Tag: Sydney

by Incredible Planet Staff

The Ultimate travel bucket list to Experience Australia


Places

Australia’s Ultimate List of Travel Experiences

Known as one of the most remote and geographically fascinating places in the world, Australia hosts a plethora of treasures waiting for travelers of all backgrounds to explore. Due to the many natural wonders dotting its landscape, unique wildlife, and bustling metropolis areas, it’s easy to see why this beautiful destination is ranked among the top 10 best countries. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, delight in being a foodie, or are just looking to relax on a scenic beach, Australia holds something for everyone. With so much to offer it can be hard to pick out the “must do” activities, so this article aims to narrow down your bucket list and provide you with the ultimate Australian travel experiences.

Snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef

Spend the day swimming alongside colorful fish, majestic sea turtles, and the occasional manta ray. Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is known as one of the best places for diving and snorkeling in the world. With over 1,000 species of fish, this amazing ecosystem is so large it can be seen from space. Snorkeling experiences in Australia are available for all ages and abilities, making this an activity that can be fun for the whole family. Additionally, equipment can easily be rented or is often included in package deals.

It is also situated right next to a few other well-known travel destinations, like The Whitsunday Islands. Almost as good as the reef, The Whitsundays is a group of 74 tropical islands that offer white sandy beaches and dense rainforests. Wings – Whitsundays sailing adventures have tours from The Whitsunday Islands to the reef and have a well-informed crew that is passionate about marine life, and ready to answer any questions participants may have. Furthermore, snorkelers may choose to join a guided tour, or opt for self-exploration. However, with record warming waters from severe weather and climate change, it has been revealed that 93% of the Great Barrier Reef has suffered from coral bleaching, a phenomena that causes much needed algae to leave the tissues of coral leaving them incredibly weak and vulnerable. So those looking to experience a truly magnificent world wonder native to Australia are best to put this experience at the top of their list.

Sydney Harbour Cruises

Imagine spending a romantic evening enjoying a luxurious meal while watching city lights sparkle off the waters of Sydney’s harbor. Or, perhaps you’re in the mood for dancing with a close group of friends in a completely unique setting. Australia’s Cruises offer a large variety of private charters as well as corporate function options for those looking for the ultimate experience on the well-known and classically iconic Sydney harbour.

With a professional staff and top notch chefs awaiting guests on board, visitors can choose from deluxe dining menus or customize their own. Cruises also offers many package deals and events that coincide with holidays and special times of the year making it a great choice if you’re looking to celebrate something or someone special.

Sunset Market

Australia is host to several native ingredients not found anywhere else in the world, and with a constantly evolving food culture there are countless places to experience unique and artfully crafted meals. Visiting foodies will find plenty to keep themselves enthralled with from roadside markets of fresh fruit, to some of the world’s most highly rated fine dining experiences. Among the foodie hot spots is the Sunset Market.

Visitors have the chance to encounter a wide demographic of foods here such as Greek, Spanish, Indian, French, Turkish, Indonesian, traditional Australian fair, and much more. Food trucks and booths serve everything from quick bites to full meals, desserts, and beverages. Due to the Sunset Market only being open from April through October, this is definitely an experience to jump on if given the chance.

Winery Experiences

With over 2,000 wineries, Australia’s wine regions grow more than 100 varieties of grapes that are crafted into wines enjoyed all around the world. For the ultimate wine experience head to D’Arenberg’s McLaren Vale; a family owned winery. Here you can participate in a 2-day experience that is perfect for those looking to enjoy a peaceful and sophisticated romantic getaway. Day one consists of a hands on wine making experience where you have the opportunity to craft, bottle, and label your own bottle of wine to take home with you. The afternoon can be spent participating in cooking classes or wondering the many vineyards. It is said that kangaroos can often be spotted as a fun surprise.

In the evening, guests are able to enjoy fine dining and retreat back to several B&B cottages that dot the McLaren Vale landscape. Day two welcomes guests to visit the town’s farmers market to meet the grape growers for an authentic “taste the region” experience. Finally, guests are encouraged to continue their South Australian experience by visiting one of the many pristine beaches or the untouched bush land for eco tours.

Bay of Fires Lodge Walk

Hosting an ethereal like landscape, Australia is one the best places to immerse yourself in a full on adventure. The dramatic coastline known as the Bay of Fire provides adventures with wondrous wildlife and ecology, and exposes them to one of the most immaculate environments Tasmania has to offer. This adventure is especially great for those who enjoy the outdoors but don’t necessarily want to rough it in the woods, as each day ends with a stay in luxury beach camp or lodge.

Hikers will be guided along soft sandy beaches that have been untouched for thousands of years, and have the opportunity to explore shell coves, climb sand dunes, snorkel in the marine nursery, or just simply enjoy the view. Finally, the 4-day hike comes to an end after hikers make their way through eucalyptus forests and coastal heathland.

There is truly an endless amount of adventure and thrill when it comes to Australia. Visitors are bound to find unique and one of a kind experiences that inspire and relax even the most avid of travelers. Regardless of whether you plan on staying for a while, or are just stopping by, this list of must-try experiences is sure to leave every traveler feeling fulfilled.


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by Rebecca Williams

What The Most Expensive Apartments in Australia Have in Common


Places

In 2019, a savvy businessman will take possession of a $25 million apartment overlooking Southbank in Melbourne, making it the most expensive apartment in Australia at the time of purchase.  Yet, to be completed, the luxurious 800 sqm penthouse will boast a spectacular three-storey staircase, glass lift and private rooftop courtyard.

When thinking of record breaking prices, one’s thoughts generally turn to Sydney, so it comes as some surprise to find Melbourne as carrying the honour, however temporarily.  So, where does the appeal lay and what features and attractions propel price tags into the stratospheric mega million dollar realms?

Panoramic scenery

Whether Sydney, Melbourne, Perth or along Queensland’s stunning coastline, buyers will always pay a premium for breathtaking views.  Penthouse apartments display their views with walls of glass and luxurious automated floor to ceiling sheer curtains which filter, but do not obscure, the panoramic views yet can disappear at the touch of a button.

Premium water and ocean views always feature heavily on the elite buyer’s wishlist as with a recent West Australian contender.  Overlooking prestigious Claisebrook Cove in Perth, the apartment was vying for a record breaking sale price with its six king-sized bedrooms, eight bathrooms and three kitchens.

To highlight the importance of views, let’s take a look at some of the recent heavy price tag apartments and their positioning.

The Australia 108 penthouse mentioned previously will boast 360 degree views of Melbourne – from the 98th floor to the 100th.

The Pacific Bondi Beach penthouse, which recently sold for $21 million has 40 metre frontage on the famous Bondi Beach.

A proposed $100 million penthouse on Sydney Harbour is expected to smash all records; enjoying prime views over Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House – arguably the most spectacular piece of real estate in the world.  Just imagine New Years Eve!

Prime positioning

Whilst extraordinary views may be a strong influence on pricing, strategic positioning must be considered of equal importance.  The majority of buyers in this price bracket will be time poor and generally own homes in a number of other cities.  This means that they will seek strategically located properties with easy access to:

  • Major roads
  • Helipads
  • Business district
  • Proximity to airports
  • World class dining and shopping precincts

Points of difference

The buyers of these apartments are obviously in a position to buy a mansion anywhere in the world so whilst exceptional proportions are a given, it appears not to be the main trigger which is driving these phenomenal sale prices.  It can be reasonably assumed that the security, privacy and elitism penthouse living offers over landed property, is a major driving factor for many buyers.

As with the aforementioned Southbank apartment, buyers are seeking the ‘wow’ factor in overdrive. Glass lifts, private rooftop swimming pools, innovative technology and connectivity and the epitome of comfort with private dressing rooms, wine stores and sumptuous fittings.  These exclusive and elusive inclusions are part of the appeal driving the astronomical price tags being attained by these apartments.

While there are some common factors which Australia’s most expensive apartments possess, it’s all about perspective.  Compare these with the most expensive apartment in the world located in Monaco, with a cool $400 million dollar price tag.  This extravagant apartment boasting five storeys connected by waterslides, plus two pools and a disco – can make many of Australia’s offerings seem quite the bargain (and arguably far more tasteful).

So, what is the future for apartment prices in this echelon?  Like beachfront, there is only so much prime land surrounding the most sought after landmarks and optimally located waterfront.  With this in mind it can be assumed that prices will always be heading north as the rich get richer and the arm wrestle for prime position living becomes hotter.

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by Incredible Planet Staff

Italian dishes everybody needs to try


Places

Italy is best known around the world for their amazing cuisine and their love of soccer. Everyone knows that their food just outright beats the cuisine of most Western countries. Even Italian takeaway is seen as a delicacy and is amazing. With an overwhelming amount of choices these are the dishes that everyone needs to try.

Sicilian green olives

Starting off with a Mediterranean classic is olives. Now Sicilian green olives differ to normal olives and are worth the try. They have a different texture and flavour to other olives and may be the turner for those who aren’t a fan with olives.

Served with olive oil, herbs and garlic, green Sicilian olives are a great appetiser that everyone needs to try.

Arancini

Arancini are the height of street Italian takeaway food. These little rice balls definitely pack a punch of flavour. Normally stuffed with Bolognese sauce and mozzarella, they are then battered in bread crumbs and deep fried. Accompanied with a pinch of grated parmesan cheese to top it all off.

If bite size isn’t for you either make sure to find yourself a giant Arancino, guaranteed to conquer the mightiest of appetites.

Chili mussels

If you are a fan of seafood and can handle the heat, chili mussels are a must have treat. Best eaten on a cold night, the mussels are sautéed in a tomato sauce that is filled with garlic, chili and a splash of white wine.

When you’ve finished with the mussels usually some artisan bread is provided so that you can finish off all of that delightful sauce.

Gnocchi

Handmade gnocchi are a delicacy and a very tasty meal for all tastebuds. Traditionally like pasta, gnocchi is meant to be served as an appetiser. Due to the popularity of both dishes they have made their way as a main course meal for many Western countries.

Gnocchi are pasta/ potato like dumplings that are made from wheat, egg and cheese. They are then cooked in a pot of boiling water like most pastas and served with the desired sauce. Vegetarian sauces to accompany the gnocchi are preferred in the traditional sense normally being a pesto or Napoli variant.

Traditional pizza

No list of great Italian food would be complete without mentioning the Italian takeaway king itself, pizza. This dish has to be the most Westernised Italian dishes out of all the listings here but what people truly need to try is the traditional variant of pizza.

In Italy pizza is meant to have no more than three toppings on it. A handmade base with fresh roma tomato sauce, topping with buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil is sure to change your opinion on what pizza should taste like.

Cannoli

A classic traditional dessert, cannolis are perfect for a restaurant dessert treat. These little heavenly stuffed pastries originated from Sicily and have a staple for Sicilian cuisine. Traditionally stuffed with ricotta, fruits and nuts are sure to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth.

Western countries have adapted the recipe as well, filling them with custard rather than the traditional ricotta. If you aren’t a fan of sweet ricotta then the custard filling is a must try.

Whether you’re looking to travel to Italy or you have a keen cooking skill and want to try something amazing, these are the top Italian foods that everyone must try.

If you can’t squeeze in a quick trip to Italy and don’t have any cooking skills like the most of us, you can always look for these dishes at good Italian restaurants Sydney! It’s time to get eating and be sure to try a wide range of the food on offer.

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by Incredible Planet Staff

7 Common Questions about Family Law in Sydney


People

Family Law is a complex branch of law that deals with the highly emotional and personal section of our lives: family. Proceedings can be arduous and taxing and as such people have many questions about them.

Here are some of the more common questions about Family law in Sydney:

1. How much should I tell my family lawyer?

Everything you can that is important to the case. Even if you think it’s embarrassing or shameful, it might help give context or specific important that could aid your case. It is however, crucial to avoiding using your lawyer as a proxy counselor. Although every lawyer has a different level of emotional connection and interpersonal knowledge about their client, maintaining a balance between expressing emotional material important to the case and for cathartic purposes is key for both you and your lawyer. And hopefully your lawyer can help you get proper support during this time.

2. Does the law prefer certain gender in divorce proceedings?
There’s no explicit laws that dictate one gender is more likely to receive more or less in a particularly area during a divorce proceedings. The most common thinking is: men have greater clout in financial matters, while women are more likely to receive custody.
There are numbers that show this to be true, but these can be better explained through societal and environmental factors, rather than a legal bias.

3. Can I have someone come with me to court?
Yes! It is quite normal in fact to have a person or two come support you in the courtroom. They will not be able to sit next to you, but they will be able to sit directly behind you if you do want them close by. However you will not be allowed to have any witnesses in court before or after their testimony.

4. Do I have to wear a suit?
No, it’s not a requirement. Although any family lawyer in Sydney would heavily suggest dressing nicely so a suit or a nice dress are really strong options, but so are smart casual outfits too. However making sure you’re comfortable being there in what you’re wearing is important too, not thongs and tracky level comfortable, but if a suit it too much or you don’t own one, then wear something else.

If the wedding is called off, who keeps the ring?
Family Law in Sydney dictates the engagement ring is considered a ‘conditional gift’, the idea that if you receive the gift (ring) when you fulfill the condition (marriage). This is the run down for the three main scenarios:
– If the wedding is mutually called off, the ring is to be returned to the original owner.
– If the receiver of the ring calls off the wedding without legal justification, they must return it.
– If the giver of the ring calls off the wedding without legal justification, they cannot ask for the
ring back.

6. What is supervised time?
As under the 1975 Family Act, parent – child interactions were empathised, supervised time is shared time between the two, but while being observed.  It is normal for the supervisor to be a family member, friend, or if needed a professional government official, furthermore it is common for notes to be taken of the interactions.

7. Why is prescribed?
There are a couple reasons it can be ordered by the courts, all falling under the protection of the child’s wellbeing and safety.
– If the child is at risk of sexual abuse
– If the child is at risk of physical or physiological harm
– If the parent’s conducted is deemed to be inappropriate or detrimental to the child (drug abuse, alcoholism etc.)

These are some short answers to questions about Family law and lawyers in Sydney.

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by Incredible Planet Staff

Where Does Sydney’s Rubbish go, once removed from your house?


Places

Each week you roll out the old trusty wheelie bin to the curb, leave it there and then roll it back into your specific bin area the next day. The question is though, what is happening to the waste? What does Sydney do with your rubbish once they remove it?

Each of the different types of rubbish is treated differently and here’s how.

It should be noted that some areas have one recycling bin (yellow) and some have two (blue and yellow). We have split them up to explain the different materials more effectively.

Red Bin Rubbish
The Rubbish that doesn’t get recycled goes straight into a landfill. Just a hole in the ground where we dump tonnes of rubbish, then put dirt over it. Before that though, it is sent to a waste treatment plant, which sorts some of the rubbish to help find any possible recyclable goods.

Australia as a whole generated 43.7 million tonnes of waste in 2015, slightly over half of which was recycled. While this is okay, it is not good enough, especially when compared to countries like Sweden, who recycled 98% of their rubbish

In short; we place it in a landfill, where it sits indefinitely producing methane.

Yellow Bin

Paper and cardboard are amongst the most recycled rubbish around and here’s how Sydney recycles them.

  1.  Firstly they are sorted into different categories i.e. paper or cardboard
  2.  Then they are made into a ‘bale’ (a square of paper) and soaked in water.
  3.  After soaking the bale it is then shredded and turned into ‘pulp’.
  4.  The bales are then screened for plastic and glue, which is then removed.
  5.  Ink is treated similarly, but the removal is achieved through passing air through the pulp, turning it into foam which is washed away. This removes 50% of the ink, so the rest is then removed via spraying the bale with chemicals and washing it again.
  6.  The bales are then flattened and dried numerous times, ensuring they are completely dry and rid of all non-paper material.
  7.  They are then clustered together in large sheets, sometimes up to 20 tonnes, where they are ready for reuse.
  8.  The recycled paper is made into new products, such as new paper or egg cartons.

Blue Bin

While many metals, bottles and glass are placed in the blue bin, we’re going to focus on the process of what happens to the most common of these; steel and aluminium.

  1.  All the material passes under a large magnet that lifts up steel, leaving the rest for other sorting methods.
  2.  The Aluminium is then sorted out by an ‘eddy current’. The eddy current effectively acts as a magnet for the aluminium.
  3.  The material is then shredded and put under another magnet to remove any remaining steel.
  4.  Both the steel and aluminium are ‘bailed’ (separately) and head off to the smelter.
  5.  The cans are then stripped of all paint and plastic by heating them at 500 degrees.
  6.  They are then transported to a furnace that burns at 700 degrees, turning them into a liquid.
  7.  The metal is rolled out and made into new cans.

Green Bin

Garden Clippings and plant products that are placed in your bin are turned into mulch, soil conditioners or compost.

  1. Just like the other recyclable material, it is quickly sorted, into similar material, like branches, bushes and plants.
  2. Each section is transported to a machine that can most effectively shred the material.
  3. After the material is shredded is it sent to different machines
  4. The material is then turned into various products such as mulch, soil conditioners or compost. This occurs either by mixing it together with chemicals and other materials, or leaving it to sit.

Sydney removes way too much rubbish each year. Some of which we recycle correctly, turning it into new and reusable products, some of which we unnecessarily place into a land fill. While this is in reference to just the state government, many private rubbish removal companies in Sydney aim to achieve much higher levels of recycling and sometimes specialise in material that the government just puts in landfill.