Lifestyle Archives - Gourmet Traveller https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/ Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:14:24 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.5 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au//wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/cropped-GT-logo.jpg Lifestyle Archives - Gourmet Traveller https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/ 32 32 231572871 11 lightweight carry-on bags that earn their place in the overhead locker https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/travel/best-lightweight-carry-on-luggage-australia-21274/ Wed, 10 Jun 2026 04:09:06 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au//travel/travel-news/best-lightweight-carry-on-luggage-australia-21274 Planning a carry-on-only holiday? These options will see you from A to B without the baggage claim woes.

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As airlines keep tightening carry-on size and weight limits, with wide variances, there is a smart way for a buyer to future-proof a purchase against increasingly strict baggage policies. Enter: the lightweight carry-on.

Whether you’re whisking yourself away to sunnier parts for the weekend or heading interstate overnight on strictly business, you can forgo the checked-in luggage by towing your earthly possessions along in carry-on luggage instead. The trick with lightweight carry-on luggage is to make sure that the premium features are not compromised by the lightness of the luggage. We go through all of that and more, below.

Read on for our top picks for the timeless jet-setter.

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GT’s top lightweight carry-on luggage

Best lightweight carry-on luggage

Rimowa Essential Lite Cabin

RIMOWA Essential Lite Cabin

$1135 at Rimowa

Best for lifetime guarantee

A specific kind of person carries a RIMOWA suitcase, and is often the envy of others on the tarmac. The RIMOWA Essential Lite Cabin is the lightest suitcase across all collections from the brand at just 2kg, and also features TSA-approved locks, a zipped mesh divider and the trademarked Multiwheel system for effortless steering. It’s best feature, however, is RIMOWA’s lifetime guarantee for peace of mind.

Weight: 2kg | Capacity: 28L | Size: 50 x 25 x 20 cm

Kathmandu Feather Flight Carry-On

Kathmandu Feather Flight Carry-On

$349.98 $199 at Kathmandu

Best for ultra-light feel

The lightest suitcase on this list, the Kathmandu Feather Flight Carry-On is designed to be ultra-lightweight, easily manoeuvrable and impact resistant. Crafted in a ripstop nylon body, this small but mighty design packs a punch with its 40L capacity, just enough for overpackers without bearing the weight (literally) of a heavy suitcase.

Weight: 1.6kg | Capacity: 40L | Size: 52 x 35 x 23 cm

Also available at:

Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-On

Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 Carry-On

$579 $289.50 at Myer

Best for the stylish traveller

Another iconic hard suitcase brand, and weighing at just 2.9kg, the Delsey Paris Chatelet Air 2.0 is the perfect companion to take you from the airport to the Aman hotel lounge. French design is combined with technical elegance, from the TSA combination lock to the dual density wheels and 10-year warranty, feel confident in a purchase that balances style and functionality with ease.

Weight: 2.9kg | Capacity: 39L | Size: 55 x 35 x 25 cm

Also available at:

July Carry On Light Expandable

$295 at July

Best for domestic frequent flyers

This vegan-friendly expandable suitcase is a frequent flyer favourite. Weighing just 2.2kg, it expands from 35L to 40L with a simple zip, ideal for 4–6 day trips. It is built with aerospace-grade German polycarbonate, SilentMove wheels, a twin-bar handle, and an integrated TSA lock, but if that doesn’t beat the adventurous at heart, the suitcase is backed by a lifetime warranty.

Weight: 2.2kg | Capacity: 35-40L | Size: 54 x 36 x 22 cm

Antler Lightest Expandable Carry-on Luggage

Antler Lightest Expandable Carry-on Luggage

$279 $195.30 at Antler

Best for a soft shell option

One of the lightest suitcases on the list, weighing in at 1.9kg, this expandable carry-on by Antler is a great soft shell option for short trips. It is crafted from 100% recycled polyester, and features an easy front pocket, 360° spinner wheels and a lightweight adjustable handle – and feels as if you’re carrying air.

Weight: 1.9kg | Capacity: 37L | Size: 55 x 35 x 23 cm

Also available at:

Samsonite 73H Carry-On 55cm

Samsonite 73H Carry-On 55cm

$399 $239.40 at Samsonite

Best for quick-access organisation

This Samsonite 73H carry-on suitcase has been designed with a lighter body that holds an expanded interior capacity and recessed bottom – so don’t stress if you’re prone to overpacking, or overspending on your trip…

We really like it for its quick-access organisation, featuring multiple exterior quick-access pockets for your phone, travel documents and daily essentials, plus a a dedicated tablet compartment.

Weight: 1.9kg | Capacity: 36L | Size: 55 x 36 x 24 cm

Also available at:

Antler Icon Stripe Carry-On 55cm

Antler Icon Stripe Carry-On 55cm

$299 $179.40 at Antler

Best for a durable hardshell

Another hardshell option, the Antler Icon Stripe Carry-On is a well-coveted model, enjoyed for its expandable design, high quality shell and range of beautiful colourways to compliment everything from your airport fit to your luggage tag and packing cubes, all available on the Antler website in similar colours.

Weight: 2.7kg | Capacity: 34L | Size: 55 x 35 x 23 cm

Also available at:

Samsonite C-Lite Spinner

Samsonite C-Lite Spinner

$749 $449.40 at Samsonite

Best for European-made quality

The Samsonite C-Lite is an iconic, European-made collection featuring a lightweight Curv shell that’s both ultra-strong and award-winning. Expandable with a TSA lock, integrated USB, dual wheels and recycled PET lining, this Red Dot Design Award winner delivers durability and style in a timeless, globally recognised silhouette.

Weight: 2.3kg | Capacity: 36L | Size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm

Also available at:

Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L

Peak Design Travel Backpack 30L

$401.74 at Amazon

Best for one-bag travellers

For travellers who value style, tech and organisation all in one, this pack is a smart pick. The ability to compress/expand volume means you can expand for longer trips. The weather-resistant shell and highly organised internal layout make it especially good for travellers with laptops, electronics and those moving between hotels/cities rather than pure outdoor hikes. There is also a hip belt for comfort, which is important if you’re backpacking across the globe.

Weight: 1.44kg | Capacity: 27-33L | Size: 38.1 x 53.09 x 34.04 cm

Also available at:

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

Osprey Farpoint 40 Travel Pack

$273.40 at Amazon

Best for backpackers and long-haul travellers

This versatile and lightweight pack is a personal favourite of mine, accompanying me on a two-month sojourn across Europe. For a 40L capacity, it is incredibly lightweight, with a robust construction and hidden harness/hip belt system. For Aussie travellers flying domestic or international, it hits airline carry-on size limits reasonably well while giving hiking-grade comfort when walking between terminals or through city to accommodation. Designs are gender-specific for a better fit, including Farpoint (designed for men) or Fairview (designed for women).

Weight: 1.58kg | Capacity: 40L | Size: 22.86 x 35.56 x 55.88 cm

Also available at:

Bellroy Lite Travel Pack 30L

Bellroy Lite Travel Pack 30L

$289 at Amazon

Best for ultra-light minimalist travellers

Compact but mighty, this carry-on backpack is designed with a variety of features to help you streamline travel time, including a handy exterior top pocket for organisation, shoulder straps that can be neatly tucked away and a discrete rear pocket to fit your laptop. Don’t let the size of this backpack fool you; it’s the kind of bag that punches well above its weight (but not literally).

Weight: 0.9kg | Capacity: 30L | Size: 50 x 36 x 12 cm

Also available at:

What to know before purchasing a lightweight suitcase

Before purchasing a lightweight suitcase for a flight, there’s a few things to know. So, we chatted to the experts.

Is there a weight threshold that separates a lightweight bag from a standard one?

This depend from brand to brand. “Stronger and more features usually means heavier, so every brand you see in market is about their interpretation of what the right opportunity cost is for the best product for the customers needs,” says Athan Didaskalou, co-founder of luggage brand July.
 
“In practical terms, we think about three tiers: above 4kg, between 2.5kg-4kg, and below 2.5kg. Anything above 4kg – which is actually a fairly standard carry on case weight – you’re going to be trading off lightness for a sturdier frame and design features,” he says, referring to design features such as protective aluminium, which tends to weight a little heavier. “It’s really only when you hit below 2.5kg that you get a lighter case that allows you to pack that extra souvenir for your kids at the airport, or for travellers who are sensitive to lifting heavy luggage up stairs or above their head.”

Where do manufacturers typically hide weight in a carry-on?

According to Athan, when you’re opting for a lightweight bag, “you’re trading features for weight, so you’ve entered the opportunity cost game.” He tell us that it’s less about hiding and more about weighty features that people care about. “Frames help keep stability and lessen the likelihood of cracking and bending. Aluminium corners help with additional protection. Handles are a convenience play. Every gram comes down to what experience are you willing to sacrifice to have a lighter bag,” he says. “While I may be biased, weight isn’t everything.”

How much should warranty factor into a lightweight bag purchase?

Quality luggage should ideally come with a three to 10-year warranty, however many premium brands do offer a Limited Lifetime Warranty. However, as Athan jokingly points out: “If a brand is not offering lifetime warranty, run.”

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The carry-on formula frequent flyers use to travel better https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/best-carry-on-essentials/ Mon, 08 Jun 2026 07:01:40 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=234302 Our travel philosophy for carry-on flights.

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As a travel and shopping writer, I’m the jack of many trades – but there is one thing I can really say I mastered in: perfecting the carry-on luggage. From my frequent trips to visiting family in the sunny Gold Coast, to hiking off the beaten track (I can say I’ve lost my phone to the middle of the wilderness only to find it the next day), to organising two months of clothing into one 40L backpack; travelling abroad is something I know well, and packing properly for it is an essential skill.

My biggest advice when packing a carry-on is to place everything you’ll need onboard (lip balm, headphones, eye mask, hand cream, charger, medications) in a small pouch, which saves you from rummaging through your suitcase or bag mid-flight. Photograph the contents of your carry-on as well, in case your bag is gate-checked unexpectedly.

So, whether you’re organising your pre-packing checklist, or are looking for an upgrade to your basic flight essentials, below is the carry-on formula I – along with frequent travellers the world over – rely on to travel smarter.

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Our carry-on essentials edit

Below is my edit of the carry-on essentials I personally can’t live without (continue scrolling or click here for the full checklist). The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are the first thing I reach for. Their premium noise-cancelling technology can transform a noisy cabin into a peaceful, anxiety-free retreat. I haven’t purchased one yet, but I’ve been eyeing the July Juliette Frame Weekender as my next travel essential. It looks polished enough to carry straight into a hotel lobby while still being practical for weekend getaways. The Anker 737 Power Bank is another non-negotiable, as it can charge both my laptop and phone, meaning I’m never hunting for a power outlet between flights. Lastly, hydration is key when it comes to surviving long-haul travel, which is why I always keep the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask within easy reach. It’s my secret weapon against the dry cabin air that inevitably leaves my skin and lips feeling parched.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra,
$645

Juliette Frame Weekender

July Juliette Frame Weekender,
$595

Anker 737 Power Bank

Anker 737 Power Bank,
$165 $149

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask,
$31

Rules for carry-on travel

1. Pack for the journey, not just the destination: Keep everything you’ll need in transit (headphones, chargers, medication, lip balm, a water bottle and an eye mask) easily accessible. A comfortable flight starts with a well-organised carry-on. As I recommended earlier, place everything you’ll need onboard specifically in a small pouch, and pull it out after boarding and stow your larger bag overhead.

2. Master the 7kg weight limit: Before you even think about packing, invest in a lightweight bag – every gram the bag weighs is a gram stolen from your already-perfected holiday wardrobe. A quality ultralight cabin bag can weigh as little as 1.1 kg. Read our guide here.

3. Follow the “one-bag emergency” rule: Assume your checked luggage could be lost or delayed. I’ve made this mistake before, and had to travel through Dubrovnik without pants. Always pack a change of clothes, underwear, toiletries, valuables and anything you’ll need for the first 24 hours of your trip.

4. Keep power within reach: A dead phone can derail everything from boarding passes to hotel check-ins. Travel with a fully charged power bank and charging cables in an easy-to-reach pocket.

5. Every item should earn its place, and be organised: If an item serves only one purpose and isn’t essential, leave it behind. Prioritise versatile pieces that can be worn, used or styled multiple ways. Compression packing cubes can reduce the volume of your clothes by up to 60% – I recommend the 6PCS Compression Packing Cubes from Bagsmart.

1. Luggage and Protection

Expandable Carry-on Luggage

Expandable Carry-on Luggage

$260 $182 at Antler

Why we love: lightweight design

Weighing just 2.6kg, the Expandable Carry-on by Antler is the perfect choice for those who value simplicity and ease without sacrificing weight for their sojourns across the globe. It has a spacious, organised interior, TSA-approved locks and four wheels for easy movement across the airport, the hotel lobby and beyond.

Blast Pro 38L travel backpack

$145 at Bagsmart

Why we love: expandable design

For those who are keen to travel light, the Blast Pro 38L travel backpack by Bagsmart is a flexible option, designed to expand from 28–38L for 3–5 day trips. It comes with a smart divider panel, stowable shoe compartment. and laptop sleeve, and even has an RFID pocket for protection.

Bellroy Passport cover

Passport cover

$149 at Bellroy

Why we love: RFID protection

A passport cover is a must if you’re looking for a place to store your passport, cash, cards and documents. This sleek design from Bellroy has RFID protection, a magnetic closure and can fit up to two standard passports, and boarding passes, as well as six cards.

Apple AirTag 4 Pack

Apple AirTag 4 Pack

$145 at JB-Hi-Fi

Why we love: safety and confidence when travelling

Whether you only need one or the four pack, an Apple AirTag or similar is the simplest way to keep track of and find your items alongside friends and devices in the Find My app. The replaceable battery should last over a year if you’re planning to do multiple trips throughout the year. For those who aren’t an Apple user, we recommend the Moto Tag for the Google Find Hub and the Samsung SmartTag 2 for Samsung users.

2. Staying comfortable in transit

Sony WH-1000XM6 Premium Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones (Black)

Sony WH-1000XM6 Noise Cancelling Headphones

$698 at JB Hi-Fi

Why we love: immersive and cinematic sound

The Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver a premium listening experience with customisation tailored to your needs. The headphones offer up to 30 hours of music playback with noise-cancelling activated, while a quick 10-minute charge provides approximately five hours of use. Other key features include spatial, cinematic sound, an easy-to-access mute and unmute button, and intuitive controls. If you’re after an even more premium option, we recommend the Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION (read our review here).

Camilla and Marc Leonie Knit Scarf

Camilla and Marc Leonie Knit Scarf

$400 at THE ICONIC

Why we love: knitted fabric and rectangular shape is warm and comfortable

My favourite trick for long-haul flights, or any flight really, is to bring along a large scarf or travel wrap to cosy up in during the flight – especially as the air starts to cool down when flying. Layer over a wool coat or knitwear, or whatever your signature airport fit is, for added warmth and texture.

Slip Pure Silk Sleep Mask

$68 at Myer

Why we love: soft and comfortable, reducing tugging on delicate facial skin

Blocking out light for uninterrupted (beauty) slumbering, this sleep mast is a surprising flight essential. The 100-percent silk moonlights as a sensitive skin soother, preventing fine lines from forming while protecting lash integrity. Choose from black, charcoal, silver, pink, poolside, navy and caramel colourways.

3. Looking fresh after a long-haul flight

Jones Road Beauty The Makeup Travel Kit 2.0

The Makeup Travel Kit 2.0

$304 $174 at Jones Road Beauty

Why we love: quick touch-ups on the go

Whether you’re after a suntanned look because you’re heading to summer, or at least want to act like it, The Makeup Travel Kit 2.0 is the perfect travel accessory with all the essentials needed for a quick touch up pre or post-boarding. This travel beauty collection includes five makeup items, including the Mini Miracle Balm and Gel Bronzer, as well as a buffing brush and an exclusive JRB Tyvek bag. Lightweight and buildable, this no-fuss makeup edit is the perfect travel accessory for beauty buffs.

VIRTUE Recovery Discovery Kit

VIRTUE Recovery Discovery Kit

$59 at Adore Beauty

Why we love: hair revitilisation magic

When you’re travelling, you hair feels it. That’s why this miniature kit from VIRTUE is a perfect carry-on addition. This three-piece set contains a shampoo and conditioner in 60ml bottles, and a restorative mask to keep your hair hydrated, soft and shiny. It’s also designed for majority of hair types, making it a perfect asset for girls trips away.

The Starter Kit with The Rich Cream

The Starter Kit with The Rich Cream

$336 at Augustinus Bader

Why we love: glowy skin on the go

If you’re after a completely trusted, on-the-glow system, look no further than The Starter Kit from Augustinus Bader. Featuring four cult-favourites from the brand, included the highly coveted The Rich Cream in a 15ml size, as well as a cleansing gel, essence, face oil and mesh bag; we recommend keeping this close to you when boarding a long-haul flight so you can feel as restorative you would post-facial.

Dr Lewinn’s Hydrating Ceramide Mist

$50 at Adore Beauty

Why we love: hydration, hydration, hydration

Hydration is key when it comes to surviving a long-haul flight, or any flight for that matter. The Dr Lewinn’s Hydrating Ceramide Mist 100ML is just small enough to be carry-on approved, delivering refreshing face mist with Ceramides, Hyaluronic Acid, Tripeptide-8, and Provitamin B5 to support the skin barrier.

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Vitamin B5 Sheet Face Masks 5 Pack

$56.99 $28.49 at Amazon

Why we love: adds a little luxury to our long-haul

Intensely hydrating and soothing, the Cicaplast Vitamin B5 Sheet Face Masks are a lifesaver on flights. The masks are designed to promotes intense hydration and to soothe and repair dry and dehydrated skin. Opt for the five-pack for the return flight home, and to share with a friend – if you’re willing.

4. Staying connected

Anker Prime Power Bank

Anker Prime Power Bank

$229.95 at Amazon

Why we love: can charge multiple devices

The Anker Prime Power Bank 20,100mAh is powerful, able to charge multiple devices at once, including laptops. It supports ultra-fast 140W single-port charging, recharges quickly at 100W, and has smart app control, making it ideal for travel, work and business travellers constantly on the go.

Airalo e-sim

Airalo

Why we love: global coverage

Airalo has eSIMs you can use in over 200 global locations and is one of the most popular eSIM brands available, with over 20 million users worldwide. It’s also the eSIM I chose for a two-month solo trip across Europe. Installation was so easy and I didn’t have to stress about keeping my current sim in a safe place. The plans vary a lot depending on where you’re going, how long you want to use the eSIM and how much data you want. The cost can also go up for eSIMs that have data as well as network calls and texts.

Disgian Universal Travel Adapter

$69.99 at Amazon

Why we love: universal design

The Design Travel Adapter delivers powerful 100W GaN fast charging in a compact travel-friendly design, supporting laptops, phones, and tablets. It has four ports (USB-C and USB-A) and universal plug compatibility, making it an all-in-one solution for global travellers

Items we never buy for carry-on travel

There are a couple of carry-on items I have personal quirks with. For one, be wary of travel pillows with rigid frames or “engineering-grade” neck support systems. I find them too bulky and, frankly, uncomfortable. Some toiletry bags also have a rigid structure that takes up more space than it intends to.

You also don’t need an oversized power station or high-capacity bricks beyond 25,000mAh – it’s just not worth the extra bucks.

Also, if you’re packing “just in case” shoes, you’ll never use them, trust me. Pick one versatile pair only – and that doesn’t mean they have to be ugly, just comfortable!

Lastly, make sure all your liquids are decanted into 100ml max containers. I know that sounds obvious based on what we’ve been taught our whole lives, but mistakes do get made, and that oh-so-valuable sunscreen you were hoping to sneak past security might end up in the bin.

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234302 bose-quietcomfort-ultra-headphones (2) july-juliette-frame-weekender anker-power-bank laneige-lip-sleeping-mask antler-expandable-carry-on-luggage blast-pro-38l-travel-backpack bellroy-passport-cover apple-airtag-four-pack sony-wh-1000xm6-noise-cancelling-headphones camilla-and-marc-leonie-knit-scarf slip-pure-silk-eye-mask-navy jones-road-makeup-travel-kit virtue-repair-kit augustinus-bader-starter-kit dr-lewinns-hydrating-ceramide-mist la-roche-posay-face-mask anker-prime-power-bank airalo-e-sim disgian-travel-adaptor gourmettraveller-234302
Why travel editors are packing Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION for their next long-haul flight https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/sony-1000x-the-collexion-headphones-review/ Fri, 22 May 2026 01:33:28 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=233624 What happens when Grammy award-winning engineers design your in-flight soundtrack.

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As Gourmet Traveller’s shopping and travel writer, and a frequent flyer, understanding products that are going to deliver premium craft, comfort and luxury is my area of expertise.

And when it comes to soaring the skies on the regular, a good pair of headphones is going to make or break your experience. Not just for sound, but noise-cancelling can also affect your ability to tune out turbulence and have a calming experience. Additionally, you need headphones that can bring you comfort, especially if you’re on a 19-hour flight. That’s where Sony’s new headphone range comes in.

Ten years ago, Sony changed personal audio forever with the debut of the MDR-1000X. Now, to celebrate that milestone, the brand has unveiled its most refined and luxurious headphones to date: 1000X THE COLLECTION.

Celebrating a decade of 1000X series innovation, Sony’s 1000X THE COLLECTION represents a new expression that combines years of audio innovation into one refined model. Priced at $999.95, these headphones are crafted with premium materials, hand-polished finishes, and faux leather that took two years to develop.

Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION headphones These headphones use best-in-class technology
(Credit: Sony)

But it’s not all about looks. Under the hood, Sony has packed in a newly developed carbon composite driver, Grammy-winning mastering engineer-tuned sound, and the debut of DSEE Ultimate — an AI-powered technology that restores detail to compressed audio in real time. Pair that with the same best-in-class noise cancellation found in the acclaimed WH-1000XM6, and you have a headphone that will take you around the world with ease.

So why are frequent flyers choosing the Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION over a business class upgrade? Below is everything you need to know about Sony’s 1000X THE COLLECTION headphones.

You might also like I’ve logged hundreds of flight hours, and these headphones are my secret weapon

Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION review verdict

  • Our rating: 9 out of 10
  • Best for: luxury frequent flyers and audiophiles

Pros

  • Luxurious design
  • Great noise-cancelling capabilities
  • Simple swipe or tap the side of the headphones to pause and change songs or answer calls

Cons

  • Higher price range
  • 360 Upmix is not as consistent as expected

Specs at a glance

  • Price: $999.95 at Sony, $999 at JB Hi-Fi
  • Battery: 24hrs (ANC on) / 32hrs (ANC off)
  • Driver: Unidirectional carbon composite dome
  • ANC: 12-mic Multi-Noise Sensor + Adaptive NC Optimizer
  • AI: DSEE Ultimate (real-time audio upscaling)
  • Spatial Audio: 360 Upmix – Music, Cinema & Game modes
  • Colours: Platinum, Black
  • Sustainability: ~25% recycled plastic, plastic-free packaging
  • Case: Magnetic closure carry case with handle

Sound quality

1000X THE COLLEXION has a specially designed speaker driver built from a stiff, lightweight carbon material. It’s designed to do three things better: keep instruments and voices sounding distinct from each other, reproduce subtle high-pitched sounds more clearly, and create a more spacious, immersive listening experience. The latter, in my opinion, is what really brings these headphones into the premium space.

According to Sony, the brand collaborated with Grammy award-winning and nominated mastering engineers to refine the tuning of the headphones, ensuring that vocals, balance and nuanced dynamics were considered and faithfully convey the emotion and intent of the artists and creators.

The headphones are also designed to use AI to improve the quality of compressed music files (like MP3s or streaming audio) on the fly. It fills in the detail that gets stripped out during compression, making the sound feel fuller and more dynamic, and ultimately closer to the original recording.

Sony 1000X THE COLLECTION headphone review

Noise cancellation performance

These headphones use the same best-in-class technology as the critically acclaimed WH-1000XM6. As someone who has tested in both still and in motion, I found the noise cancellation performed beautifully, offering crisp sounds and even adapting to my environment.

Audio customisation

1000X THE COLLEXION offers three different spatial audio modes specifically for music, movies and gaming. You can switch between these modes using a button on the headphones, and each one is tuned to make that specific type of content feel more immersive. I personally found that some songs respond to the 360 Upmix better than others, and you may find yourself switching it off on certain tracks.

Comfort and fit

The headphones are designed with an ergonomic structure and large earcups to provide minimal pressure to the face. The wide and cushioned padding on the headband is also incredibly comfortable, and was designed to help distribute weight evenly and to adapt to your head shape.

The headphones are available in two colours: Platinum and Black.
(Credit: Sony)

Design and aesthetics

The faux leather sandblasted texture contrasts beautifully with the hand-polished gloss, showcasing the craftsmanship and durability. According to Sony, the refined faux leather took two years to develop; its tactile finish offering a calming touch. The headphones are available in two colours: Platinum and Black.

Battery life

1000X THE COLLEXION offers up to 24 hours of battery life when using noise cancelling and 32 hours when noise cancelling is switched off. A quick five-minute charge will offer about three hours of listening.

Portability and travel-friendliness

Sony 1000X THE COLLECTION headphone case

1000X THE COLLECTION headphones come in a sleek and compact hard case which I found fitted easily in my everyday work bag without taking up too much space.

For those who are after headphones for an upcoming long-haul flight, the 1000X THE COLLECTION is a premium choice for its comfort. It has been designed for extended wear across long flights, airport transit, and everyday travel. While their WH-1000XM6 range, which was also released this year, offers slightly longer battery life (30 hours vs. 24 hours) and marginally stronger noise cancelling, the difference in real-world travel use is minimal for most users.

Final verdict

Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION headphones are a premium, beautifully crafted model with exceptional sound, world-class noise cancellation and all-day comfort. Minor caveats is that the battery life trails the WH-1000XM6, but is still suitable for a long-haul flight. Best for audiophiles and frequent travellers who want luxury without compromise. Verdict: 9/10

Where to buy Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION headphones

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I’ve logged hundreds of flight hours, and these headphones are my secret weapon https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/best-noise-cancelling-headphones/ Fri, 22 May 2026 00:58:52 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=218943 Today’s top models combine impeccable sound quality with thoughtful features.

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From the budding jet setter to the seasoned commuter, there’s one indispensable travel companion that elevates every journey: the humble headphones.

Fellow travellers aren’t naïve to the chorus of excitement and restless chatter of airports and cabins. But when it’s time to truly escape to your own private bubble, especially after a long-tired commute where your social battery hummed its last drum – noise-cancelling headphones can feel like a quick escape. These sleek gadgets have quietly transformed the in-flight experience by alleviating distracting ambient sounds and enriching your audio experience through new, cutting-edge technology.

Today’s top models combine impeccable sound quality with thoughtful features, including extended battery life, ergonomic design, and a fit that promises hours of uninterrupted listening.

As for my personal recommendations, go for the newly-released Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION if you’re after impeccable style, quality and noise-cancellation, with the Sony WH-1000XM6 a close second for performance. I also enjoy using the Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones for everyday use.

After extensive research, we’ve curated a collection of the best noise-cancelling headphones designed for air travel and long commutes: each selected for its comfort, performance, and ability to turn your next long-haul flight into a holiday of its own.

You might also like Why travel editors are packing the Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION for their next long-haul flight

Editor’s picks: best noise-cancelling headphones

Best noise-cancelling travel headphones for 2026

Best premium model for travellers

Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION headphones

01

Sony 1000X THE COLLEXION

$999 at JB Hi-Fi

Sony’s 1000X THE COLLECTION combines years of audio innovation into one refined model. These headphones are crafted with premium materials, hand-polished finishes, and faux leather that took two years to develop. But it’s not all about looks. Under the hood, Sony has packed in a newly developed carbon composite driver, Grammy-winning mastering engineer-tuned sound, and the debut of DSEE Ultimate which is an AI-powered technology that restores detail to compressed audio in real time.

Read our review here

Battery life: Up to 24 hours of battery life (ANC on) / 32 hours (ANC off)

Other key features:

  • 12-mic Multi-Noise Sensor + Adaptive NC Optimizer
  • AI DSEE Ultimate (real-time audio upscaling)
  • 360 Upmix – Music, Cinema & Game modes
  • Platinum and black colourways
  • ~25% recycled plastic, plastic-free packaging
  • Magnetic closure carry case with handle

Also available at:

Best noise reduction headphones for airplanes:

02

Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones

$645 at Amazon

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones have garnered widespread acclaim for their exceptional noise cancellation, making them a top premium choice among competitors. Their minimalist design also earns the discerning globetrotter’s tick of approval, offering a sleek look with a lightweight feel. Use the Bose app to control volume, modes, and EQ levels, allowing you to easily tailor the sound to your liking. Plus, with a 24-hour battery life, they’re the perfect pair for an immersive listening experience. If you’re keen to block out the world, this is your chance.

Note the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen) is now available to order at Bose, offering 30 hours of battery life as opposed to 24, though only a two per cent increase in noise reduction.

Battery life: Up to 24 hours of battery life and up to 18 hours with Immersive Audio

Other key features:

  • Three different modes: Quiet Mode, Aware Mode and Immersion Mode
  • Mic system for clear calls
  • Touch control
  • Battery charging time up to three hours, while quick 15-minute charge gives you up to two hours play time
  • 90-day risk free trial
  • Compatible with Bose app
  • Comes with carry case

Also available at:

Best for an immersive and cinematic sound experience

03

Sony WH-1000XM6 wireless noise cancelling headphones

$699.95 at Sony

Whether you’re listening to your favourite tunes or streaming your favourite shows, the Sony WH-1000XM6 headphones deliver a premium listening experience with customisation tailored to your needs. They offer up to 30 hours of music playback with noise-cancelling activated, while a quick 10-minute charge provides approximately five hours of use. Other key features include spatial, cinematic sound, an easy-to-access mute and unmute button, and intuitive controls. The headphones can even detect when you’re speaking, pausing the music so you can seamlessly engage with your surroundings. While positioned at the premium end of the market, the combination of top-tier noise cancellation, sound quality, and features makes the investment worthwhile.

Battery life: Up to 30 hours

Other key features:

  • Ability to connect to two Bluetooth devices simultaneously
  • Compact folding design
  • Continue to listen to music while charging
  • Mute button on headphones
  • Get three hours worth of charge after just three minutes
  • Carrying case included
  • Cinematic, spacial sound for an immersive experience
  • Control headphones with natural head gestures or control with your voice

Also available at:

Best noise reduction headphones for battery life:

Dyson OnTrac headphones

04

Dyson OnTrac headphones

$374.25 at Amazon

Unveiled in 2024, the Dyson OnTrac headphones have stacked up well against competitors. Their distinct design and technical features make them a standout, particularly the impressive 55-hour battery life. You can also get nine hours of use from just a 30-minute charge, easing the stress for type-B jet setters frantically charging their headphones in the airport lounge after boarding has commenced. And don’t be fooled by first impressions, they’ve also got serious style, thanks to customisable ear cushions and outer caps.

Battery life: 55 hours

Other key features:

  • Bluetooth technology for wireless connectivity
  • 9 hours of battery life from a 30-minute charge
  • USB-C cable charging
  • Comes with a durable and slimline case
  • Four colour combos plus a variety of additional ear cushion colours available
  • Compatible with Dyson app

Also available at:

Best affordable noise-cancelling headphones:

05

JLab JBuds Lux ANC over-ear headphones

$179.95 at Amazon

For quality that isn’t sacrificed for price, JLab JBuds Lux ANC over-ear headphones are the perfect companion for travelling afar. They’re lightweight and comfortable, and their cups feature a wider opening to accommodate your ears compared to other models. You can also control the sound using the multifunctional buttons or via the JLab app. While not as technically advanced as more premium competitors, customer reviews highly praise this model, considering it excellent value for money, with strong specs, long battery life, and effective noise-cancelling for the price.

“Love these headphones! Got them for a great price and they are worth it! I’ve never been dissappointed with a Jlab product so far,” said one five-star review.

Battery life: Up to 70 hours, plus 40 hours with ANC on

Other key features:

  • Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling up to 35dB
  • Be Aware mode for listening in
  • Spacial audio
  • Mic for clear calls
  • Customise your experience via the JLab app
  • Rotating ear cuffs for easy storage
  • Available in a variety of colours

Also available at:

06

Sony WH-CH720N wireless headphones

$259.95 at Sony

While not at the top of the food chain in terms of pristine sound quality, the Sony WH-CH720N wireless headphones still deliver a warm, bass-forward sound and effective noise cancellation. They offer up to 35 hours of battery life with noise-cancellation on. With support from the Sony Headphones Connect app, the headphones can recognise and adapt to frequently visited locations, such as your workplace, gym, or favourite café, automatically adjusting sound modes to suit the environment. You can also control your headphones using Google Assistant or Alexa, or use the intuitive on-device buttons to play, pause, skip tracks, and adjust volume.

Battery life: Up to 35 hours

Other key features:

  • Connect to two devices simultaneously
  • Buttons conveniently placed so you can play, stop, or skip through tracks and adjust volume
  • Hands-free control with Google or Alexa
  • T-minute quick charge will give you up to 60-minutes extra play time

Also available at:

Best for home audio integration

07

Sonos Ace headphones

$599 at Sonos

The noise cancelling is solid and relatively on par with its competitors, but the Sonos Ace actually stands out more for its ability to adjust to individual factors such as hair, glasses, or hats, thereby improving their performance. As part of the Sonos brand, the Ace headphones can also wirelessly stream audio from compatible Sonos soundbars directly to the headphones, a feature that contributed to their recognition as a TIME 2024 Best Invention. While options like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra or Sony WH-1000XM6 may offer more refined noise cancellation and broader compatibility, the Sonos Ace is a strong contender, especially if you’re already invested in the Sonos ecosystem.

Battery life: Up to 30 hours

Other key features:

  • Connectivity via Bluetooth
  • Get up to three hours of playback in just 3 minutes
  • Noise cancelling adapts to your surroundings by detecting and neutralising external sounds
  • Comes with spatial audio and dynamic head tracking
  • Smooth, stainless steel headband
  • Slide-controls to manage volume, and button to answer calls
  • Two devices can be paired at the same time
  • Sleek travel case with cable pouch

Best for the Apple ecosystem

08

Apple AirPods Max

$714.26 at Amazon

For those interested in staying within the Apple ecosystem, the Apple AirPods Max are a strong choice, known for their exceptional sound quality, active noise cancelling capabilities, and premium build – crafted with anodised aluminium ear cups and a stainless steel headband. With up to 20 hours of listening time and easy automatic switching between devices, these headphones seamlessly integrate into your personal tech catalogue.

Battery life: Up to 20 hours

Other key features:

  • Connectivity via Bluetooth
  • Personalised spacial audio with dynamic head tracking for an immersive experience
  • Sound sealed by bespoke fit ear cushions
  • Easy access to transparency mode with the touch of a button
  • A five‑minute charge delivers around 1.5 hours of listening.
  • Automatically switch between your computer and phone when taking a call
  • Compatible with Siri

Also available at:

Best for high-resolution earphones

09

Sony WF-1000XM5 noise cancelling wireless earphones

$399 $325 at Amazon

Whether you’re flying high on a plane or running against the wind, these handy noise-cancelling earphones deliver premium, true noise-cancelling capabilities. The buds are small enough to fit snug in your ear and lighter than previous models, ensuring a secure fit. You can even configure these wireless earbuds to resume Spotify music playback or Endel personalised soundscapes with just two or three taps, no phone required. With rich, pristine sound and an IPX4 water-resistance rating, all that’s left is you and the music.

Battery life: Up to eight hours, plus 16 hours stored in case

Other key features:

  • Water and sweat resistant
  • A specially designed driver unit lets you experience rich, finely-tuned vocals
  • Configure the wireless earbuds to quickly access your favourite music
  • Easily control headphones by using natural head gestures
  • Ergonomic design perfectly matches human ear for a stable fit
  • Six microphones across both ears help deliver perfect noise cancellation
  • Three-minute quick charge will give you up to 60 minutes of listening time

Also available at:

Best for good value

10

Nothing CMF Buds 2

$89 at Nothing

The CMF Buds Pro 2 are an insider’s best-kept secret. While extremely affordable, they still deliver impressive noise cancellation. The design is smooth, lightweight, and easy to carry, featuring two holes for a lanyard to pass through. With up to 55 hours of total playback time, including charges from the compact charging case, these earbuds are ideal for travellers and commuters who want long-lasting battery life without constantly reaching for the charger. For those looking for a budget-friendly pair of noise-cancelling earbuds with solid performance and thoughtful design features, the CMF Buds Pro 2 are a standout choice.

Battery life: Up to 13.5 hours with a single charge, 55 hours total

Other key features:

  • 7.5-hours of playback with a 10-minute charge
  • Six HD mics with clear voice technology and wind noise reduction
  • Can connect to two devices at once
  • ChatGPT integration
  • Water and dust resistant
  • Compatible with the Nothing X app

Also available at:

How noise-cancelling works

Essentially, noise-cancelling headphones use a feature called active noise cancellation (ANC) to block out background sounds. This works through the implementation of tiny microphones inside the headphones that listen to noises around you, like the hum of airplane engines or people talking, and then the headphones create a sound that cancels it out. This works especially well for low, constant sounds like engine rumble on an airplane. The shape and padding of the headphones can also help block some higher-pitched noises. While sudden or sharp sounds might still get through, these headphones make long flights much more comfortable by reducing the constant noise that can make your ears tired.



Are noise-cancelling headphones good for flying?

Noise-cancelling headphones are great for flying as they can filter out cabin noises and even bring relief to flight anxiety by creating a more peaceful environments and reducing sensory overload. They are perfect for frequent travellers who undertake long flights and value comfort, sound quality, and peaceful in-flight experiences.

Many frequent flyers report that noise-cancelling headphones help reduce the fatigue that often comes from prolonged exposure to the consistent loud noise on planes, making the flight feel less exhausting. However, while they can enhance comfort and help you rest, noise-cancelling headphones don’t directly reduce jet lag, which is primarily caused by disruption to your internal body clock.


Do noise-cancelling headphones actually block noise?

Premium noise-cancelling headphones are effective at blocking ambient noises; however, their effectiveness depends on both the technology and your environment.

Noise-cancelling headphones work by using active noise cancellation (ANC) technology, which uses microphones to pick up on background noise. The headphones then generate sound waves that are the exact inverse of the detected noise, effectively cancelling it out. ANC is more effective against low-frequency sounds but can sometimes be less effective against sudden and irregular noises. The fit and design of the headphones also play a crucial role in determining how effective your noise-cancelling headphones are.

The post I’ve logged hundreds of flight hours, and these headphones are my secret weapon appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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Australians are ditching suitcases for these luxury weekender bags in 2026 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/best-weekender-bag-australia-20074/ Mon, 11 May 2026 03:13:56 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au//travel/travel-news/best-weekender-bag-australia-20074 The must-have accessory for all you weekend jetsetters.

The post Australians are ditching suitcases for these luxury weekender bags in 2026 appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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When you’re nipping down the coast on a long weekend or catching a flight for a two-day work trip, you’re not hauling all your earthly possessions along with you, you’re packing light. While oversized totes and small suitcases are noble choices for brief stints out of the big smoke, it’s hard to go past the weekender bag. It’s right there in the name.

Convenient, and carry-on-friendly, weekender bags typically have a handy top zip and two handles (although there’s some backpacks and duffels we’ll allow to sneak into ‘weekender’ territory).

Read on for our curated edit of the best weekender bags that’ll accompany you with ease from A to B come the weekend.

You might also like The best luggage brands for travellers who want to go the distance in style

GT‘s Editor’s picks

 

Best weekender bags

BOTTEGA VENETA Intrecciato leather weekend bag

Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Leather Weekend Bag

$9490 at Net-A-Porter

Best for: a quiet-luxury investment piece

Featuring Bottega’s house signature intrecciato weave, this gorgeous weekender is not only a luxury investment, but one that will appreciate in resale value over time. Big enough for two or three days of curated packing without looking like a duffel at the airport, it is the perfect companion for overnight stays and weekend getaways.

Size: 28 x 46 x 29 cm | Material: leather | Delivery: Free delivery over $800

Isabel Marant Tilpa Leather-Trimmed Weekend Bag

Isabel Marant Tilpa Leather-Trimmed Weekend Bag

$2210 at Net-A-Porter

Best for: the Parisian

French effortlessness and utility comes into play with the Isabel Marant Tilpa weekend bag, featuring a generous size for up to two nights away and strong leather straps that add a touch of bohemian sophistication.

Size: 28 x 50 x 23 cm | Material: fabric with leather trim | Delivery: Free delivery over $800

Maison De Sabre The Duffle Bag

Maison De Sabre The Duffle Bag

$839 at THE ICONIC

Best for: personalisation

Gold Coast-founded brand Maison De Sabre is known for their premium leather accessories and personalisation. With a 35L capacity and crafted in European leather, the bag offers generous sizing, capable of swallowing a full weekend’s worth of clothes, shoes and toiletries. Its expandable shape, two external pockets and six internal pockets make it a versatile option for travels away.

Size: 15.35 x 17.5 x 9.25 in | Material: European leather | Capacity: 35L | Delivery: Free delivery over $75

Trenery Hampden Weekender

Trenery Hampden Weekender

$699 at Myer

Best for: the sophisticated minimalist

This weekender from Trenery features a pebbled leather exterior with neutral twill lining – its quality making it a decade-long investment bag for the refined traveller. At 38 × 50 × 22 cm it’s a classic, well-proportioned overnight size, however doesn’t look bulky due to its chic folded sides.

Size: 38 x 50 x 22 cm | Material: pebbled leather exterior with neutral twill lining| Delivery: Free delivery over $99

Juliette Frame Weekender

Juliette Frame Weekender

$595 at July

Best for: the chic traveller

Available in 3 gorgeous colourways crafted top-grain cowhide leather, the traveller who owns the Juliette Frame Weekender is one who prioritises style alongside functionality. Featuring a magnetic top closure, 10ct gold hardware and a dedicated built-in laptop sleeve, this bag will take you from work to the weekend and across the world with style.

Size: 45 x 29 x 17 cm | Material: Cowhide leather| Delivery: Free delivery

Reiss Colton Micro-Grain Leather Weekend Bag in Dark Brown

Reiss Colton Micro-Grain Leather Weekend Bag

$650 at Reiss

Best for: boardroom to boarding style

For an all-in-one that is appropriate for both the office and the airport, this leather weekend bag from Reiss is the perfect addition for the business traveller and beyond. The reinforced base adds longevity, while the two carry handles, a removable shoulder strap and an internal zip pocket add a layer of functionality often not present in standard weekender bags.

Size: 38 x 54 x 22 cm | Material: 100% leather | Delivery: Free delivery over $400

Also available at:

Vera Black Large Bowler Bag

Vera Black Large Bowler Bag

$549 at VESTIRSI

Best for: the stylish go-getter

Style and functionality combine with the Vera bowler bag from VESTIRSI. Available in a medium and large, it comes with a padded internal sleeve with a snap closure for your laptop, while the opposite side has an integrated slip pocket for placing onto luggage. At just 1.25kg, this bag will seamlessly take you from the boardroom to boarding and back with ease.

Size: 16 x 43 x 27 cm | Material: pebbled Italian leather | Delivery: Free delivery

Aquila Montoro Leather Weekender Bag

Aquila Montoro Leather Weekender Bag

$429 at Myer

Best for: value-seeker who desires genuine leather

At $429 for 43L of leather, this weekender bag is the best capacity-per-dollar on the list for genuine leather bags,able to fit most airline overhead cabin requirements. The detachable strap offers flexible carry options, while the sleek gunmetal hardware adds a sleek, cool look to your travel style.

Size: 37 x 52 x 22.5 cm | Material: leather | Capacity: 43L | Delivery: Free delivery over $99

Kinnon Amelia Travel Weekender Bag

Kinnon Amelia Travel Weekender Bag

$595 at Myer

Best for: capacity and Aussie sustainability

The iconic Amelia Travel Weekender bag is the perfect low key luxury overnight bag for short trips, exploring new cities and more. Its generous capacity is surprising, making it a great option for those who tend to overpack and are never unprepared. Designed by emerging Australian leather goods house Kinnon, its sustainably sourced Italian pebble leather with nappa leather handle contrast is a win for Australian designers.

Size: 37 x 52 x 22.5 cm | Material: leather | Capacity: 43L | Delivery: Free delivery over $99

Also available at:

Lilly Weekender Tote

$699 $349.50 at Oroton

Best for: versatility

Oroton is Australia’s oldest luxury fashion house, valued for their innovative designs and accessible luxury price points. This weekender, crafted in pebble leather, features a 24L capacity – hitting the sweet spot for a single or two-night trip. It can also double as your daily work bag, offering room for a 16″ laptop and a sleep design that will carry you from the office to Oahu.

Size: 29 x 52 x 21 cm | Material: pebble leather | Capacity: 24L | Delivery: Free delivery over $200

Le Pliage Original Travel Bag Expandable

Le Pliage Original Travel Bag Expandable

$550 at Longchamp

Best for: the chronic overpacker

Featuring a 30–50L expandable design, Le Pliage Original from Longchamp travels as a carry-on but can expand to a larger size on the return trip when you’ve done a little too much shopping. Longchamp’s recycled polyamide canvas is recognised globally as the benchmark for lightweight luxury, offering the perfect bag for domestic to faraway destinations.

Size: 45 x 35/52 x 23 cm | Material: Recycled polyamide canvas with inside coating | Capacity: 30/50L | Delivery: Free delivery over $180

Longchamp Le Pliage Green Travel Bag

Longchamp Le Pliage Green Travel Bag

$340 at THE ICONIC

Best for: heritage and eco-conscious buyers

Featuring the classic Longchamp horse emblem on a classic silhouette, this travel bag is perfect for small trips in a chic, compact design. The foldable design is perfect for storage, opening up to a spacious main compartment and interior flat pocket for easy access.

Size: 35 x 45 x 23 cm | Material: 100% polyamide with cowhide leather trim | Delivery: Free delivery over $75

Monos Metro Weekender

Metro Weekender

$380 at Monos

Best for: TSA-approved organisation

Crafted with premium water-resistant nylon twill and vegan leather accents, this weekend bag by Monos is a strong addition for those moving through different climates or unpredictable weather. It also features an outer sleeve for a 16-inch laptop, a zippered lower storage area and two side pockets for smaller items. There is also a water-resistant, vegan leather option for those keen for a little more luxury.

Size: 48 x 36.83 x 25.65 cm | Material: nylon | Capacity: 35.5L | Delivery: Free delivery over $100

Antler Essential Weekender Bag

Essential Weekender Bag

$120 $84 at Antler

Best for: large capacity and affordability

Featuring a large 50L capacity and affordable price point, the Essential Weekender bag from Antler is designed to protect your weekend essentials. It also features a roomy compartment and thoughtful internal pockets, plus a removable shoulder strap for added comfort. Style with the matching toiletry bag and travel pouches to keep everything in their place.

Size: 40 x 64 x 20 cm | Material: 100% recycled ripstop material | Capacity: 50L | Delivery: Free delivery over $100

The post Australians are ditching suitcases for these luxury weekender bags in 2026 appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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20074 bottega-veneta-leather-weekend-bag isabel-marant-weekend-bag maison-de-sabre-duffle-bag trenery-hampden-weekender-espresso july-juliette-frame-weekender-bag reiss-micro-grain-leather-weekend-bag vestirsi-vera-black-large-bowler-bag aquila-montoro-weekender-bag kinnon-amelia-weekender-bag oroton-lilly-weekender-tote longchamp-le-pliage-original-travel-bag-expandable (1) longchamp-le-pliage-travel-tote monos-metro-weekender antler-essential-weekender-stone gourmettraveller-20074
The best sunglasses for travel that are stylish, practical and packable https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/best-sunglasses/ Fri, 08 May 2026 01:18:10 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=232846 The perfect companion for your next sojourn.

The post The best sunglasses for travel that are stylish, practical and packable appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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Whether you’re wandering through the city in search of ancient temples in Kyoto or admiring the iconic whitewashed cliffside villages and volcanic beaches of Santorini, no accessory feels more essential than a good pair of sunglasses.

Especially as the European summer fast approaches for Australians daring to follow the sun across the globe, avoiding prolonged exposure to UV rays is vital for maintaining eye health. Quality sunglasses with UV400 protection are designed to block 99–100 per cent of harmful UVA and UVB rays, helping to keep your eyes protected no matter where your travels take you.

Beyond protection, sunglasses are also the perfect sartorial addition to a travel wardrobe. Whether you’re capturing the perfect photo in front of the Trevi Fountain or are five Aperol spritzes deep in conversation with friends – or strangers– sunglasses are a must-have companion for your next sojourn.

Below, we’ve curated a list of the best sunglasses brands available in Australia for dapper sun protection while travelling, from the iconic statement frames of Gucci to affordable yet fashion-forward Australian labels like Le Specs, Quay Australia and more.

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GT‘s Editor’s picks

Le Specs

Best for: affordability

A global favourite since 1979, Le Specs is an affordable Australian-born brand known for their large variety of frames in men, women and unisex styles. With polarised lenses, bold on-trend styles and solid UV400 protection, Le Specs are a stylish and practical travel companion for wherever your adventures take you.

Also available at:

Quay Australia

Best for: Instagram-worthy frames

Another cult-favourite on the list, Quay Australia’s legacy is in their bold and fashion-forward styles, all at an accessible price point. Perfect for both men and women, their frames offer 100% UVA and UVB protection, perfect for travellers who want to look good without worrying about losing an expensive pair.

Also available at:

Ray-Ban

Best for: a reliable pair

For those after a timeless classic, there’s nowhere better than Ray-Ban. Available at a variety of retailers, their range offers polarised options, exceptional build quality and iconic styles that work from the city to the beach, and anywhere in the world.

Also available at:

VEHLA

Best for: minimalists

Founded in Australia in 2019 by Georgia Williams, Vehla Eyewear unisex frames are constructed with a minimalist profile, fit for those seeking luxury styles at an accessible price point. Their sunglasses undergo mandatory UV testing and comply with Australian standards, and you can find the lens category on each of the product listing descriptions on site.

AM Eyewear

Best for: Australian-made

Australian-made with handcrafted acetate frames and quality polarised lenses, AM Eyewear offers a boutique alternative that punches well above its price. Since 2003, the brand has long been recognised as Australia’s first luxury eyewear brand, handcrafted with meticulous attention and created in small batches for quality that doesn’t sacrifice style.

Oakley

Best for: active and adventure travellers

Oakley offers the gold standard for performance eyewear, with industry-leading Prizm lens technology, polarisation, and near-indestructible frames built for active travel. They are designed with exceptional clarity and specialised contrast enhancement for sports, and secure fits – whether you’re skiing on alpine slopes or trekking through basecamp or Mount Kilimanjaro.

Also available at:

Tom Ford

Best for: luxury and sophistication

Ideal for travellers who prioritise style and craftsmanship, Tom Ford’s range of luxurious frames are not only coveted for their unique designs, but for their premium lens quality and UV protection, produced by Marcolin (a world leader in eyewear) in Italy.

Also available at:

EPOKHE Eyewear

Best for: creatives and surfers

Designed in Australia, Epokhe approaches the craft of sunglasses with an art-first philosophy. The clean, architectural aesthetics of the brand, alongside their quality polarised lenses and durable construction, are beloved by the surf and creative crowd for good reason. The lenses are crafted from premium CR39 material, offering high optical clarity, scratch resistance and 100% UVA and UVB protection.

Miu Miu

Best for: resort and luxury travel

The little sister of Prada, established in 1993 by Miuccia Prada, the brand serves as a more experimental luxury offering, and their sunglass range is no exception. Their lenses come in playful, fashion-forward designs with vintage inspiration and a strong UV protection for the style-conscious traveller. Similar to other luxury houses, the premium price tag is more of a high risk for loss on trips, so wear with caution.

Also available at:

Velvet Canyon

Best for: colour

Influenced by frames of the 1960s and 1970s, this modern Australian favourite offers rich coloured lenses, vintage-inspired silhouettes, and UV400 protection that photographs beautifully on holiday. 

Prada

Best for: city travellers and Italian elegance

A premier luxury accessory, Prada’s lens offerings come with their uncompromising and sophisticated Italian craftsmanship, with excellent lens quality and UV protection, making them a great choice for city travel and luxury escapes. Their styles are modern, minimalist and often retro-inspired, with key styles such as the Prada Catwalk a luxury pointer for the initiated. 

Also available at:

Gucci

Best for: statement-makers

An instantly recognisable frame, Gucci’s high-quality collection comes with strong UV protection for travellers who see their sunglasses as a statement piece. From square and rectangle shapes to cat eye frames, their frames are often embellished with the GG logo – a suitable option for the worldly maximalists.

Also available at:

How to choose travel sunglasses

Eyewear is more than just a fashion statement. It’s often a necessity – especially for protection against UV rays, enhancing visibility and keeping your eyes healthy. There are a few factors you need to consider before purchasing a pair of sunglasses for travel:

UV protection: Sunglasses should provide 100% UVA and UVB protection, which is often labeled as UV400 in Australia. The darkness of the lens tint matters, too. Check for a lens category of 2, 3 or 4; the latter is designed for extreme glare, while category 2 is good for average, everyday sunlight. For the best protection against UV rays, style actually comes into play. Look for wrap-around styles that reduce exposure of UV rays from entering around the lens.

Polarisation: Polarisation is designed to reduce glare often caused by sunlight reflecting off surfaces such as water, snow and roads. Polarisation enhances visual clarity and therefore safety, especially if you’re an active traveller. However, make sure you avoid leaving sunglasses in excessive heat as the film can peel in certain conditions.

Weight: While large, heavy glasses flow in and out of the trend cycle faster than your flight across the Pacific Ocean, weight can be a big deal when it comes to long travel days. Lightweight sunglasses can reduce fatigue during long travel days. Look for sunnies made of titanium, nylon or reinforced acetate for a lighter feel.

Are polarised sunglasses worth it for travel?

Yes, polarised lenses significantly reduce glare from water, roads and reflective surfaces, making them well worth it for any travel involving driving, beaches, skiing or long days in bright sunlight. However, they’re not absolutely necessary if you choose to go without, given that polarisation can cost a pretty penny.

What sunglasses work for both men and women?

Ray-Ban, Oakley, Le Specs, Epokhe and AM Eyewear all offer unisex-friendly silhouettes that work effortlessly across genders.

Do you need sunglasses for a long haul flight?

While not essential, sunglasses can be helpful on long haul flights to reduce eye strain from bright cabin lighting and harsh window glare at altitude.

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The 18 walking shoes editors actually wear on holiday – from $40 to $1185 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/best-walking-shoes-for-travel/ Thu, 07 May 2026 05:30:01 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=232260 Get moving.

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Exploring the world starts from the ground up, in a literal sense. With winter escapes to Europe and Japan ramping up, Aussies are looking for shoes that will actually carry you through 20,000-step days across the globe, all without destroying your feet in the process.

As a travel writer and avid jetsetter, I know better than to choose style strictly over function. According to my health app, I walked an average of 19k steps daily on my two-month sojourn across the European continent, and survived solely thanks to my New Balance 530s, which I bought on a whim my first day in London after discovering that my previous pair couldn’t even last a long-winded travel day spent floating through the international terminal.

The right shoe can make or break your holiday; there is absolutely nothing worse than a 20,000-step day followed by an evening of searing blisters and a deep regret overpowering your will. From cobblestone streets to off-the-beaten tracks, a travel shoe needs to be comfortable, versatile and durable for wherever your adventures take you.

Below, you’ll find the most durable and comfortable shoes for travel, from walking sneakers to sandals and boots, for wherever your dreams end up taking you.

You might also like The best luggage brands for travellers who want to go the distance in style

GT‘s Editor’s picks

Best walking sneakers

Brooks Ghost Max 3

Brooks Ghost Max 3

$279.95 at THE ICONIC

Best for: maximum comfort

For those looking to prioritise comfort during their travels, the Brooks Ghost Max 3 is a perfect daily sneaker that also doubles as a runner. The high stack protective cushioning helps decrease underfoot pressure which is perfect for long days of walking by ancient ruins or scurrying through bustling markets. Plus, its broad platform is perfect for those with wide feet or who tend to get swollen throughout the day. For those who like the style but desire a little less cushioning, opt for the Ghost 17 range.

Also available at:

New Balance 530

New Balance 530

$160 at New Balance

Best for: classic New Balance comfort

I bought the New Balance 530 sneakers day one of my two month sojourn through Europe, and three years on these are still my go-to pair for casual walking days. The contemporary, everyday style looks good on a variety of looks and will take you anywhere, from the airport to the Acropolis, with ease. What I like best about these shoes (other than comfort) is the classic mesh and synthetic overlay upper design with added a layer of breathability, although if you are travelling among dirt road I would recommend the 574 or a leather alternative.

Also available at:

On Cloudtilt

On Cloudtilt

$260 at On

Best for: an ultra-lightweight design

If you’re a carry-on aficionado, this is the shoe for you. The On Cloudtilt’s ultra-lightweight design is crafted specifically for all-day movement, while the smart sock construction that’s easy to pull on and off your foot for fuss-free mechanics. Available in a variety of colourways, this shoe is precision-engineered for the everyday adventure.

Also available at:

Maison Margiela Replica Sneakers

Maison Margiela Replica Sneakers

$1185 at Maison Margiela

Best for: durable craftsmanship

On the more luxurious side, the Maison Margiela Replica Sneakers have been praised for their structured craftsmanship. Based on 1970s German Army trainers, the flat and supportive sole is perfect for long city days, without the bulk of a typical dad sneaker. Crafted in nappa leather and suede, the fabric wipes clean easily and is more weather-resistant than mesh. Style them sporty or tailored in a variety of ways.

Asics Gel-Quantum Kei 

ASICS Gel-Quantum Kei 

$150 at THE ICONIC

Best for: affordable comfort

ASICS sneakers are built for long distances, and this sneaker is no different. The Gel-Quantum Kei draws inspiration from the Japanese phrase, “kei,” which translates to lightness – an absolute essential when it comes to travelling abroad. The signature GEL cushioning absorbs impact, reducing stress on knees and ankles over time, while it’s affordable price point makes it a much more accessible option for travellers.

Also available at:

Adidas Samba OG sneakers

Adidas Samba OG sneakers

$180 at Adidas

Best for: durable and long-lasting casual wear

A classic sneaker, the Adidas Samba OG sneakers were designed for the streets. Featuring a tasteful, low-profile, soft leather upper, suede overlays and a gum sole, this durable staple is perfect for daily activities. While a much flatter shoe than a typical sneaker or runner, its compact size and daily comfort is still a great option for those looking for a shoe that typically goes with everything.

Also available at:

Best walking sandals

Archies Lemon Arch Support Thongs

Arch Support Thongs

$40 at Archies

Best for: arch support and ergonomic comfort

These Arch Support thongs from Archies were a lifesaver on my adventures to the Philippines this year, and not just for comfort. It had a signature built-in arch support,a tight, stretchable strap, and after a few wears out the thongs will eventually adapt to your feet. They’re the perfect accessory for island adventures and boat trips where you might get a little bit wet. If you are a half size, I would recommend sizing up.

Also available at:

Birkenstock Arizona Regular Unisex

Birkenstock Arizona Regular Unisex

$231 $221 at The Iconic

Best for: consistent, everyday wear

These sandals are a classic for a reason. Featuring a leather upper sole and an anatomically moulded footbed with a suede lining, and a cork outsole, which is designed to guide your foot into a natural position; these durable shoes will take you from cobblestone streets to beachside relaxing with ease. They’re also a great option for those who have wide feet.

Also available at:

Teva Original Universal

Teva Original Universal

$120 at The Iconic

Best for: all-day foot support

One of Teva’s very first sandals, the Original Universal is all about utilitarian comfort. Its best feature is the Universal Strapping System, which helps support your foot during a long adventurous day of frolicking unfamiliar streets. It also comes with an easy hook-and-loop closure for the perfect fit, and comes in a large variety of colourways.

Best walking loafers

Tony Bianco Gatsby Loafers

Tony Bianco Gatsby Loafers

$219.95 at Tony Bianco

Best for: dressing up

Another shoe I’ve personally tried and tested, the Gatsby loafers from Tony Bianco are, in my expert opinion, certified travel-ready. While it does take a few wears for the leather to mould to your feet, the quality and comfort becomes unmatched. Featuring a stylish round toe-shape, subtle scrunch detailing, and a comfortable 2.5cm heel, these shoes will elevate your travel style effortlessly.

Also available at:

Birkenstock Naples Penny Loafers

$285 at Farfetch

Best for: a polished look

Essentially a Birkenstock Arizona in disguise, the Naples penny loafers feature the brand’s signature supportive footbed, and is designed for all-day comfort and stability. Its design makes it easy to slip on and off, which is great for security check and quick outfit changes. They’re also breathable while still protective, taking your from dinners to museums and nicer cafés. Note there is a slight break-in period, like all Birkenstock shoes, so make sure you break them in prior to your travels.

Dr Martens Adrian Tassle Loafers

$339.99 $219 at Amazon

Best for: durability

Like all Dr Martens, there is a breaking-in period, but once you do, these shoes will be your constant companion. The Adrian Tassle Loafers are extremely durable with Goodyear welt construction and an air-cushioned sole for comfort. Not only is it designed to slip on and off easily for fast-paced days, this versatile loafer is also more weather-resistant compared to sneakers, and can handle a little light rain, dust and city wear with ease. The only downside is that they’re much heavier than a typical loafer, and may not be as comfortable as a sneaker designed for long walking days.

Also available at:

Best trail & active walking shoes

Salomon XT-6 Sneakers

$300 at Stylerunner

Best for: style and durability

The Salomon XT-6 Sneakers have grown in popularity over recent years, and it’s easy to see why. It is one of the most functional travel sneakers you can buy as it is designed for extreme conditions as they were originally made for ultra-distance trail running. They also offer excellent cushioning to protect your feet on hard surfaces like pavements and airports, while its contagrip outsole is designed for traction on varied terrain, from cobblestones to gravel and uneven streets.

Also available at:

Brooks Cascadia 19 trail shoes

Brooks Cascadia 19

$279.95 at THE ICONIC

Best for: a variety of trail conditions

A shoe that performs well on a variety of trail conditions while also being a smooth ride on pavement, the Brooks Cascadia 19 is a great option if you’re travelling on a variety of floors. They comes with a soft foam cushioning and flexible rock plate for hikes and trails. Reliable, versatile, and proven in its performance, and with a variety of colours, this sneaker will take you along for a stable ride. For a waterproof version, opt for the Cascadia 19 GTX.

Also available at:

Best for: long walks

The Hoka Clifton 10 is an excellent travel shoe thanks to its plush, cushioned midsole that keeps feet comfortable during long days of walking on varied terrain. Its lightweight construction and versatile design make it easy to pack and suitable for everything from airport terminals to city sightseeing, to even a half marathon.

Best walking boots

Dr Martens Unisex 2976 Smooth Chelsea Boots

Dr Martens Unisex 2976 Smooth Chelsea Boots

$359.99 $251.99 at THE ICONIC

Best for: a versatile shoe

For one shoe that can work across multiple outfits, the Dr Martens Unisex 2976 Smooth Chelsea Boots are a great and durable option. Elastic side panels let you pull-on your shoes quickly and efficiently, while the Goodyear welt construction and thick leather upper can handle scuffs, rain and heavy wear. It even has better grip and protection than a lot of sneakers, which is perfect for unpredictable surfaces. Again, with Dr Martens there is a break-in period, and they can be heavier than sneakers, but will become comfortable and softer overtime.

Bared Dodo boots

Best for: podiatrist-level support

The Bared Dodo boot is a really strong travel shoe as it sits in that sweet spot between a polished Chelsea boot and a comfort-focused walking shoe. Built with Bared’s biomechanical footbed, the shoe is designed to reduce pressure points while walking long distance. It also features arch support, heel cushioning and metatarsal support for sneaker-level comfort. In a variety of chic colourways, one pair of boots may as well cover your whole wardrobe.

Best for: a chic, knee-high look

Much like the Bared Dodo, the Bared Sitta is engineered with foot support in mind, delivering deliver hidden comfort with a sculpted silhouette. The shoes are designed using cushioning zones designed to reduce fatigue over long walking days, while the knee-high design is also great for protection against cold weather. And they’re super chic!

What is the best walking shoe in Australia for 2026?

The top pick for 2026 is the Brooks Ghost Max 3. It earns the #1 spot thanks to its nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole and high stack protective cushioning helps decrease underfoot pressure. Plus, its broad platform is perfect for those with wide feet or who tend to get swollen throughout the day. For those who like the style but desire a little less cushioning, opt for the Ghost 17 range. It’s widely available in Australia and suits pavement, everyday wear, and light trails.

What are the best walking shoes for travel with excellent arch support?

ASICS stands out for arch support due to its proprietary guidance systems, keeping feet centred and adjusts to your unique foot shape and movement. Unlike bulky stability shoes of the past, ASICS proves you can have a plush, smooth ride alongside genuine arch support, which is a key advantage for travel.  For sandals, Birkenstocks are a premium choice, featuring a contoured cork footbeds with great arch support to mould to your feet over time.

Where can I buy lightweight walking shoes suitable for travel in Australia?

The best places to buy lightweight travel walking shoes in Australia online are ASICS, Brooks and RunDNA for specialist sneakers, or THE ICONIC, Myer, David Jones and Amazon Australia for a wider variety of styles and brands.

This piece was updated in May 2026 with new styles.

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Five thoughtful last-minute Mother’s Day gifts from Amazon that don’t feel rushed https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/gift-guides/last-minute-mothers-day-gifts-amazon/ Mon, 04 May 2026 05:41:41 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=232607 Considered gift ideas for every mum.

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Left organising your Mother’s Day gift late this year? You’re not alone, and thankfully, you’re not out of options. Mother’s Day is still a chance to gift meaningfully — even at the eleventh hour.

Amazon’s Mother’s Day Gift Guide clearly categorises gift ideas so that you can find the perfect present for mum easily (and quickly!). Whether she’s a major food lover, the queen of accessories, an entertainer or a homebody, there’s a thoughtful gift for every type of woman. With a broad range of price points, from under-$50 finds to more indulgent gifts, you can shop with confidence, knowing there’s a gift with her name on it that will arrive before Sunday, thanks to Amazon Prime’s fast and reliable delivery.

These are our top picks for the best last-minute gifts that still feel considered (and will arrive on time).


Our top last-minute Mother’s Day presents that will arrive in time

Samrin Nosrat's award-winning cooking guide, salt, fat, acid, heat

01

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements of Good Cooking Hardcover by Samin Nosrat

$60

Best for: the mum who loves to cook

From the chef, writer and teacher best known for her bestselling cookbook Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat and the Netflix series of the same name, comes this game-changing guide that every food-loving mum needs to have on her kitchen bench. Nosrat’s award-winning bestseller teaches intuitive, confident cooking through four essential elements that mothers of every culinary ability will be able to master.

Packing cubes are an essential travel item for the globe-trotting mum

02

Amazon Essentials 4-Piece Packing Cubes Set

$25 $22

Best for: the globe-trotting mum

Packing cubes bring order to every suitcase. Neatly separating outfits and essentials, they’ll make packing, unpacking and repacking for her next trip effortless. Lightweight and durable, they maximise space and keep travel beautifully organised—perfect for stress-free adventures near and far.

Calvin Klein Euphoria is the perfect last-minute gift for Mother's Day

03

Calvin Klein Euphoria Eau de Parfum for Women

$109

Best for: the fragrance connoisseur

Sensual and sophisticated, this feminine fragrance blends juicy pomegranate, soft orchid and warm amber woods for a scent that’s modern yet timeless. Perfect for the fragrance-loving mum going from day to night activities.

Martha Stewart's jadeite glass cake stand will turn heads

04

Martha Stewart Highbrook 11″ Handmade Jadeite Glass Cake Stand, Ruffle Trim

$92.67 $82.60

Best for: the entertainer

For the entertainer with an eye for design, this jadeite cake stand blends function and charm. With its elegant ruffled edge and soft green glass finish, it will turns anything she serves— from cakes to fresh fruit— into a show-stopping centrepiece. Plus, if Martha has it, she needs it.

Apple airpods max are a game-changing gift for Mother's Day

05

Apple AirPods Max

$899 $779

Best for: the mum on the move

Delivering immersive, noise-cancelling escape for mums on the go, these Apple headphones will give her time to catch up on her podcasts, audiobooks or playlists when she’s out running errands, commuting, or at home keeping things in order. Give her the gift of time to herself this Mother’s Day.


Need more inspiration? Shop the full curated selection of Mother’s Day gifts at Amazon.

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20+ thoughtful gift ideas for every type of mum this Mother’s Day https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/gift-guides/mothers-day-gifts/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 00:50:34 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=216037 From the fragrance connoisseur to the discerning traveller.

The post 20+ thoughtful gift ideas for every type of mum this Mother’s Day appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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With Mother’s Day fast approaching (mark your calendars for 10 May), the annual question begs to be asked: what do you get the woman who has it all? While quality time is unrivalled, a thoughtful gift that shows you care is a priceless act.

Thankfully, the search for the perfect gift doesn’t have to be all-consuming. From a flashy cocktail set to enhance her Friday nights hosting at home to a decadent nod to her love for food, or perhaps an LED face mask to offer 10 minutes alone, we’ve done the heavy lifting for you.

So whether she’s a jet-setter or a homebody, an avid cook or the type that likes to put her feet up, we’ve curated an edit of the best Mother’s Day gift ideas to suit any mum. Happy shopping.

Our expert picks for the best Mother’s Day gifts in 2026


Gourmet Traveller-approved Mother’s Day gift ideas

Edible gifts

Gourmand or not, Mother’s Day calls for indulgence. Edible gifts that delight, from artisanal chocolates to luxe pantry staples, are always joyfully received. Whether for passing around after dinner or elevating her everyday cooking rituals, these edible gifts are certifiable winners.

01

Haigh’s Milk & Dark Special Selection

$55 , Haighs online or in store

Best for: the sweet tooth

Treat the women in your life to Haigh’s curated selection of milk and dark chocolates, including fruit, nut, liquer centres and a limited edition Milk Pomegranate Fudge. Whether to share at the table or for her to indulge in alone, we guarantee she’ll love these.

02

Lord & Lion Lankan Spice Box

$109 , Lord & Lion online or at David Jones

Best for: the avid home cook

Nothing stalls home cooking like missing the right spices when you need them. Thankfully, heritage brand Lord & Lion have taken care of this with their premium spice boxes that take inspiration from jewellery boxes. Each one comes with a gold spice spoon, a handmade cotton tea towel, five recipes cards and a set of 13 spices to master Sri Lankan cooking, including organic Ceylon cinnamon spice quills. Perfect for the mother who loves to cook or is trying to expand her culinary skills.

03

Gourmet Traveller Subscription

From $90 at Magshop

Best for: the food and travel enthusiast

Give mum the gift of me time with a yearly subscription to her favourite luxury food, travel and lifestyle publication. With monthly issues delivered to her door, she’ll have all the inspiration she needs to meal plan, prep and dream of that annual holiday. Plus, your subscription will also put you in the running to win $50K.

Homewares and hosting

Nothing sparks more joy for a host than curated homewares that elevate every gathering into a special occasion. From hand-painted ceramic platters and scalloped fruit bowl stands to no fuss cocktail sets that allow for bar-worthy drinks at home.   

03

Alex and Trahanas Schizzato Ceramic Oval Platter

$285, Alex and Trahanas

Best for: the artful entertainer

For the mother who understands the power of a beautiful tablescape, this hand-painted, scalloped oval platter is the pièce de résistance. Made by artisans in Puglia in the region’s signature splatterware style, its classic silhouette and painterly finish bring a sense of Italian ease to everything from antipasti to voluminous salads, shared main courses and any manner of side dishes.

04

Le Creuset Cast Iron Petal Shallow Casserole

$650, Le Creuset

Best for: the cookware collector

Equal parts cookware and centrepiece, this sculptural casserole dish inspired by the anemone flower from Le Creuset’s La Collection Jardin brings a sense of occasion to slow braises, golden bakes and everything in between.

05

Stanley Rogers 10pc cocktail set

$99.95, Stanley Rogers

Best for: the cocktail alchemist

It’s time to mix it up. This 10-piece, no fuss cocktail set has everything you need to craft premium drinks from the comfort of your home. Whether your mum is an espresso martini aficionado or a Cosmopolitan connoisseur, she’ll have everything needed to craft her perfect drink.

06

Dinosaur Designs Salad Servers

$125 at David Jones

Best for: the modern host

Crafted in Australia, these hand-poured resin salad servers add a pop of colour to your space, and are a striking addition for those who entertain with style.

07

Smeg Manual Coffee Machine

$699 at David Jones

Best for: the coffee lover in residence

For the retro-inspired countertop, this Smeg coffee machine features a 1950s profile, and extracts espresso in single and double shots with its 15 bar pressure pump. Use the in-built steamer for all your homemade cappuccinos.

08

Maison Balzac Pomponette set of two glasses

$149 at David Jones

Best for: the refined eclectic

This playful set includes two clear glasses with colourful jewelled bubbles for the retro entertainer. Timeless and chic, the Maison Balzac range is crafted for the vibrant and effortlessly classy woman in your life.

09

Coravin Sparkling wine preservation system

$700 at Coravin

Best for: the wine enthusiast

Coravin Sparkling allows wine lovers to preserve bottles of sparkling wine for up to four weeks after opening. This innovative tool maintains the flavour and freshness of the bubbles, so there’s no hesitation when it’s time to pop open another bottle of champagne or prosecco for ladies’ night.

10

Santal Woods candle

$60, The Iconic

Best for: the mindful homemaker

Infused with rich aromas of sandalwood and Virginia cedar, this luxurious scented candle is designed to immerse you in visions of crackling fires and wide-open skies. Hand poured 100% premium soy wax blend and designed to be dripless, Santal Woods uses pure cotton, lead-free wicks for an smooth, long-lasting burn. A truly perfect gift for Mother’s Day.

11

Jervis candlesticks

$85 at Everlasting Candle Co.

Best for: the eco-conscious homebody

A must-have for homebodies who employ timeless function in their home, this candle is designed to never melt. With three distinct colours to choose from, this candle adds a touch of scent-free elegance to any home and offers a piece of Australia’s serene coastal ambience to your home.

Moroccan Muse Teapot Matte Silver

12

Moroccan Muse Teapot Matte Silver

$89 at T2

Best for: the homebody

This elegant, modern teapot from T2 comes with a matte metallic silver finish, perfect for the modern homebody looking to warm themselves up this winter.

Fashion and beauty

For the woman well-versed in fashion and beauty, finding the ideal gift may seem daunting. We’ve kept our edit to luxury skincare, fragrances and fashion accessories that even the fussiest mum is guaranteed to love – and might already have on her wish-list.

13

Skin Caviar Liquid Lift

$830 at La Prairie

Best for: the refined matriarch

Crafted with Caviar Micro-Nutrients, the Skin Caviar Liquid Lift from La Prairie deliciously infuses the skin to help support skin’s metabolism for augmented lifting efficacy.

14

Alemais Day Dream silk scarf

$190 at David Jones

Best for: the stylish wanderer

Crafted from 100% silk twill, this scarf adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Whether draped gracefully over the shoulders, worn as a headpiece, or wrapped around the neck or waist, its versatile design effortlessly transitions from casual to formal, making it the perfect accessory for any occasion.

15

Longchamp Le Pliage original canvas tote bag

$295 at The Iconic

Best for: the style-forward jet-setter

An essential in travel style and an icon in its own right, the Le Pliage Original Shoulder Bag by Longchamp can easily hold all of your documents, work essentials and more for easy carry capacity in style. With long leather straps, zipper closure and timeless design, it’s made to go the distance – just like your mileage points.

16

Oribe Hair Alchemy Fortifying Treatment Serum

$107 at David Jones

Best for: the beauty connoisseur

Designed with delicate hair in mind, this premium fortifying treatment serum from one of the leading luxury haircare brands is made for the well-groomed, glamorous mother. Offering strength and hydration, it can be used on wet or dry hair for instant shine and restoration.

17

Shark CrycoGlow Cooling + LED Face Mask

$700 at Amazon

Best for: the ritualist

For those chasing smooth and firm skin, this LED face mask delivers clinic-grade results from the comfort of your home. Combining red, blue and infrared light with an under-eye cooling mechanism, it works wonders in tightening, clarifying and reviving tired skin, giving mums a polished, post-facial glow.

18

Dyson Airwrap Co-anda2x Multi Styler and Dryer

$999 at David Jones

Best for: the at-home hair stylist

Time-poor, glamorous mothers will love the all-in-one functionality of this hair tool. Dry, curl, wave, straighten, smooth and volumise in one sitting – this is Dyson’s lightest and most technologically-advanced Airwrap. With intelligent curl recognition that automatically adjusts airflow, heat and timing to suit your hair type,

19

Jo Malone English Pear and Sweet Pea cologne

$260 at David Jones

Best for: the fragrance aficionado

For a gift that feels personal and considered, this scent captures the charm of sun-warmed orchards. Ripe pear and sweet pea notes give it a fresh, fruity fragrance, while undertones of white musk prevent it from being overly sweet.

20

Elie Saab The Crayon Clutch

$2085 at Elie Saab

Best for: the icon

Elevate her everyday wardrobe with a statement clutch that combines timeless sophistication with grunged-up edge. Expertly crafted from snake embossed leather in Italy and complete with stunning gold hardware details, this is the missing piece that will make her transition from day to night effortlessly elegant.

21

Ex Nihilo Quintessence Miniatures Set

$540 at Ex Nihilo

Best for: the olfactophile

Designed for the mother on the move, this miniatures set is ideal for frequent travellers — or simply those who enjoy dipping in and out of different fragrances. Featuring five 10mL Extraits de parfum miniatures from the Quintessence collection, ranging from the sweeter, Blue Talisman to the fruitier, woodier scent The Hedonist offers, the set is a collector’s dream.

22

Poho Flowers x Leif

From $130 at Poho

Best for: the woman who must have flowers, always

Nothing brightens a room quite like a stunning bouquet of flowers. This Mother’s Day, treat mum to her favourite bunch and receive a complimentary 100ml Leif hand balm with you pre-order. It’s win-win.

Travel and tech

Premium hard-shell suitcases, chic but practical passport holders, noise-cancelling headphones for long plane trips: these thoughtful gifts for the mum on the go are perfect for effortless departures and stylish, stress-free arrivals.

23

July Checked Plus large luggage

$510 at July

Best for: the frequent flyer

Hard shell suitcases are the unanimous winners of the checked bag kingdom. For the frequent flyer, this 110-litre checked plus large luggage is durable, sturdy and easy to manoeuvre through crowded airports and rocky pavements. With water resistant, stain-proof lining, an integrated TSA lock and a polycarbonate shell, it’s designed for the long haul. Not sold? Perhaps the lifetime warranty and 100 day free returns will turn the tide.

24

Apple AirTag 4 pack

$123 from Amazon

Best for: the woman on the go

Whether she’s on the move internationally or prone to misplacing every day items at home, these quietly clever devices will help her track down personal items on her phone and ensure life’s most essential pieces are exactly where they belong.

25

Cabeau Evolution S3 Travel Pillow

$39 (usually $66) from Amazon

Best for: the comfort-seeking voyager

For the woman who travels often, this bestselling neck pillow is an in-flight essential. Patented ergonomic deign with responsive memory foam is designed to support your head 360°, while vertical side panels and seat strap system keep you perfectly positioned.

Mother’s Day FAQs

When is Mother’s Day in Australia 2026?

Mark your calendars, Mother’s Day falls on 10 May this year, so don’t leave your shopping or planning until the last minute.

What are the most wanted items for Mother’s Day?

While every mother is different, generally, the most wanted Mother’s Day gifts tend to focus on: relaxation, pampering, personalisation and luxury. Think monogrammed suitcases for the globe-trotting mum, a premium spice box for the home chef or a coveted LED face mask for the at-home beauty connoisseur. Breakfast in bed, a bouquet of flowers or a simple homemade meal made up of her favourite dishes never go astray.

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Our picks for Mother’s Day gifts you can shop on Amazon https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/gift-guides/amazon-mothers-day/ Sun, 26 Apr 2026 15:30:00 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=232379 A thoughtful mix of elevated essentials and small luxuries to gift Mum.

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Mother’s Day is an opportunity to gift not just beautifully, but meaningfully. Amazon’s Mother’s Day Gift Guide assembles a thoughtful mix of elevated essentials and small luxuries, with excellent present ideas broken out into categories for mums who love accessorising, exercising, entertaining, relaxing and more. There are plenty of picks under $50, and high-end luxury gifts that she’ll adore.

Cutting it close for delivery? Opt in to Prime to unlock free, fast shipping (to ensure Mum’s present makes it on time), plus access to deals and Prime Video, Amazon Music, Prime Reading and more.

These are our team’s picks of presents that food-loving, travel-obsessed and effortlessly stylish mums will love.

5 present ideas from Amazon’s Mother’s Day Gift Guide

Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition (32 GB)

$449 $379

Best for mums who love to read on the go

A study in modern restraint, this colour-display Kindle pairs a paper-like display with gentle illumination and weeks-long battery life, inviting moments of immersive, uninterrupted reading wherever the day unfolds.

Maxwell & Williams Wicked Pink Goes Good with Green Ribbed Coupe Glass in Glinda Gift Box

$29

Best for mums who love to host

Whimsical yet refined, these Glinda-core coupe glass set brings a touch of theatrical glamour to the table, where ribbed pink glass and considered design meet in a celebratory nod to indulgence and occasion.

Amazon Essentials Women’s Lightweight Waffle Full-Length Robe

$45 $38

Best for mums who love a luxury hotel moment… at home

A quietly practical addition to the modern home, these feather-soft robes lean into Amazon’s hallmark of effortless utility—designed to integrate smoothly into daily routines while keeping things elegantly simple and unfussy.

Apple AirTag (4 Pack)

$123

Best for the mum who needs help keeping track of it all

A small but considered luxury, this quartet of AirTags pairs Apple’s intuitive Find My network with discreet design, offering a quietly reassuring way to keep track of keys, bags and the gentle chaos of daily life.

American Tourister Curio 2 Suitcase in Hushed Orchid/Glow (55cm)

$265 $159

Best for the mum who’s planning a holiday

This carry-on-friendly suitcase is a polished and practical traveller, with a durable shell, expandable interior and smooth double wheels that make navigating airports feel almost effortless, all finished in a pretty purple hue that’s easy to spot on the baggage carousel.

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232379 Amazon Kindle Mother’s Day Amazon Maxwell Williams Mother’s Day Amazon Robe Mother’s Day Amazon Air Tags Mother’s Day Amazon American Tourister Mother’s Day gourmettraveller-232379
Editors’ picks: The cookbooks to gift, cook with and cherish this autumn https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/dining-out/culture/best-cookbooks-20499/ Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:18:12 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au//news/food-and-culture/best-cookbooks-20499 Whether you’re giving something special or treating yourself, these cookbooks promise to inspire and delight.

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Looking for the best cookbook? As the Gourmet Traveller team, it’s unsurprising that we’re a bunch who love to cook, and love talking about the cookbooks we love coming back to time and time again. Whether it’s the best cookbooks of all time, the ones we turn to for winter comfort, or the newest recipe books we’re adding to our collection, these cookbooks are sure to improve your culinary prowess.

In 2026, we’re cooking our way through firm favourites and new classics, from Julia Busuttil Nishimura’s fourth book that celebrates the seasons to a dreamy collection of coastal Italian recipes to a weeknight cooking bible full of easy wins.

Whether for gifting or keeping, don’t even think about buying a cookbook without first consulting the GT autumn wish list. Below are the best cookbooks for the cooler seasons and beyond, according to the GT team.

You might also like 32 food-related gifts for the gourmand in your life

Best cookbooks for the cooler seasons

Italian Food, Stefano Manfredi

As the weather cools, I instinctively turn to the warmth of hearty Italian food — from broccoli, anchovy and chilli orecchiette to warming sausage minestrone to slow-braised duck ragù on pillowy gnocchi. My guide through this craving has always been Stefano Manfredi’s Italian Food: a hefty, region-by-region compendium that captures the soul of Italy’s culinary traditions. It’s taught me time-honoured classics, the beauty of seasonality and the diversity woven through each family table.

– Maxwell AdeySenior Food Editor

Appetite, Nigel Slater

Appetite by Nigel Slater is a perfect fit for the colder months. He’s a British national treasure and a witty writer, as well as an excellent cook. What makes this book especially winter-friendly is that it was published in 2000, several years before Slater graduated to much healthier cooking, so it’s full of lovely buttery comfort food, my favourite being an enormous rectangular mushroom and thyme pie.

– Ceri David, Deputy Editor

Saturday Night Pasta, Elizabeth Hewson

For me, making pasta from scratch is therapeutic, and Elizabeth Hewson’s Saturday Night Pasta was a key player in keeping me sane during pandemic lockdowns. Each week, I’d thumb through the recipes, picking one that suited my mood — pappardelle with Bloody Mary lamb ragù for a slow weekend session; broccoli and feta orecchiette for a midweek boost; or chicken meatballs with cavatelli in tomato and lemon broth when I was in need of serious comfort. Now, as the days get shorter and the temperature cools, I am reaching for it once again and selecting new recipes, making it my mission to cook every dish.

– Cordelia Williamson, former Digital Editor

A Year of Simple Family Food, Julia Busuttil Nishimura

While I pick this recipe repertoire for winter, Busuttil Nishimura’s generous second book is a year-round companion. It’s seen me through varied seasons of my own life: I distinctly remember making her piadina dough, a soothing distraction during a difficult personal time; while the lamb ragù is the recipe I’ll be batch cooking ahead of my maternity leave stint.

– Jordan Kretchmer, News Editor

Ottolenghi Simple, Yotam Ottolenghi

While I pick this recipe repertoire for winter, Busuttil Nishimura’s generous second book is a year-round companion. It’s seen me through varied seasons of my own life: I distinctly remember making her piadina dough, a soothing distraction during a difficult personal time; while the lamb ragù is the recipe I’ll be batch cooking ahead of my maternity leave stint.

– Jordan Kretchmer, News Editor

Falling Cloudberries, Tessa Kiros

This is a beautifully diverse cookbook filled with heartfelt family stories and multicultural influences. Tessa Kiros blends recipes with memory, drawing from Finland, Greece, South Africa, and beyond. Her Finnish meatballs with allspice, sour cream and lingonberries make for the perfect comfort dish.

– Lana Telford, Editorial Coordinator

Best new-release cookbooks

Good Cooking Every Day, Julia Busuttil Nishimura

Busuttil Nishimura’s reputation precedes her. When her fourth book landed on our desk, we knew to expect everyday recipes to inspire and delight. Working our way through, we also discovered a celebration of the seasons. From winter’s excess of greens (potato and silverbeet al forno) to summer’s zucchini flowers (stracci with zucchini and their flowers), mid-week meals get a delicious upgrade.

Chae, Jung Eun Chae

Melbourne chef Jung Eun Chae believes patience is a virtue. You’ll need it when faced with the 8000-person waitlist to dine at Chae, the micro-restaurant she runs from home. And you’ll need it to master the ferments in this slow Korean cookbook. The rewards are worth waiting for.

On Sundays, Dave Verheul

From Monday through to Saturday, Verheul sets the standard at his excellent Melbourne wine bar, Embla. On a Sunday, the New Zealand-born chef relaxes into a long lunch. Organised into seasons, this is a blow-by-blow account of what and how the chef cooks when he entertains at home.

Love Crumbs, Nadine Ingram

A birthday, a heartbreak, a rite of passage; these are the reasons we bake. For Flour & Stone’s Nadine Ingram, cake is also a love language. In this “meaningful memoir of cake”, as she describes it, Ingram documents the recipes she has developed to bring sweetness into people’s lives.

Italian Coastal, Amber Guinness

Dreams of moving to Italy will be bolstered by this swoon-worthy book. In her follow up to A House Party in Tuscany, the focus shifts from farmhouse to the Tyrrhenian Sea. And it’s a marvellous place to summer.

A Fish For All Seasons, Sydney Fish Market

Consider this your sustainable seafood roadmap. The Sydney Fish Market is on a mission to put under-utilised seafood species on our menus. It starts here with a stunning sea urchin taglioni and a barbecued redclaw with brown butter among the 100-strong recipe collection.

Easy Wins: 12 flavour hits, 125 delicious recipes, 365 days of good eating, Anna Jones

When simple ingredients come together as more than the sum of their parts, it’s an easy win. In this weeknight cooking bible, best-selling British author Anna Jones zeros in on 12 hero ingredients across a dozen chapters. The result? 125 recipes to cook on repeat.

Eat NYC, Yasmin Newman

Proving New York isn’t just a city, it’s a mindset, Newman gets us into a Manhattan mood with this recipe compilation. An everything bagel, pizza by the slice, a Reuben worthy of When Harry Met Sally are among the highlights.

Ho Jiak, Junda Khoo

The chef and owner behind the Ho Jiak empire shares his origins story in recipe format. From his amah’s (grandmother’s) congee to the juicy Hainan chicken he learnt from his favourite street vendor in Malaysia, this volume is a tasty tribute to the influences that shaped him.

Best cookbooks to gift, according to GT editors

Anthony Bourdain's Les Halles Cookbook, Anthony Bourdain

A manual of French cuisine by the original bad-boy chef, this is an entertaining and practical today as when it first hit shelves two decades ago. Based around the menu at the Manhattan brasserie where Bourdain made his name is the 1990s, it’s a kitchen essential.

Something from Nothing, Alison Roman

Time poor and heavily into efficiency, New Yorker Alison Roman’s cooking style revolves around a well-stocked pantry. Fill it with hard-working ingredients, and you’ll be ready to conjure up flexible, off-the-cuff meals for any occasion, whether to feed yourself on a busy weeknight or to host an impressive, last-minute dinner party.

Linger, Hetty Lui McKinnon

Hetty Lui McKinnon has always been fond of a salad. Far from a side dish or a hurried after-thought, hers are the centrepiece, to be savoured. For this, her sixth cookbook (the previous five have been bestsellers) she welcomes friends into her home to share salads, desserts and stories, inviting them to linger – hence the name for this clever collection of recipes.

Padella, Tim Siadatan

A London institution since setting up shop in 2016, Padella still attracts legendary queues, despite an apparently simple concept: fresh, hand-rolled pasta with delicious sauces and fillings. Now we can all try it out for ourselves, “to create pasta at home that would make an Italian mamma smile,” as it says in the book.


Encompassing a staggering 450 recipes, this hefty tome is the definitive guide to Vietnamese cooking, going well beyond the phở and bánh mì that have become a fixture of everyday dining in Australia. Including history of the region, vibrant photography, and a whole chapter on preparing your own pantry staples, this is one for the committed home chef.

GT’s favourite cookbooks of all time

Arabesque, Claudia Roden

It’s almost impossible to choose a favourite cookbook. Over the years, I’ve pored over hundreds of them — losing hours immersed in their pages and studying the styled images. But the first book I couldn’t put down, and the one I set out to cook from cover to cover (though I’m not there yet), was Claudia Roden’s Arabesque. As a late teen, I was captivated by the vibrant cuisines of Morocco, Lebanon, and Turkey; their perfect balance of sweet and sour, aromatic and fresh. Many of my earliest dinner parties were planned from this book. Claudia’s recipes laid the foundation for my understanding of flavour and were instrumental in shaping my formative years in the kitchen.

– Maxwell AdeySenior Food Editor

Bill’s Basics, Bill Granger

The late Bill Granger‘s Bill Basics was the first cookbook I “borrowed” from my mum when I needed to become an adult and start cooking. I inherited it with dog-eared and food-splattered pages, and I’ve made my own marks over the years since. His baked orrechiette with sausage, cavolo nero and ricotta has become a comfort food favourite, as has the lemongrass and ginger chicken curry served with vermicelli.

– Cordelia Williamson, former Digital Editor

Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat, Samin Nosrat

As much a fantastical science-edged tome as it is a storybook and cookbook, Nosrat’s debut delivers not just a set of recipes but a simple and elegant philosophy for all home cooks. Find out about the role of salt (osmosis!), bake the perfect focaccia, peruse illustrations of the elements in Caesar salad and so much more. A modern day cook’s must-have.

– Jordan Kretchmer, News Editor

Ester, Mat Lindsay with Pat Nourse

I have an emotional attachment to this book; it symbolises the lazy, long weekends and good times spent feasting with great friends. There was one weekend in particular when this cookbook was the central theme. Standout recipes include the shallot and Sichuan pepper tarte Tatin and my ultimate favourite, the Bullet tart with its malted tart shell blanketed in a thick and glossy liquorice ganache. Bullet fanciers will understand.

– Jacqui Triggs, Creative Director

The Cook’s Companion, Stephanie Alexander

This is my go-to when I need to bake a cake or cook a traditional casserole. The way the cookbook is broken down into ingredient chapters is very user-friendly.

– Sam Yates, Senior Designer

Food from Many Greek Kitchens, Tessa Kiros

Tessa Kiros’ Food from Many Greek Kitchens is a classic that I keep coming back to for its beautiful culinary journey of Greece. I use it every New Year’s Eve for its foolproof vassilopita cake. Her briam (mixed roast veggies), bamies (baked okra) and fasolakia yachni (stewed green beans in tomato) are almost as good as my Mum’s – and that’s saying something. The best collection of Greek home-style cooking recipes.

– Suzanna Chriss, Senior Sub Editor

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20499 I just scored my dream luggage at 50 per cent off in the Black Friday luggage sales Is this the smartest coffee machine for home baristas? We tested the Ninja Luxe Café Premier Espresso machine The best luxury Advent calendars of 2025 to spoil your loved ones stefano-manfredis-italian-food nigel-slater-appetite saturday-night-pasta-elizabeth-hewson a year of simple-family-food-julia-busuttil-nishmura ottolenghi-simple falling-cloudberries-tessa-kiros good-cooking-everyday-julia-busuttil-nishimura chae-korean-slow-food-jung-eun-chae on-sundays-dave-verheul love-crumbs-nadine-ingram italian-coastal-amber-guinness a-fish-for-all-seasons anna-jones-easy-wins eat-nyc-yasmin-newman ho-jiak-junda-khoo anthony-bourdain-les-halles-cookbook somthing-from-nothing-alison-roman linger-hetty-lui-mckinnon padella-tim-siadatan vietnam-the-cookbook-anais-ca-dao-van-manen arabesque-claudia-roden bills-basics-bill-granger salt-fat-acid-heat-samin-nosrat ester-mat-lindsay the-cooks-companion-stephanie-alexander food-from-many-greek-kitchens-tessa-kiros gourmettraveller-20499
How Bridgerton has inspired the Regency-era aesthetic https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/bridgerton-inspired-wedgwood-fine-bone-china/ Tue, 03 Mar 2026 04:53:44 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=230728 The revival of fine bone china and the return of elegant tableware.

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Dear gentle readers, the influence of Bridgerton has captivated the styling and entertaining habits of a new generation. Regency-era aesthetic, or ‘Regency-core’ has made headway into fashion, inspired interior design with maximalist overtones and driven a resurgence of the classic elegance of Regency-inspired table settings.

With autumn on the horizon, so too is the season for afternoon teas, dinner parties and supper clubs – the latter having seen a rise in popularity among hosts seeking intimate, curated dining experiences. Enter Wedgwood’s Renaissance collection: a range that captures the opulence and refinement of the era while bringing timeless sophistication to the modern table.

Bridgerton Fine Bone China
Image: Wedgwood Renaissance Gold

The Regency renaissance

Whether you’re a devoted fan of Bridgerton or not, its cultural reach is undeniable. The series may not be alone in its romanticisation of the Regency era, but the lavish sets and rich fabrics have quietly reshaped what we’re drawn to closer to home. A renewed appetite for velvet upholstery, ornate detailing and the kind of fanciful fine bone china that turns an ordinary table setting into something more considered. It’s a natural extension to the modern eclecticism styling we’ve been leaning toward.

Wedgwood Fine Bone China
Image: Wedgwood Renaissance Grey

Heritage meets modernity

Wedgwood’s Renaissance collection feels like it was made for this moment. With its ornate gold detailing, intricate scrollwork and heritage craftsmanship, the aesthetic is unmistakably Regency – elegant, refined and rich with the tactile qualities that define true fine bone china: its characteristic delicacy, weight and translucency. Yet unlike the ‘good’ china of generations past, kept behind locked cabinet doors and reserved for occasions that never quite came, Renaissance Gold is built for the everyday. Durable enough to use, beautiful enough to make any table feel like an event.

Available in three colourways – Renaissance Gold, Renaissance Red and Renaissance Grey – each shares the same ornate details and fine bone china delicacy but strikes a different mood. Gold brings cobalt blue and warm gilding; Red offers drama; Grey a softer, more contemporary elegance.

Wedgwood Renaissance Red
Image: Wedgwood Renaissance Red

The good china deserves to be used

Wedgwood’s Renaissance collection is not simply a nod to the past – it’s an invitation to bring genuine craftsmanship back to the table, one occasion at a time. Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner party, styling an autumn afternoon tea or simply elevating a weeknight dinner, Renaissance reminds us that everyday life is worthy of the good china.

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230728 wedgwood (2) Image: Wedgwood Renaissance Gold table setting wedgwood_1738749494_3561211238623632169_371968852 (1) Image: Wedgwood Renaissance Grey Wedgwood Red Image: Wedgwood Renaissance Red gourmettraveller-230728
We’ve found the best air fryer for people who think they are anti air fryers https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/ninja-air-fryer-review/ Tue, 24 Feb 2026 03:00:34 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=229858 How the Ninja Crispi might just have made us air fryer converts.

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The quasi recent air fryer revolution hasn’t been so much a trend as a full-blown cultural reckoning. Seemingly overnight, everyone was air frying chips, rendering pork belly crackling, and extolling the virtues of energy efficiency with the zeal of the newly converted. Social feeds became a deluge of air fryer hacks and testimonials – “you have to try steak in the air fryer”. Naturally, the culinary purists among us held firm, unwilling to surrender precious benchtop real estate to it. That is, until now.

The Ninja Crispi 4-in-One Portable Air Fryer may well be the appliance that converts even the most steadfast holdouts. We put it through its paces and can say, with some conviction, that it delivers.

Our expert verdict on this portable air fryer

Pros

  • Containers are made with non-toxic glass
  • Swapping between large and small containers is effortless
  • Genuinely portable and compact
  • Food is visible throughout cooking, with the option to pause and check
  • Looks far more considered than most air fryers on the market

Cons

  • Capacity may fall short for a larger family.

Why the Ninja Crispi deserves a spot on your benchtop

If the bulk and unabashedly plastic aesthetic of most air fryers has been your sticking point, the Crispi makes a compelling counterargument. Its glass construction is not only more elegant — allowing a clear view of food as it cooks — it also sidesteps the concerns around plastic at high heat, making for a cleaner cooking experience in more ways than one.

In practice, we found it quietly indispensable. No preheating the oven, no suffering through microwave-softened leftovers. A single button press, and you’re underway.

Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Air Fryer specs and product features

Colours: Cyber Space, Stone, Sage Green
Power: 1700W
Dimensions (cm): 39.5cm W x 26.8cm D x 29cm H
Weight: 4.26kg
Price: RRP $299.99
Warranty: 2 years
Settings: Roast, Air Fry, Recrisp, Keep Warm
What’s in the box: Ninja Crispi™ PowerPod™, Crispi Container Adaptor, 1.4L Small Batch CleanCrisp™ Container with crisper plate and lid, 3.8L Large Batch CleanCrisp™ Container with crisper plate and lid, 15+ Recipe Book and Cooking Charts

Best Air Fryer

How to use the Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Air Fryer

1 Set up

Getting started is straightforward. Select your container size based on what you’re cooking. For the small batch container, place the crisper plate in the base, add your ingredients — no foil or baking paper — and cover with the PowerPod lid. Plug in, and you’re ready. For the larger container, attach the adaptor to the base of the PowerPod, insert the larger crisper plate, add your food, and cover with the lid. The whole process takes moments.

2 Cooking

Selecting from the four settings — Roast, Air Fry, Recrisp, or Keep Warm — is intuitive, though the cooking chart in the included recipe booklet is a useful reference for timing. For frozen items, packet instructions translate well. The glass containers allow you to monitor progress throughout, and a pause function means you can lift the lid mid-cook to check on things without losing your place.

3 Easy clean

The removable crisper tray and glass container are both dishwasher safe, making cleanup as uncomplicated as the cooking itself.

Best Air Fryer Pork Belly

Results from our Ninja Crispi test run

We started where any good air fryer testing should: the classics. Frozen chips with real crunch, schnitzel cooked to an even golden crispness, and pork belly crowned with blistered, ASMR-worthy crackling. What becomes clear pretty quickly is the appliance’s greatest strength — a rare combination of speed, simplicity and consistently good results, with minimal oil.

The fennel and chilli pork belly pictured above was table-ready in just 45 minutes on Air Fry mode — succulent within, crackling without. A round of leftover pizza on Recrisp mode came back to life with melty cheese and a crust that had recovered its crunch entirely.

Overall, is the Ninja Crispi worth it?

We came to this as sceptics and leave it as converts — not just to this appliance, but to what a well-designed air fryer can actually do. The glass containers set it apart, offering a healthier cooking environment and a more considered aesthetic, while the experience from setup to cleanup is genuinely seamless. Its stackable design makes storage easy too, which matters when benchtop space is at a premium.

Where to buy the Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Air Fryer

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229858 Ninja Crispi (2) Ninja Crispi Hero Schnitzel (1) gourmettraveller-229858
The best wine fridges and cabinets to store, serve and savour your wine https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/best-wine-fridge-australia-20293/ Thu, 19 Feb 2026 23:16:47 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au//lifestyle/entertaining/best-wine-fridge-australia-20293 From top-tier wine cabinets for serious enthusiasts to compact wine fridges at smaller price points.

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If you enjoy wining and dining guests or consider yourself a budding sommelier, it’s likely you’ll to want to invest in a wine fridge or wine cellar as your collection grows. And what better time to invest than the season of sun?

Unlike a regular fridge, a wine fridge and cabinet is designed specifically to keep your precious vinos at the optimum temperature, while also protecting them from UV light and vibration, which cause damage overtime. The only downside really is that they will leave guests admiring your collection with a little more envy of your impeccable taste.

So, whether you’re an avid collector or natural entertainer, we’ve tracked down the best wine fridges, cabinets, cellars and coolers in Australia, based on features and who they’re suited to. From top-of-the-line Vintec wine fridges to more affordable Hisense wine fridges, treat yourself to one of these so your wines can age just like the old adage says.

You might also like Lift your grape game by joining one of these wine clubs

Editor’s picks: best wine fridges

Best wine fridges and cabinets in Australia 2026

LECAVIST Wine Cabinet - 168 Bottle - Single Zone - Freestanding - Black (LEK168PV)

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LeCavist 168 Bottle Single Zone Wine Cabinet

$1699 $1526 at Appliances Online

Best for: customisable wine storage

This premium wine fridge cabinet from LeCavist can fit up to 168 bottles and comes with six moveable, beechwood shelves that look stylish and reduce vibrations. The shevles mean you can choose how you store your wine – on its side, upright or a combination of both, and you can buy extra shelves as needed.

The single-zone cooling system has a temperature range from 5°C to 20°C and triple layer glass doors to keep your wine at the ideal temperature, even on hot summer days (it can operate in rooms with temperatures up to 43°C.

Dimensions: 545 (W) x 1674 (H) x 600 (D) mm

Key features:

  • Single-zone cooling with temperatures between 5°C to 20°C
  • Beechwood shelves and anti-vibration system
  • Internal LED lighting you can turn on or off to showcase your collection
  • Quiet operation with a noise level of 43dB (similar to a quiet library)
  • Two years warranty on body and parts, with five years on compressor

Also available at:

Vintec 198 Bottle Wine Storage Cabinet V190SG2EBK

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Vintec 198 Bottle Wine Storage Cabinet

$5499 $4001 at Winning Appliances

Best for: multi-zone wine storage

This wine cabinet has customisable temperature zones that makes it ideal for collections with different varieties of wine. It also has anti-UV glass ideal for alfresco settings and an external compressor to protect from vibrations and sunlight (which can alter wine).

The borderless glass, black finish and wooden shelving also make it a stylish way to store and showcase your wine.

Dimensions: 595 (W) x 1860 (H) x 610 (D) mm

Key features:

  • Multi-zone cooling with temperatures between 6°C to 22°C
  • Stylish black finish with six wooden shelves
  • Internal LED lighting
  • Thermal recycling pump that ensures adequate humidity levels are maintained above 50%
  • Two year warranty
Vintec 35 Bottle Wine Cabinet

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Vintec 35 Bottle Wine Cabinet

$1199 $803 at Appliances Online

Best for: the modest collector

Cellar any wine or serve red, whites and blends at specific temperatures with this single-zone wine fridge that offers stable temperature, high humidity, UV and vibration protection and quality airflow. Five pillars of wine storage: achieved.

“I’m putting this freestanding and considerably well-priced wine fridge high on my wishlist this year. Vintec is at the top of the wine fridge game and while I would absolutely love one of its higher-end models, my tiny one-bedroom apartment calls for a compact cellar for my collection. Plus, the fact that it’s not integrated means I can move it to my garage if needed, or to my next rental in the future.”

Cordelia Williamson, former digital editor at Gourmet Traveller

Dimensions: 555 (W) x 870 (H) x 650 (D) mm

Key features:

  • Storage temperatures between 6°C to 18°C
  • Intuitive touch controls
  • UV-free LED Lighting
  • Five-year warranty on compressor
  • Freestanding cabinet

Also available:

The Hisense 30 bottle wine cellar.

04

Hisense 30 Bottle Wine Cabinet

$396 $319 at JB HI-FI

Best for: someone who loves the same types of wines

If you’re a creature of habit and mostly stick to the same type of vino, this single temperature 30-bottle wine cellar is a solid pick for you. With natural wooden shelves and interior LED lighting, it’s also a chic addition to any entertaining space.

Dimensions: 475 (W) x 834 (H) x 455 (D) mm

Key features:

  • Storage temperatures between 5°C to 18°C
  • Touch electronic control
  • Six wooden shelves
  • Reversible right hinge door
  • Three-year manufacturer’s warranty

Also available:

Liebherr 195 bottle wine storage cabinet.

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Liebherr 195 Bottle Wine Cabinet

$4999 at Appliances Online

Best for: avid collectors

Allow your wine to age with grace in this cabinet that maintains ideal conditions for storing up to 195 Bordeaux (750ml) bottles. With stylish wooden shelving, a UV-protected dark storage area, vibration protection and a five-year manufacturer warranty, you can curate your cellar collection with peace of mind.

Dimensions: 657 (W) x 1842 (H) x 663 (D) mm

Key features:

  • Temperatures between 5°C to 20°C
  • Adjustable wooden shelves
  • UV-protected dark storage area
  • Single zone temperature control
  • Door alarms

Also available at:

LeCavist 220 Bottle Dual Zone Wine and Beverage Fridge

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LeCavist 220 Bottle Dual Zone Wine and Beverage Fridge

$3099 at LeCavist

Best for: Serious entertainers

This LeCavist fridge has two cooling zones, with the upper zone ideal for white wine and the lower zone for reds or even other beverages. With four telescopic beechwood trim shelves in the wine section and glass shelves in the beverage section, plus the choice of built-in or freestanding installation, this is an elegant storage solution for drinks.

Dimensions: 620 (W) x 1920 (H) x 700 (D) mm

Key features:

  • Two cooling zones with temperatures between 5°C to 20°C
  • Free-standing or built-in installation
  • Beechwood detailing on wine shelves and glass for other beverages
  • Internal LED lighting you can turn on or off to showcase your collection
  • High-efficiency compressor and anti-vibration system
  • Two year warranty on parts and labour
ASKO wine climate cabinet

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ASKO Wine Climate Cabinet

$14,999 at The Good Guys

Best for: the serious collector

This ASKO wine cabinet is designed with professional-grade storage for up to 190 bottles. Created with both efficiency and aesthetics in mind, this sleek wine fridge comes with with features like adjustable RGB lighting, a built-in label-scanning camera and three climate adjustments so you can ensure your wine is stored just as the makers intended.

With a chic matte black finish and anti-vibration shelves, this freestanding unit is an investment in both style and the longevity of your wine collection.

Dimensions: 700 (W) x 1920 (H) x 797 (D) mm

Key features:

  • Stores up to 190 bottles, with temperature ranges between 5°C to 20°C
  • Three climate zones for optimal temperature and humidity
  • Built-in camera for scanning wine labels
  • Anti-vibration shelves
  • Two-year manufacturer’s warranty
The Devanti 12 bottle thermoelectric wine cooler.

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Devanti 12 bottle thermoelectric wine cooler

$258.95 at Amazon

Best for: the dabbling collector

Modest and reliable, this thermoelectric wine cooler features adjustable temperature controls between 10-20°C, making it suitable for most whites and all reds. With UV-resistant glass, a child safety lock and more, it’s a more affordable choice for those new to wine collecting.

Dimensions: 253 (W) x 645 (H) x 500 (D) mm

Key features:

  • Built-in interior LEDs
  • Double-glazed, UV-resistant glass door
  • High precision thermoelectric cooling technology
  • Auto-defrost
  • Pull-out chrome racks
  • Silent operation
  • Safety child lock
  • Energy-efficient design

What to know about wine fridges

A wine fridge is a specialised fridge designed to let you store – and drink – wine at the optimal temperatures, usually targeting 12°C for cellaring. In comparison, bar fridges and standard refrigerators are usually chilled around the 3°C mark, which means your perfect drop could become not-so-perfect when stored. Wine fridges also have controlled humidity and minimised vibration, which will allow you to cellar your drops for decades.

Chilling your preferred vintages for serving is a different story, however. You want to set the wine fridge for 6-8°C for sparkling, 8-13°C for whites and 15-18°C for reds. After all, no one likes a warm glass of Champagne.

Is it worth having a wine fridge?

If you have wine that you want to store, a wine fridge will help ensure it ages well. Considering how expensive fine wines can be (and how delicious), the last thing anyone wants is for them to go bad.

And if you’re wondering just how expensive wine can be, in 2018 Sotheby’s reported that it sold the most expensive bottle for US$558,000: a 1945 Domaine de la Romanee-Conti Grand Cru (Bordeaux). So for collectors, making sure wine is stored properly is be a valuable investment.

How much should I spend in a wine fridge?

Prices can range from around $200 for a wine cooler, to more than $5000 for a wine cabinet. To help you decide how much to spend, think about:

– How many bottles you want to store
– How long you want to store them
– The amount of space you have for wine storage
– The value of your wine collection
– What features you need (and want)
– The quality of the wine fridge options you’re looking at buying

You also need to think about your budget and how much you are comfortable spending. It’s important to be realistic, but also make sure the wine fridge you buy is right for what you want. If you have a small budget, you could even choose to start with a small but high-performing fridge that you can use for a selection of wines before upgrading to a larger version for all your wines in the future.

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The fragrance designed to become a future memory https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/ex-nihilo-fragrance-memory/ Tue, 17 Feb 2026 22:49:58 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=229962 Like travel, the most meaningful scents are discovered, not replicated.

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Travel has a way of imprinting itself through the senses. A dish eaten on a backstreet in Paris. The warmth of stone underfoot at dusk. The scent of clean skin after a day by the sea. These moments linger long after the suitcase is unpacked, resurfacing unexpectedly through smell and sensation rather than photographs. It’s this idea of scent as memory that underpins the olfactory universe of Parisian fragrance house EX NIHILO. From the floral lift of cult favourite Fleur Narcotique to the escapism of Lust in Paradise, each creation feels like a destination. And with its latest release, GENERATION(S), the Maison turns its focus to creating a fragrance designed not to recall the past, but to become a future memory.

Approaching fragrance with the same philosophy as modern travel — slower, more intentional and deeply personal — EX NIHILO resists repetition and nostalgia. Instead, its scents are made to be lived with, layered into everyday rituals and shaped by the experiences that follow. It’s luxury defined not by immediacy, but by longevity.

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Image: supplied

Fragrance as journey

For EX NIHILO, scent is not a snapshot but a journey. Inspired by the lives, cultures and communities of its Parisian creators, GENERATION(S) reflects the idea of modern tribes, the places we return to and the shared experiences that quietly define us.

Like a meaningful trip, the fragrance doesn’t announce itself all at once. There’s no sharp arrival or overwhelming first impression. Instead, it unfolds gradually, revealing its character over time and wear. Designed to be worn generously and daily, GENERATION(S) becomes part of the wearer’s personal landscape rather than a temporary statement.

Softly scented

As the way we travel has evolved, fragrance has followed suit. Alcohol-free perfumery is no longer niche, emerging as a more considered approach to luxury scent. GENERATION(S) reflects this cultural shift with an innovative alcohol-free Eau de Parfum formulated with sensitive skin in mind.

Without the sharpness traditionally associated with alcohol-based fragrances, the scent sits closer to the skin, creating a softer, more intimate presence. It lingers gently rather than overpowering, making it ideal for long days, warm climates and close moments. The experience is refined, comfortable and quietly immersive.

Importantly, alcohol-free does not mean diluted. Instead, it allows the fragrance to evolve slowly and naturally, mirroring the way memories form over time rather than in an instant.

Inside the bottle

Inspired by diversity, connection and modern life, GENERATION(S) opens with fresh notes of pear and fig — crisp, clean and uplifting, like the first breath of air in a new place. As the fragrance settles, warm sandalwood emerges to ground the scent and add a touch of familiarity.

The alcohol-free formulation allows the scent to develop gradually throughout the day, responding to movement, environment and skin. It’s present without dominating, familiar without ever feeling static — a fragrance designed to be experienced rather than simply worn.

In a world that often chases the next destination or trend, EX NIHILO offers a more compelling proposition: fragrance as journey rather than souvenir.

Ex Nihilo Fragrance - generations
Image: supplied

EX NIHILO GENERATION (S) Eau De Parfum, $510 at David Jones

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Saardé’s new ceramics collection was made with shared experiences in mind https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/saarde-new-collection/ Sun, 15 Feb 2026 23:22:09 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=230178 The Sydney homewares and lifestyle brand brings the spirit of travel home.

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Piles of pasta, colourful fresh salads and towers of juicy stonefruit deserve to be properly presented when entertaining guests. Inspired by summer get-togethers in the balmy Mediterranean, design-led lifestyle brand Saardé’s recently launched collection – For The Way We Gather – is an ideal fit for the job.

“Moments of togetherness feel increasingly meaningful these days, and having thoughtful pieces that feel both elevated and unfussy can make those moments even more special,” says Verity Kizek, who founded Saardé with her husband Shenol in 2018.

Saardé’s founders Verity and Shenol. (Credit: Bill Chen)

Beyond their core of making beautiful items for everyday living including homewares, bed linen, skincare and fragrances, the couple regularly finds inspiration in travel, resulting in releases like glassware evoking the mythology of Greece, and a fragrance recalling Japan’s sense of ceremony and serenity.

“Earlier this year, Shenol and I travelled to Portugal and met many makers in person,” says Verity. “Portugal has a rich heritage in ceramics, with generations of expertise behind the craft. At the same time, many producers there are innovating, particularly around sustainability, material reuse, and responsible energy and water use.”

The new collection comes in three colourways, including a rich, mottled ochre shade called Sunfleck, which the designer says reminds her of sunflowers, honey and amber.

Sunfleck pieces from the new collection.

“Each piece is individually flecked by hand using a reactive glaze,” Verity explains. “During high-temperature firing, the glaze interacts with the clay and kiln atmosphere, creating variations in colour and texture – no two pieces are ever quite the same.” As beautiful as the range is, which includes coffee and tea cups, dinnerware, jugs and servingware, functionality remains key. “We strongly believe that design has the power to shape how we feel and how we connect with one another,” says Verity. “We really hope people use these pieces every day.”

Shop the For The Way We Gather collection online.

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The Lunar New Year releases we’re coveting right now https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/gift-guides/the-lunar-new-year-releases-were-coveting-right-now/ Wed, 11 Feb 2026 03:21:36 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=230001 Big Fire Horse energy.

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As of 17 February, it’s out with the old and in with the new.

Where the Year of the Snake was all about slowing down and shedding what no longer fits, the Year of the Horse is characterised by fast-paced energy, forward movement and a spirit of action.

Whether you’re after a chic gift to bring to a celebration with friends and family or looking to treat yourself to a little something for an auspicious year of health and wealth, these are the Lunar New Year releases we’re coveting right now. From Chinese-inspired sweet treats to designer mahjong sets, here are the items we’re adding to cart.     

Koko Black’s Lunar New Year range

Chocolatier Koko Black is taking gifting to new heights with its Lunar New Year range, available in stores and online from 20 January to 17 February.

Its 48-piece Lunar Lantern is back with nine layers of pralines – including a new Sichuan Pepper flavour – wrapped in gold foil to symbolise wealth and prosperity.

Not only is nine considered a lucky number in Chinese culture, but the lantern is designed to be repurposed as a decorative piece to light up those New Year celebrations. Plus, receive complimentary hóng bāo (red envelopes) with your Lunar New Year purchases.

Haigh’s Chocolates Lunar New Year gifts

In a similar vein, Haigh’s Chocolates have brought out a Lunar New Year gift range, starring new, exclusive flavours like Milk Matcha and Peppermint Fudge. The chocolates are available for purchase as a loose chocolate or within the Milk and Dark Selection boxes.

Wrapped in red and gold, the design features a spirited horse adorned with plum blossoms for vitality, speed and perseverance.

The loved Milk Yuzu Block will also return for the Year of the Horse, along with the Milk and Dark Macadamias Gift Box, Milk and Dark Tablets, and Chocolate Baubles Gift Bag.

The collection is available from 9 February across all Haigh’s stores and online.

LEO LIN’s limited edition mahjong set

In honour of founder Leo Lin’s zodiac year, the much-loved Sydney-based womenswear label has released its first ever mahjong set.

Designed in shades of candy pink and red and easily transportable thanks to its luxurious carry case, the set is every fashion lover’s dream.

To top it off, the fashion brand has also launched an exclusive Lunar New Year partnership with luxury hotel, Capella Sydney.

The partnership invites guests to enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences – including a luxurious hotel package – as well as a bespoke afternoon tea inspired by the fashion label’s Lunar New Year collection.

“Lunar New Year is a moment deeply rooted in culture, connection, and new beginnings,” says Lin. “Our partnership with Capella Sydney brings these values to life through thoughtfully curated experiences that honour tradition while embracing modern luxury.”   

The exclusive Afternoon Tea experience is available to book now until  March while the Capella Sydney x LEO LIN hotel package is bookable now from 13 February until 3 March.

Oribe’s Hair Alchemy Liter Set

Designed in collaboration with Australian-Chinese artist, Chris Chun, the limited-edition Hair Alchemy gift set is formulated to strengthen hair and create the ultimate protection for smooth, resilient hair in 2026.

The Fire Horse design uses striking gold outlines and auspicious reds to evoke prosperity, strength and elegance.

The set includes a Hair Alchemy Resilience Shampoo (1L) and a Hair Alchemy Resilience Conditioner (1L).

Silky Laundry’s Year of the Fire Horse collection

The ready-to-wear luxury clothing brand’s interpretation of 2026’s Fire Horse has no doubt delivered the wardrobe workhorse you need. Comprising of simple red or black silk staples – a pair of silk slacks, a relaxed blazer or a bias cut cami, perhaps – the capsule culminates in the brand’s signature black silk slip dress with Year of the Horse artwork. Wild horses gallop beneath a red sun, celebrating strength and forward motion for the New Year.

Dior’s limited-edition Rouge Dior lipstick

Playing on the auspiciousness of red, Dior’s limited-edition Rouge Dior lipsticks offer another way to wear the colour this Lunar New Year.

The Rouge Dior lipstick delivers a bold, matte finish, while lip care formula leaves lips feeling soft and smooth.

101-year-old French kitchenware brand Le Creuset is marking the 2026 Lunar New Year with its first-ever Lunar New Year collection. The Carousel collection splashes horse motifs onto bright red glossy glazes, making it ideal for tablescaping this New Year.

The range includes stoneware plates, bowls, dishes and soup spoons made for pairing with traditional banquet items like prosperity toss salads and longevity noodles. Wrapped in crimson ribbon and gold foiling, it makes for the perfect Lunar New Year gift – if only to yourself.

Burberry’s Year of the Horse collection

Burberry takes its iconic wardrobe staples and imbues them with subtle horse designs for their Lunar New Year capsule. Signature A-line trenches come with detachable wool-blend warmers with red stripes and the Equestrian Knight design, while the horse motif stars more prominently in other accessories like red scarves, a quilted horseshoe chain pouch bag and studded hoop earrings.  

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In search of the best food processor? We tried and tested the Ninja Stealth IQ Kitchen System https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/ninja-stealth-iq-food-processor/ Tue, 13 Jan 2026 03:33:04 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=228963 And found it to be a quiet achiever.

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The return to everyday cooking comes a familiar urge to upgrade the kitchen workhorses that do the heavy lifting. For anyone eyeing a new food processor – one that can handle weeknight prep without dominating the benchtop – the Ninja Stealth iQ Kitchen System has been quietly making waves. We put it to the test to see if it earns a place in a Gourmet Traveller kitchen.

Ninja Stealth IQ Our expert verdict on the food processor and blender

Pros

  • All the accessories and extra blend-and-go jugs.
  • Stealth by name and stealthily quiet by nature.
  • Option to use the smart ‘Blend Sense’ which adjusts processing time automatically.
  • Solid suction to surface for less chance of movement.

Cons

  • If storage space is a premium, you may find it difficult to store all the accessories.

How the Ninja Stealth IQ can make your life easier

More than just a food processor, the Ninja Stealth iQ Kitchen System will earn its place on your benchtop by functioning as a true multi-tasker for everyday cooking. It chops and slices with ease, blends smoothies to a silky finish, and even kneads dough when weekend baking or weeknight pizza is on the agenda. The blend-and-go cups are particularly handy during the back-to-work and back-to-school rush, allowing smoothies and sauces to be made, sealed and taken straight out the door. For cooks looking to streamline meal prep in the new year – from weekday lunches to family dinners – this all-in-one blender and food processor simplifies the process.

Ninja Stealth IQ Best Food Processor

Ninja Stealth IQ specs and product features

Colour: Black
Power: 800W BLDC (equivalent of 1200W DC)
Dimensions (cm): Product: 21.5 W x 24.5 D x 40.5 H Packaging: 48.7 W x 35.8 D x 38 H
Weight: 3.97kg
Price: RRP $399.99
Warranty: 2 years
Settings: BlendSense/Manual/Mode/Pulse, 10 Speed Settings, Frozen Drinks, Extractions, Smoothies, Smoothies bowls, Salsas, Cookie Dough, Sliced Veggies, Coleslaw
What’s in the box: Motor Base, 2.1L Jug, Total Crushing® & Chopping Blade Assembly, BPA-free 1.8L Food Processor Bowl, BPA-free Food Processor Bowl Feed Chute Lid and Pusher, Chopping Blade Assembly, Dough Blade Assembly, Reversible Slicing / Shredding Disc, Spindle, three BPA-free 700ml Single-Serve Cups with Spout Lids, Hybrid Edge™ Blades Assembly, Stealth Shield & Lid, Inspiration Guide with 15+ Recipes

How to use the Ninja Stealth IQ

1 Super-easy set up

Depending on what you’re looking to make will determine your set up. Start with placing the motor base on your benchtop – be aware that the non-slip suction feet are strong and take more than a little coaxing to release them from your work surface if you want to reposition the base. Then consult the guide to help you choose which bowl or blades will best suit your purpose. For the most part it’s fairly intuitive

2 Touch of a button

Once you’re ready, simply press the dial to start the Blendsense program – it will actively adjust speed and time based on ingredients density and size. Or if you’d rather control the process, press Manual, then choose your Mode from the blending and processing choices to blend, crush, chop, mince, slice or shred. There’s also a Pulse button that operates only when you press and hold it. Consult the Quick Start Guide for any tips, tricks or recipes to get you started.

3 Dream clean

Each detachable part of the Ninja Stealth IQ is dishwasher safe so cleaning is as easy as rinse and stack in the top rack of the dishwasher. There is a warning to not use the ‘heated dry cycle’ on your dishwasher. Alternatively you can hand-wash the accessories, but be extra careful handling the blades as they are razor-sharp.

Ninja Stealth IQ food processor

Results from our Ninja Stealth IQ test run

We put the Ninja Stealth iQ to work on the kind of everyday cooking that matters most, beginning with the vegetable base for a rich Bolognese. Onion, carrot, celery and a few extra vegetables (destined to stay hidden from younger diners) were processed quickly and evenly, creating a fine soffritto without turning watery. We also tested the blender on a quick hummus using tinned chickpeas, which came together fast at the press of the BlendSense button. While it retained some texture, removing the chickpea skins would deliver a smoother finish. In both tests, the machine proved adept at the practical prep work that underpins good weeknight cooking and entertaining alike.

Overall, is the Ninja Stealth IQ worth it?

We’ve had the opportunity to test many of the best food processors across multiple price points, and at $399.99, the Ninja Stealth iQ Kitchen System punches well above its weight—not only in performance but in accessories. This ‘kitchen system’ is like having your own sous chef at your side, ready to chop, blend, mince, purée and knead at your command. And with stealth mode in action, you’ll never need to raise your voice to be heard above it.

Where to buy the Ninja Luxe Café

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Le Creuset just launched its first-ever Lunar New Year collection https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/le-creuset-carousel/ Mon, 12 Jan 2026 02:56:54 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=229026 101-year-old French kitchenware brand Le Creuset is marking the 2026 Lunar New Year (which falls on Tuesday 17 February) with its first-ever Lunar New Year collection, called the Carousel collection. Decorated with a horse motif in honour of the Chinese zodiac animal for 2026 and Chinese-style knot details, the collection is splashed with bright red […]

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101-year-old French kitchenware brand Le Creuset is marking the 2026 Lunar New Year (which falls on Tuesday 17 February) with its first-ever Lunar New Year collection, called the Carousel collection.

A table setting using the Le Creuset Lunar New Year carousel collection
An assortment of soup bowls, small plates and soup spoons from Le Creuset’s Lunar New Year collection.

Decorated with a horse motif in honour of the Chinese zodiac animal for 2026 and Chinese-style knot details, the collection is splashed with bright red glazing perfect for festive Lunar New Year tablescaping. The range includes stoneware plates, bowls, dishes and soup spoons made for pairing with traditional Lunar New Year dishes like long noodles, prosperity toss salads, and money bag-inspired dumplings. There’s also a couple of Le Creuset’s classic cast iron casserole dishes — but they won’t be available until the end of January.

The Le Creuset Carousel collection also comes in exclusive packaging with a crimson ribbon and gold foiling, making it perfect for a festive Lunar New Year gift — or just adding to the joy of unboxing items that will be used for generations to come.

Plates, dishes and mini plates from the Le Creuset Carousel collection.

The Lunar New Year Carousel collection is available now from $45, in stores and online.

Our editors handpick everything we recommend. We may receive revenue for sharing this content or when you shop through our links. Read more here.

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Meet the luxury SUV brand redefining weekend escapes https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/denza-new-luxury-hybrid-suvs/ Fri, 19 Dec 2025 02:44:06 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=228507 Your next refined adventure awaits.

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A Gourmet Traveller reader rarely needs more than one reason to hit the open road – whether it’s the pull of a lauded regional restaurant, a long lunch in wine country or the promise of a coastal escape. With the arrival of Denza luxury vehicles in Australia, these culinary pilgrimages just got significantly more comfortable.

Born from a collaboration between BYD and Mercedes-Benz, Denza enters the local market as a new kind of luxury vehicle brand – one that blends thoughtful design, advanced hybrid technology and everyday usability, without the eye-watering price tag traditionally attached to premium SUVs. Its Australian debut centres on two plug-in hybrid models: the five-seat B5 and the larger, three-row six or seven-seater B8, both designed for drivers who see travel as part of the pleasure, not just a means to an end.

Style and substance

The appeal is immediate. The B5 has a confident, modern presence, while the B8 leans into a more commanding silhouette and is ideal for longer journeys or travelling with family and friends. But the real story is how seamlessly both vehicles move between city driving and long-distance touring.

For everyday errands such as school drop-offs, market runs and midweek dinners, they can be driven largely on electric power alone, offering a quiet, smooth experience that feels perfectly suited to urban life. When it’s time to head further afield, the hybrid system extends range effortlessly, eliminating the need to plan trips around charging stops. The result is a sense of freedom that feels quietly luxurious.

Both models achieve up to 90 kilometres of pure electric driving – perfect for farm-gate visits and cellar door tours without using a drop of petrol. Combined range approaches almost 1,000 kilometres, meaning you can drive from Sydney to Melbourne’s finest restaurants without stopping for fuel.

There’s also a quietly clever feature that speaks directly to the modern traveller’s lifestyle: both the B5 and B8 offer vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, allowing the cars to supply power to external devices such as laptops between appointments or powering a coffee machine on a weekend escape.

The luxury of space

Inside, the SUVs favour comfort and restraint over showiness. The B5 offers a calm, well-appointed cabin with generous storage, providing ample room for cases of wine, gourmet provisions or weekend luggage. Soft leather finishes, intuitive digital controls and clever details make it feel considered rather than ostentatious.

The B8 builds on this with a more expansive interior and the option of six or seven seats. In its six-seat configuration, individual second-row seats feel more like a luxe lounge than a traditional SUV – fantastic for long drives to regional destinations. Thoughtful inclusions such as heating and ventilation in the seats, and an integrated cooling and warming box, are ideal for keeping wine at the perfect temperature or ensuring your morning croissant stays hot on early drives to the farmers’ market.

Capability without compromise

For those whose favourite destinations lie beyond sealed roads – vineyard tracks, country estates, coastal hideaways – both vehicles are engineered to handle changing conditions with ease. You don’t need to think about the terrain; the car does that for you. It’s confidence that allows you to focus on the journey, the company and the destination ahead.

Hybrid SUVs

Sustainable luxury

At a time when environmental consciousness increasingly influences purchasing decisions, Denza offers a compelling proposition. The ability to complete most daily driving on electric power alone – school runs, grocery shopping, commutes – means dramatically reduced emissions for everyday use. Yet when adventure calls, the extended-range hybrid system delivers confidence for long-distance touring without range anxiety.

The technology also means lower running costs. Charge overnight on off-peak electricity rates, and your morning drive costs mere cents per kilometre. When you do need the petrol engine, it works primarily as a generator, operating at peak efficiency to extend your range.

A new standard

Pricing, before on roads, starts at $74,990 for the B5 Standard and $91,000 for the B8 seven-seat – figures that position these vehicles as remarkably attainable luxury, particularly when considering inclusions that would cost significantly more from established European brands.

For the discerning driver who values both the destination and the journey, Denza’s B5 and B8 represent something genuinely new. They don’t just get you there – they make the journey something to savour.

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Is this Sydney’s most exclusive couples spa and dinner experience? https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/shangri-la-sydney-spa-and-dinner-experience/ Wed, 26 Nov 2025 04:18:39 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=227664 Twilight luxury at Shangri-La.

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From Altitude’s vantage point high above Sydney Harbour, twilight arrives in deepening hues of blue and violet. Ferries trace silver paths across the water, the skyline sharpens into silhouette, and the restaurant’s tables seem to float between the last light of day and the glow of the city coming alive.

But this is where the evening culminates. It begins several floors below, where the city’s energy fades to whisper and time itself seems to slow. The week’s tension – every email, every deadline – begins to dissolve the moment you enter Chi, The Spa.

Few experiences in Sydney are as thoughtfully choreographed as Shangri-La Sydney’s Twilight Spa and Dinner Experience. It offers a seamless balance of relaxation, celebration, and intimate luxury. A unique gift to be shared.

Luxury spa
Image: Adam Bruzzone

Chi, The Spa: Your restoration era

At the heart of Shangri-La sits the award-winning Chi, The Spa. With state-of-the-art wellness facilities and a menu of treatments designed to regenerate your chi, this is where genuine renewal begins.

As the bright amber light of day begins to fade, so too will any lingering thoughts of work or stress. You and your partner enter the private couple’s spa suite and settle into a 45-minute Tension Relief Massage. What remains will dissolve in the gentle heat of the couple’s infrared sauna: 30 minutes of detoxifying warmth that feels less like treatment and more like emergence.

You’ll leave feeling both centred in yourself and blissfully connected to each other. Which is precisely the state of mind you want when the lift doors open onto Level 36.

Luxury Dining
Image: Supplied

Altitude: Where Sydney takes centre stage

Rather than returning to the world abruptly, you’re seated at an intimate table at Altitude, with the entire harbour stretched out below: Opera House, Harbour Bridge, the glittering city grid.

You’re handed a glass of sparkling and the evening’s menu – think Kurrimine Coral Trout, Shangri-La Honey-glazed Duck Breast, Kinross Station Hampshire Down Lamb and Condabilla Murray Cod. The three courses culminate in an assiette of desserts, each dish as considered as the last.

Luxury Dining
Image: Supplied

What began in the quiet warmth of the spa now finds its counterpoint here: bold flavours, precise technique, and the kind of presentation that makes you pause before the first bite.

By the time dessert arrives, the harbour is fully illuminated – a mirror of lights on black water. The evening has moved through distinct acts: relaxation, ascension, celebration. What makes this experience rare isn’t any single element, but the way each one amplifies what came before. You leave not just satisfied, but recalibrated. It’s the kind of reset that lingers long after you’ve returned to sea level. At $599 per couple, the Twilight Spa and Dinner Experience offers something increasingly precious in Sydney: time that feels genuinely stolen from the everyday, spent entirely on each other.

This is more than dinner and spa, it’s a complete reset. Book your evening of twilight luxury below.


The Twilight Spa & Dinner Experience

What’s included

  • 45-minute couple’s Tension Relief Massage in a private spa suite
  • 30-minute couple’s infrared sauna session
  • Three-course dinner for two at Altitude on Level 36
  • Glass of sparkling wine per person with dinner
  • Health Club access (indoor pool, equipped gym, robes and slippers)

Price: $599 per couple
Time: 5pm to 9pm
Bookings: Call (02) 9250 6032 or email chispa.slsn@shangri-la.com or click here

The post Is this Sydney’s most exclusive couples spa and dinner experience? appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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227664 Shangri-La Sydney_Spa_Adam Bruzzone (2). Image: Adam Bruzzone Chi, The Spa Infrared sauna Image: Supplied Altitude Image: Supplied gourmettraveller-227664
Gourmet Traveller’s guide to Christmas gifts that look expensive but cost under $100 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/gift-guides/christmas-gifts-under-100-15391/ Mon, 17 Nov 2025 06:39:48 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au//lifestyle/gift-guides/christmas-gifts-under-100-15391 Gifts that look chic, but won't break your bank account.

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A luxurious Christmas gift doesn’t always have to come with a premium price tag. There are plenty of affordable gift options in 2025, that will make your loved ones feel special (and, dare we say, rather stylish!). From artisan candles, to sleek glassware, and fancy olive oil, discover the Christmas gifts under $100 that will be on everyone’s wishlist in 2025.

The best Christmas gifts under $100

Gifts for her under $100

6pcs Matcha Kit Set

$34.90 at Amazon

If she’s been riding the increasingly-popular matcha train, why not treat her to a ceremonial set of her own? Just don’t forget to also add the ceremonial grade matcha powder.

Kowtow x Nonna’s Grocer Anjou Pear Candle

$59 at Kowtow

New Zealand fashion brand Kowtow has partnered with Nonna’s Grocer, an artisan candle maker from Victoria, to delivery this fresh summer scent in the form of a soy-wax pear.

Studio Milligram Casper Vase

$54.99 at David Jones

This organic shaped vase is for lovers of wabi-sabi romance. Perfect for those wanting a touch of colour and warmth in their home.

Peach Carafe

Was $69, Now $29 at No.22

We all need to stay hydrated, why not do it in style? The perfect gift for your fashionable, office-working pals.

Merit Flush Balm

$48 at Merit

This blush endures as one of the most popular beauty products of the last two years. A girl can’t have enough Merit Flush Balm colourways—and at $48 a piece, you can get two for under $100!

Maggie Beer French Market Basket

$79.95 at David Jones

If the woman you’re buying for is the kind who loves a weekend trip to the produce markets, or simply desires a chic but casual carry-all for the weekends, this could be the solution to her woes. And who would have thought this cute accessory was straight from the line of condiment queen Maggie Beer?

L’Occitane Almond Supple Skin Oil 100ml

$79 at L’Occitane

L’Occitane body products make for perfect gifts for the woman who has everything. From the cult-favourite almond shower oil to this moisturising body oil, whoever is on the receiving end of these products will be eternally grateful for their thoroughly hydrated skin.

Marimekko Piccolo Cushion Cover

$77 at David Jones

If you know somebody looking for an accent cushion for their living or bedroom, this pink-and-green stripe, 100% cotton cover could be the perfect gift.

Aesop Resurrection Aromatique Hand Wash 500ml

$53 at Myer

A classic for a reason, Aesop simply can’t stop selling their cult favourite hand wash (and matching hand balm, $51). A bougie soap is the perfect gift for those who refuse to spoil themselves with little luxuries.

Satin Square Silk Headscarf

$13.99 at Amazon

A silk scarf is the accessory of 2025. This one can be worn as a top, a headscarf or a wrap—so, really, it’s multiple gifts in one. At this price point, it makes the perfect stocking-stuffer or Kris Kringle gift.


Gifts for him under $100

Customs Trucker Hat

$49.99 at Deus ex Machina

If you know somebody who loves a baseball cap, and a bit of flash, this satin-finish trucker hat from Deus ex Machina is the gift for them. The perfect statement accessory for the un-apologetically well-dressed.

Mini Griddle Pan

Was $100, now $85 at Our Place

For the home cook in your life, this sheet pan is perfect for small families or folks who live alone. It can be used on the stove top or in the oven, is toxin-free and comes in five different colourways. It’s also easily carried if you wanted to take it camping.

Frank Green Iced Coffee Cup with Straw

$54.95 at The Iconic

With summer upon us, your loved one might be swapping their hot morning latte for an iced coffee, cold brew or matcha. These insulated Frank Green cups are eco-friendly and stylish.

The Japanese Way Of Whisky

$55 at Dymocks

The ultimate Christmas gift for whisky lovers under $100, is undeniably this comprehensive and artful guide to Japanese whisky by expert Dave Broom.

Maison Balzac Gin and Tonic Gobelets, Set of Two

$99 at Maison Balzac

Scraping in just under $100, you really can’t go wrong with gifting a set of glasses from designer glassware brand Maison Balzac.

Palma Stripe Bath Towel

$59.95 at Aura Home

This luxe bath towel is the perfect gift for a man who appreciates the soft touch of OEKO-TEX-certified, 100% premium Australian cotton.

Moleskine 2026 Weekly Notebook Diary

$49.99 at David Jones

If you’re gifting a person who loves to stay organised, the Moleskine 2026 Weekly Notebook is a classic stationery gift. Alternatively, the dreamers in your life may prefer the simple lined notebook in which to scrawl their thoughts.


Food, home and travel gifts under $100

Vietnam The Cookbook by Anais Ca Dao Van Manen

Was $74.95, Now $55.75 at Booktopia

One of the year’s most exciting cookbooks was this definitive guide to Vietnamese cuisine. Following an October release, Christmas is the perfect time to gift this special book—and striking piece of green decor!—to a loved one.

Le Creuset Olive jar with Fork

Was $65, now $52 at David Jones

An adorable gift for the friend who loves to entertain, this green ceramic olive jar comes with it’s own fork to avoid fingers dipping in to the olive bowl.

Muraglia Rooster Jar Extra Virgin Olive Oil 500ml

$94.95 at David Jones

Fancy olive oil is the ideal gift for any foodie. This one comes in a bottle designed by Italian artist Stella Tasca—giving it that extra something special that marks a good Christmas present.

Gourmet Traveller subscription

$99.99 at Magshop

Can you blame us? For less than $100 you can gift someone a full year of joy when the latest issue of Gourmet Traveller arrives in their mailbox.

Amalfi Three-Tiered Candle Holder

$89.99 at David Jones

This architectural candle holder is a great gift for anyone who loves statement decor.

Black Blaze Gem Bowl

$72 at The Iconic

In true French Style, this fruit or serving bowl is understated and elegant. The butter yellow colour—one of the most popular hues to emerge in 2025—with navy trim is given that extra pop by the “joie de vivre” subtly inscribed on its interior. If you don’t like this piece, check out more of the range from Black Blaze—an affordable but stylish homewares range, full of statement tablewear and decor at affordable prices.

Cutlery Set L’Escargot

$99 at Maison Balzac

If you know someone who loves stylish silverware, this two-person collection from Maison Balzac will find them overjoyed.

Packing Cells — Four Pack

$55 at July

If your loved ones love to travel, you cannot go wrong with a gift of packing cubes. The ultimate travel must-have, packing cubes make everyone’s life easier—and this set from luggage brand July are rather stylish, too.


A bottle of Chandon

09

Chandon Brut

$36 at Dan Murphy’s

Thoughtfully crafted in Australia’s Yarra Valley, no table is complete without Chandon’s sparkling wines, which are the perfect touch to elevate any occasion with your nearest and dearest.


Noelle tree candle

10

Large Noelle Tree Candle

$19 at Provincial Home Living

Add a whimsical glow to your festive décor with Provincial Home Living’s LED wax-like candles in the shape of a charming Christmas tree. With their realistic wax finish and gentle light, they bring warmth and wonder to any Christmas setting – no flames, no fuss. Perfect for mantels, windowsills or as part of a magical tabletop display. Safe, sweet, and full of seasonal charm.

Raconteur discovery set

11

Discovery Set

$75 from Raconteur

Buying a fragrance for a loved one might seem like risky business, but this Discovery Set from Raconteur allows them to try before they buy. Sample a selection of favourites within the set, then redeem your voucher of $75 on the perfume of your choice. Fail-proof in our books.

Read more Gourmet Traveller Christmas gift guides for 2025:

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Is this the smartest coffee machine for home baristas? We tested the Ninja Luxe Café Premier Espresso machine https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/ninja-luxe-cafe-coffee-machine-product-review/ Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:25:37 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=227031 The coffee machine making cold brew and espresso effortless at home.

The post Is this the smartest coffee machine for home baristas? We tested the Ninja Luxe Café Premier Espresso machine appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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Australian coffee culture is shifting. Baristas are swapping steam for precision brews, and drinkers are trading intensity for nuance. The once-untouchable espresso now finds itself in dialogue with batch brews and cold brews that favour flavour clarity and lower acidity over pure punch. The Ninja Luxe Café Premier Espresso machine embraces this evolution, offering a bridge between worlds — a high-performance system capable of delivering espresso, filter and cold brew with café-grade precision. In a market redefining what “good coffee” means, it’s a timely contender.

With features built to deliver multiple styles — from morning flat whites to over-ice brews — it’s the perfect moment to test whether this new style of coffee machine is truly changing how we drink coffee.

Ninja Luxe Café: Our expert verdict on the new coffee machine

Pros

  • User-friendly touchscreen control panel / settings that guides you through the process.
  • There’s a place for every accessory on or in the machine.
  • The grind auto adapts to your beans and coffee of choice.
  • It’s a quieter grinding mechanism than traditional benchtop grinders.

Cons

  • May be too automated for coffee aficionados who appreciate a more hands-on approach.
  • Each program is sequential so if you misstep it can be tricky to go back one step.

How the Ninja Luxe Café is changing coffee making at home

The Ninja Luxe Cafe is the kind of machine that makes us rethink our morning (and afternoon) rituals. It’s designed with entertainers and social drinkers in mind in that it brings that café buzz home. Think smooth espressos after dinner, silky flat whites with friends, or a crisp over-ice brew on a lazy Sunday. It’s for those who love the theatre of coffee — the aroma, the pour, the pause — and want the quality they’d usually head out for at the press of a button, or two.

Ninja Luxe Café specs and product features (what you need to know)

Colour: Stainless Steel, Midnight Black, Gunmetal or Cyberspace.
Power: 1650W
Dimensions: 32.9 W x 34 D x 37 H
Weight: 11.6kg
Price: RRP $999.99
Warranty: 2 years
Settings: Espresso, Cold Brew, Filter Coffee

How to use the Ninja Luxe Café

1 Set-up for success

Once you’ve unboxed your Ninja Luxe Café and its starter kit — complete with portafilter, single, double and luxe baskets, plus the assisted spring-loaded tamper — it’s time to get acquainted. Scan the QR code on the machine to access an easy step-by-step video that walks you through calibration and setup. Each stage is clear, concise and worth your time — don’t skip it, it’s invaluable for that first flawless brew.

2 Fill the water jug

The removable water jug, fitted with a replaceable filter, lifts easily from the back of the machine. Fill above the minimum line to ensure a steady pour — no one likes running dry mid-brew.

3 Add your beans

This is where the Ninja Luxe Café shines. Each time you refill the built-in grinder, it auto-calibrates the precise weight of beans for your chosen brew. A clever portafilter funnel keeps things tidy, guiding your tamping with the spring-loaded tamper for a perfectly compacted puck — minus the mess.

4 Choose your brew

Follow the intuitive display to select your brew style, cup size and basket type. The machine automatically determines grind size and coffee weight for each selection. Insert the portafilter with the funnel and press Grind. Once done, remove the funnel, lock the portafilter into place, and press Brew. Sit back and let the Luxe Café do the rest.

5 Froth the milk

Here’s where the magic happens. Choose between hot or cold froth — the Luxe Café even adjusts the texture depending on your milk type (dairy or non-dairy). Fill the jug with your milk of choice, press Froth, and watch as it transforms into silky foam worthy of your favourite café order.

Ninja Luxe Cafe

Results from our Ninja Luxe Café test run

From set-up to froth, the Ninja Luxe Café proves itself a smooth operator. Following the simple guide, we pulled an espresso shot that was both intense and refined. The long black was just as effortless, topped with a golden crema any barista worth their beans would admire. Moving through the programs, the cold brew transformed beautifully into an iced latte thanks to the cold-froth function — a summer essential. And while the quick 10-minute filter option may raise an eyebrow among purists, it delivers a surprisingly balanced cup when the craving for something more nuanced strikes.

Have we mentioned the spring-loaded tamper? There’s something deeply satisfying about giving the grinds a few firm presses, guided neatly by the funnel — a small detail that makes the process feel as polished as the pour.

Overall, is the Ninja Luxe Café worth it?

This is an impressive piece of kitchen kit for households that appreciate a cold brew or a zhuzhed-up iced latte made with their milk of choice. For those who prefer a little guidance in their morning ritual, the Luxe Café’s step-by-step system feels reassuringly intuitive — smart, seamless and satisfying.

At $799.99 (usually $999.99), the Ninja Luxe Café Premier Espresso Machine delivers the kind of technology and versatility you’d expect from a far pricier model. It’s an investment that brings café-quality coffee — and a touch of theatre — to your own benchtop.

Where to buy the Ninja Luxe Café

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227031 Cold brew with cold froth gourmettraveller-227031
The best luxury Advent calendars of 2025 to spoil your loved ones https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/luxury-advent-calendars-australia-20331/ Mon, 10 Nov 2025 03:26:32 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au//lifestyle/gift-guides/luxury-advent-calendars-australia-20331 Advent calendars for your loved ones — or yourself.

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The Christmas countdown is on, and there’s no better way to mark the occasion than with a luxury Advent calendar. If you’re working on your Christmas shopping list, and looking for the perfect gift for a loved one, an Advent calendar has both novelty and utility. Regardless of their fancy, there’s a 2025 Advent calendar for every taste: from artisan chocolate and aged whisky, to indulgent beauty.

Per tradition, Advent calendars are designed to be open from the 1st of December, right up to Christmas Day. Each day, you open a ‘door’ a day to reveal a new gift. After all, why open one present on Christmas, when you can have one every day?

18 luxury Advent calendars for 2025

Jump ahead to:

Best chocolate Advent calendars

Haigh’s 2025 Advent Calendar Package

$54.90 at Haigh’s Chocolates

Australia’s premiere luxury chocolate brand, Haigh’s, is a Christmas go-to for those in the know. While the brand’s luxury Advent calendar was quick to sell out in 2025, there’s still time to get your hands on this more affordable option. The pack comes with a re-usable ‘Gingerbread’ house wall hanging, plus 24 tiny chocolate bars to input into each day.

koko black 2025 advent calendar

Koko Black Yours & Mine Advent calendar

$169 at Koko Black

The best part of this Koko Black chocolate Advent calendar is that it’s built for two. With a ‘double drawer’ function, you’re actually buying two Advent calendars in one box. The benefit? Share the joy together so nobody misses out on their daily sweet treat of 100% natural ingredients and sustainably sourced cocoa.

Best beauty Advent calendars

aesop advent calendar

The Aesop Abode

$800 at Aesop

Australian home and body care brand Aesop has unveiled a truly divine Advent calendar for 2025, complete with travel-sized products for your skin and space. Think: Fragrances, creams, lip balms and even an incense holder. There’s one door for 13 days—so, starting on December 1, open a hatch every two days in the lead up to Christmas.

Augustinus Bader advent calendar

The 12 Days of Bader

$1,542 at Augustinus Bader

For those who appreciate luxury skincare, the Augustinus Bader Advent calendar offers 12 days of beauty products to assist with that summer glow. Try samples of the popular Augustinus Bader rich cream, essence, serum and more.

Lancome advent calendar 2025

Lancôme Advent calendar 2025

$385 at Lancôme

Featuring the likes of La Vie Est Belle L’eau de Parfum, Génifique Ultimate Serum, and Lash Idôle Mascara the Lancôme beauty Advent calendar brings a French touch to the season.

Liberty london beauty advent calendar

Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar 2025

$640 at Liberty

With a full size Augustinus Bader eye cream and La Mer lip balm, the Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar offers value for money. With additional cult brands, like Vyrao and Emma Lewisham, this well-rounded gift is a boon for beauty lovers. Bonus: Although Liberty is a London-based retailer, they offer free shipping to Australia on all orders over $200.

Jo Malone advent calendar 2025

Jo Malone Advent Calendar

$895 at Jo Malone

It’s a fragrance-lover’s dream, with 25 days of perfumes, colognes, candles and body products to sample from Jo Malone.

L’Occitane Classic Advent Calendar

$179 at L’Occitane

L’Occitane’s joyfully-boxed Advent calendar offers an assortment of skincare, shower products, hair care and more. From the popular almond shower oil to an intensive hair repair mask, find 24 L’Occitane delights inside.

ysl beauty advent calendar 2025

YSL Beauty Advent Calendar Holiday 2025

$910 at YSL Beauty

Thoughtful decadence is found within this YSL Advent calendar, featuring 24 of the brand’s most beloved beauty staples. This includes three full size YSL Loveshine lip products, seven mini-size YSL perfumes, and even more mini makeup and skincare products.

armani advent calendar

Armani Beauty Advent Calendar

$680 at Myer

This year’s Armani Advent calendar contains eight full-sized products, plus 15 miniatures and one additional gift, all wrapped up in this pink and silver package. Sample the best Armani cosmetics and fragrances, including a travel-size My Way perfume.

Best alcohol Advent calendars

White possum gin advent calendar

White Possum Australian Gin Advent Calendar

$259 at Dan Murphy’s

The ninth annual gin Advent calendar from White Possum, this collection of 25 mini gin samplers celebrates Australian distillers. Discover your next favourite boutique gin producer with samples of Yuzu Gin from Imbue Distillery, Sangiovese Gin by Naught Distilling, and more.

Old & Rare Whisky Advent Calendar

$1,338.31 at Master of Malt

Featuring 24 rare and well-aged whiskies, this whisky Advent calendar is for the adventurous spirit connoisseur. Cheers to the merry season.

Discover more whisky Advent calendars for 2025

global spirits advent calendar 2025

Global Spirits Advent Calendar

$365 at Liquor Loot

Enjoy 24 days of 30ml spirits from top international distilleries. The ultimate boozy Advent calendar, taste your way through spirits from Japan, Scotland, Mexico, the Caribbean and more.

Please remember to drink responsibly. If you or someone you know needs help, the Alcohol Drug Information Service (ADIS) is available 24/7 on 1800 250 015 or call Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Tea Advent calendars

T2 advent calendar

T2 Cabinet Of Curiosity 24 Day Tea Bag Advent Calendar

$48 at T2

If you know a true connoisseur of tea, test their knowledge with this scrumptious 24 days of tea Advent calendar. From rich black teas, to soothing herbal teas, and sweet fusion flavours, each tea bag is an exciting discovery.

fortnum mason tea advent calendar

Fortnum & Mason Tea Bag Advent Calendar 2025

$84.95 at David Jones

Sample luxury British tea with Fortnum & Mason. From an assortment of Christmas flavours, to popular classics like Earl Grey, this will delight the palette of any experimental tea-lover.

Best home & candle Advent calendars

Circa 12 Days Advent Calendar

$124.95 at Myer

For a manageable array of Christmas scents, try the 12-day candle Advent calendar from Circa. From Raspberry & Rhubarb to Gingerbread Cookies, sniff the 12 mini candles to discover your new favourite aroma.

villeroy boch advent calendar

Villeroy & Boch Christmas Toys Memory Advent Calendar Set

$849 at David Jones

If you love Christmas decorations, you simply can’t deny yourself a 26-piece Advent calendar from luxury German ceramicists, Villeroy & Boch. Set up your porcelain tree, and adorn it with a new bauble every day until Christmas.

glasshouse candle advent calendar

Glasshouse 24 Days Of Christmas Advent Calendar

$290 at Myer

The limited edition Glasshouse Advent calendar offers home fragrances in multiple forms, from candles to sprays. Glasshouse fans will be particularly pleased to find mini candles in the brand’s most popular scents, including Kyoto In Bloom and Lost In Amalfi, plus a few Christmas specials.

The post The best luxury Advent calendars of 2025 to spoil your loved ones appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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GT Loves: The dishes, destinations and coveted items our editors are loving this month https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/gourmet-traveller-team-recommendations/ Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:23:17 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=214352 The Gourmet Traveller team share where they've been, what they're eating and what they love this month.

The post GT Loves: The dishes, destinations and coveted items our editors are loving this month appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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We’re a team who, quite simply, love the good life. We’re constantly dining out and trying to track down the hottest dish in town, or heading to dreamy destinations to check into new hotels and seek out exceptional experiences around Australia and beyond. When we are bound to our desks, we’re calling in coveted items to shoot for the magazine (and, when we’re lucky, get put them to good use). The perks and privileges that come with the GT life are not lost on us. But we thought it’d be rude not to share our favourite recommendations that come off the back of all this “hard” work.

Here, the Gourmet Traveller team share where they’ve been, what they’re eating and what they’re adding to their carts this month — all so you can live the good life, too.


What we’re eating

Honey parfait dish from Stillwater, Tas

Jacqui Triggs, creative director

This caramelised honey parfait almost caused the break of a sacred meal-sharing wedding vow. Topped with macerated strawberries, white chocolate and lemon myrtle cream, it’s delicate and decadent all at once. Almost too good to share. Till death, or dessert, do us part.

Raw tuna risotto at Fico in Hobart

Cordelia Williamson, digital editor

Ruby cubes of raw tuna crown lemon risotto to create one of the most memorable dishes eaten this year. Using whole lemons (and no dairy), this incredibly al dente dish is a fine example of Fico’s style.

Sweet corn agnolotti at Evra, Brisbane

Georgia Condon, acting news editor

At Brisbane’s Evra, a decent sample of the ingredients that make their way to your plate are harvested from the rooftop farm – and taste fantastic – especially when basking in blanc de blancs beurre blanc.


Where we’ve been

Spa session at Mondrian
(Credit: Justin Nicholas)

Mondrian Gold Coast, QLD

Jordan Kretchmer, news editor

Burleigh’s stellar new spot to stay adds a glitzy layer of global appeal to the popular locale. We strongly recommend time by the pool, peeling yourself away for a visit to the neroli-scented Ciel Spa for a high-tech treatment, and plenty of street-level people-watching at all-day restaurant Lito.

A cow in front of the mountain in the Dolomites, Italy

The Dolomites, Italy

Lana Telford, editorial coordinator

Hiking the Alta Via 1 trail in the Italian Alps is a true bucket-list triumph. Waking up above the clouds, passing through grazing pastures and the steady lure of apple strudel is worth every drop of sweat.

Holding a glass of wine, sitting in front of a fire pit

Osborn House, NSW

Georgia Condon, acting news editor

At this destination stay, the only items on your agenda are a rosé on arrival, sauna sessions and card games by the fire. For under two hours, the Southern Highlands couldn’t feel further from Sydney.


On the radar: Antarctic Voyage

Experience ultra-luxury with APT Luxury Travel and Seabourn on an exclusive small ship cruise. Discover the world’s most magical environment on APT’s fifteen-day Antarctic Voyage including daily Zodiac excursions.


What we’re loving right now

Red french oven

Chasseur Round French Oven

$549

The Chasseur Round French Oven, lovingly hand-crafted in France, is ideal for slow-cooked soups, hearty stews, and perfectly seared meats. Its unique self-basting lid keeps dishes tender and full of flavor, while cast-iron construction ensures even heat on any cooktop. Beautiful enough for the table with its vibrant red finish, bringing warmth and style to the table.

Dior sun hat

D-Bobby Large Brim Hat

$1450

Christian Dior’s D-Bobby straw hat radiates summer elegance. Featuring a wide brim and embroidered logo band, it’s the perfect companion for sun-drenched days.

Whisky glass

Denver & Liely Whisky Glass

$55

A great drink truly deserves a great vessel. Hand-blown, expertly cut and polished, these lead-free crystal glasses are engineered to enhance the sensory experience.

Perfume bottle

The Raconteur Daintree Rain Tea EDP

$295

Daintree Rain Tea by The Raconteur is a serene escape in a bottle. Inspired by Australia’s Daintree Rainforest, it melds black tea, chamomile, blue lotus and sea salt into a calming fragrance.

Ninja Blenders

Ninja Power Blender + Processor Pro

$399.99

The Ninja Power blender + Processor Pro with BlendSense™ Technology delivers whisper-quiet performance, making it effortless to whip up everything from morning smoothies to evening sauces..

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214352 honey parfait – GT Loves Fico, Hobart, Tas – GT Loves Evra pasta – GT Loves Mondrian hotel – GT Loves The Dolomites – GT Loves Osborn – GT Loves APT cruise penguins 500×500 (300 x 300 px) Round French Oven Inferno Red – GT Loves Dior Hat – GT Loves Denver & Liely whisky glass – GT Loves Raconteur Daintree fragrance- GT Loves Ninja Stealth IQ Kitchen System – Power Blender + Processor Pro- GT Loves gourmettraveller-214352
20 luxury housewarming gifts that make a lasting impression https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/gift-guides/luxury-housewarming-gifts-20120/ Wed, 15 Oct 2025 03:08:31 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au//lifestyle/gift-guides/luxury-housewarming-gifts-20120 A little touch of luxe.

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Finding the perfect, luxury housewarming gift can feel like a daunting task, particularly if the recipient in question has high-end taste.

Considering one’s taste in décor, style of home and hobbies is essential in your search. Plus, what’s trending in home tastes is every-evolving, from the current organic material movement to metallic chrome and the understated 2025 Pantone colour of the year, Mocha Mousse, bleeding into furniture and homewares alike.

Whether they’re a foodie or fashion-obsessive, opt for minimalistic design or splashes of colour, we’ve found a luxury housewarming gift for every new home, below.

You might also like 5 alcohol gift sets for those partial to a glass of luxury

GT’s top luxury housewarming gifts

emma all seasons duvet

01

A quality duvet is an unexpected yet essential offering, especially one made to last. Emma Sleep understands the importance of a good night’s rest, and your host will thank you for such a thoughtful gift.

02

Paola & Joy bella table lamp

$259 at Aura Home

Featuring a neutral palette, this creamy, warm table lamp adds a touch of elegance to any interiors.

Fazeek Wave Coupe Glass Set

03

Fazeek wave coupe glass set

$119 at David Jones

Unique sculptural designs tap into the Instagram-worthy home decor trend and conversation starter that bring a little bit of personality to luxury entertaining.

Our Place Titanium Cookware 6 pc set

04

Titanium Pro Always Pan Duo 6pc set

$500 (usually $630) at Our Place

This design ranked in Time magazine’s best inventions of 2024 for its chemical-free non-stick technology. The titanium collection aligns with both health-conscious trends and chrome interiors for a practical yet chic gift.

You might also like 11 masterful cookware sets for the discerning home chef

maison balzac aperitif jug

05

Apéritif jug

$169 at Maison Balzac

Bring the Spanish summer fantasy home with this versatile jug, perfectly fit for a glorious sangria or lemonade.

Papa Salt Coastal Gin bottle

06

Papa Salt coastal gin 700mL

$88 at First Choice Liquor

With a distinctly Australian coastal profile, premium packaging and celebrity endorsement (Margot Robbie is a co-founder), Papa Salt brings worlds together, making it a perfect fit for a luxury housewarming gift.

Mustard Made The Shorty locker in Navy

07

The Shorty locker in navy

$229 at Mustard Made

This functional luxury storage solution addresses the need for stylish organisation in smaller Australian homes and apartments, combining practicality with modern design.

donisaur designs rock large resin vase

08

Dinosaur Designs rock large resin vase

$295 at Net-A-Porter

Australian homes in 2025 are embracing earthy tones, a harmonious balance of organic materials with a refined, sophisticated edge. Dinosaur Designs’ marble-like resin vase perfectly captures this trend, combining sculptural silhouettes with functional luxury.

Explore more housewarming gifts

Vertuo Next Solo White nespresso coffee machine pods

09

Vertuo Next Solo coffee machine in white

$229 at Nespresso

The importance of great coffee can never be undervalued, nor will this machine.

Bistro XXL Coloured Air Fryer - Smokey Sky Blue

10

Bistro XXL air fryer in smokey sky blue

$144.46 (usually $169.95) at GreenPan

Believe it or not, air fryers can be chic too. Give the gift of effortless healthy cooking.

You might also like 6 luxury air fryers that redefine the modern kitchen

vintec greyscale logo
Vintec 35 Bottle Wine Cabinet

11

Vintec 35 bottle wine cabinet

$899 at The Good Guys

No one knows how to store a great vintage like Vintec, and this 35-bottle fridge will just about fit perfectly into any small space or bar area.

Le Creuset SIGNATURE ROUND CASSEROLE 28CM GARNET GOLD KNOB

12

Le Creuset signature round casserole 28cm in garnet

$780 at David Jones

The Le Creuset round casserole dish is the gift of all gifts. It is a love letter to slow Sundays and heirloom recipes; a perfect gift for any home.

Hardie Grant For the Love of Lemons

13

Hardie Grant For the Love of Lemons

$55 at David Jones

This collection has the perfect recipe repertoire for summer, celebrating the versatility of citrus fruits.

Smeg HBF03CRAU 50's Style Hand Blender Cream

14

Smeg 50’s style hand blender in cream

$199 at David Jones

Practical gifts will never go to waste. This Smeg 50’s style hand blender will bring a bit of nostalgia to any kitchen.

Loewe perfumes tomato leaves large scented candle

15

Loewe Perfumes tomato leaves large scented candle

$990 at Net-A-Porter

Bring the tomato girl summer aesthetic home and live the dolce vita of your dreams with this luxe candle from Loewe Perfumes.

Spiegelau
DEFINITION BORDEUAX GLASS - SET OF 6

16

Spiegelau Definition bordeaux glass set of six

$420 at David Jones

You know what they say, the thinner the wine glass stem… These stunningly elegant glasses are light as a feather, showcasing the wine’s aromas and flavours at their very best.

Hunting Season set of two ceramic candle holders

17

Hunting Season set of two ceramic candle holders

$227 (usually $378) at Net-A-Porter

Lean into the earthy luxe movement with these ceramic candle holders. This set of two is an ode to organic materials with a refined, sophisticated edge.

KitchenAid KSM192 Artisan Tilt Head Stand Mixer Milkshake

18

KitchenAid Artisan tilt head stand mixer in milkshake

$899 at Amazon

This multipurpose attachment hub is the perfect gift for your local gourmand. With over 18 attachments available, enjoy whisking, kneading, mashing and more with this versatile piece.

La DoubleJ set of six gold porcelain dessert plates

19

La DoubleJ set of six gold-plated porcelain dessert plates

$800 at Net-A-Porter

Made from fine porcelain, this set of six plates from La DoubleJ have beautiful gold-plated trims and a mix of floral and geometric designs for the luxury entertainer.

20

Trudon Ernesto room spray

$339 at Libertine Parfumerie

With notes of bergamot, grapefruit, oak wood and tobacco, this fierce scent adds a cinematic mood to every space it operates in.


What is considered a good housewarming gift?

The recipe to a good housewarming gift comes down to three things; thoughtfulness, practicality and personality. It should be a nice addition to any home, whether that be a household plant to bring life to a space, a bottle of wine to toast the home, or a beautiful coffee table book that brings a little bit of personality to the space. The best gifts don’t need to be expensive, but they do need to be rich with thought and intention, such as a high quality kitchen tool or cosy throw for the living room. Moreover, gifts that align with current home decor trends, like organic materials, modern silhouettes or colour palettes can show that you truly considered their tastes.

What are good luck gifts for a new home?

Why not start the new chapter on a lucky note? When choosing a good luck gift for a new home, items that symbolise prosperity, protection, and happiness are popular choices across many cultures. Edible offerings like bread, salt, honey and olive oil symbolise abundance, flavour and lasting nourishment. Gifting bamboo or a money tree can encourage growth and financial success for the new homeowners, while candles are also commonly given, as their light is believed to chase away negativity and brighten the home’s atmosphere. Feng shui-inspired gifts include items such as mirrors, wind chimes, and crystals, providing either good energy flow or reflect negative energies. Pineapples, owl and elephant figurines and decorative keys are just a few of many cultural traditions that have been said to bring good luck.

What are some traditional housewarming gifts?

Some gestures never go out of style. Bread and salt are among the most time-honoured housewarming gifts, representing hospitality and abundance in many cultures. Candles, too, are often given as symbols of light, warmth and welcome. Additionally, cookware, such as a cast iron skillet or casserole dish, is another thoughtful gift that can seamlessly become part of the home’s daily rhythm.

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20120 The luxury Koh Samui resorts so exceptional, they’re reason enough to book a trip this year Our best rhubarb recipes (pies, tarts, crumbles and more) Our top 20 meatball recipes: from classic Italian to modern favourites emma-sleep-duvet aura-home-table-lamp fazeek-wave-coupe-glass-set our-place-six-pc-cookware-set maison-balzac-aperitif-jug papa-salt-coastal-gin mustard-made-shorty-locker dinosaur-designs-resin-vase nespresso-coffee-machine greenpan-air-fryer vintec-wine-cabinet le-creuset-casserole-dish hardie-grant-hard-cover-book smeg-50s-style-hand-blender loewe-large-candle spiegelau-bordeaux-glass-set hunting-season-ceramic-candle-holders kitchenaid-stand-mixer-white la-doublej-plate-set trudon-ernesto-room-spray gourmettraveller-20120
The best whisky Advent calendars for the seasoned sipper https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/whisky-advent-calendars/ Tue, 14 Oct 2025 04:43:25 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=225061 Whisky business all December long.

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The gratifying, festive Advent calendar – a tradition that dates back to 19th-century Germany. It’s widely believed that Munich mothers, tired of their children constantly asking when Christmas would arrive, began marking the days with simple treats and candles. Over time, their clever idea evolved into the beloved countdown we know today.

While the original version was made for kids, adults have employed their own, grown-up way to join the fun. That’s where whisky Advent calendars come in. We’re all counting down the days until Christmas anyway, so why not add a different kind of spirit to the mix?

So, if you’re ready to count down the days in drams, read on for our selection of the best whisky Advent calendars for 2025.

You might also like The best whisky subscriptions in Australia for curated gifts and elevated collections

Australian whisky Advent calendars

Whisky Loot Australian whisky advent calendar

01

Whisky Loot Australian Whisky Calendar

$395 $276.50 at Just Wines

A calendar that offers an insight into the rich and diverse world of Australian whisky.

Key features:

  • Contains 24 x 30mL premium whisky tasters
  • Expertly curated
  • Free shipping

Japanese whisky Advent calendars

Whisky Loot Japanese Whisky Advent Calendar

02

Whisky Loot Japanese Whisky Calendar

$499 $349.30 at Just Wines

A true offering of Japan’s finest pours, a sensory journey awaits with the Japanese whisky calendar. Featuring renowned distilleries like NIKKA, Mars, and Akashi.

Key features:

  • Contains 24 x 30mL premium whisky tasters
  • Featuring renowned distilleries like NIKKA, Mars, and Akashi
  • Free shipping

Also available at:


Global whisky Advent calendars

03

The Whisky Club Advent Calendar

$295 at The Whisky Club

A perennial favourite among dram enthusiasts, The Whisky Club’s offering of 25 aged bottles, including a recent winner of the World’s Best Single Malt, is the stuff dreams are made of.

Key features:

  • Contains 25 whisky tasters
  • Membership required
  • Bottled up to 33 years old
  • $310 for non-members, free to sign up

04

Global Whisky Advent Calendar

$395 $276.50 at Liquor Loot

Enjoy a selection of 24, expertly curated whiskys from across the globe, including distilleries from Scotland, Japan, Australia, the US and more. Curious? Inside, you’ll find Aberfeldy 12 Year Old, Akashi White Oak Toji, Amrut Peated, Glen Grant 18 Year Old, and Wild Turkey Longbranch – just a few highlights of what’s inside.

Key features:

  • Contains 24 x 30mL premium whisky tasters
  • Expertly curated and sourced from around the world
  • Free shipping

05

Drinks by the Dram Premium Whisky Advent Calendar

$341.95 at Master of Malt

Start the festive season right with a selection of top-shelf whiskies from a variety of coveted distilleries from Scotland, including a vast selection of blended offerings.

Key features:

  • Contains 25 x 30mL wax-sealed damn
  • From Scotland
  • Ships from the UK

Why buy a whisky Advent calendar?

Whether you have a loved one who’s a seasoned sipper or you enjoy a little whisky business of your own, a whisky Advent calendar offers an exciting (adults-only) way to count down the days until the holidays. It also gives you a chance to sample a variety of drams from different distilleries, styles, and regions. If you’re looking to expand your whisky knowledge, it might be time to invest in one of these grown-up countdowns.

What are the types of whisky Advent calendars?

Whisky Advent calendars come in a variety of options, whether that’s different flavour profiles, regions, or styles. Many Advent calendars focus on global blends, presenting a mix of whiskies from around the world in one box. There are also premium editions that include limited releases, aged expressions, or rare bottlings for those seeking a more elevated experience. A whisky Advent calendar is the perfect opportunity to expand your palate, explore diverse offerings, and engage the senses.


How we chose the best whisky Advent calendars

Our editors spend hours researching and comparing the best products available on the Australian market. This includes trialling and testing items, reviewing product specifications, and consulting expert opinions. Every recommendation in this guide is carefully selected so you can confidently choose the perfect whisky Advent calendar for your festive countdown.

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225061 Lift your grape game by joining one of these wine clubs 5 alcohol gift sets for those partial to a glass of luxury 5 alcohol advent calendars for a very jolly countdown to Christmas whisky-loot-australian-whisky-calendar whisky-loot-australian-whisky-calendar (1) the-whisky-club-advent-calendar whisky-global-advent-calendar Premium-whisky-advent-calendar gourmettraveller-225061
18 luxury gift ideas to spoil the dapper man this Father’s Day https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/luxury-gifts-for-men-australia-19967/ Thu, 21 Aug 2025 03:56:52 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au//lifestyle/gift-guides/luxury-gifts-for-men-australia-19967 Your friend, brother, partner, old man with a taste for the finer things will be chuffed.

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Although appreciated by many as staunch staples in the canon of gifts for men, socks and undies just don’t cut it for everyone come Father’s Day.

If the partner, dad, brother, friend you’re buying for considers themselves a bit of a bon vivant, do we have the gift guide of luxury for you.

From classic R.M. Williams boots for the wanderer to coffee machines for the rookie dad, to luxury gift boxes for the man who has everything we’ve rounded up some of the best luxurious gifts for him that’ll secure your position as the golden gift-giver this September.

GT‘S TOP PICKS FOR FATHER’S DAY IN 2025

You might also like: 5 alcohol gift sets for those partial to a glass of luxury

18 luxury Father’s Day gifts to shop in 2025

01

The Gourmet Delights gift box

$150 at Parcelle

Best Father’s Day gift for the gourmand

For the epicurean dad who reigns in the kitchen, the Gourmet Delights gift box by Parcelle includes a generous array of premium pantry essentials, including Australian-made olive oil, artisan crackers, a large wooden cheeseboard and more. Add a personalised message card, and optional branded ribbon or box printing for a little touch of

Shop more gift boxes for him here

02

Argent Silversmith Ellipse signet ring in silver

$290 at Argent Silversmith

Best Father’s Day gift for the artisan man

Each piece made to order from recycled sterling silver, this chunky signet ring is hand carved and casted using the ancient wax technique. Ideal for the artisan man.

03

Gozney tread pizza oven

$800 at Gozney

Best Father’s Day gift for the outdoor enthusiast

Get a pizza deliziosa ready for serving in under 60 seconds with the world’s most portable pizza oven.

04

Lark Classic Cask single malt whisky 500ml

$211 at First Choice Liquor

Best Father’s Day gift for the neat pour purist

Lark’s iconic Classic Cask Single Malt Whisky can now be personalised to celebrate Father’s Day. Made of Tasmania — from pure grain to glass — each bottle of Lark is a rich expression of love, as unique as Dad.

You might also like The best whisky subscriptions in Australia to curate and elevate your collection

05

Breville Oracle Dual Boiler coffee machine

$4,499.00 at Breville

Best Father’s Day gift for the latte loyalist

Whether you’re investing in the espresso enthusiast or are discreetly spoiling the whole family, this newly-released coffee machine by Breville is designed to allow users to seamlessly switch between manual and automatic modes, offering full control when they want it, and automation when they don’t.

You might also like The best whisky subscriptions in Australia to curate and elevate your collection

06

Cast iron square Grillit

$360 at Le Creuset

Best Father’s Day gift for the gastronome

Le Creuset’s newest palette, Nuit, is an alluring, intense and deep midnight blue adding elegance and sophistication to any man’s culinary haven.

07

R.M. Williams comfort craftsman boots (regular) in chestnut

$699 at The Iconic

Best Father’s Day gift for the wanderer

These Chelsea boots from heritage Aussie brand R.M. Williams make a timeless addition to any boot-scooting man’s wardrobe.

08

Rains backpack mini

$160 at The Iconic

Best Father’s Day gift for the adventurer

For the man on the go, this sleek, waterproof rucksack features an internal laptop pocket.

09

Meisterstück rose gold-coated Classique rollerball pen

$800 at The Iconic

Best Father’s Day gift for the sentimentalist

It’s ballpoints like this gold-plated Montblanc one that give truth to the pen being mightier than the sword. Get his initials engraved if you want to bring a tear to the sentimental man’s eye.

10

Cheese making class with bottomless bubbles

$109 at Red Balloon

Best Father’s Day gift for the happy participant

Step into a memorable experience as you craft pillows of Burrata and Bocconcini under the guidance of an expert host, part of RedBalloon’s new Best Of Guaranteed category.

11

Chapel Hill The Devil Shiraz, McLaren Vale 2020 bottle

$160 at Langtons

Best Father’s Day gift for the oenophile

A nod to the old adage of the devil being in the detail, Chapel Hill’s 2020 Shiraz The Devil is crafted from the fruit of the McLaren Vale winery’s oldest remaining vines. With just eight barrels produced for its inaugural release celebrating the winery’s 50th vintage, a bottle makes a more than apt gift for the collector.

12

Who Is Elijah His/Her eau de parfum 100ml

$179 at Adore Beauty

Best Father’s Day gift for the artisan aroma enthusiast

Aussie brand Who Is Elijah’s His/Her perfume makes a fresh gender-neutral scent with its violet leaf and fir needle notes.

13

Beltrami brown leather weekender bag by Republic of Florence

$569 at The Iconic

Best Father’s Day gift for the short-stay sophisticate

Kit him out for his next business trip or weekend away with this Italian-made, polished leather duffle bag that fits like a glove in airline overhead compartments.

14

Smeg 50s style drip filter coffee machine

$319 at The Good Guys

Best Father’s Day gift for the rookie dad

Dad needing a bit more pep in his step when easing into his day? This drip filter coffee machine from Smeg looks schmick on any counter of sleepy starters.

15

Riedel horn decanter

$1100 at David Jones

Best Father’s Day gift for the at-home sommelier

Mouth-blown into a coiled horn shape as an homage to the Riedel family’s Austrian and Bohemian heritage, this wine decanter is an elegant pick for the at-home sommelier.

16

Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones

$645.95 (was $649) at Bose

Best Father’s Day gift for the thoughtful observer

The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones have garnered widespread acclaim for their exceptional noise cancellation, making them a top premium choice among competitors.

17

Yamazaki 18 Years Old Mizunara

RRP $3700 at premium liquor outlets

Best Father’s Day gift for the serious whisky collector

The newly released Yamazaki 18 Years Old Mizunara is a complex drop from Japan’s oldest malt whisky distillery. Dad will love the notes of sandalwood, coconut and incense imparted during slow maturation.

18

The Ninja CREAMi Swirl

RRP $550 at Ninja Kitchen

Best Father’s Day gift for the mindful (tr)eater

Whip up almost anything into a velvety smooth soft serve at the touch of a button. The Ninja CREAMi Swirl allows him to turn fruits or protein shakes into a low calorie dessert he can enjoy — sans the guilt.


When is Father’s Day?

Father’s Day in Australia is an annual event. and always lands on the first Sunday of September. In 2025, it falls on Sunday, September 1.

What to buy a father that has everything?

When Dad insists he doesn’t need a thing, that’s your cue to think outside the (gift) box. For the father who has everything, the best gifts are often those that are unexpected. These could be in the tone of personalised experiences or timeless luxuries he would never think to buy from himself.

From rare whiskies to premium grooming kits, or even a weekend stay at one of Australia’s most indulgent escapes, there’s always something he hasn’t seen coming. The key is to choose quality over quantity. After all, unforgettable is always in style.

What is a good last-minute Father’s Day gift?

Last-minute doesn’t have to mean less-than. A great Father’s Day gift can be just a few clicks away, from gift experiences like cheese making masterclasses or luxe whisky subscriptions that keep on giving. For something with instant impact, opt for an e-gift card to his favourite restaurant or a stay at one of Australia’s top boutique hotels.

The post 18 luxury gift ideas to spoil the dapper man this Father’s Day appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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19967 parcelle-gift-box argent-silversmith-ring-gift gozney-tread-pizza-oven Lark-Classic-Cask-single-malt-whisky breville-oracle-dual-boiler-coffee-machine le-creuset-cast-iron-square-grillet rm-williams-boots rains-backpack-mini Meisterstück-rose-gold-coated-Classique-rollerball-pen cheese-making-class-red-balloon Chapel-Hill-The-Devil-Shiraz-McLaren-Vale-2020 Who-Is-Elijah-HisHer-eau-de-parfum brown-leather-weekender-bag-Republic-of-Florence smeg-drip-coffee-machine Riedel-horn-decanter bose-quietconfort-ultra-headphones-68490807b6c2d Suntory Yamazaki 18 mizunara Shark Ninja nice-cream maker gourmettraveller-19967
The great indoors: Our ultimate entertainment guide for winter hibernation https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/lifestyle/winter-entertainment-guide/ Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:25:09 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=222184 Stay warm, dry and entertained with our top recommendations of binge-worthy content — from top TV shows to the latest page-turners.

The post The great indoors: Our ultimate entertainment guide for winter hibernation appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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Winter is the perfect excuse to embrace the Scandinavian concept of hygge and settle in for a long weekend at home. Pour a glass of Burgundy, wrap up warm and get comfy with GT’s guide to the best books, shows and podcasts to enjoy this winter.

WHAT TO WATCH

The characters Carmen and Sydney from The Bear.

From hit series The Bear and culinary-obsessed Phil Rosenthal to a gripping drama and edgy Nordic crime, here are GT’s pick of the latest shows.

Tulsa King, Season 3, Paramount+

The highly anticipated third season of Tulsa King is nearly here, so now is the perfect time to start the series from the top. Combining action-packed sequences, some standout sartorial styling fit for a true mafioso, and iconic performances from Sylvester Stallone, the third season will also introduce Samuel L. Jackson as a guest character. Season three starts streaming from 21 September, only on Paramount+.

Great Australian Road Trips, SBS On Demand

Pairing actor and producer Claudia Karvan with writer/performer Steph Tisdell in one car, and food critic/writer Melissa Leong with comedian/writer Nazeem Hussain in another, this series follows these Aussie faces as they explore top destinations across the country. Great Australian Road Trips, presented by Lexus, sees the duos pass through breathtaking locations like the Daintree Rainforest, Kangaroo Island, Arnhem Land and Cradle Mountain, with illuminating conversations going down in the cars, and with the characters they meet along the way.

The Bear, Season 4, Disney+

Talented and tormented chef Carmy returns home to look after the family business – a failing old-school Chicago sandwich shop. The show’s flawed characters and dysfunctional relationships – including supporting roles from stars like Olivia Colman and Jamie Lee Curtis – have been a hit, winning countless awards. Anyone not immersed in Carmy’s world is advised to devour the previous three seasons, pronto, before tucking into this one.

Stick, Apple TV+

Led by Owen Wilson as Pryce Cahill, a derailed golf-pro, Stick skilfully sidesteps the polished world of pro tournaments in favour of mateship, rogue swings and dry humour as he coaches prodigy Santi Wheeler. There’s an ease to it that’s addictive: the long silences, mis-hits and unfiltered yet profound banter. Golf is the thread, but the journey is all about character, connection, redemption and keeping your cool. A hole in one.

Somebody Feed Phil, Season 8, Netflix

Affable show writer and producer Philip Rosenthal’s travel and culinary escapade returns for another season, and Australia gets a look in. From A.P Bakery meat pies to fishy discussions with Josh Niland, you’ll recognise many of the locations from these very pages.

The Last Anniversary, Binge

Based on Liane Moriarty’s novel, this binge-worthy Aussie drama is set against the beguiling backdrop of Scribbly Gum Island, a fictitious place as charming as it is haunted. In true Moriarty fashion, it’s a slow burn with gripping twists and turns, serving up mystery with a side of sun-drenched nostalgia. Expect money, greed and the unravelling of secrets through rich characterisation and wit.

Titan: The OceanGate Submersible Disaster, Netflix

Focused on the 2023 implosion of the Titan submersible during the last deep-sea expedition to the Titanic wreck, this documentary unpacks the events leading up to the news story that gripped the world. Ignored warnings, design flaws and workplace toxicity are at the forefront of this tragic tale.

Forever, Netflix

A beautifully shot and impeccably produced series broken up into eight film-like episodes, Forever charts the coming-of-age love story of two LA teenagers – Keisha and Justin – on the cusp of self-discovery. This adaptation of Judy Blume’s 1975 novel is frustratingly accurate, relatable and raw.

The Rehearsal, Season 2, HBO Max

Absurd yet real, the epic second season of Nathan Fielder’s genre-dodging show blurs the line between reality and comedy. Exploring a real-life aviation problem and attempting to solve it through role play, this truly bizarre but compelling format raises almost as many questions as it does awkward laughs.

Dept. Q, Netflix

Based on a Danish novel series, this nine-part drama captivates with its stellar cast and moody Edinburgh setting. Matthew Goode plays detective Carl Mørck who struggles with the guilt of a botched case he led, which left his partner paralysed and another officer dead. To atone, he’s tasked with heading a cold case department. Goode is a standout as the haunted, darkly wry detective, as is Kelly Macdonald, who plays his therapist.


WHAT TO READ

A retro photograph of a young Lisa-Marie and Elvis Presley.

Inspirational memoirs, a supernatural tale and classic storytelling at its best, these tomes will captivate with drama, wit and plot twists.

From Here to the Great Unknown: A Memoir by Lisa Marie Presley and Riley Keough

This dual memoir, co-authored by Keough and her late mother, Lisa Marie Presley, delves into the almost inconceivable experience of growing up as the daughter and granddaughter of the King himself, Elvis Presley. Superstardom intersects with addiction, grief, redemption and motherhood in this raw and engaging reflection.

Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle

If you could sit down for one more meal with a loved one who’s passed away, would you? Set in the gritty New York hospo scene, this novel explores how flavours and aromas connect us to special people in our lives, even when they’re no longer with us. Colourful characters and mouth-watering descriptions of food make this a fun, punchy read, even if you’re not usually a fan of the supernatural.

Rytual by Chloe Elisabeth Wilson

Girl boss culture is flipped on its head while questioning the allure of beauty brand marketing in this page-turning novel. Follow Melburnian Marnie Sellick as she climbs the ranks while descending into depravity in a cult that’s disguised as a lust-worthy new-age cosmetics company.

Mrs Dalloway by Virginia Woolf

Winter is the perfect time to revisit the classics, so dust off a dog-eared copy of Mrs Dalloway. A paragon of the stream-of-consciousness style, it ebbs and flows throughout the course of a single day, centred around a socialite prepping for a party in post-WWI England. It’s incisive, expansive and emotionally revelatory.

Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

The latest novel from the best-selling author of Americanah and We Should All Be Feminists, Dream Count collages the experiences of four interconnected women, delving poignantly into their methods of grappling with love and loss. Melancholy meets fierce wit and piercing observations in this cosy read.

Three Days in June by Anne Tyler

Pulitzer Prize-winner Anne Tyler’s latest novel is a charming gem that’s easily read in a weekend. Divorced couple Gail and Max meet again at their daughter’s wedding. Gail has questions about the marriage after a secret is revealed, while insouciant Max does little to assuage her fears. It’s domestic drama as Tyler does best – sharply observed, beautifully written and emotionally gripping till the end.

Left on Tenth by Delia Ephron

Inspirational and heartbreaking, this memoir follows Ephron’s second chance at love following her first husband’s death and her own leukemia diagnosis. Uplifting, much like Ephron’s delightful screen rom-coms, this has been adapted to a Broadway play starring Julianna Margulies and Peter Gallagher.


WHAT TO LISTEN TO

Journalist Lee Tran Lam of the Culinary Archive podcast holds a stacked ice cream cone.

Discover the history of our nation’s food, tune into the lives of wise women, and learn from the insights of successful people with our pick of the best podcasts.

Culinary Archive Podcast, Season 2

Journalist and GT contributor Lee Tran Lam hosts this audio series developed in collaboration with the Powerhouse Museum. Bolstered by the institution’s culinary archive – the first nationwide project to collect the vital histories of people in the food industry who have helped shape Australia’s taste and appetites – each episode looks at a different ingredient from seaweed to wine through interviews and objects.

The Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett

From relationship coaches and psychologists to entrepreneurs and world leaders, host Steven Bartlett sits down to candid conversations with influential talent. Insightful, vulnerable and funny at times, The Diary of a CEO is an engaging, reflective listen, ideal for introspective days.

Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus

Tune in to the always witty Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Seinfeld, Veep) talking with experienced souls like actor and activist Jane Fonda, writer Fran Lebowitz, Gourmet editor Ruth Reichl and designer Diane von Furstenberg. These trailblazing women share their passions, life lessons and advice on how to live well. You’ll also love the sweet post-interview chats with her 90-year-old mum, Judith.

Off Menu with Ed Gamble and James Acaster

Hosted by two amusingly awkward British comedians, well-known guests are invited to talk through their dream meal, from starters right through to drinks and dessert. Guests have included Carey Mulligan and Jeff Goldblum, though the highlight so far is an incredibly confused Robert De Niro who clearly wasn’t briefed beforehand.

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

Approaching this with the same cheery optimism that made her seminal character Leslie Knope so likable, Parks and Recreation actor Amy Poehler hosts this easy listening podcast. Interviewing A-list guests with a good-natured edge, this is an ideal kitchen soundtrack while cooking.

The post The great indoors: Our ultimate entertainment guide for winter hibernation appeared first on Gourmet Traveller.

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222184 the bear season four from here to the great unknown lisa-marie and elvis presley lee tran lam culinary archive podcast gourmettraveller-222184
Is the Ninja Blast Max Cordless Portable Blender a smooth operator? https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/shopping/ninja-blast-max-portable-blender-product-review/ Tue, 08 Jul 2025 02:41:28 +0000 https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/?p=219797 We find out if Ninja's latest cordless entrant in the portable blender game is crushing it.

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It’s no surprise that smoothies, protein shakes, and green juices continue to be popular. So it makes sense that there’s healthy competition to create the ultimate affordable, powerful, cordless portable blender that will satisfy the needs of time-poor smoothie consumers.

Ninja has come out with their latest release, asserting that it’s one of the best cordless portable blenders “with the power to crush ice to snow”.

Our Ninja Blast Max review puts the brand’s claims to the test, while raising the stakes to include turning blanched almonds and sun-dried tomatoes into Sixpenny‘s famed pesto alla Trapanese.

Ninja Blast Max: our expert verdict on the portable blender

OUR RATING: 8/10

Pros

  • Compact and sleek looking on and off the bench
  • Super easy set-up and portability
  • Detachable jug feels sturdy and durable

Cons

  • More expensive than comparable-quality portable blenders
  • May need to adjust recipes that content little to no liquid

What gives the Ninja Blast Max Cordless Portable Blender a cutting edge?

This isn’t Ninja’s first rodeo when it comes to high-powered, ice-crushing, fruit-blitzing blenders. However, it is their first rechargeable, cordless, portable blender featuring six precision blades with the power to slice through chunks of ice using its patented Ninja Powerblast technology, previously only available in the brand’s corded blenders.

Ninja Blast Max specs and product features (what you need to know)

Capacity: 650ml capacity removable and leak-proof vessel
Material: BPA-free plastic vessel and stainless steel 6-blade configuration
Power: 11.1V rechargeable motor base (UN3481 Lithium Ion Battery)
Dimensions: 11.6 W x 9.1 D x 31 H
Weight: 1.11kg
Price: $129.99
Warranty: 2 years
Auto IQ Presets: Smoothie, Crush, Blend
Colours available: Deep Navy, Cool Grey, Platinum Silver, Lavender, Sea Glass, Ivory Cream, Dusty Pink

How to use the Ninja Blast Max

1 Charge to the max

  • First, wash all removable parts (vessel and lid) in warm, soapy water.
  • Ensure the device is fully charged using the provided USB-C cable (this can take about 3 hours).

2 Secure the blending vessel

  • Twist the blending vessel and blade onto the motor base, then click into place.

3 Power on

  • Press the Power button to activate the machine.

4 Add your ingredients

  • Fill the blending vessel with your chosen ingredients, only adding up to the maximum fill line.
  • The included instructions indicate a specific order of ingredients for popular smoothies and juices.

5 Choose the preset

  • Choose from three presets: Smoothie, Crush and Blend.

6 Twist and go

Once blended to your chosen consistency, simply twist the blending vessel to detach it from the motor base.

7 Easy to clean

  • After use, the lid and the blending vessel (including the built-in blades) can be placed on the top-rack of a dishwasher. You can also use the blend cycle to clean the blending vessel by adding water and a drop of dishwashing liquid.
Ninja Blast Max Review
I was surprised that I was able to add all of the ingredients of the Pesto alla Trapanese to the blender vessel, just a mint leaf over the maximum line.

Results from our Ninja Blast Max test run

When choosing a recipe to whip up in the Ninja Blast Max, we decided to bypass the requisite smoothie and really put this portable blender through its paces on the Blend function. We wanted to see how it would handle something a little more challenging, and that you might consider using for a quick sauce, such as rendang curry paste or pesto, rather than getting out any larger piece of kitchen kit.

When it comes to portability, we loved the idea of having a pesto whizzed up and ready to transport (leak-free) to a friend’s place to toss through freshly cooked pasta with a smidge of that liquid gold pasta cooking water to help the pesto loosen up and coat the pasta strands.

With the Blender charged, ingredients prepped and added to the blender vessel, the ice-crushing time of truth was here. The blades whipped through the layers sun-dried tomatoes, blanched almonds, garlic, breadcrumbs, but it quickly hit a bit of resistance and slowed to a stop. A quick check freed a stuck almond and we were back in action only to stutter to another stop. The instructions suggested adding some extra liquid to help thin out the ingredients, so we put in a few good squeezes of lemon, a slug or two of olive oil and a dash of water, and the pesto was ready to go again. All it took was another twist of the base.

Sixpenny pesto recipe
Sixpenny’s sopressini pasta with pesto alla Trapanese, the pesto I tested for this review on the Ninja Blast Max

Overall, is the Ninja Blast Max worth it?

If smoothies and juices are a staple in your daily routine — and you’re always on the move — this is one of the better portable blenders on the market in terms of power and quality. However, it is also one of the most expensive. For creating recipes that contain little-to-no liquid, you may need to slightly modify the recipe to achieve optimal consistency.

Where to buy the Ninja Blast Max

This content was created in partnership with Ninja. Gourmet Traveller retains editorial independence in all reviews.

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219797 Ninja Blast Recipe Test Ninja Blast Max in our reviewer's kitchen Sixpenny’s sopressini pasta with pesto alla Trapanese Sixpenny's sopressini pasta with pesto alla Trapanese gourmettraveller-219797