Where Tokyo Tradition Meets Business: An Exclusive Japanese Cultural Experience at Eko-in Temple

Eko-in Temple

For international visitors, discovering Tokyo can mean much more than visiting its famous landmarks. Japan's capital also offers distinctive cultural experiences that allow business travellers to step beyond the conference room and connect with the city's history, traditions and local character.

One such experience took place at Eko-in Temple in Ryogoku, where 26 lawyers from Europe, the United States and other regions enjoyed an exclusive Japanese cultural program during an overseas bar association regional meeting. The experience combined Japanese sake tasting, sumo and the history of one of Tokyo's distinctive cultural venues.

Discover Eko-in Temple in Historic Ryogoku

Eko-in Temple dates back to 1657 and has a strong connection with sumo, Japan's national sport. The temple has been associated with kanjin-zumo, historic sumo tournaments held to raise funds for charitable purposes, since the Edo period.

Today, Eko-in provides a distinctive setting for meetings, dinners, exhibitions and cultural events. Its Nenbutsudo devotional hall was constructed in 2013, combining traditional Japanese influences with contemporary architecture.

For visitors to Tokyo, Ryogoku offers the opportunity to explore an area closely associated with sumo while discovering another important part of the city's cultural heritage.

Experience Japanese Sake in a Traditional Setting

The overseas bar association event began with a sake-tasting experience in the Kakuden Room on the second floor of the Nenbutsudo Hall.

The tatami-floored room was arranged with tables and chairs, allowing international delegates to enjoy the Japanese-style surroundings comfortably. A selection of Japanese sake was presented alongside decorative sake barrels and a colourful catering display.

The experience also showed how traditional Japanese spaces can be adapted for international business events. Delegates enjoyed Japanese sake with a Western-style menu while learning more about the cultural setting around them.

For travellers exploring Japan, a sake tasting can provide an engaging introduction to Japanese food and drink culture, particularly when experienced in a traditional environment.

Step Into the World of Sumo

Eko-in Temple

The group then moved to the Nenbutsudo Room for a special sumo experience.

The room is normally used for exhibitions featuring ukiyo-e prints and other artworks connected with Eko-in and the Ryogoku area. For the event, tatami mats were placed across part of the room, creating a suitable space for a former sumo wrestler to demonstrate sumo techniques.

Rather than simply watching a sporting performance, delegates experienced an aspect of Japanese culture directly within a venue historically connected with sumo.

The combination of history, demonstration and participation created a memorable cultural experience for the international visitors.

A Unique Tokyo Experience for Business Travellers

Eko-in Temple

Eko-in demonstrates how Tokyo's distinctive venues can add a cultural dimension to conferences, incentive programs and corporate events.

The temple's historic character provides an atmosphere very different from a conventional conference centre or hotel ballroom. Its available spaces include the 76-square-metre Kyakuden Room, which can accommodate up to 60 seated guests, and the 81-square-metre Nenbutsudo Room, which can accommodate up to 50 seated guests.

For international business travellers, experiences such as sake tasting and sumo demonstrations can turn a networking event into an opportunity to discover Tokyo through its culture and history.

Explore Tokyo Beyond the Conference Room

Eko-in Temple

A visit to Eko-in can form part of a wider Tokyo itinerary. Ryogoku allows visitors to explore the city's sumo traditions while discovering the historic atmosphere of Tokyo's traditional downtown districts.

For international event organisers, Eko-in also demonstrates how cultural venues can provide more than a location for a meeting. They can become part of the destination experience itself.

Tokyo Unique Venues features a range of distinctive locations across the capital, including temples, shrines, museums, gardens, theatres, galleries and other character-rich spaces.

For travellers seeking Japanese cultural experiences, Eko-in Temple offers an opportunity to combine history, hospitality, sake and sumo in one distinctive Tokyo experience.

Tokyo Unique Venues

Website: https://uniquevenues-en.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/
Email: tokyouniquevenues@tcvb.or.jp
Phone: +81-3-5579-8870
Address: Tokyo Convention & Visitors Bureau, Tokyo, Japan

Eko-in Temple

Website: https://uniquevenues-en.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/venues/private/21704/
Address: 2-8-10 Ryogoku, Sumida-ku, Tokyo 130-0026, Japan
Contact: Tokyo Unique Venues
Phone: +81-3-5579-8870
Email: tokyouniquevenues@tcvb.or.jp

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Ningaloo Stars in Esperance: Discover the Wonders of the Southern Night Sky

Ningaloo Stars 

Stargazing Under the Dark Skies of Esperance

Esperance is famous for its spectacular beaches, turquoise waters and untouched natural landscapes, but after sunset another extraordinary attraction appears above the region.

Ningaloo Stars brings guided astronomy experiences to Esperance, giving visitors the opportunity to explore the southern night sky using premium telescopes while learning about astronomy, science and ancient stories connected with the stars.

As part of its regional Western Australia program, Ningaloo Stars conducts seasonal astronomy sessions in Esperance at locations including Esperance Bird and Animal Park and Esperance Stonehenge.

A Guided Journey Through the Night Sky

The experience begins with a laser-guided tour of the sky, helping visitors identify stars, planets and constellations that might otherwise be difficult to recognise.

The Ningaloo Stars team combines modern astronomy with storytelling and cultural perspectives, explaining the science behind what can be seen overhead while exploring the ways people across generations and cultures have understood the night sky.

For visitors who have never looked through a telescope before, the experience provides an accessible introduction to astronomy. For experienced stargazers, the opportunity to observe celestial objects through high-quality telescopes provides another reason to spend an evening beneath the Esperance sky.

See Planets, Star Clusters and Deep-Sky Objects

Ningaloo Stars 

One of the highlights of an Esperance astronomy night is the chance to view celestial objects through Ningaloo Stars' telescopes.

Depending on the season and conditions, guests can explore planets, star clusters, nebulae and other deep-space objects that are difficult or impossible to see clearly with the naked eye.

Rather than simply pointing out objects in the sky, the guides explain what visitors are seeing and encourage questions throughout the session. The experience is designed for both beginners and astronomy enthusiasts.

An Evening for Families and Travellers

Ningaloo Stars describes its Esperance sessions as welcoming to families, photographers, travellers and local residents. Sessions include comfortable seating, blankets and warm drinks, creating a relaxed way to spend an evening outdoors.

The experience also provides an opportunity to appreciate the importance of dark skies. Away from major urban centres, reduced light pollution allows visitors to see more of the stars and experience the southern sky in greater detail.

Add Stargazing to an Esperance Holiday

Ningaloo Stars 

For travellers exploring Western Australia's south coast, Ningaloo Stars offers a different perspective on Esperance. After spending the day discovering beaches, coastal scenery and natural attractions, visitors can finish the day looking upward at planets, stars and distant objects across the universe.

Ningaloo Stars is based in Exmouth and travels to regional Western Australian communities during the summer months, bringing astronomy experiences to locations such as Esperance. Current dates, venues and availability should be checked through the operator's booking calendar.

Ningaloo Stars

Website: https://ningaloostars.com.au/
Email: paul@ningaloostars.com.au
Phone: 0437 881 905
Address: PO Box 1362, Exmouth WA 6707, Australia
Esperance sessions: Seasonal locations across the Esperance region, including Esperance Bird and Animal Park and Esperance Stonehenge.

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Cà Phê Mai: Sydney’s Next-Generation Vietnamese Cafe and Wine Bar

Cà Phê Mai

Sydney’s dining scene has welcomed an exciting new destination with the arrival of Cà Phê Mai, a Vietnamese cafe and wine bar in Double Bay combining treasured family recipes with a fresh, contemporary approach to food and drink.

Opened in June 2026 by co-owners Cindy Mai and Ed Loveday, Cà Phê Mai brings together Vietnamese culinary tradition, creative brunch drinks, relaxed daytime dining and an evening menu designed for lingering over dinner and dessert.

A 40-Year-Old Pho Tradition

At the heart of Cà Phê Mai is its signature pho, a much-loved family recipe originating with Cindy Mai’s grandmother more than four decades ago.

The fragrant chicken noodle soup has already been ladled more than 10,000 times, reflecting the recipe’s long history and popularity. The pho is available throughout the day, making it a signature choice whether visiting for lunch, dinner or a casual Vietnamese meal in Double Bay.

The dish represents more than just a bowl of soup. It connects Cà Phê Mai’s contemporary setting with a Vietnamese family food tradition that has been enjoyed by generations of Sydney diners.

Creative Vietnamese Drinks for Brunch

Cà Phê Mai

Cà Phê Mai takes a playful approach to its daytime drinks menu, adding tropical and citrus flavours to familiar favourites.

Dragonfruit strawberry matcha lattes provide a colourful brunch option, while the cafe’s distinctive Mont Blanc combines airy kumquat-infused cream with misted yuzu for a refreshing citrus twist.

The daytime menu also features dishes such as lemongrass pork sausage and egg muffins and breakfast banh mi, providing plenty of reasons to visit for a relaxed breakfast or brunch.

From Daytime Cafe to Evening Wine Bar

As the day changes into evening, Cà Phê Mai transforms its offering with dishes and drinks suited to dinner and late-night dining.

Guests can enjoy chicken laksa, shiitake and wood-ear mushroom spring rolls and the signature pho, while evening-only treats add another dimension to the menu.

One standout dessert is Vietnamese coffee crème brûlée, bringing the distinctive flavour of Vietnamese coffee into a classic French dessert.

Dinner guests can also discover dragonfruit-inspired margaritas, extending Cà Phê Mai’s creative approach to drinks beyond its daytime matcha creations.

A New Double Bay Dining Destination

Cà Phê Mai

Located on New South Head Road in Double Bay, Cà Phê Mai offers a contemporary take on Vietnamese cafe culture while keeping family recipes and traditional flavours at its heart.

With its heritage pho, inventive drinks, all-day favourites and evening-only dishes, the new Sydney cafe and wine bar is a destination designed for different times of day.

For visitors exploring Double Bay and Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Cà Phê Mai provides a fresh Vietnamese dining experience where four decades of family culinary tradition meet a new generation of Sydney hospitality.

Cà Phê Mai

Website: https://caphemai.com.au/
Address: 377-383 New South Head Road, Double Bay NSW 2028, Australia

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Titanic: A Voyage Through Time Brings the Legendary Ship Back to Life in Sydney

Titanic: A Voyage Through Time

Step Aboard the Titanic Without Leaving Sydney

Sydney visitors can journey back more than a century and experience the legendary RMS Titanic in a completely new way with Titanic: A Voyage Through Time, an immersive virtual reality experience at Fever Pavilion, Sydney Showground.

Open now, the experience combines virtual reality, historical storytelling and interactive exploration to transport visitors from the Titanic wreck as it appears today to the ship's final voyage in 1912. The approximately one-hour experience allows participants to explore the famous ocean liner and discover stories connected with real passengers and crew.

Explore the Titanic from Bow to Stern

Titanic: A Voyage Through Time allows visitors to move through virtual recreations of some of the ship's most recognisable spaces.

Guests can stand beneath the famous Grand Staircase, walk along the decks and explore the grand corridors while experiencing what life aboard the Titanic may have felt like during its historic voyage.

The experience is designed to be interactive, allowing participants to move freely and engage with their virtual surroundings rather than simply watching a film.

Dive to the Titanic Wreck

Titanic: A Voyage Through Time

One of the most striking parts of the Sydney Titanic VR experience is the journey beneath the Atlantic Ocean to the wreck site.

Visitors first encounter the Titanic as it rests on the seabed today before travelling back through time to 1912. This combination of modern underwater exploration and historical reconstruction creates a powerful connection between the ship's past and its present-day resting place.

Meet the People Behind the Story

Titanic's story is not only about a famous ship. Titanic: A Voyage Through Time also introduces visitors to characters based on real passengers and crew.

Their stories provide a human perspective on the voyage and help visitors understand that behind the enormous ship were hundreds of individual journeys, hopes and experiences.

This makes the attraction suitable for history enthusiasts, Titanic fans, families and visitors looking for an unusual educational experience in Sydney.

A Family-Friendly Sydney VR Experience

Titanic: A Voyage Through Time

The experience is suitable for visitors aged 10 and over, with a minimum height requirement of 1.30 metres. Visitors aged 10 to 15 must be accompanied by an adult, while those aged 15 to 17 attending without an adult require a pre-signed waiver.

The experience is wheelchair accessible. Visitors should also check the health and safety requirements before booking, as people with epilepsy or heart conditions cannot participate.

Visitors are asked to arrive around 15 minutes before their session to check in, store personal belongings, sign the required waiver and collect equipment.

Plan Your Titanic VR Experience in Sydney

Titanic: A Voyage Through Time is located at Fever Pavilion, Sydney Showground, Olympic Boulevard, Sydney Olympic Park.

With its combination of history, technology and immersive storytelling, the experience offers a memorable way to discover the Titanic's story while stepping directly into the world of 1912.

Titanic: A Voyage Through Time

Website: https://feverup.com/m/624265
Email: vr.sydney@feverup.com
Address: Fever Pavilion, Olympic Boulevard, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127, Australia
Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
Age: 10 years and over
Location: Sydney Showground

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Horizon by SkyCity: Auckland’s Five-Star Hotel Where Business Meets Luxury

Horizon by SkyCity

For business travellers and conference delegates visiting Auckland, location can make all the difference. Horizon by SkyCity places guests in the heart of the city, with direct connections to the New Zealand International Convention Centre and the wider SkyCity precinct.

The five-star hotel at 85 Hobson Street offers 303 rooms and suites, including 10 suites, combining contemporary design, Auckland city views and touches of Aotearoa throughout its interiors.

Horizon by SkyCity was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand’s national business events tradeshow, held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland from 17 to 18 June 2026.

Directly Connected to the NZICC

One of Horizon by SkyCity’s greatest advantages for conference delegates is its direct connection to the New Zealand International Convention Centre via air bridges across Hobson Street.

Guests can move between their accommodation and the convention centre without needing to cross busy city streets, making the hotel particularly convenient for conferences, conventions, meetings and corporate events. The SkyCity entertainment precinct is also connected, putting restaurants, attractions and entertainment close to the hotel.

For event planners, having accommodation and a major convention facility so closely connected can simplify the experience for delegates attending multi-day events.

303 Rooms with a Sense of New Zealand

Horizon by SkyCity

Horizon by SkyCity has been designed to provide more than a conventional five-star hotel experience. Locally commissioned artwork and sculptures, locally crafted furnishings and New Zealand-inspired amenities bring elements of Aotearoa into the guest experience.

The rooms are designed around views of Auckland, with the cityscape providing a constantly changing backdrop. The hotel's 10 Horizon Suites feature expansive views, floor-to-ceiling windows, separate entertaining and working areas, and locally commissioned artwork.

The hotel also provides a 24-hour fully equipped gym, complimentary Wi-Fi and concierge services.

Dining and Auckland Experiences

The Grill is Horizon by SkyCity’s signature restaurant, serving New Zealand steak and seafood and featuring a private dining room and outdoor courtyard. Onyx provides another setting for drinks and relaxation within the hotel.

Beyond the hotel, guests have easy access to SkyCity’s extensive dining and entertainment precinct, including the iconic Sky Tower. Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, Queen Street and Britomart are also within walking distance, while ferries provide access to destinations including Waiheke Island.

Auckland Accommodation for Business Events

Horizon by SkyCity

With its five-star accommodation, direct NZICC connection and central location, Horizon by SkyCity provides a convenient base for conference delegates, business travellers and visitors attending major events in Auckland.

For organisers searching for Auckland conference accommodation, luxury hotels near the NZICC or five-star Auckland CBD accommodation, Horizon by SkyCity offers a combination of convenience, contemporary design and connections to one of New Zealand’s most important business events precincts.

Horizon by SkyCity

Contact Person: Danielle Ouwejan
Website: https://horizonbyskycity.skycityauckland.co.nz/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HorizonbySkyCity/
Email: info@horizonbyskycity.co.nz
Phone: +64 9 363 6000
Mobile: +64 21 222 8529
Address: 85 Hobson Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/.

Los Angeles History 1950 to 2000: The Making of a Global City

Watts Towers | Photo: Yuri Hasegawa

From Hollywood glamour and sporting triumphs to groundbreaking architecture, museums, music and multicultural neighbourhoods, the second half of the twentieth century transformed Los Angeles into one of the world's most recognisable cities.

Between 1950 and 2000, Los Angeles grew into a major global destination, becoming a centre for entertainment, art, sport, food, innovation and international culture. Its fascinating history can still be discovered throughout the city today.

1950s: Hollywood, Cars and Cultural Icons

By 1950, Los Angeles had a population of almost two million, making it the fourth-largest city in the United States. The release of Sunset Boulevard that year reinforced Hollywood's powerful place in popular culture.

The 1950s brought a remarkable collection of new attractions and landmarks. The Watts Towers were completed in 1954, while J. Paul Getty opened his first museum to the public in Pacific Palisades. Walt Disney established his Los Angeles home during this decade, and the Capitol Records Building became an instantly recognisable symbol of Hollywood's recording industry.

In 1958, the Brooklyn Dodgers moved west and became the Los Angeles Dodgers, adding another major sporting institution to the city.

1960s: A Global City Takes Shape

Los Angeles Zoo

Los Angeles continued expanding during the 1960s. By 1960, the population had reached 2.48 million, making it America's third-largest city.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame opened in 1960, while the futuristic Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport became a symbol of the Jet Age. Dodger Stadium opened in 1962, followed by the Music Center in Downtown Los Angeles and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in 1964 and 1965.

The decade also saw the opening of the Los Angeles Zoo, the arrival of the Super Bowl at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum and growing recognition of the city's diverse cultural communities.

1970s: Entertainment, Culture and Social Change

The 1970s saw Los Angeles develop an increasingly influential cultural identity. The Los Angeles Convention Center opened in 1971, while the newly established California African American Museum helped strengthen the city's cultural landscape.

The decade also brought Magic Mountain, the Wattstax music festival and the Museum of Contemporary Art's beginnings. In 1978, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area was established, protecting a vast landscape of mountains and coastline within the metropolitan region.

Los Angeles was becoming a city where entertainment, cultural expression, outdoor recreation and social change existed side by side.

1980s: The Olympic City

1984 Summer Olympics Opening Ceremony

Photo: LA Coliseum

By 1980, Los Angeles had surpassed Chicago to become America's second-largest city, with more than three million residents.

The decade brought new energy to the city's culinary and entertainment scenes. California cuisine gained international attention, while films such as Blade Runner helped create an enduring cinematic vision of Los Angeles.

The greatest international spotlight arrived in 1984 when Los Angeles hosted the Summer Olympic Games for the second time. The highly successful event showcased the city to a worldwide audience and reinforced its reputation as a leading destination for major sporting and cultural events.

1990s: Museums, Sport and Downtown Renewal

Steve McQueen's 1956 Jaguar XKSS

Photo: Petersen Automotive Museum

The 1990s brought important cultural and architectural developments. The US Bank Tower opened in 1990 and became a defining feature of the Los Angeles skyline.

The Metro Blue Line returned light rail to the region in 1990, while the Japanese American National Museum opened in Little Tokyo in 1992. The Petersen Automotive Museum followed in 1994, and the Skirball Cultural Center opened in 1996.

Sport remained central to Los Angeles culture. The city hosted matches during the 1994 FIFA World Cup, while the LA Galaxy began play in 1996.

In 1999, STAPLES Center opened in Downtown Los Angeles, helping drive a major revival of the area. Today known as Crypto.com Arena, it remains one of the city's leading sports and entertainment venues.

2000: A New Millennium Begins

As the twentieth century ended, Los Angeles had become a truly international metropolis. In 2000, East Hollywood's Thai Town became the first and only officially designated Thai Town in the United States, reflecting the extraordinary cultural diversity that had become one of the city's defining characteristics.

For visitors today, the history of Los Angeles from 1950 to 2000 can be experienced through its museums, theatres, sporting venues, neighbourhoods, architecture and cultural attractions. Exploring these places reveals how six decades of innovation and diversity helped create the modern City of Angels.

Discover Los Angeles

Website: www.discoverlosangeles.com
Email: info@discoverlosangeles.com
Phone: +1 213 624 7300
Address: 633 West 5th Street, Suite 1800, Los Angeles, California 90071, USA

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Chumphon, Thailand: Four Experiences Beyond the Beaches

Chumphon, Thailand

Chumphon, Thailand, is often described as the gateway to Southern Thailand, but this coastal province offers far more than beautiful beaches and access to the Gulf of Thailand islands. From mist-covered mountain viewpoints and traditional fishing villages to spiritual landmarks and spectacular birdwatching, Chumphon provides travellers with an opportunity to experience a more authentic side of southern Thailand.

With its combination of nature, culture, community and adventure, Chumphon is an appealing destination for travellers seeking experiences beyond the usual Thai beach holiday.

Khao Thalu and Doi Tapang: Above the Clouds

For spectacular mountain scenery, head to Khao Thalu and Doi Tapang Viewpoint. Rising approximately 500 metres above sea level, Khao Thalu provides panoramic views across the surrounding landscape.

When weather conditions are right, early morning visitors may see a magical sea of mist stretching across the valleys. The viewpoint can be reached by a local vehicle service because the mountain road is steep and rugged. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, supporting local villagers while providing access to one of Chumphon's most memorable viewpoints.

Ao Kram: Discover Southern Thai Fishing Life

Chumphon, Thailand

At Ao Kram, travellers can experience the traditional lifestyle of a small coastal fishing community.

The village has developed community-based tourism and homestay experiences, allowing visitors to stay close to local life while enjoying freshly prepared seafood. After dark, visitors can join traditional night squid fishing, an experience that offers a fascinating insight into the connection between the community and the sea.

Ao Kram demonstrates how tourism can support local communities while allowing visitors to experience authentic southern Thai hospitality.

Krom Luang Chumphon Shrine: History and Heritage

The Krom Luang Chumphon Khet Udomsak Shrine is an important spiritual and historical landmark in Chumphon.

The shrine honours Admiral Prince Krom Luang Chumphon Khet Udomsak, who is widely revered in Thailand and regarded as the founder of the Royal Thai Navy. Nearby attractions include a decommissioned Royal Thai Navy vessel, adding another dimension to the area's maritime history.

For visitors interested in Thai history, culture and spirituality, the shrine provides an opportunity to understand an important part of Chumphon's heritage.

Khao Dinso: A Birdwatcher's Paradise

Khao Dinso Viewpoint

Nature lovers should make time for Khao Dinso Viewpoint. A nature trail leads visitors approximately 900 metres towards a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Chumphon's coastline and the landscape towards the Thailand-Myanmar border.

September and October are particularly exciting months for birdwatchers, when thousands of migrating raptors can be seen passing through the region. The annual migration makes Khao Dinso one of Chumphon's most distinctive nature experiences.

Experience the Other Side of Chumphon

Chumphon's appeal lies in its variety. Travellers can watch the sunrise above a sea of mist, share a meal with a fishing family, explore Thailand's naval heritage and follow migrating raptors across the southern sky.

For visitors looking beyond Thailand's better-known beach destinations, Chumphon offers an authentic combination of nature, culture, community and adventure.

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Website: https://www.tourismthailand.org/Destinations/Provinces/Chumphon/343
Email: contact@tourismthailand.org
Phone: +66 2 250 5500
TAT Call Centre: 1672
Address: 1600 New Phetchaburi Road, Makkasan, Ratchathewi, Bangkok 10400, Thailand

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Tropical North Queensland Tourism Investment Signals a Confident Future A New Era of Growth for Tropical North

Mark Olsen, John O’Sullivan

A New Era of Growth for Tropical North Queensland

Tropical North Queensland is entering an exciting new chapter, with more than $295 million in tourism infrastructure investment underway and international visitor spending reaching record levels. The latest figures highlight growing confidence in the region and reinforce its position as one of Australia's leading nature-based tourism destinations.

According to Tourism Tropical North Queensland's 2025-26 Annual Report, international visitor expenditure reached a record $1.3 billion in the year ending March 2026, an impressive 27.6 per cent increase on the previous year.

The results demonstrate the powerful impact of sustained destination marketing and investment in tourism infrastructure across Cairns, Palm Cove, the Great Barrier Reef, the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the wider Tropical North Queensland region.

Major Tourism Projects Transforming the Region

Several significant developments are now helping prepare Tropical North Queensland for future visitor growth.

The Hilton Palm Cove Cairns Resort & Spa is approaching its opening, while construction has begun on the $60 million Skyhaven accommodation project at Cairns Airport. The $85 million upgrade of the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is also underway, promising an enhanced way to experience the region's ancient rainforest landscapes.

Further north, the Morris Group's $40 million redevelopment of Double Island is adding to the momentum. The project reflects a growing emphasis on carefully scaled tourism development that respects the area's extraordinary natural environment.

Outdoor adventure is also receiving substantial investment. The Queensland Government is supporting a $15.5 million expansion of Smithfield Mountain Bike Park and the $59 million Wangetti Trail, strengthening Tropical North Queensland's reputation for cycling, hiking and adventure tourism.

Marketing Investment Delivers Strong Returns

Tropical North Queensland

Tourism marketing has played a major role in rebuilding international demand. Since the pandemic, Tourism Tropical North Queensland has secured an additional $18 million in Federal funding to support international tourism recovery.

The organisation reports that its federally funded campaigns generated $267.5 million in visitor expenditure and supported an estimated 1,450 additional jobs.

Across 2025-26, TTNQ delivered five domestic campaigns and 67 international trade campaigns, reaching target audiences through publicity, digital marketing, advertising and trade activity.

The reported return was particularly strong, with $34 in visitor expenditure generated for every dollar invested by government and industry partners.

Building a Sustainable Tourism Future

The region's next phase of development is guided by the TNQ 2045 Destination Management Plan, recently approved by the TTNQ Board.

Developed following consultation with more than 230 stakeholders through 32 regional workshops, the plan establishes a long-term vision for Tropical North Queensland to become Australia's number one ecotourism region and a world leader in adventure and regenerative tourism.

The strategy aims to increase visitor expenditure and length of stay, with an ambitious target of $10 billion by 2045, exceeding the forecast of $8.6 billion.

Sustainability, First Nations connection, authentic cultural experiences, accessibility, skilled local employment and responsible tourism are central to the plan.

A Destination Growing With Purpose

Tropical North Queensland

For travellers, the investment means more accommodation, improved attractions, greater connectivity and new ways to experience one of Australia's most remarkable natural regions.

For the tourism industry and local communities, it represents something equally important: confidence in a future where tourism growth is closely connected to environmental protection, cultural respect and community prosperity.

With the Great Barrier Reef and Wet Tropics Rainforest at its heart, Tropical North Queensland is not simply expanding its tourism infrastructure. It is building a destination designed for the next generation of responsible travellers.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland

Website: tourism.tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au
Email: info@ttnq.org.au
Phone: +61 7 4031 7676
Address: Level 1, Ports North Building, Cnr Grafton and Hartley Streets, Cairns QLD 4870, Australia
Postal Address: PO Box 865, Cairns QLD 4870, Australia

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Darjeeling Tea Gardens: Meet the Pickers Behind India's Famous Himalayan Tea

Darjeeling Tea Gardens

A visit to Darjeeling in India's West Bengal state is an opportunity to experience Himalayan scenery, colonial heritage, mountain railways and spectacular views of Kanchenjunga. But for many travellers, one of the most memorable experiences is stepping into a Darjeeling tea garden and discovering how the region's famous tea begins its journey from a green hillside to a teacup.

Among the rows of carefully maintained tea bushes, tea pickers work with remarkable speed and precision. What can appear to visitors as simply picking leaves is actually a skilled process based on experience and careful selection.

Discover the Art of Tea Picking

Darjeeling tea is closely associated with the careful hand-plucking of young shoots. The traditional expression “two leaves and a bud” describes the tender growth selected for harvesting.

For an experienced tea picker, recognising the right shoot becomes an instinct developed through years of work. A shoot that looks almost identical to another to a visitor may be ready for picking, while its neighbour may need more time.

The Tea Board of India describes Darjeeling tea as being produced in gardens across the Himalayan foothills, where altitude, climate and soil contribute to its distinctive character.

Walk Through a Darjeeling Tea Garden

Darjeeling Tea Gardens

For tourists, walking among the tea bushes provides a completely different perspective on Darjeeling. Instead of simply drinking a cup of tea in a cafe, visitors can see the landscape where the leaves are grown and observe the work involved in harvesting them.

West Bengal Tourism promotes tea tourism across northern West Bengal, with opportunities to explore tea plantations, experience plantation life and enjoy Himalayan scenery.

Singtom Tea Estate, located close to Darjeeling, is one example. West Bengal Tourism describes the estate as offering visitors the opportunity to walk through its extensive private grounds while enjoying panoramic Himalayan views.

See How Thousands of Shoots Become Tea

The sheer amount of work involved in producing Darjeeling tea becomes apparent when considering the number of shoots required.

Around 20,000 individually hand-plucked shoots can be required to produce a kilogram of made tea. For visitors, this statistic puts the work of the tea pickers into perspective. Every handful of fresh leaves represents numerous individual selections made in the garden.

After harvesting, the leaves continue to the tea factory, where they are processed before becoming the distinctive tea enjoyed around the world.

A tea garden visit that includes an explanation of processing can therefore turn a simple tasting into an insight into the complete journey of Darjeeling tea.

Tea, Mountains and Himalayan Views

Glenburn Tea Estate

The scenery is another reason to include a tea garden in a Darjeeling itinerary.

Many estates occupy dramatic Himalayan landscapes, with steep slopes, forests, mist and mountain views. Glenburn Tea Estate, for example, sits above the River Rungeet and is overlooked by the Kanchenjunga range. West Bengal Tourism lists several other tea tourism destinations, including Tumsong Chiabari, Makaibari Tea Estate and The Arya Tea Resort.

For travellers, combining a tea garden visit with a tasting, plantation walk or scenic stay can create a memorable addition to a Darjeeling holiday.

Make Tea Tourism Part of Your Darjeeling Trip

Travellers interested in authentic local experiences should consider allowing time for a tea garden visit rather than seeing the plantations only from a passing vehicle.

Ask the estate or local tourism operator what experiences are available before arriving, as activities, access arrangements and opening times can vary between gardens.

Respect the working environment by following instructions, staying on permitted paths and asking before photographing workers.

Most importantly, take time to watch the pickers at work. Their knowledge helps explain why Darjeeling tea has become one of India's most recognisable tea names.

A Cup of Tea With a Story

Makaibari Tea Estate

The next time you drink Darjeeling tea, imagine the Himalayan hillside where its journey began. Think of the rows of bushes, the cool mountain air and the experienced hands selecting the young shoots one by one.

For tourists, discovering the tea gardens of Darjeeling is not simply about tasting famous tea. It is about meeting a landscape, understanding a traditional skill and seeing the human work behind one of India's most celebrated agricultural products.

West Bengal Tourism

Website: https://www.wbtourism.gov.in/
Email: wbtourismpublicity1@gmail.com
Phone: +91 33 2243 6440
Toll Free: 1800 2121 655
Address: New Secretariat Building, 1 K. S. Roy Road, 3rd Floor, Kolkata 700001, India.

Tea Board India

Website: https://www.teaboard.gov.in/
Address: 14 B. T. M. Sarani, Kolkata 700001, India.

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Auckland Beyond the City: Rural Venues for Memorable Business Events

Bracu Estate

Auckland Convention Bureau, one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, showcased the region as a destination where venues and experiences can help delegates discover more of Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland.

For organisers, building transport into the programme can turn the journey itself into part of the experience.

Bracu Estate: An Olive Grove Escape

Located in Bombay south of central Auckland, Bracu Estate places corporate groups among extensive olive groves and landscaped grounds. Its Pavilion can accommodate up to 160 guests for a banquet or 190 for a cocktail event, while the estate also offers smaller spaces and activity-based experiences.

Corporate programmes can include team-building activities through Beretta Activities, followed by dining among the olive trees. Bracu is designed for everything from executive gatherings to awards evenings and gala dinners.

Turanga Creek Vineyard: Rural Charm Close to Auckland

Turanga Creek Vineyard 

Less than 30 minutes from central Auckland, Turanga Creek Vineyard offers vineyard views and a distinctive century-old stable for corporate functions and smaller offsites.

With capacity for up to 120 banquet guests and 150 cocktail guests, it provides a relaxed alternative to city venues while keeping travel time manageable. The rural surroundings can create a natural transition from business sessions to an informal evening programme.

Markovina Vineyard Estate: Space for Larger Groups

Markovina Vineyard Estate

In Kumeu, west of Auckland, Markovina Vineyard Estate combines gardens, expansive grounds and multiple event spaces across its ten-acre property.

With capacity for up to 300 banquet or cocktail guests, the venue is suited to conference celebrations, incentive dinners and corporate events where outdoor activities, drinks and dining can be combined.

Parihoa: Where Farmland Meets the Tasman Sea

Parihoa

For a dramatic change of scenery, Parihoa on Auckland's west coast combines working farmland, contemporary architecture, coastal landscapes and Tasman Sea views.

Located around 35 minutes from Auckland city, the private estate offers spaces for small and medium-sized groups, making it particularly suited to executive gatherings, premium incentive programmes and private functions.

LaValla Estate, Lone Pine and The Hunting Lodge

LaValla Estate

LaValla Estate in Auckland's rural south provides landscaped gardens, lawns and indoor event spaces for conference dinners and larger celebrations, with capacity of up to 300 banquet or cocktail guests.

Lone Pine Estate in Riverhead offers a very different experience at its Heletranz Hangar, where aircraft displays create an unusual event backdrop. The venue can accommodate up to 100 banquet guests or 200 for cocktails.

Further west, The Hunting Lodge provides a vineyard setting with outdoor spaces and The Barn, accommodating up to 250 guests for both banquet and cocktail events.

Auckland Convention Bureau

Contact: Ken Pereira, Head of Business Events
Phone: +64 21 142 2245
Email: meet@aucklandnz.com
Website: Auckland Convention Bureau

Bracu Estate

Contact: Lisa Tapley-Bale, Event Enquiries
Phone: +64 9 236 1033
Email: events@bracu.co.nz
Website: Bracu Estate

Turanga Creek Vineyard

The Hunting Lodge

Contact: Events Team
Phone: +64 21 273 3968
Email: events@turangacreek.co.nz
Website: Turanga Creek Vineyard
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/turangacreek/

Markovina Vineyard Estate

Contact: Markovina Team
Phone: +64 9 412 8608
Email: info@markovina.co.nz
Website: Markovina Vineyard Estate
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markovinavineyardestate/

Parihoa

Contact: Jo, Property and Operations Manager
Email: jo@parihoa.com
Website: Parihoa

LaValla Estate

Lone Pine Estate

Phone: +64 9 236 8947
Email: therightperson@lavalla.co.nz
Website: LaValla Estate

Lone Pine Estate

Phone: +64 21 247 4444
Email: contact@lonepineestate.co.nz
Website: Lone Pine Estate
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lonepineestate/

The Hunting Lodge

Phone: +64 9 964 0565
Email: events@thehuntinglodge.com
Website: The Hunting Lodge
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehuntinglodgenz/

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