Archives: Highlights

Allows the user to create Highlights

Fountain of Brewth

I’m standing in the middle of a Slovenian town, holding a sleek little glass with a microchip in it, and I’ve just poured myself a beer, from a fountain. Let me repeat that slowly for those at the back still sipping lukewarm lager from a can: A beer fountain. In a public park. Flowing not with water, but with glorious, hoppy, golden nectar straight from the taps of local Slovenian breweries. Žalec, you beautiful, boozy genius.

Why every town on Earth hasn’t adopted this idea is beyond me. Libraries? Nice. Museums? Great. But a communal beer-dispensing installation in the local park? Now that’s culture.

They call it the Green Gold Beer Fountain, which sounds like something a leprechaun might bathe in, but it’s actually a tribute to the hops that grow in abundance in this region. The Styrian region of Slovenia has been growing hops since the Middle Ages, and Žalec, the self-proclaimed hop capital, thought: “You know what this history needs? A public drinking installation.”

You pay a few euros for this specially designed glass with a built-in chip (because it’s 2025 and even your pint glass is smarter than you), and you get six pours of different local brews straight from the futuristic beer taps poking out of polished steel columns. It’s like a high-tech pagan shrine dedicated to lager. I bow.

First pour: a crisp pilsner that makes my tastebuds do a little jig. Second: a punchy IPA that drops a hop bomb bigger than David Hasslehoff! I’m only two drinks in and already questioning everything I know about urban planning (in all honesty I don’t know much). Why do we have public fountains spitting out chlorinated water when they could be gently burping out craft beer instead?

The locals stroll past like this is the most normal thing in the world. There’s a pensioner reading a newspaper on a bench while a couple in matching Lycra refill their glasses post-bike ride. A man walks his dog with one hand and pulls a lager with the other.

“Respect!” I say, raising my glass to cheers him.  He gives me a look as if to say “another overexcited tourist.”

Of course, I try them all. One beer has hints of caramel and smoke. Another is so light and citrusy I swear I hear tropical birds chirping in my ears. This isn’t just a gimmick, it’s seriously good beer. By my fourth pour, I’m contemplating buying real estate in Žalec. By the fifth, I’ve decided to start a grassroots movement to install beer fountains in every city back home. Imagine knocking off work on a Friday, strolling into the city square, tapping your glass to a gleaming steel column, and pouring a fresh lager straight into your soul. Heaven. Urban bliss. Social cohesion, one pour at a time.

By my sixth (and tragically final) beer, I’m genuinely emotional. I mean, sure, Paris has the Eiffel Tower, Sydney has the Opera House, and New York has almost everything (I love New York), but Žalec? Žalec has a beer fountain, and frankly, it wins. Every town deserves this. Every town needs this. Forget potholes and traffic congestion—give the people what they want: beer on tap in the heart of the city. A place to gather, to taste, to toast, and to tell your mates, “You’ll never believe what I found in Slovenia…”

And then, with a sly grin and a clink of your chipped-glass goblet, you tell them: “It was a beer fountain.”

EYRE.WAY’s newest cabin opens

Everyone’s fave eco-conscious cabin company, EYRE.WAY, has just dropped its third off-grid tiny home, and it’s called Bandari.

Tucked away on the coastal cliffs of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula, Bandari is as close to the ocean as you can get without turning into a mermaid. Think sweeping ocean views, pristine native flora, and a cabin that’s basically a hug for your soul, wrapped in timber, terracotta, and all the earthy tones your Pinterest board could ever need.

But this isn’t your average tiny home; it’s a luxurious, sustainable, eco-conscious retreat powered entirely by solar batteries (what?!?) Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, a cosy lounge that turns into a dreamy double bed, and premium bedding so soft you’ll wonder if you’ve just snuck into the clouds.

You’ll also find all the modern comforts – reverse-cycle air, instant hot water, and high-speed WiFi – meaning you can escape the hustle, but still scroll on TikTok before bedtime.

With Bandari, EYRE.WAY is flexing its sustainable muscles again, following the smashing success of its siblings, Maldhi and Yambara. Co-founders Amanda and Tim Hogg have managed to create a space where you can truly disconnect and live your best, eco-chic life.

Just a heads up, you’ll never want to leave, but that’s exactly the point. Book your stay now, this view isn’t going to ‘gram itself.

AutoCamp’s newest creation is here

Gather ‘round, glampers! AutoCamp has done it again and this time, it’s planted its ultra-chic flag just 15 minutes from Sequoia National Park in the adorably named town of Three Rivers. You’re about to be neighbours with literal giants (hello, General Sherman, the world’s largest tree) while still getting your beauty sleep on high-thread-count sheets.

With 85 accommodations ranging from Classic Airstreams to Vista Suites with the best views, Explorer Suites with bonus amenities, and even Bunk Rooms for your whole adventure squad, there’s a plush nest for every type of outdoor-ish traveller. And if you’re not into trailers, no worries. They’ve got cabins, luxe tents, and even a heated pool for when you need a break from “roughing it”.

There’s even a Clubhouse where mid-century modern meets marshmallow roasting, featuring lounge areas, fire pits, and a bar. There’s also The Kitchen, slinging hot meals daily from 7 AM to 10 PM (because no one should have to ration granola bars), plus a General Store packed with s’mores kits, trail snacks, and local booze.

For the active crowd, expect hiking, spelunking, fly fishing, and kayaking, plus complimentary bikes to zoom around like you own the place. Oh, and if you’re thinking of hosting a wedding, retreat, or cult meeting (just kidding… mostly), their event spaces are downright dreamy.

Bottom line? AutoCamp Sequoia is the cool kid’s basecamp for exploring nature without surrendering your dignity (or your WiFi connection). See you in the trees.

25Hours Hotel Jakarta The Oddbird opens its doors

If you thought the world couldn’t get any weirder, you’re wrong; things are about to get a little odd – Jakarta style. On April 25, 2025, 25hrs Hotel Jakarta The Oddbird will officially open its doors, shaking up the city’s hospitality scene like a well-mixed cocktail (which, by the way, they’ll probably serve).

But this place isn’t just for sleeping (if that’s what you thought, The Oddbird is here to prove you deeply mistaken).

Designed for rule-breakers, storytellers, and people who prefer their hotel stays with a side of whimsy, The Oddbird is a playground of eclectic design, immersive experiences, and just the right amount of organised chaos.

Nestled in District 8 of SCBD, the hotel takes inspiration from the number 8 itself – a symbol of eternal connections, infinite possibilities, and, let’s be real, a fancy way of saying ‘we’re all in this together’ (even if sometimes, like right now, we wish we weren’t).

For the rooms, expect garden and urban-themed spaces that channel classic Jakarta neighbourhoods; lush greenery meets retro, mid-century cool. And for the communal spaces, the vibe is vibrant, buzzing, and they’re guaranteed to be the perfect backdrop for your next great story (or at least a fire Instagram post).

But we can’t forget about the food. A riot of local and international flavours await that’ll make you reconsider every sad airport meal you’ve ever eaten.
But above all, The Oddbird embodies the ‘Come as you are’ spirit, so, whether you’re a business traveller, an artist, or someone who just appreciates a killer hotel bar (guilty), you’re welcome here. The Oddbird has definitely landed.

Zipline over a glacier in Iceland

Ever fancied zip-lining over a glacier like a caffeinated Arctic tern? Well, Ice Pic Journeys has just the adrenaline cocktail for you with their Glacier Zip Line + Ice Cave Adventure. It’s the world’s first and only glacier zip line, because why not combine icy thrills with gravity-defying antics?

Your escapade begins at the Glacier Lagoon parking lot in Vatnajökull National Park. After meeting your guide (who’s almost definitely part sherpa, part photographer) you’ll hop into a 4×4 vehicle that laughs in the face of paved roads. A 20-30 minute bumpy ride later, you’ll arrive at the glacier’s edge, ready to channel your inner explorer.

But first up, the Crystal Ice Cave; Iceland’s largest and bluest naturally formed glacier cave. Imagine walking into a sapphire where the walls are so blue, even your Instagram filters will feel redundant. You’ll spend about an hour here, marvelling at nature’s frozen architecture and posing for photos that will make your friends question why they’re not here with you.

Then, it’s time for the main event: the Glacier Zip Line. Strap in and prepare to soar across the glacier, over a vertical ice cave (fancy term: moulin), with panoramic views that scream “I’m thriving in 2025!” Feel the wind in your face as you glide above the frozen expanse, but be warned, absolutely nothing you do from this point forward will ever compare, even just a tiny bit, to this feeling.

So, if you’re looking to add a frosty feather to your adventure cap, Ice Pic Journeys has got you covered, just don’t forget to bring your bravado and maybe an extra pair of thermal socks.

Light up at Parrtjima – A Festival in Light

Alice Springs is about to glow up – again. Parrtjima – A Festival in Light is back from April 4 to 13, 2025, ready to transform the Red Centre into a neon dreamscape where ancient culture meets mind-blowing tech. If you’re imagining Mother Nature herself getting a high-voltage makeover, you’re on the right track.

It only makes sense that this year’s theme is Timelessness. Because Aboriginal art, storytelling, and culture have been thriving for over 65,000 years which, fun fact, is longer than your phone battery lasts. Expect massive, trippy light installations casting their magic across the MacDonnell Ranges, alongside stories that have been passed down through generations. So, yes, it’s stunning, but also deeply meaningful.

And it’s not just about the pretty lights (although they help). The Darwin Symphony Orchestra will be throwing an epic live performance under the stars, teaming up with Indigenous musicians to create a musical fusion that’s a little classical, lots of didgeridoo, and 100% goosebump-inducing. Then there’s Troy Cassar-Daley kicking off the fest with a free concert on April 5 – what a legend.

Feeling artsy? Swing by the Buy Blak Market for some incredible Indigenous crafts, or, if you’re in the mood for a laugh, check out the festival’s first-ever Indigenous comedy night. Who knew the desert could be this hilarious?

So, grab your mates, charge your phone (you’ll need it for all the Insta-worthy moments), and get ready for the most electrifying event in the Outback. Parrtjima 2025 is about to light up your life, literally.

The new-look wellbeing sanctuary at Bawah Reserve

Bawah Reserve, the ultra-remote, eco-luxe paradise that’s only accessible by private seaplane (because of course it is), just got even more indulgent. Enter the newly expanded Aura Wellbeing Sanctuary, a jungle-hidden oasis where sweating, freezing, and feeling absolutely blissed-out are all on the itinerary.

This isn’t your average spa upgrade. It’s a full-blown contrast therapy playground, designed to have you alternating between fiery heat and ice-cold refreshment like a true wellness warrior. Start in the Red Salt Sauna, where temperatures climb to a toasty 82°C, melting away toxins and stress like butter on a Bawah beach. Or opt for the Steam Room, a pore-purifying, muscle-relaxing misty haven set at a gentle 38°C (that’s still hot to us) or a sweat-dripping 48°C for the hardcore detoxers.

Then, just when you’re feeling all warm and fuzzy, it’s time for the Polar Room; a brisk 16°C sensory jolt that wakes up circulation, tightens skin, and reminds you what being truly alive feels like. And if you want to take things to the next level, the Ice Plunge Pool at a frosty 12°C delivers the ultimate endorphin rush, soothing sore muscles and leaving you buzzing with post-chill euphoria.

With Bawah’s signature all-inclusive spa treatments already part of the package, the new Aura Sanctuary is just the cherry on top of an already ridiculously dreamy retreat. Detox, retox, repeat because sweating in paradise has never looked this good.

Relax on a Hot Tub Boat

Fancy lounging in a bubbling cauldron of blissful warmth, cruising the serene waters of Seattle’s Lake Union with the iconic skyline playing peekaboo in the distance? Well, don’t we have the buoyant boat for you.

These floating jacuzzis are the brainchild of Hot Tub Boats, offering a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. Each vessel is equipped with joystick navigation, making it super easy to steer – no captain’s licence needed. And let’s not forget the onboard Bluetooth speakers, allowing you to curate the perfect soundtrack to your aquatic escapade.

Worried about the weather? Fear not! Rain or shine, summer or winter, these hot tub boats maintain a toasty 104 degrees, ensuring your comfort as you drift past Seattle’s floating homes and bustling houseboats. It’s like soaking in your bathtub, except your bathroom is now a panoramic cityscape, and your rubber ducky has been upgraded to a majestic seaplane taking off nearby.

And if you’re feeling peckich, each boat comes with a cooler stocked with canned water. You’re also welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages. Just remember, while the lake is your oyster, glass containers are a no-go because, the environment and all that.

So, gather your crew (up to six of your closest friends) and embark on a two-hour tour that will make every single one of your Insta ‘friends’ jealous. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need an excuse to wear that expensive swimsuit you bought in public, Hot Tub Boats provides an unforgettable experience that combines the best of spa luxury with the freedom of the open water.

Ink & Drink

Ever fancied wielding a tattoo machine but feared your mates might not appreciate your artistic flair permanently etched on their skin? Enter Ink & Drink, where you can unleash your inner tattoo artist without any lifelong consequences. Think of it as a ‘paint and sip’ night but with a rebellious twist, swapping paintbrushes for tattoo guns and canvases for synthetic skin.

Located in various Aussie hotspots like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, Ink & Drink offers a two-hour escapade into the world of tattoo artistry. Under the guidance of seasoned professionals, you’ll learn the basics of tattooing, all while sipping on your favourite BYO beverages. Yes, you read that right, it’s BYO. So whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a beer enthusiast, just bring your fave beverage and off you go.

And the sessions are designed for everyone from the ones who can’t draw a stick figure to budding artists. It all starts with a quick tutorial before diving straight into inking designs onto vegan-friendly synthetic skin (better give that alcohol-induced courage time kick in).

If you’re looking for a night out that’s far from ordinary, this place is the go to. Gather your mates, grab your drinks, and get ready to swap your paintbrush for a tattoo gun. Just remember, what happens at Ink & Drink stays at Ink & Drink… unless you decide to show off your masterpiece.

SnowsBest Women’s Heli Skiing Week

Ladies, it’s time to swap the mundane for the mountainous and elevate your ski game, literally. SnowsBest has teamed up with Travelplan Ski Holidays to present the Women’s Heli Skiing Week (AKA your new fave week ever), scheduled for March 31 to April 5, 2026.

But this isn’t your average ski trip, it’s more of a high-flying, powder-chasing adventure designed exclusively for 29 women who are ready to conquer Canada’s backcountry and indulge in some serious après-ski camaraderie (sign us the hell up).

You’ll be whisked away by a helicopter to untouched slopes of the Monashees Mountains where the only tracks will be the ones you and your fellow shredders carve. Whether you’re a seasoned powder hound or a confident intermediate skier looking to up your game, this trip is tailored to suit your skills and thirst for adventure.

It’s not just about the skiing though. This week is a celebration of female empowerment in the great outdoors. You’ll be surrounded by like-minded women (including SnowsBest.com founder Rachael Oakes-Ash) who share your passion for the mountains, creating an environment that’s as supportive as it is exhilarating. And let’s not forget the après-ski sessions where stories of the day’s triumphs (and tumbles) are shared over a well-deserved glass of wine.

Safety is paramount, and you’ll be guided by experienced professionals who know the terrain like the back of their hand. They’ll ensure you’re not only having the time of your life but doing so with the utmost regard for safety and environmental stewardship.

So, if you’re ready to take your skiing to new heights and forge unforgettable memories with a tribe of adventurous women, the Women’s Heli Skiing Week is calling your name. Dust off your gear, practice your powder turns, and prepare for a week that’s bound to be super empowering.