll see a side of town impossible to find on the streets.

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Explore the Dreamy Real-Life Filming Location of Fantasy Island

Upcoming filmFantasy Islandputs a terrifying twist on the hit ‘70s TV series, yet the crystal-clear seas and palm-fringed coastline are sure to inspire holiday plans. If you find yourself wondering ‘is Fantasy Island a real place?’ when you’re not jumping out of your seat, we’ve tracked down some of the stunning locations used in the film (release date 14 February).

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Discover Top Rum Tours in the Caribbean

The Caribbean is inextricably linked to rum, whether it’s the island of Nevis (considered the birthplace of the modern drink) or the world’s oldest commercial rum distillery (found in Barbados). There’s no shortage of islands to sip on the sugarcane spirit. You can plan your own rum tour while island-hopping or seek out a cruise that showcases top rum distilleries. Here are seven must-visit places to taste and tour the Caribbean’s favorite spirit.

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Top 7 Family-Friendly Activities in Vienna

Once the seat of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Vienna retains an air of grandeur and elegance. Today, its numerous parks and palaces are accessible to the public, featuring chandeliered ballrooms and frescoed corridors that house an incredible breadth of museums. Although it might not seem like an obvious family destination, there are several museums, parks, and gardens that are particularly suitable for families with younger children. Here are the top things to do in Vienna with kids.

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Explore Mt Takao: The Ideal Trek to Complement Your Mt Fuji Experience

A beautiful, unassuming peak where hikers prioritize nature over selfies, Mt Takao could well be the perfect complement to the popular Mt Fuji hike and stands as one of Tokyo’s best day trips.Shinto-Buddhist roots run deep on Mt Takao, yet it is the majestic cedar trees that accompany me as I hike toward the summit on a crisp winter morning.I am climbing the 599m peak not simply for the elevation, but for the serene beauty it offers. Taking a swift 50-minute train ride from Japan’s capital Tokyo, I find that Mt Takao is free to climb. Although popular with locals, it remains overlooked by tourists drawn to the celebrity of Mt Fuji, resulting in low crowds and low costs. Blessed with tranquil trails, lush forests, and Shinto temples, Takao makes an easy and memorable addition to any Tokyo itinerary without straining budgets.Stone statues at Takao’s base honour the Buddhist god Jizō © Kyle Gillis / GoTravelDailyThe Spirit of TakaoUpon arrival, the first impression of Takao is how it blends into the scenery. Nestled in the Kanto Mountain foothills, the mountain is surrounded by a quaint village filled with soba restaurants and sweet bun stalls.While Takao may not boast the dramatic visuals of Mt Fuji, it compensates with a rich spiritual presence. Statues at the base of the mountain honor Jizō, the Buddhist deity who protects the spirits of deceased children, reminding visitors of the mountain’s ethos: self-reflection over taking selfies.Ten trails weave up Takao, and I begin my journey on Trail 1, the most popular path adorned with kanji-inscribed stones, lantern boxes, and native cryptomeria trees. The trails vary in difficulty, ensuring that casual hikers and experienced trekkers alike can find a suitable route.Okunoin Fudo-do Hall is part of the Yakuo-in Shinto temple complex dating back to the 7th century © Kyle Gillis / GoTravelDailyTrail 1 leads me to Yakuō-in, an impressive Shinto temple established in the 7th century, adorned with red arches and numerous prayer shrines nestled among towering oaks and cedars.Early-morning temple visitors engage in prayers to Tengu, a mountain deity with a complex history. Some stories portray Tengu as a mischievous spirit, while others depict him as the ‘Slayer of Vanity.’ Acknowledging this, I decide to show my respect and dip my hand in thetemizuya(font) of prayer water before bowing to his weathered statue.I then switch to Trail 4, the Suspension Bridge Trail, which presents greater challenges than Trail 1. Crossing the 35m-long Miyama Bridge that spans a forested gorge, I navigate steep grades marked by bulging roots and slippery rocks. Trail 4 could very well be dubbed the Tengu Trail, as it certainly humbles any lingering vanity.The view of Mt Fuji from Mt Takao © Daniel Raps / ShutterstockA Serene SummitOne of my favorite aspects of climbing Takao in the morning is that, within a metropolitan area of 14 million people, you can experience a wonderful natural environment almost in solitude.The few hikers I encounter are older locals who diligently use sticks for walking, choosing contemplation over capturing selfies. They engage in quiet prayers instead of snapping photos. Although afternoon crowds of schoolchildren and local hiking groups will eventually disrupt the tranquility, for now, the mountain is the most serene place in the region.Takao’s summit offers a humble and peaceful experience, exactly as intended by the mountain gods. The peak lacks ostentatious signs or whimsical directional posts; it only offers peace and a spectacular rising sun.As the clouds dissipate on the horizon, Mt Fuji reveals itself, undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful mountains when observed from a distance, with its white snow cap and grand volcanic form. Fuji exudes a sense of parental oversight, almost questioning why one would choose to stand atop a lesser peak.However, my ascent has demonstrated that – relative to its size – the minimalist charm of Takao beautifully complements the bucket-list allure of Mt Fuji. I bow once more and take in the breathtaking sunrise before descending from my tranquil high – or should I say low?

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Discover The Beekman Hotel: A Unique Alternative to the Metropolitan Museum

With over 80 museums and countless galleries, the art scene in New York City can overwhelm even the most passionate aficionado. The Metropolitan Museum of Art houses over 2 million ft of exhibits, and most visitors spend a minimum of two hours examining art from Greece to Egypt and beyond. If your time and attention span are a little shorter—or if you simply prefer to admire art with more ambience and less foot traffic—The Beekman hotel features the perfect hidden collection.

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Top Live Music Venues to Experience in London

London is steeped in musical history and has produced more iconic bands and artists than most cities. Consequently, it’s brimming with an array of impressive music venues. From rising stars in lively rock clubs to classical music in unrivalled concert halls, along with secret basement shows from arena-worthy bands, we’ve rounded up the best venues, old and new, to help you catch the most unforgettable shows in town.

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