Vietnam Sets Its Sights on Becoming a Leading Asian Medical Tourism Destination

Vietnam medical tourism

Vietnam is developing an ambitious national strategy to transform medical tourism into a significant growth sector, with the Ministry of Health finalising a medical tourism strategy covering 2026 to 2030 and a vision extending to 2040. The draft strategy aims to position Vietnam as a trusted healthcare destination in Southeast Asia by 2030 and ultimately among Asia’s leading medical tourism hubs.

Vietnam’s Growing Medical Tourism Appeal

Vietnam already has several factors supporting the development of international healthcare tourism, including experienced medical professionals, increasingly advanced technology and comparatively competitive treatment costs.

The country attracts international patients for dental care, fertility treatment, surgery, cardiovascular procedures, organ transplantation, traditional medicine and rehabilitation.

Vietnamese hospitals are also gaining international attention for specialist medical expertise. Major hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have developed services specifically for international patients, while medical facilities are increasingly working with tourism businesses to provide coordinated services.

Dental Tourism Offers International Opportunities

Dental treatment is one of Vietnam’s established medical tourism sectors.

International patients include foreign residents as well as overseas Vietnamese returning from countries including Australia, the United States and Japan. Dental procedures that can be completed within relatively short treatment periods can allow visitors to combine healthcare with family visits, sightseeing and holidays.

The combination of healthcare and tourism is particularly relevant for travellers who can arrange treatment during a longer visit to Vietnam.

Advanced Healthcare Expands the Market

Vietnam medical tourism

Vietnam’s medical tourism sector is extending beyond dentistry.

Major hospitals now provide advanced treatments including cardiovascular interventions, organ transplantation, in-vitro fertilisation and robot-assisted surgery. According to figures cited by Vietnam News Agency, around 300,000 foreign nationals and overseas Vietnamese travel to Vietnam each year for medical services, including more than 50,000 requiring inpatient treatment.

Fertility treatment is another growing area, with Vietnam developing a significant IVF sector in Southeast Asia. Traditional medicine, acupuncture, herbal medicine and rehabilitation are also attracting international interest.

Medical Care Combined with Tourism

Vietnam is developing tourism infrastructure around healthcare services, particularly in major cities and popular resort destinations.

Hospitals in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have introduced international-patient services and digitalised administrative procedures. Partnerships between healthcare providers and travel companies are also creating packages incorporating airport transfers, accommodation and post-treatment services.

Destinations including Da Nang and Phu Quoc are exploring integrated healthcare and resort models, while Khanh Hoa and Lam Dong are developing wellness experiences involving traditional medicine, mineral springs, rehabilitation and relaxation.

A 2040 Vision for Medical Tourism

Vietnam medical tourism

The proposed national strategy represents a move towards treating medical tourism as a coordinated national development opportunity rather than an emerging niche.

The Ministry of Health is simultaneously progressing broader national healthcare programmes for 2026-2030, including measures focused on healthcare capacity, digital transformation and improved health services.

For Vietnam, the challenge will be to combine medical expertise with international patient services, tourism infrastructure, quality standards and cooperation between hospitals, tourism businesses and local authorities.

If successfully developed, medical tourism could provide international visitors with another reason to choose Vietnam, combining healthcare and wellness services with the country's renowned culture, cuisine, beaches, heritage and natural attractions.

Vietnam Ministry of Health
Website: https://moh.gov.vn/
Address: 138A Giang Vo Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Vietnam National Authority of Tourism
Website: https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/
Address: 80 Quan Su Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam

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Witch Perfect Casts a Spell on Sydney with Drag, Comedy and Live Singing

Sydney audiences are set for a wickedly entertaining night when Tina Burner Presents Witch Perfect arrives at Darling Quarter Theatre on Saturday 10 October 2026.

Described as an all-live-singing comedy parody inspired by the cult-classic Disney film Hocus Pocus, Witch Perfect combines drag performance, comedy, music and theatrical spectacle. The Sydney performance begins at 8pm, with doors opening at 6pm. 

RuPaul’s Drag Race Stars Take Centre Stage

Witch Perfect brings together three internationally recognised performers from RuPaul’s Drag Race.

Tina Burner takes on the role of Winifred, with Scarlet Envy performing as Sara and Alexis Michelle as Mary. The production brings their distinctive drag personalities and live performance talents together for a theatrical take on the famous witch sisters.

The result is a show that combines the familiar Hocus Pocus concept with an entirely new musical comedy experience, making Witch Perfect an appealing choice for Sydney visitors seeking something different from traditional theatre.

Pop Hits Meet Broadway and Disney

Witch Perfect

Music is at the heart of Witch Perfect, with the production moving well beyond the original Hocus Pocus story.

The performance features musical parodies inspired by pop icons including Lady Gaga, Madonna and Cher, alongside Disney favourites from The Little Mermaid and The Lion King. Broadway fans are also treated to numbers inspired by Gypsy and Wicked. 

One of the show's signature moments is the sisters' own take on the famous "I Put a Spell on You", adding another theatrical highlight to the evening.

With comedy woven through the music, audiences can expect a lively performance that celebrates drag, popular culture and musical theatre.

A Halloween Season Night Out in Darling Harbour

The October timing makes Witch Perfect a natural choice for a Halloween-season night out in Sydney. Darling Quarter Theatre provides an intimate setting in the heart of Darling Harbour, surrounded by restaurants, entertainment and waterfront attractions.

The theatre is operated by Century Venues and presents a year-round program spanning comedy, cabaret, music and family entertainment.

For visitors staying in central Sydney, Darling Harbour is conveniently positioned within walking distance of many hotels and attractions, making it easy to combine the performance with dinner or an evening exploring the waterfront.

Plan Your Sydney Theatre Experience

Tina Burner Presents Witch Perfect performs at Darling Quarter Theatre on Saturday 10 October 2026 at 8pm. Doors open at 6pm. Ticket information and bookings are available through the official event listing.

The production contains adult themes and is intended for mature audiences.

Darling Quarter Theatre

Website: https://www.darlingquartertheatre.com.au/
Phone: 02 9550 3666
Address: Shop 3, 1-25 Harbour Street, Sydney NSW 2000
For tickets: https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/166423

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The Great Graze Returns to Barangaroo for a Weekend of Food, Culture and Harbour Views

The Great Graze

Sydney's spectacular waterfront will become a food lover's playground when The Great Graze returns to The Streets of Barangaroo on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October 2026.

This free, family-friendly food festival will bring together food, culture, live entertainment and community spirit across Barangaroo's harbourside precinct. With 25 food stalls, waterfront dining, First Nations flavours and sweet treats, The Great Graze offers visitors an opportunity to discover some of Sydney's favourite food destinations in a relaxed outdoor setting.

Graze Your Way Along Wulugul Walk

The Great Graze will transform Wulugul Walk into a waterfront tasting trail, with participating restaurants serving street-style versions of their popular dishes.

Visitors can sample food from venues including Anason, Belles Hot Chicken, Gina, Lotus, Muum Maam and Zushi, with each participating venue featuring at least one dish incorporating a native Australian ingredient.

Highlights include Belles Hot Chicken's Kakadu plum glaze chicken sandwich, Gina's lemon myrtle pasta and Anason's Turkish-inspired dishes. The combination creates an opportunity to sample different cuisines while enjoying the atmosphere of Sydney Harbour.

First Nations Flavours at Pier Pavilion

The Great Graze

A major feature of The Great Graze in 2026 is the partnership with Indigiearth and the First Nations Native Food Market at Pier Pavilion.

Curated by Indigiearth founder Sharon Winsor, the market will showcase First Nations food businesses, native ingredients, cultural products and storytelling.

Visitors can discover businesses including Ziggy's Wildfoods, Lore Australia, Native Botanical Brewery, Baagi Milaygiin, South Coast Seaweed, Ngumpie Weaving and The Unexpected Guest.

Indigiearth will also serve native food dishes, including kangaroo and crocodile, providing festival-goers with an opportunity to explore Australian native flavours.

Waterfront Food Market at Watermans Cove

The food adventure continues at Watermans Cove, where a waterfront market will feature a selection of Barangaroo food businesses.

Among the offerings are Annamese grilled chicken lemongrass skewers, Anita Gelato's wattleseed crème brûlée ice cream, Banksia Bakehouse's wattleseed and chocolate chip cookie, and Devon Cafe's matcha and finger lime treats.

With the harbour providing the backdrop, visitors can graze between stalls while exploring more of The Streets of Barangaroo.

Save Room for Something Sweet

The Great Graze

Dessert lovers will have plenty of reasons to explore the precinct, with a selection of sweet retailers offering special treats during The Great Graze.

The dessert trail includes Anita Gelato, BROOKI, Banksia Bakehouse, Enze, Rivareno, Sweet Belem and Yo-Chi. Options range from artisan gelato and Portuguese custard tarts to freshly baked cookies and pastries.

A Free Sydney Harbour Weekend Festival

The Great Graze is designed for visitors to take their time, discover different flavours and enjoy Barangaroo's waterfront atmosphere. Live entertainment and family-friendly activities add to the weekend program, while Barangaroo House provides a festival bar and gathering space.

The Streets of Barangaroo is easily accessible by public transport, making it convenient for visitors exploring Sydney.

The Great Graze 2026 

Date: Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October 2026
Time: 12pm to 6pm
Address: Wulugul Walk, The Streets of Barangaroo, Barangaroo, NSW
Entry: Free

The Streets of Barangaroo

Website: https://www.thestreetsofbarangaroo.com/
The Great Graze: https://www.thestreetsofbarangaroo.com/thegreatgraze/
Phone: (02) 9236 6111

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Okinawa Industrial Festival 2026: Discover the Best of Okinawa-Made Products in Naha

Okinawa Industrial Festival

Visitors to Okinawa in October can discover the island’s creativity, flavours and craftsmanship at the Okinawa Industrial Festival in Naha, one of the prefecture’s major events celebrating locally made products and industries.

Starting from 23 October 2026, the festival provides an opportunity for travellers to taste, shop and discover a fascinating range of Okinawa-made food, crafts, products and local specialties. It is an ideal event for foodies, shoppers and culture lovers wanting to experience another side of Okinawa beyond its beaches and resorts.

Discover Okinawa-Made Products

The Okinawa Industrial Festival is a major showcase for products made throughout the prefecture. Visitors can explore displays and stalls featuring locally produced goods, food, agricultural products, crafts and other specialties.

For travellers, the festival provides a convenient introduction to Okinawa’s diverse local industries in one location. It is also a great place to discover products that can provide memorable souvenirs of an Okinawa holiday.

The event plays an important role in promoting the use and awareness of Okinawa-made products and supporting the prefecture’s local economy. Okinawa Prefecture describes the festival as a comprehensive industrial exhibition covering industries across the prefecture.

Taste the Flavours of Okinawa

Okinawa Industrial Festival 2026

Food is an important attraction at the Okinawa Industrial Festival. Visitors can discover local ingredients, prepared foods and specialty products representing the distinctive flavours of the Okinawan islands.

From traditional favourites to innovative products created by local businesses, the festival offers food lovers an opportunity to taste something different and learn more about the ingredients and producers behind Okinawa’s cuisine.

For visitors looking for authentic Okinawan food experiences, the festival can be a rewarding addition to a Naha itinerary.

Experience Okinawan Creativity and Culture

The festival is more than a shopping opportunity. It highlights the skills, creativity and innovation of Okinawa’s businesses, manufacturers, producers and craftspeople.

Okinawa has a distinctive cultural identity shaped by its Ryukyu Kingdom heritage, island environment and connections with neighbouring parts of Asia. The Industrial Festival provides visitors with another way to discover this identity through locally produced goods and traditional and contemporary craftsmanship.

The festival has been held as a prefecture-wide industrial event since 1977 and has developed into an important showcase for Okinawa’s industries. Okinawa Prefecture reported more than 310,000 visitors to the 2023 event.

Plan Your Naha Visit in October

Okinawa Industrial Festival

For travellers searching for things to do in Naha in October, the Okinawa Industrial Festival offers a different perspective on the destination.

Rather than simply sightseeing, visitors can meet the products, flavours and creative industries that help make Okinawa unique. It is particularly suited to foodies, shoppers and culture lovers wanting to take home something connected to the islands.

The festival is held annually from the fourth Friday to Sunday in October, with the 2026 event commencing on 23 October. Visitors should check the official information before travelling for the latest dates, venue details and programme information.

Okinawa Industrial Festival 2026

Website: https://visitokinawajapan.com/discover/events/okinawa-industrial-festival/

Okinawa Prefecture – Manufacturing Promotion Division

Website: https://www.pref.okinawa.jp/
Phone: +81 98 866 2337
Address: 1-2-2 Izumizaki, Naha, Okinawa 900-8570, Japan

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Tokyo Secures Six Prestigious International Conferences and Strengthens Its Global Business Events Appeal

Tokyo Big Sight (Tokyo International Exhibition Center)

Tokyo is continuing to strengthen its position as one of Asia's major destinations for international conferences, with six prestigious global events confirmed for the Japanese capital between 2027 and 2029.

For business travellers attending these conferences, the announcements offer another reason to discover Tokyo, a city where advanced convention facilities, global connectivity, Japanese culture, entertainment and hospitality come together.

Business Events Tokyo says the six conferences will bring thousands of international participants to the city, reinforcing Tokyo's reputation for world-class convention infrastructure and enduring global appeal.

Six Major International Conferences Coming to Tokyo

The confirmed events cover healthcare, technology, intelligent transportation, software engineering and specialist medical fields.

AONS and ISNCC will jointly hold their inaugural commemorative conference in Tokyo in 2027, with approximately 1,050 participants expected.

The IGCS 2027 Annual Global Meeting will bring approximately 4,000 participants to Tokyo, providing an international meeting point for specialists in gynecologic oncology.

SIGGRAPH Asia 2027 is expected to be the largest of the six events by attendance, with approximately 10,000 participants. The international conference and exhibition focuses on computer graphics and interactive technologies.

Tokyo will then host ITSC 2028, attracting approximately 1,000 participants and bringing together experts in intelligent transportation.

ICSE 2029 is expected to welcome approximately 2,000 participants for one of the world's leading international conferences in software engineering.

APFSSH 2029 will bring approximately 1,100 hand surgeons, researchers and healthcare professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region to share developments in hand surgery.

Tokyo's Convention Calendar Reaches Around the World

Business Events Tokyo

For visitors, these conferences represent more than business meetings. International delegates can combine conference attendance with a holiday exploring Tokyo's distinctive neighbourhoods, cuisine, cultural attractions and entertainment.

The city's ability to host large-scale international events is supported by major convention venues and a broad network of hotels, professional conference organisers, destination management companies and event suppliers.

Business Events Tokyo provides free and impartial venue and supplier-finding assistance together with local advice for international conferences and corporate events.

From International Conferences to Tokyo Experiences

Business travellers visiting Tokyo can extend their stay beyond the conference venue to experience the city's remarkable contrast between tradition and innovation.

Visitors can explore historic temples and shrines, enjoy Japanese cuisine, discover contemporary art and technology, or travel through the city's diverse neighbourhoods using its extensive public transport network.

For corporate groups, Tokyo also offers cultural programs and entertainment options designed to create memorable experiences beyond the meeting room. Business Events Tokyo's current corporate-events programs include special support for qualifying meetings and incentive groups, including cultural programs or party entertainment.

This combination allows conference delegates to turn a business trip into an opportunity to experience more of Japan.

Major Venues for Global Events

Tokyo has a wide selection of international convention venues.

The Tokyo International Forum, for example, is located in central Tokyo and offers 39 meeting rooms, with its largest theatre accommodating up to 5,012 people. The venue is scheduled to host SIGGRAPH Asia 2027 and the IGCS 2027 Annual Global Meeting.

Other major Tokyo venues provide facilities for exhibitions, conferences, corporate events, banquets and incentive programs, giving international event organisers a broad choice of locations.

A Destination for Business and Leisure Travellers

Tokyo

The arrival of six more international conferences demonstrates the breadth of Tokyo's appeal to global associations and professional organisations.

For delegates, Tokyo offers the chance to combine professional networking and knowledge exchange with an unforgettable city experience. For event organisers, the city's convention infrastructure, accommodation choices, cultural experiences and specialist business-events support provide a comprehensive environment for international gatherings.

With conferences already confirmed through 2029, Tokyo's international business-events calendar is providing visitors with plenty of reasons to put Japan's capital on their future travel plans.

Business Events Tokyo

Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau
Website: https://businesseventstokyo.org/
Email: businessevents@tcvb.or.jp
Phone: +81-3-5579-2684
Address: Shinjuku Monolith 15F, 2-3-1 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 163-0915, Japan

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China Marine Economy Expo 2026: Shenzhen Sets Course for the Future of the Blue Economy

The China Marine Economy Expo 

The China Marine Economy Expo 2026 will bring the global marine industry together in Shenzhen from 22 to 24 October, creating an important meeting place for marine technology, shipping, sustainability, coastal tourism and the rapidly developing blue economy.

Held at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center in Bao'an, the national-level event is expected to attract more than 350 exhibitors across a 50,000-square-metre exhibition.

Discover the Future of China's Marine Economy

The China Marine Economy Expo provides an opportunity for industry professionals, businesses, researchers and international visitors to discover new developments across the marine economy.

The 2026 Expo will feature eight thematic zones covering areas including deep and far marine energy, green shipping and low-carbon logistics, marine electronics and information technology, marine ecology, sustainable development, marine monitoring, marine biomedicine and modern marine services.

For travellers interested in the relationship between the ocean and tourism, the modern marine services and coastal cultural tourism zone will be particularly relevant.

From Marine Technology to Coastal Tourism

The China Marine Economy Expo 

Marine tourism is an increasingly important part of the wider ocean economy, connecting coastal destinations with cultural experiences, leisure activities and marine-based attractions.

The Expo provides an opportunity to explore how technology and innovation are influencing coastal tourism while also discovering businesses and destinations developing new ways for visitors to experience the ocean.

The event brings together marine enterprises, research organisations, government representatives and industry professionals, providing opportunities for knowledge sharing and international connections.

Global Marine Cities Forum Adds International Perspective

Running alongside the China Marine Economy Expo will be the Global Marine Cities Forum, together with more than 20 specialised sessions.

The forum program will address subjects including global ocean governance, blue economy development and marine technology innovation. International organisations, maritime representatives, business leaders and financial and investment professionals are expected to participate.

For international visitors, the combination of the exhibition and conference program provides an opportunity to gain a broader understanding of how cities and industries are responding to the opportunities and challenges associated with the world's oceans.

Why Shenzhen Is the Ideal Host City

The China Marine Economy Expo 

Shenzhen's location within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area makes it an important centre for maritime business, port operations, shipbuilding and marine engineering supply chains.

The Expo will also include B2B business matching and investment and financing networking opportunities, connecting technology developers and businesses with potential commercial partners.

For visitors, Shenzhen itself adds another dimension to the experience. The dynamic Greater Bay Area city combines modern architecture, technology, shopping, dining and easy access to a wider network of coastal destinations.

Plan Your China Marine Economy Expo Visit

China Marine Economy Expo 2026 will be held from 22 to 24 October 2026 at Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center.

The event is particularly relevant for professionals and visitors interested in marine tourism, cruise and maritime industries, coastal destinations, sustainable ocean development, marine technology and international business opportunities.

With marine innovation and tourism increasingly interconnected, the Shenzhen Expo offers a timely  opportunity to discover how the blue economy is shaping the future of travel, industry and coastal communities.

China Marine Economy Expo 2026

Website: https://www.cmee.com.cn/en/
Venue: Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center, Bao'an, Shenzhen, China
Dates: 22–24 October 2026

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BIGBANG Brings 20th Anniversary World Tour to Sydney

BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR

Sydney is set to become a major destination for K-pop fans when BIGBANG brings its highly anticipated BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR < XX : COSMOS > to Accor Stadium on Saturday 31 October 2026.

The Sydney concert will be the group's only Australian performance on the world tour and will celebrate 20 years since BIGBANG's debut. The concert is presented by AEG and Frontier Touring in partnership with Destination NSW.

BIGBANG Returns to the World Stage

The Sydney concert reunites G-DRAGON, TAEYANG and DAESUNG for BIGBANG's first world tour since 2017. The tour is taking the Korean group to stadiums and major venues across North America, Europe, Oceania and Asia.

BIGBANG's return comes during a milestone anniversary year for the group, which has played an influential role in the international growth of K-pop. The 2026-2027 tour provides Australian fans with an opportunity to experience the group live as it celebrates two decades of music.

The group's recent musical activity has also added to the excitement surrounding the tour. BIGBANG released the digital single BiiiG in August 2026 as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations.

One Australian Concert in Sydney

BIGBANG

BIGBANG will perform at Accor Stadium in Sydney Olympic Park on Saturday 31 October 2026, with the concert scheduled to begin at 7.30pm. It is an all-ages event.

For fans travelling to Sydney from interstate or regional NSW, the concert creates an opportunity to combine a major K-pop event with a Sydney city break. Visitors can explore Sydney's attractions, restaurants, shopping and harbour before travelling to Sydney Olympic Park for the concert.

Public transport is recommended for getting to and from the event, with travel arrangements and event transport information available through Sydney Olympic Park and Transport for NSW.

A Major K-pop Night in Sydney

BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR

The BIGBANG 2026-2027 WORLD TOUR < XX : COSMOS > Sydney concert is expected to attract fans from across Australia because Sydney is the tour's only Australian destination.

For K-pop enthusiasts searching for BIGBANG Sydney tickets, BIGBANG Sydney concert information, K-pop concerts Sydney 2026 or things to do in Sydney in October, 31 October promises a major night of live music at one of Australia's leading stadiums.

With BIGBANG marking 20 years since its debut, the Sydney concert combines a significant anniversary with the group's return to the Australian stage.

Frontier Touring

Website: https://www.frontiertouring.com/
BIGBANG Tour Information: https://www.frontiertouring.com/bigbang

Accor Stadium

Website: https://www.accorstadium.com.au/
Phone: (02) 8765 2000
Address: Edwin Flack Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127, Australia

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Sip, Laugh and Learn: Merrick Watts Returns to The Grand Electric with An Idiot’s Guide to Wine Volume 3

An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3

For visitors looking for something different to do in Sydney this October, an evening of comedy, wine and entertaining stories is coming to The Grand Electric in Surry Hills.

Merrick Watts returns with An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3, combining six handpicked wines with comedy, surprising wine facts, food pairing suggestions and stories from one of Australia’s best-known comedians. The popular show returns to Sydney for just two performances, making it an appealing choice for tourists and locals planning a memorable night out.

A Sydney Night of Wine and Comedy

An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3 is not presented as a traditional wine tasting. Instead, Merrick Watts brings his distinctive comedic style to the world of wine, creating an entertaining experience where audiences can discover new varieties and wine regions while enjoying plenty of laughs.

The experience includes six tasting serves of wine, with the evening designed to combine entertainment and wine education. Audiences can expect surprising insights, snack-matching suggestions and stories as Watts explores the world of wine in his own irreverent style.

For travellers who enjoy Australian comedy, food and drink experiences, the event offers an opportunity to combine several Sydney interests in one evening.

Only Two Sydney Performances

Visitors will need to plan ahead because An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3 is returning to The Grand Electric for only two Sydney performances.

The shows are scheduled for Friday 9 October 2026 at 7pm and Saturday 10 October 2026 at 7pm.

The event is for audiences aged 18 and over, with tickets including entry and tasting serves of six wines. Current ticket information indicates that some ticket releases are already selling quickly, making advance booking important for visitors who want to attend one of the two performances.

Discover The Grand Electric in Surry Hills

The Grand Electric

The Grand Electric is itself part of the experience. Located at 199 Cleveland Street in Surry Hills, the venue is known for its distinctive atmosphere and eclectic live entertainment program.

The Sydney tourism website describes The Grand Electric as a vibrant venue featuring comedy, cabaret, circus, musicals and other live performances. Its Parisian-style courtyard and intimate theatre atmosphere make it an interesting destination for visitors wanting to experience Sydney entertainment away from the city's major traditional theatres.

For tourists staying in central Sydney, Surry Hills is also an easy area to explore before or after the performance, with restaurants, cafes, bars and other entertainment options nearby.

A Different Way to Experience Sydney

A theatre night does not always have to mean a conventional play, musical or concert. An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3 provides visitors with a distinctly Australian combination of comedy, wine tasting and storytelling.

The event can also be an enjoyable option for couples, friends or adult visitors wanting to add something unusual to a Sydney itinerary. Rather than simply watching a performance, audiences become part of an experience involving tasting, learning and laughter.

For wine enthusiasts, it is an opportunity to encounter new varieties and regions. For comedy fans, it provides a chance to see Merrick Watts in a live setting. For travellers, it offers another way to discover Sydney's lively performing arts and entertainment scene.

Book Early for Merrick Watts in Sydney

Merrick Watts

With only two performances scheduled at The Grand Electric, travellers planning a Sydney visit around 9 or 10 October should consider booking early.

An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3 promises an evening where wine does not have to be complicated, and learning about it certainly does not have to be serious. With six wines, new discoveries, food pairing ideas and Merrick Watts' comedy, it is designed to make wine entertaining as well as approachable.

For visitors seeking things to do in Sydney in October 2026, this limited season offers a chance to sip, laugh and learn at one of Surry Hills' distinctive entertainment venues.

The Grand Electric 

Website: https://strutnfret.com/venues/the-grand-electric/
Email: grandelectric@strutnfret.com
Phone: (03) 7065 4895
Address: 199 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills NSW 2016, Australia

Merrick Watts – An Idiot’s Guide to Wine: Volume 3

Dates: Friday 9 October and Saturday 10 October 2026
Time: 7pm  Age: 18+

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Social Nature Movement Connects People, Adventure and Nature Across New Zealand

Social Nature Movement

Immersive Outdoor Experiences in New Zealand

Social Nature Movement is a New Zealand outdoor adventure company creating immersive experiences that bring people together in natural environments.

Based in Auckland, Social Nature Movement provides large group accommodation in natural spaces using glamping tents and marquees, while also offering outdoor activities, incentive travel and destination management services.

The company was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026 in Auckland, connecting with business events professionals and showcasing its nature-based experiences for groups, corporate travellers and incentive programmes.

Business Events Industry Aotearoa lists Social Nature Movement as an activity service, team building and training provider and a venue with a difference. BEIA also lists the company across Auckland, Central Otago, Christchurch and Canterbury, nationwide and Wellington.

Accommodation in Natural Surroundings

Social Nature Movement

Social Nature Movement offers a different approach to group accommodation, taking visitors away from conventional hotel environments and into natural spaces.

Its glamping tents and marquees can provide a memorable setting for groups wanting to combine accommodation with outdoor experiences. The concept is suited to organisations seeking opportunities for connection, adventure and shared experiences in a natural environment.

For business events, incentive groups and team-building programmes, this type of setting can create an alternative to traditional conference accommodation.

Outdoor Adventures and Team Experiences

Social Nature Movement

Outdoor activities are central to the Social Nature Movement experience. The company offers guided adventures that can include land and water-based activities, with qualified guides helping participants discover New Zealand's natural landscapes.

Its experiences include activities such as kayaking, hiking, rock climbing and paddle boarding, with options available around Auckland and other New Zealand locations.

The company's approach focuses on more than simply transporting visitors from one attraction to another. Social Nature Movement creates experiences around the journey itself, encouraging participants to learn, explore and connect with the environment and each other.

Incentive Travel and Destination Management

Social Nature Movement

Social Nature Movement provides services for incentive travel and destination management, making its outdoor experiences relevant to corporate groups looking for distinctive New Zealand experiences.

Nature-based incentive programmes can combine physical activity, exploration and group interaction, giving participants opportunities to experience landscapes away from conventional tourist routes.

The company's experienced guides can also customise adventures, helping groups choose experiences suited to their interests, abilities and objectives.

A Focus on People, Nature and Movement

Social Nature Movement

The philosophy behind Social Nature Movement is centred on connecting people with nature through movement and shared experiences.

Founded by Chris Lacoste in 2016, the company has developed a team of experienced guides with backgrounds in outdoor education, recreation and tourism. Chris has more than 21 years of outdoor industry experience and holds a Master of Arts in Transcultural European Outdoor Studies.

The company aims to create outdoor experiences that are knowledgeable, authentic, purposeful and engaging, while encouraging visitors to develop a deeper connection with the places they explore.

For corporate groups, incentive travellers, schools and other organised groups, Social Nature Movement offers an opportunity to combine adventure, accommodation and destination experiences within New Zealand's natural environment.

Social Nature Movement

Contact Person: Chris Lacoste, Managing Director
Website: Social Nature Movement
Email: support@snm.nz
Phone: +64 800 766 266
Mobile: +64 21 146 9769
Address: 8/6 Westgate Drive, Massey, Auckland, New Zealand
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/socialnaturemovement/

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Three New York Hikes You Need to Take This Fall

Bear Mountain State Park

Fall is one of the most rewarding seasons to explore New York State on foot. As forests change from summer green to brilliant shades of red, orange and gold, hiking trails reveal waterfalls, mountain views, rivers, wildlife and spectacular autumn scenery.

From the historic Appalachian Trail to the former railway corridor of the Catskill Scenic Trail and the dramatic gorge of Letchworth State Park, these three New York fall hikes offer memorable ways to experience the changing foliage. I LOVE NY recommends checking current conditions and its weekly Fall Foliage Report when planning an autumn hiking trip.

1) Appalachian Trail at Bear Mountain

Appalachian Trail

Nearly 90 miles of the famous Appalachian Trail pass through New York State, providing plenty of opportunities to experience autumn landscapes. A particularly accessible section can be explored in Bear Mountain State Park in the Hudson Valley.

The trail combines woodland scenery, wildlife and colourful fall foliage with opportunities to discover local history. Visitors can explore the Trailside Museum and Zoo, climb towards scenic viewpoints and visit Perkins Memorial Tower.

For a gentler outing, the paved path around Hessian Lake provides an easier way to enjoy the autumn landscape. Nearby Fort Montgomery adds Revolutionary War history to a day in the region.

Before setting out, hikers should check Bear Mountain State Park for current trail conditions and closures.

2) Catskill Scenic Trail

Catskill Scenic Trail

For a more relaxed New York fall hiking experience, head to Stamford in the Catskills and explore the Catskill Scenic Trail.

The 26-mile trail follows a former railway route along the West Branch Delaware River. Its relatively gentle terrain makes it suitable for walkers looking for a scenic autumn outing, while the surrounding Catskill countryside provides a colourful backdrop.

The trail can also be enjoyed by cyclists and horseback riders, making it a versatile destination for exploring the Western Catskills during foliage season.

With forests, river views and small communities nearby, the Catskill Scenic Trail is an excellent choice for travellers wanting to combine outdoor activity with a leisurely Catskills getaway.

3) Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park 

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”, Letchworth State Park is one of New York's standout destinations for autumn hiking.

The Genesee River has carved a dramatic gorge through the landscape, with cliffs rising as high as 600 feet. Hiking trails lead visitors through colourful woodland and towards spectacular viewpoints, while the Upper and Middle Falls provide some of the park's most impressive sights.

Autumn adds another dimension as red, orange and golden foliage surrounds the waterfalls and gorge. For an entirely different perspective, visitors can also experience the park from above with a hot air balloon adventure.

Letchworth State Park offers approximately 66 miles of hiking trails, giving visitors plenty of options for exploring the landscape.

Plan Your New York Fall Hiking Adventure

New York State offers hiking experiences ranging from accessible woodland walks to mountain trails and dramatic gorge scenery. Autumn conditions can change quickly, so hikers should plan appropriately, check trail conditions and follow responsible recreation and Leave No Trace principles.

For the best foliage experience, check the latest I LOVE NY Fall Foliage Report before travelling and time your hike according to current autumn conditions.

I LOVE NY

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Phone: 1-800-CALL-NYS
Address: Empire State Development, 633 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017, USA

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