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The exclusive dating app for celebrities and influencers

<p>In 2020, Sharon Stone <a href="https://www.nme.com/news/film/sharon-stones-bumble-dating-profile-has-finally-been-restored-2607744" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tweeted</a> that her Bumble dating profile had been closed due to users reporting the account as fake. In less than 24 hours, Bumble had restored her account and apologised for the misunderstanding.</p> <p>You might be forgiven for thinking the Basic Instinct star couldn’t possibly be looking for love on a mainstream dating app like Bumble. It’s not every day that you swipe left to discover the next profile to be a Hollywood celebrity.</p> <p>However it would appear celebrities, are just like the rest of us. Looking for love or intimacy in a world where the face-to-face meetings are no longer commonplace. Unlike Sharon Stone, instead of using Bumble, the majority use their own special dating app called <a href="https://www.rayatheapp.com/">Raya</a>.</p> <p>A membership to this invite-only dating app is as exclusive as you would expect, with only a small number of elite applicants accepted on the app ⁠– which means your chances of charming and dating someone rich and famous on Tinder (insert shocked emoji) just got even slimmer.</p> <h2>What is Raya?</h2> <p>Launched in 2015, Raya, prides itself on being “an exclusive dating and networking platform for people in creative industries.”</p> <p>Cara Delevingne, Ruby Rose, Alexander Wang, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Teri Hatcher, Elijah Wood, and Zach Braff are among the elite crew <a href="https://thelatch.com.au/what-is-raya-secret-dating-app-for-celebrities/#:%7E:text=A%20year%20on%20from%20Raya's,were%20among%20the%20elite%20crew." target="_blank" rel="noopener">rumoured</a> to be on the dating app. Demi Lovato has been a longtime user of online relationship sites. She revealed in her documentary, Simply Complicated, that she chose Raya after her split from Wilmer Valderrama in 2016. Most recently Lily Allen and David Harbour credited their meeting to Raya.</p> <p>Before you think about sneaking onto the platform sometimes known as the “Tinder Illuminati” of the dating-app-world, there’s a complex application process – which includes being referred by three people, and then being vetted by an unknown panel of judges. Rumour has it, Raya has over<a href="https://www.newyorker.com/culture/infinite-scroll/raya-and-the-promise-of-private-social-media" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> ten times</a> more people waiting to get on the app – than those currently on it.</p> <p>The New York Times reports only about <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/27/style/raya-dating-app.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">8% of applications are accepted</a>, meaning Raya has a higher rejection rate than the illustrious Harvard Business School.</p> <p>You’ll also need to pay for it it, with a conservative fee of AU $9.99 a month, and further in app purchases (for example, extra swipes - once you’ve swiped on a certain number of profiles, Raya temporarily stops showing you new profiles unless you choose to pay a small fee of $4.99) required. Promotional material indicates: “Raya’s primary goal is for like-minded people to have an easy, accessible, and comfortable platform on which to connect.”</p> <p>The applications are “reviewed by an anonymous global committee” to “maintain that ideal.”</p> <h2>How to find love on Raya</h2> <p>My research examines how and if dating apps have changed intimacy, sex and romantic relationships. How does love change as a result of a digital sieve? However, it’s difficult to locate Raya users to provide their testimonies on their exclusive experiences.</p> <p>Most B grade users, that is, non-celebrities and non-influencers, report that the app is overwhelming, and doesn’t deliver matches. In simple terms if you’re not an A grade celebrity, you simply don’t have the celebrity pull to get the matches.</p> <p>Insiders indicate that the app is awash with professional photos, where the majority of users look like models. On ordinary apps, such profiles are usually rejected as potentially fake profiles or as bots.</p> <p>The profiles are shown in slideshow format, with users picking a song to play their slideshow to. All profiles include the person’s Instagram handle, so if you did really like the look of someone and wanted to make sure you did connect with them, you could add them on Instagram. In addition, screenshots, are not allowed within these hallowed halls.</p> <p>From 40 people interviewed in Australia, only 2 had used Raya. Those interviewed described the app as a “waste of time”, indicating that while there was a plethora of recognisable talent on the app, the majority fell into the influencer category - and their strike/ or match rate was low if not non-existent.</p> <h2>Celebrities and creatives</h2> <p>The app does raise a pertinent question around what we consider to be the creative industries in today’s society - and whether this terminology expands out to influencers or for example, OnlyFans content creators, and how we tier celebrities, and creatives.</p> <p>Dating apps also tend to open a pandora’s box of judgemental behaviours. My research would indicate that the majority of users make split-second decisions mostly based on appearance, but also tend to continue this hypercritical behaviour as they discontinue direct message exchanges, and ultimately people.</p> <p>Mainstream dating apps are highly white domains, <a href="https://www.npr.org/2018/01/09/575352051/least-desirable-how-racial-discrimination-plays-out-in-online-dating" target="_blank" rel="noopener">with sexual racism proliferating</a>, occurring in overt (for example, the common “No Asians” <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-03-06/sexual-racism-on-dating-apps-in-australia/100872332" target="_blank" rel="noopener">bio descriptions</a>), to more covert behaviours such swiping left against ethnically diverse people.</p> <p>They encourage a <a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2020/02/modern-dating-odds-economy-apps-tinder-math/606982/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">highly visual economy</a>, where individuals are often reduced to a hot or not factor. Most of the participants in my focus groups and interviews felt like they had become more judgemental as a result of their dating app use – quickly rejecting punters who were not arbitrarily attractive.</p> <p>Apps like Raya, while claiming to pool together like-minded people instead tend to extend and reinforce the idea that modern-day-love, categorised by the dating app, is only eligible for a certain hallowed few arbitrarily good-looking people, with solid Instagram, or Only Fans followings. Simultaneously, they warp the idea of the creative industries and creative people.</p> <p>Raya opens up the promise of a private dating space in an online environment. However, in doing so it creates a digital culture where intimacy is limited to an elite group of people, no longer open to the masses.</p> <p>As platforms like Tinder <a href="https://www.choice.com.au/consumer-advocacy/policy-submissions/2020/august/complaint-to-the-accc-about-tinder-misuse-of-data-and-discriminatory-pricing" target="_blank" rel="noopener">undergo scrutiny </a>around pricing structures and safety, the future could entail a plethora of Rayas – defined by the attributes (and payment) of their community members. Importantly, keeping the undesirables at bay.</p> <p>But in doing so are we further creating a world of intimacy haves and have-nots?</p> <p>While a select few might be enjoying the sanctity of private and exclusive dating - the rest of us have been locked outside, left to navigate the wild-west of the digital dating world.</p> <p><strong>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-exclusive-dating-app-for-celebrities-and-influencers-why-raya-has-been-called-the-illuminati-of-the-tinder-world-186828" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a>. </strong></p> <p><em>Image: Raya</em></p>

Relationships

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See inside the new experience exclusively for women

<p dir="ltr">Step into a lavish world of hobnobbing, wine and lavish food with your very own butler at the latest, most exclusive event from Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA).</p> <p dir="ltr">The <a href="https://mona.net.au/stuff-to-do/experiences/ladies-lounge" target="_blank" rel="noopener">High Tea for Two</a>, held in the museum’s opulent Ladies Lounge, was created by artist and curator Kirsha Kaechele and is an experience only available for women.</p> <p dir="ltr">Kaechele was inspired by the ladies-only parties thrown by her great-grandmother “Tootsie”, a scandalous socialite, which involved a fleet of dancing butlers, 400-year-old wines, and occasional visits from Spanish painter Pablo Picasso.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-ca9dc0e3-7fff-0da4-fed8-74061b30baa3"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">With a dress code of green, gold, black and white finery, you can expect to be greeted by your butler with elbow-length velvet gloves and extravagant jewellery for you to wear, followed by a 12-course high tea in the chandelier-lit lounge where works from Picasso are among those donning the walls.</p> <p dir="ltr"><img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/06/mona-tea1.jpg" alt="" width="1280" height="720" /></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>The High Tea for Two is inspired by the women-only parties held by its creator’s great-grandmother. Images: MONA</em></p> <p dir="ltr">Though the lounge is open to any women visiting the museum, high tea sessions are restricted to just two ladies, your butler Hepburn, his sidekick “Robinson”, and a blindfolded saxophonist - making you part of the artwork that others can observe.</p> <p dir="ltr">The two-hour experience runs twice daily (11am and 2.30pm) on Saturdays and Sundays, with the total $500 package including nibbles, matched drinks, butler service and museum entry.</p> <p dir="ltr">To book your experience, head <a href="https://culturalattractionsofaustralia.com/experiences/high-tea-for-two/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-26d1fd6d-7fff-2a06-fd6c-6dd19be4bd31"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: MONA</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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R.M. Williams celebrates 90th birthday with exclusive new range

<p dir="ltr">Known for its hardy leather boots (among many MANY other things), R.M. Williams commemorated its 90th anniversary on May 24, the birthday of its founder Reginald Murray ‘RM’ Williams, with an exclusive range of commemorative products.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-d5dd10ba-7fff-d062-4662-3331bb90c75c"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">The capsule collection includes belts, boots, apparel and other accessories, with the brand’s range of boots coming made-to-order and complete with 90th anniversary trims and a commemorative plaque.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/tv/Cd6wPPLhLqH/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/Cd6wPPLhLqH/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by R.M.WILLIAMS (@rmwilliams)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">To celebrate the milestone, R.M. Williams will also be releasing a Makers Kit that includes everything you need to create a leather cover for <em>The Bushman’s Handcrafts</em>, a book written by RM Williams himself.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-d0c060b4-7fff-eafd-38c5-e4f9c6e3f97e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">For those who already own a pair of the iconic boots, you can pick up a limited-edition care tin that includes shoe polish, leather conditioner, a brush and a polish cloth for all your boot-related needs.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdXoP1ENFMf/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CdXoP1ENFMf/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by R.M.WILLIAMS (@rmwilliams)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p dir="ltr">The brand will also be getting its very own coin as part of the Great Aussie Coin Hunt, an A-Z collection of coins depicting Australian icons.</p> <p dir="ltr">Unsurprisingly, the brand’s coin will be representing the letter R, and will include a limited-edition design with a silhouette of Williams on horseback and the iconic Craftsman boot.</p> <p dir="ltr">The range of products is available to <a href="https://www.rmwilliams.com.au/90th-anniversary-celebrations.html?lang=en_AU" target="_blank" rel="noopener">order online</a> or purchase in R.M. Williams stores.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-5c5b0fcb-7fff-08f2-10f0-62537aae5aae"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Supplied</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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EXCLUSIVE: Claudine Ryan talks hormones, PMS and the brain

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you have ever had your feelings of anger dismissed because you are dealing with fluctuations in hormones - whether that’s around your period, pregnancy-related or due to menopause - you’re not the only one.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While the vast majority of women experience these dips and peaks in hormones without many severe symptoms, the dismissal of symptoms as a side effect of hormones can have severe consequences.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Between 2009 and 2018, suicide was the </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2021/may/09/the-chemical-question-does-focusing-on-hormones-undermine-mental-healthcare" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">third-highest cause</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of mortality among women who had recently given birth.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For women entering menopause, the incidence of depression </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/menopause-and-mental-health" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">doubles</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and those who have experienced mental illness in the past may see their symptoms return.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Claudine Ryan is one half of the duo behind the popular podcast </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ladies, We Need To Talk</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, alongside host and co-creator Yumi Stynes.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Claudine spoke to </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">OverSixty</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> about the pair’s latest book - named after their podcast - which tackles the thorniest of issues relating to women’s health, biology, and sex lives.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In particular, she shared her thoughts on the overlap between hormones, PMS. and mental health, as well as advice for those navigating these issues with friends and family.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: Throughout <em>Ladies, We Need to Talk</em> there’s a core message of opening up conversations on ‘taboo’ topics to improve awareness and help women feel less alone. Do you have particular hopes about how the awareness of and conversations around mental health and hormones will change?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to our hormones and mental health, every woman is different. For reasons that aren't totally understood, some of us can really feel the impact of changing levels of certain hormones at certain times during our cycles or at certain times in our lives. So some of us experience really severe hormonal symptoms (severe insomnia, trouble concentrating, depression and even suicidal thoughts), while others find their hormones have no noticeable impact on their mood. [My] version of PMS looks different to Yumi's. But when we share our stories with each other we can start to see that there is a range of different women's experiences and this can help us to place our own somewhere on this spectrum. One hope is that these conversations foster a rich and diverse community of people who understand each other so that fewer of us feel alone or isolated, and also so we have a better understanding of what this spectrum of normal is. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Another hope is that these conversations give women courage to speak out and ask for help when something does seem right for them. We have heard so many stories of women's symptoms being dismissed, or them being what they are living with is in their head. Understanding how your experience fits in with others can help you to know that what is happening for you is real and that if someone isn't listening to you, then you need to find someone who will.  </span></p> <p><strong>O60: In chapter six you both talked about anger and how it surfaces around the same time as other PMS symptoms, how do you feel about the association between anger and other ‘uglier’ emotions with being hormonal?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It is very infuriating to have your feelings or frustrations dismissed as being purely hormonal. But it is also very helpful to understand that there might be certain times when your mood might be really low or you might be more inclined to feel frustrated by pee on the toilet seat or a sink full of dishes. For some women, just understanding how their hormones may affect their mood is all they need. But for others, knowing their hormones are making them miserable is the first step in figuring out what their options are to get some relief.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It's important to acknowledge, as is the case with many many women's health issues, there needs to be more research for us to better understand the relationship between our hormones and our moods.  </span></p> <p><strong>O60: Do you have any advice for other women struggling with family/friends/partners/colleagues/strangers commenting on their mental health and being hormonal or dealing with PMS?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You could swear at the person, and that is a legitimate response.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You could explain to them these conditions are recognised by leading women's health experts and that for those who experience symptoms on the more severe end there are treatment options available. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You could take the approach of women's health psychologist Professor Jane Ussher, who's spent decades researching PMS. Over the years many women have told her that when they are on holidays or away from the usual stress and pressures of their lives that they are much less likely to have PMS. But when life is as normal, all the crap they normally put up with just becomes too much. Women tell her that it's their real feelings that are coming out when they get PMS. So for three weeks of a month they can play nice and bottle it all up, but then at that point in their cycle they don't have the energy to keep up this front. These women often then ask those around them to help out a bit more so they don't get so worn out and frustrated.</span></p> <p><em><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.hardiegrant.com/au/publishing/bookfinder/book/ladies_-we-need-to-talk-by-yumi-stynes/9781743797518" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ladies, We Need To Talk</span></a></em><span style="font-weight: 400;">, published by Hardie Grant, is now available to purchase.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p>

Mind

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EXCLUSIVE: Masterchef’s Sarah Todd shares impact of her mum’s breast cancer diagnosis

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.breastcancertrials.org.au/breast-cancer" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">one in nine</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Kiwi women receiving a breast cancer diagnosis in their lifetime, many of us know someone who has been affected.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After her mum was diagnosed with the disease on her 50th birthday, celebrity chef and MasterChef alumni </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/sarahtodd/?hl=en" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sarah Todd</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> found out firsthand how the diagnosis can turn the lives of individuals and their families upside down.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844710/sarah-todd1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e1edef836a8f4d8b8b75be19a9577334" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sarah and her mum at the Australian Open. Image: Supplied</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since then, Sarah has become passionate about raising awareness and funds for breast cancer clinical trials.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">She has also partnered with Breast Cancer Trials to encourage Aussies to raise money to help develop treatments and cures for the disease.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sarah sat down with </span><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">OverSixty</span></em><span style="font-weight: 400;"> to chat about her mum’s diagnosis, her passion for cancer research, and how others can get involved.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: Your passion for research into breast cancer clinical trials comes from your own experience after your mum was diagnosed thirteen years ago. Could you tell us a bit more about that time and how that passion came about?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When Mum was diagnosed with breast cancer, there was no hesitation in starting her treatment. It was Mum's positive mindset combined with the specialised treatment she received that assisted her recovery. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It is not until you or someone you love must fight for their life that you realise how vital the Breast Cancer Trials are. I am incredibly grateful, and it is through these trials, new treatments are developed to improve recovery rates.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844711/sarah-todd2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/dd12b61cdd4340b1b07ff0009f2fa3c0" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sarah’s mum and aunty. Image: Supplied</span></em></p> <p><strong>O60: What are your hopes for breast cancer research in the next ten years?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Through breast cancer research, I hope that the incidence of breast cancer will decrease to the extent that the focus will be on prevention strategies. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After seeing someone battle through chemotherapy, I hope that treatment will become less invasive. </span></p> <p><strong>O60: You have teamed up with the Breast Cancer Trials ahead of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, can you tell us a bit about how people can get involved?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Depending on your excitement levels, you can either get involved by rolling up your sleeves and taking part in the 3 course challenge or you can simply donate to any of the participants.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: The 3 Course Challenge is all about getting people cooking and raising money, what is your go-to recipe for when friends and family are coming over?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There is nothing quite like the flavours and aromas of Indian cuisine. At least once a week, you will find a fish curry simmering away in my kitchen. I will be sharing this recipe with the 3 Course Challenge participants. Once they learn how easy this fragrant, light, flavoursome curry is, it will become a regular in their household as well.</span></p> <blockquote style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUCGZonhdlG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"></div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUCGZonhdlG/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by SARAH TODD (@sarahtodd)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.3coursechallenge.com.au/main-homepage" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">3 Course Challenge</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, hosted by the Breast Cancer Trials, is encouraging food lovers to get cooking - or support other cooks - to raise funds for research in breast cancer treatments.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The challenge runs from August until November and calls on foodies to whip up a three-course Indian meal.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Those who raise more than $150 will get a chance to learn how to make three delicious courses from Sarah Todd over livestream.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p>

Relationships

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EXCLUSIVE: Susie Burrell shares tips for getting your Omega-3

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Looking after our health is incredibly important, especially as we start to get older.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">From exercising regularly and having healthy sleeping habits to maintaining our social lives and eating well, there are plenty of areas we need to balance out in order to stay healthy. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When it comes to diet, ensuring we get the right vitamins and minerals can be particularly crucial as we age.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To help figure out how to get the most out of your diet and improve your mental and physical health, we sat down with leading dietician and Tassal ambassador, </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/susieburrelldietitian/?hl=en" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Susie Burrell</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, and asked her some foodie questions.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: What are the benefits of regularly eating foods rich in Omega-3 and B vitamins, especially as we get older?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As we get older, it’s important to regularly eat foods that are rich in Omega-3 and B group vitamins as they can help to support cognitive function, support energy regulation, and optimise immunity. A high intake of Omega-3 fats is associated with improved memory, reduced risk of developing heart disease and reductions in inflammation. In addition, B group vitamins - including B12, folate, biacin, biotin, and riboflavin - are essential for older people as they support healthy nerve function, heart health and blood pressure.</span></p> <p><strong>O60: How can diet impact mental health and energy levels?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While it’s widely known that diet plays a key role in our physical health, it can directly affect our mental health and energy levels too.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The connection between our diet and mental health stems from the relationship between our brain and gut microbiome - the rainforest-like ecosystem in your gastrointestinal tract where </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">good</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">bad</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> bacteria reside. Eating healthy food will promote the growth of </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">good</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, which tells our brain to produce neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, regulating our mood and emotions.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">One of the other things your </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">good</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> bacteria does is help absorb nutrients from the food you eat, including B vitamins, magnesium and iron, which are crucial for good energy levels. The </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">bad</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> bacteria has the opposite effect, and when they overgrow, the absorption of these nutrients is compromised. If the nutrients that are key for maintaining healthy energy levels are not adequately absorbed, then greater tiredness and fatigue is likely to follow. That’s why our diet is one of the main factors that affect this balance between the </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">good</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">bad</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> bacteria, and in turn, our energy levels.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="/nothing.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/1a03d132c986484080485d10291d4d70" /><img style="width: 500px; height:281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7844581/susie-burrell.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/a00dc2d21bc44a8b8b0feb85a9c2398e" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Supplied</span></em></p> <p><strong>O60: What other essential vitamins and fats should we be consuming more of?</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Calcium and vitamin D are also important nutrients older Australians should be consuming, as they work closely together to support our bone health. As we know, calcium helps build and maintain healthy bones, while vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. These nutrients  can be found in  foods such as dairy, dark leafy greens, and a variety of fish, like Tassal Tasmanian Salmon.</span></p> <p>With many of us still in lockdown and juggling work, home-schooling, and other responsibilities, what are some quick and easy ways to add more Omega-3 to our diets?</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">A quick and easy way to incorporate more Omega-3’s into our diets is by consuming a variety of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and beans, and with two or more weekly servings of oily fish, such as  salmon. I love to start my mornings with a nutritious, balanced, and mood-boosting meal, especially while we’re in lockdown, which is why I regularly have salmon for brunch.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When brainstorming brunch ideas, you can be really creative. Rather than sticking to traditional options such as toast, cereal, porridge or eggs, switching to salmon will not only provide you with a nutrient rich breakfast option, but also get the entire family involved in creating something exciting and different. Some of my favourite brunch-inspired salmon recipes are Tassal’s</span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.tassal.com.au/recipes/corn-fritters-and-smoked-salmon/" target="_blank"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Corn Fritters</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> or</span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.tassal.com.au/recipes/slt-sandwich/" target="_blank"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">SLT Sandwich</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> with either Tassal Smoked Salmon or cooked and ready-to-eat Tassal Hot Smoked Salmon.</span></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Getty Images</span></em></p>

Body

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Exclusive footage in new documentary to mark Diana’s 60th

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To mark what would have been Princess Diana’s 60th birthday, a new documentary will be released and aims to tell “the definitive story of the most famous woman in the world”.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The ITV film, titled Diana, will trace her life from nursery assistant to royal family member by including previously-unheard testimony and rarely seen archive footage, as well as photos and letters from those close to her.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">72 Films, who previously produced The Rise of the Murdoch Dynasty, will produce the new documentary, which will be directed by Bafta winner Jemma Chisnall.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“There is something a bit magical about Princess Diana, and despite the difficulties in her personal life she managed to use her connection with people to do huge amounts of good,” said David Glover, executive producer 72 Films.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Her 60th birthday feels like the perfect time to re-examine her life and legacy and explore just how she went from a relatively unknown teenager to the most mourned person who ever lived.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">ITC will also air a three-part series called Diana’s Decades, which will follow her early royal life, her high-profile work for HIV charities, her interactions with Hollywood during the 1980s, and the journey to becoming the People’s Princess in the 1990s.</span></p>

Beauty & Style

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Schapelle Corby breaks silence in exclusive first interview about time in Bali prison

<p>Schapelle Corby has opened up about what life was really like for her nine years behind bars in Bali’s Kerobokan jail. </p> <p>In those nine difficult years in a cell, Corby fell in love and also claims she was abused by Bali nine member Renae Lawrence. </p> <p>While speaking with the<span> </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/truecrimeaustralia/schapelle-corby-on-love-babies-and-being-the-bachelorette/news-story/8fe5a17e187aaaf1b3be6ed5d8c4c25b" target="_blank"><em>Sunday Telegraph,</em></a><em><span> </span></em>the 42-year-old made a series of explosive claims, including that Lawrence assaulted her both physically and mentally. </p> <p>Schapelle says she lived in fear of Lawrence who was a “bully” to her, with claims she choked her. </p> <p>“I’ve had comments from other people who saw us in the visit area together and were like, ‘How do you let her speak to you like that?’ but I wasn’t really seeing it,” Corby explained to the publication.</p> <p>She admitted she rubbed Lawrence the wrong way a few times so decidedly aimed to stay out of her way. </p> <p>Lawrence, through her lawyers, “vehemently” denied the claims made by Corby. </p> <p>Schapelle is likely to never completely be out of the eyes of the media or the public, and says finding a job is almost impossible. </p> <p>She says every time she leaves her home, she is hyper conscious of people taking her photo. </p> <p>The mental scars continue to haunt the Australian celeb, and also impacts how she travels. </p> <p>Despite being able to reenter Bali to visit her boyfriend of 13 years, Ben Panangian - it is not something she is willing to do as of yet. </p> <p>Corby will release a revised version of her 2006 autobiography, <em>My Story: Schapelle Corby</em> on October 29.</p>

Travel Trouble

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Top 5 new and exclusive experiences to add to your 2020 bucket list

<p><em>Dreaming of your next extended holiday or an escape for several weeks? You’ll be blown away by the incredibly diverse array of unique tours available right in your own backyard or within a short flight to Australia.</em></p> <p>Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in food and wine culture, reconnect with nature at a national park, or simply explore a new destination, AAT Kings’ range of Guided Holidays has something for every traveller.</p> <p>Because we all dream a little differently, AAT Kings offers two distinct styles of Guided Holiday to dozens of destinations in the new 2020/2021 brochure. Choose a <a href="https://www.aatkings.com/first-choice/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs"><strong>FIRST CHOICE</strong></a> Guided Holiday for premium inclusions and more downtime, or take a <a href="https://www.aatkings.com/best-buys/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs"><strong>BEST BUYS</strong></a> Guided Holiday for ultimate flexibility and must see sights.</p> <p>Can’t decide where to go first? We have listed our top five destinations you need to add to your 2020 holiday to-do list.</p> <p><strong>1. Margaret River, a food and wine lovers paradise</strong></p> <p>Discover the incredible scenic landscapes, natural wonders and food and wine culture of Western Australia on the <a href="https://www.aatkings.com/tours/western-wonderland/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs">15 day Western Wonderland Best Buys Guided Holiday</a>. For the food and wine lovers, AAT Kings have added a brand-new experience to delight the senses and allow you to dine at the region’s best.</p> <p>While taking in the scenery of the gorgeous <a href="https://www.aatkings.com/destination/regions/margaret-river/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs">Margaret River</a>, you will enjoy a private wine tasting and three course lunch, tastefully paired with the region’s finest wines, at the Brookland Valley Estate. And as the Guided Holiday experts, AAT Kings take care of everything, so all you have to do is sit back with a glass of wine and relax with your fellow travellers.</p> <p><strong>2. The Magnificent Kimberley</strong></p> <p><strong><img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7832032/aat-kings.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/a430d6dcb3d74b82b5675200950f7a77" /></strong></p> <p>On an AAT Kings holiday, you won’t just visit the bucket list sights, you will become immersed in the cultures and lifestyles of the distinctly unique destinations you visit. The Kimberley region of Western Australia is one of these unique destinations, and one that is unlike anywhere in the world. The unbelievable natural wonders such as the Bungle Bungles are truly otherworldly.</p> <p> </p> <p>On the <a href="https://www.aatkings.com/tours/wonders-of-the-west-coast-and-kimberley/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs">21 day Wonders of the West Coast &amp; Kimberley First Choice Guided Holiday</a>, guests will be able to meet the artists of the Mangkaja Arts Resource Agency and Gallery, a fine art gallery, specialty store and studio space located in the centre of Fitzroy Crossing. A guided tour hosted by the Centre Curator provides an opportunity to not only view the incredible artworks, but to see the local artists working in the studio. You can purchase art directly from the local Aboriginal artists which contributes to the running and operating of the arts centre.</p> <p><strong>3. Iconic North Island of New Zealand</strong></p> <p>Immerse yourself in the Maori culture and history as you venture from Auckland down to Wellington. Experience the North Island’s most iconic sights in this <a href="https://www.aatkings.com/tours/iconic-north/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs">7-day First Choice Guided Holiday</a>. As you make your way down the coast, you’ll stop off for an exclusive lunch at a private Waikato dairy farm, learn insider knowledge from your experienced guides, and immerse yourself in the centuries-old traditions of New Zealand’s indigenous people, including a cultural evening at Tamaki Maori Village. At Rotorua, you will choose from a range of sightseeing experiences, including a tour of the Hobbiton movie set, a tour of Waitomo Glowworm caves, or exploring Rotorua and its lakes in an amphibious WWII-era craft.</p> <p><strong>4. New Zealand’s Sensational South</strong></p> <p><strong><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7831983/aat-kings.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/0a2670a80dc74b1e83ab2361b4f23e57" /></strong></p> <p>If you prefer to delve into the heart of New Zealand’s renowned food and wine country, you must add this <a href="https://www.aatkings.com/tours/sensational-south/">11-day Spectacular South</a> tour to your list. Starting in Wellington, where you’ll go on a guided walking tour with a foodie twist to get your senses tingling. The tour winds down the South Island’s east coast to Christchurch before branching off to Mount Cook, where you’ll join a local expert at New Zealand’s longest glacier, the Tasman Glacier. You’ll then head to picturesque Queenstown, embark on a scenic journey through Fiordland National Park, and travel to the magnificent wild West Coast and mesmerising Milford Sound. Culinary highlights include dinner at a top winery in Marlborough, a Be My Guest lunch at Morelea, and a farewell dinner at the Boatshed restaurant in Queenstown.</p> <p><strong>5. New Zealand Uncovered</strong></p> <p><strong><img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7831981/aat-kings-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/e5d0eafaf9f748478f9bde67d578b97d" /></strong></p> <p>Can’t decide between which island to visit next? Why not experience the best of both islands on AAT Kings <a href="https://www.aatkings.com/tours/new-zealand-uncovered/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs">17-day New Zealand Uncovered First Choice Guided Holiday</a>. Explore from Auckland down to Christchurch, experience the contrasts between the two islands: travel through picturesque Hinuera Valley, journey through farmland to the turquoise waters of Huka Falls, and explore magnificent Milford Sound on a nature cruise. See the scenery magically change from alpine to magnificent rainforests and the wild West Coast when crossing over the Haast Pass. Iconic destinations this Guided Holiday will take you include: the Bay of Plenty, Rotorua, Lake Taupo, Charlotte Sound, Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Queenstown, Franz Josef Glacier, and Punakaiki – to name but a few.</p> <p>A journey through the North and South Islands of New Zealand is best undertaken with the experts. Delve into New Zealand’s national identity and explore the country’s Maori culture and history. Enjoy lunch at a dairy farm and Monteith’s Brewery, cruise across Lake Wakatipu for a gourmet dinner at Walter Peak Farm, and experience a Hangi feast at the Tamaki Maori Village.  There is truly something to appeal to every traveller on this 17 day journey through the incredible North and South Islands of New Zealand.</p> <p>Start planning your 2020/21 escape now and save 10% with <a href="https://www.aatkings.com/earlybird/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs">Early Bird Savings</a> on all First Choice Guided Holidays in Australia and New Zealand when booked by 31 January 2020 and travel dates up to 31 March 2021. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PMWdUqmsOdY?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs">Need more reason to book? Click here.</a></p> <p><em>This is a sponsored article produced in partnership with </em><a href="https://www.aatkings.com/?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=article&amp;utm_campaign=online_ebs"><em>AAT Kings</em></a><em>.</em></p>

Domestic Travel

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10 eBook exclusives you will love

<p>Any e-reader convert will tell you how convenient, cost-effective and fun their Kindle, iPad, Kobo or other devices are. Plus, digital readers have the added bonus of eBook exclusives, which are only available to those who have e-readers. Here are 10 of the best from some of the most beloved authors around the world – best of all? They’re all under $3!</p> <ol> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Fthe-scent-of-almonds-camilla-lackberg%2Fprod9780007479061.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>The Scent of Almonds</em></span></a> by Camilla Lackberg</strong> – Fans of Stieg Larsson will love this tightly plotted, bite-sized read by one of Sweden’s most popular writers.</li> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Fin-the-tall-grass-joe-hill%2Fprod9780575110359.html" target="_blank"><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">In the Tall Grass</span></em></a> by Stephen King and Joe Hill</strong> – This father-son-penned short story is a tale of family and terror – what more would you expect from King and son?</li> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Flarger-than-life-jodi-picoult%2Fprod9781760111168.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Larger Than Life</em></span></a> by Jodi Picoult</strong> – A prequel to Picoult’s novel <em>Leaving Time</em>, <em>Larger Than Life</em> follows unlucky-in-love (and in life) Alice Metcalf as she searches for meaning in her life.</li> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Fa-selection-of-smithereens-shaun-micallef%2Fprod9781742536194.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>A Selection of Smithereens</em></span></a> by Shaun Micallef</strong> – These six short essays lampooning everything from cornflakes to Winston Churchill will make you laugh and think.</li> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Fthe-serpent-claire-north%2Fprod9780356504490.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>The Serpent</em></span></a> by Claire North</strong> – Step back in time to 17th century Venice in the first instalment of <em>The Gameshouse</em> trilogy of novellas that redefine time travel stories.</li> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Fbullseye-david-baldacci%2Fprod9781743519837.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Bullseye</em></span></a> by David Baldacci</strong> – <em>Bullseye</em> is the perfect read for Baldacci fans, bringing his beloved characters Will Robie and Oliver Stone (and the rest of the Camel Club) like never before.</li> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Fwater-from-the-sun-discovering-japan-bret-easton-ellis%2Fprod9781743294239.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Water from the Sun &amp; Discovering Japan</em></span></a> by Bret Easton Ellis</strong> – From the acclaimed author of <em>American Psycho</em> comes these two gripping social commentaries that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.</li> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Fpartners-john-grisham%2Fprod9781473642393.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Partners</em></span></a> by John Grisham</strong> – The world’s bestselling writer of legal thrillers delivers a gripping new tale featuring characters from his novel <em>Rogue Lawyer</em> as they revisit how they first met.</li> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Fneil-gaiman-s-likely-stories-neil-gaiman%2Fprod9781472242594.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Likely Stories</em></span></a> by Neil Gaiman</strong> – <em>Likely Stories</em> features four short tales from one of the UK’s most esteemed writers, showcasing exactly what makes him so popular.</li> <li><strong><a href="https://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Febooks%2Ftroll-mountain-matthew-reilly%2Fprod9781760080624.html" target="_blank"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Troll Mountain</em></span></a> by Matthew Reilly</strong> – Fans of the supernatural will love the first tale in Reilly’s <em>Troll Mountain</em> trilogy, which follows a young hero as he embarks on an impossible quest.</li> </ol> <p>What’s the best short story you’ve ever read? Let us know in the comment section below.</p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/09/best-historical-fiction/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>6 of the best historical fiction books</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/08/5-books-every-over-60-should-read/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>5 books every over-60 should read</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/entertainment/books/2016/07/6-of-the-best-books-about-war/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>6 of the best books about war</strong></em></span></a></p>

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On board Queen Victoria's exclusive cruise

<p>There's a slight problem as we wait to enter Britannia, the plush restaurant spread over decks two and three of the Queen Victoria cruise ship.</p> <p>It seems several of our party are sartorially challenged in that we are not sporting jackets and one of us is, gasp, wearing a short-sleeved shirt.</p> <p>There are standards to be upheld, it seems.</p> <p>In the end it is explained, in hushed tones, that we are media, on board for a two-night Melbourne-Sydney preview of what the 2016/17 season might hold.</p> <p>This is not in an effort to get special treatment.</p> <p>Instead, it is whispered in the voice you use to apologise for your toddler and his failure to read the pre-boarding literature.</p> <p>That literature, by the way, explains the "informal" dress code thus: "Jacket required, tie optional for gentlemen, cocktail dress, stylish separates or equivalent for ladies.</p> <p>After 6pm shorts and blue or worn denim (for men and women); sandals and sleeveless tops (for men) are not considered appropriate within the ship."</p> <p>There's more but you get the drift; the Queen Victoria's nod to the 21st century is "tie optional".</p> <p>The maitre d' finally agrees to let us in just this once, though from his expression – he looks like a chihuahua chewing a chilli — he is not happy.</p> <p>Still, crisis averted we head through the stunning two-floor restaurant under the baleful glares of several (jacketed) guests appalled at our overly casual appearance.</p> <p>This is by no means a complaint. It is simply an anecdote to give an idea of what to expect on board the Queen Victoria.</p> <p><img width="500" height="250" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/24137/shutterstock_9729970_500x250.jpg" alt="queen victoria"/></p> <p>It's what James Cusick​, Cunard's Hotel general manager, calls the Downton Abbey effect – the increasing number of cruisers who "like the formality, like the white gloves at afternoon tea", who want the jacket and collared shirt rule, who like tradition and yearn for the days of politesse, elegance, grace and dress codes.</p> <p>This, after all, is a ship of white-gloved waiters, staff in immaculate uniforms, of afternoon tea, bridge clubs, ballroom dancing and two seatings (6pm and 8.30pm) for dinner.</p> <p>None of this freestyle "lob-up-any-time-you-like" jeans and T-shirts lark that holds sway on some of the more informal cruise ships.</p> <p>The Queen Victoria set off on its maiden voyage on December 11, 2007, joining sister ships the Queen Mary 2 and the Queen Elizabeth in Cunard's royal trilogy. It's actually hard to believe it's that new.</p> <p>From the outside it looks like your common-or-garden beautiful cruise ship – all sweeping bow and sleek lines bristling up top with up-to-the-minute technological gee-gaws – but inside it's a different matter.</p> <p>To step inside is to step back to a gentler, more tender, more civilised age. The 1920s or 1930s, perhaps.</p> <p>The public areas look like the only things missing are Hercule Poirot​ and Miss Marple sticking their noses into the two-storey library with its spiral wooden staircase or sleuthing around in the Champagne Bar and the heady fug of the Cigar Lounge.</p> <p>There's wood – lots of wood – and marble and brass and chandeliers and bevelled mirrors all done in the classic art deco fashion epitomising, as it did then and this grand ship does now, luxury, glamour, high spirits and faith in technological progress.</p> <p>Doesn’t the Queen Victoria sound incredible? Have you ever cruised with this ship, and could you see yourself doing so in the future?</p> <p>Let us know in the comments.</p> <p><em>First appeared on <a href="http://Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Stuff.co.nz</span></strong></a>.</em></p> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/images-of-a-beach-villa-style-cruise-liner/"><strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Incredible images of a beach villa-style cruise liner</span></em></strong></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/family-band-together-to-give-grandmother-trip-of-a-lifetime/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><strong>Family band together to give grandmother trip of a lifetime</strong></em></span></a></p> <p><a href="/travel/cruising/2016/06/12-things-you-have-to-know-about-river-cruises/"><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>12 things you have to know about river cruises</strong></span></em></a></p>

Cruising

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8 common travel insurance exclusions

<p>Some travel insurers are getting increasingly tight fisted when it comes to insurance claims and it’s easy to see why. This is why it’s more important than ever to make sure you’re aware of the exclusions in your travel insurance policy so you don’t get stung when something goes wrong.</p> <p>We’ve taken a look at several common travel insurance exclusions. By making sure you’re aware of these you will ensure you’re well placed to make sure you’re in a good position to be covered.</p> <p><strong>Things that generally aren’t covered:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Drunken antics – sure we all like to have a drink or six when we’re on holidays but generally there’s a statement in pretty much every travel insurance policy that says if you’re drunk or under the influence on non-prescription drugs all bets are off.</li> <li>Motorcycle antics – unless you hold an motorcycle license with a valid license for riding overseas if you get in any kind of motorcycle or moped accident while you’re away you won’t be covered. And it goes without saying, that you should wear a helmet.</li> <li>Medical conditions – generally speaking pre-existing medical conditions are not covered, and “pre-existing” can be a vague, catch-all term when it comes to travel insurance. For example, things like heart problems will probably not be covered by your insurance policy.</li> <li>Mental illness – out of 35 insurers surveyed by the Australian magazine Choice, just two insurers (CGU and Bupa) had mental illness coverage in their travel insurance policies. This includes anything from dementia, depressions, anxiety, stress or any nervous condition.</li> <li>“Extreme” activities – it probably goes without saying, but “extreme” activities like sky diving, parachuting and hang gliding are generally not covered at all. Sometimes you can purchase extra coverage for things like skiing, kayaking, snowboarding and surfing.</li> <li>Acts of terrorism – while losses or delays caused by acts of terror generally aren’t covered by insurers, medical claims mostly are. It’s a good idea to be particularly cautious when it comes to countries that have been deemed “unsafe” by the government.</li> <li>Lost luggage – under most travel insurance policies if an airline loses your stuff it’s pretty much up to you to sort it out with the airline. When selecting policies you should also note it’s pretty much the same story whenever freight or postal items go missing as well.</li> <li>Lost and broken stuff – there’s also plenty of exclusions when it comes to common items that have been lost or broken, particularly in regards to where they were when the incident happened. For example, items left behind in a hotel room generally won’t be covered.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Related links:</strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/01/brace-position-in-an-air-emergency/"><strong>Is the brace position in an air emergency effective?</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/01/travel-scams-to-watch-out-for-in-2016/"><strong>16 travel scams to watch out for in 2016</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em><a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/travel-tips/2016/01/12-daggiest-tourist-photo-poses/"><strong>12 daggiest tourist photo poses</strong></a></em></span></p> <p><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><a href="/travel/travel-insurance/2015/12/worst-airline-for-2016-announced/"></a></strong></span></em></p>

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