Kids Stay Free Family Package - Aspire Hotel Sydney

Aspire Hotel Sydney is the ideal base for your next family getaway. Our Family Package includes DVD player rental and a selection of two complimentary DVD's (select range only), overnight car parking and kids activity pack.

Ideal for families, with bedding to suit up to 5 guests. Kids 12 and under stay free!

The hotel is within walking distance of the Capitol Theatre, Chinatown, Paddy’s Markets, Cockle Bay Wharf and Darling Harbour, as well as the trendy suburbs of Pyrmont and Glebe, which are full of restaurants and popular cafés. You are also a short distance by foot to the Powerhouse Museum, Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, The Star Casino, Qantas Credit Union Arena (Sydney Entertainment Centre), and much more.

Prices start from $144 per night staying in a Deluxe Family Room.

Book package now: http://www.aspire-hotel-sydney.bookings.metrohotels.com.au/family-package-hot-deal-accommodation 

Lenny Kravitz 2015 STRUT Australian Tour

Special Guests: Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue

Amassing a huge response from media and fans alike following the announcement that US rock legend, Lenny Kravitz, will appear on the 2015 Bluesfest lineup, Chugg Entertainment has now confirmed that the unrivalled rock hero himself will also be appearing at two headline shows in both Sydney & Melbourne. Joined by New Orleans hero, Trombone Shorty, the shows will take place in April.

Kravitz's talents as a writer, producer and multi-instrumentalist have resonated through nine studio albums into a timeless catalogue. He has won four consecutive GRAMMY Awards, setting a record for the most wins in the "Best Male Rock Vocal Performance" category. Lenny Kravitz's appeal has also been recognized by his peers; his collaborative efforts are as varied as his own influences, having worked with Madonna, Slash, Aerosmith, Jay-Z, N.E.R.D., Mick Jagger, P. Diddy and Alicia Keys.

New Orleans native Trombone Shorty is the bandleader and frontman of Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, a hard-edged funk band that employs hip-hop beats, rock dynamics and improvisation in a jazz tradition. He began his career as a bandleader at the tender age of six, and toured internationally for the first time at age 12 before joining Lenny Kravitz's horn section at the age of 19 for a 105-date world tour in 2005-2006. "...a genius player...he plays his ass off, and he's a beautiful human being" – Lenny Kravitz

With a slew of accolades and awards under his belt, having sold nearly forty million albums, it's fair to say Lenny Kravitz is a bonafide legend and this, a show not to be missed. With his friend and colleague, Trombone Shorty, warming the stage; this stands as just another reason to be there.

Tour Dates: (Ticketek is selling for the following venues only)

• Mon 6 Apr - Rod Laver Arena Melbourne, VIC
• Wed 8 Apr - Qantas Credit Union Arena Sydney, NSW

Tickets: http://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=LENNYKRA15

Waterfall Swing at Darling Harbour

Revisit your own childhood glee of flying through space with the added thrill of narrowly missing getting drenched on this giant swing-set

Popping up in Darling Harbour for the enjoyment of the young and not-so-young alike, Waterfall Swing is the ingenious high-tech creation of a team of artists, designers and engineers from New York.

As part of Sydney Festival 2015, this intelligent swing creates a cascading curtain of water that miraculously opens just in time to allow the rider to pass through.

Revisit your own childhood glee of flying through space with the added thrill of narrowly missing getting drenched on this giant swing-set.

DATE: 8-24 January
TIME: 9am – 9pm daily
COST: Free

Part of  Summer School Holidays at Darling Harbour

See Darlingharbour.com for full information

Asian Cup 2015: From Keisuke Honda, Nasser Al-Shamrani and Shinji Kagawa, 10 stars to watch

With the Asian Cup just days away, we’ve heard plenty about Socceroos stars Tim Cahill, Robbie Kruse and Mile Jedinak in Melbourne, but what of their rivals?

The region’s best players have touched down in Australia, ready to aide their nations’ push for Asian supremacy when the tournament kicks off on January 9, 2015.

Here are 10 stars set to shine at the Asian Cup.

Keisuke Honda — Japan

Honda isn’t just Japan’s main man, he’s probably the best player in Asia. At 28, the midfielder is at the peak of his powers and has flourished since moving to Italian giants Serie A. The playmaker’s pedigree is impressive, having played in two World Cups and as a key part of Japan’s 2011-Asian Cup winning team, named the player of the tournament four years ago.

His speed, close control, vision, finishing (he has 28 goals in 65 national team appearances) and passing ability makes him a nightmare for defences, while the blonde-haired wizard is also a dead-ball wizard. An excitement machine, expect Honda to purr for the tournament favourites.

Japan’s classy midfield double act of Keisuke Honda and Shinji Kagawa. Source: Getty Images

Shinji Kagawa — Japan

Such is the class of the Japan squad, we felt it pertinent to include two members of the Samurai Blue, Shinji Kagawa just edging out Bundesliga rival and Japan’s all-time leading goalscorer Shinji Okazaki of FSV Mainz 05. Kawaga’s club form at present reflects that of struggling Borussia Dortmund, but the Asian Cup gives the 25-year-old the perfect stage to display his immense talents. 

He’s yet to find the back of the net under Japan coach Javier Aguirre, but having been moved back to his ideal central role after a fruitless spell on the left, you’d expect that to change when Japan’s defence kicks off against minnows Palestine on January 12 in Newcastle.

Nasser Al-Shamrani — Saudi Arabia

An attempted headbutt and spit at Matthew Spiranovic in the Asian Champions League final in November followed by last week’s altercation with a fan in Geelong have ensured Al-Shamrani will be the Asian Cup’s pantomime villain. His fiery nature means he’s never far from the action, but the Saudi Arabia striker is quite the player, his 10 ACL goals for Al Hilal helping him win the AFC’s player of the year award. It will be interesting to see and hear the welcome fans give him in Brisbane for the Saudis’ opener against China.

Son Heung-min — Korea Republic

A teammate of Robbie Kruse at Bayer Leverkusen, South Korean winger Son Heung-min is a genuine star and has flourished since moving from Hamburger SV. His five goals and two assists in 16 Bundesliga games this season have attracted interest from England, with Manchester United and Tottenham among his admirers. At just 22, Heung-min has a long career ahead of him, and if the South Koreans are going to upset Australia in Group A and go deep into the tournament, the winger will have to be at his best.

Ashkan Dejagah — Iran

Dejagah during the World Cup. Source: Getty Images

Iran attacker Dejagh played for Germany at youth level, was part of Wolfsburg’s 2008-09 Bundesliga-winning team and played in the Premier League with Fulham. In 2011 he pledged his allegiance to Iran, scoring twice on debut against Qatar in a World Cup qualifier. 

Now plying his trade for Al-Arabi in the Qatar Stars League (who paid Fulham a reported $12m to sign him), the lightning-fast attacker has the talent to wreak havoc on Group C rivals Japan, Iraq and Palestine if they give him too much space and time on the ball.

Khalfan Ibrahim — Qatar

Dubbed the ‘Maradona of Qatar’, and for good reason, Khalfan Ibrahim has a penchant for the spectacular. The Al Sadd winger was named Asian Player of the Year in 2006, aged just 18, and while his career ascent has somewhat levelled, the 26-year-old is still a deadly proposition. Ibrahim scored goals for fun (15 in 21 games) in the 2008-09 Qatar Stars League and won the Asian Champions League in 2011.

Reza Ghoochannejhad — Iran

Ghoochannejhad, nicknamed Gucci, scored Iran’s sole goal at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and will lead the line for his country at the Asian Cup. The Charlton striker boasts a great strike rate for country (11 goals in 19 matches). Ghoochannejhad was a talented violinist as a child and will be hoping to strike a chord at the Asian Cup.

Omar Abdulrahman — United Arab Emirates

Another of Asia’s genuine superstars, the only doubt over Abdulrahman is his fitness, because if he is on song during the Asian Cup, look out. The 23-year-old Al Ain attacker trialled with Manchester City in 2012, with only work permit issues scuppering his move to England. There are question marks over his condition, having not played since the semi-finals of the Gulf Cup in November, but the big-haired attacker is a big game player and the UAE will be looking to him to help get them through a wide open Group C against Iran, Qatar and Bahrain.

Ali Al Habsi — Oman

Oman goalkeeper and skipper Al Habsi only arrived in Australia on Sunday, meaning he won’t have much time with the team before their Asian Cup kicks off against Korea Republic in Canberra, the city the Red Warriors have based themselves in. There’s plenty of experience in Oman’s squad, and Al Habsi is no different, having played 92 times of the national team, been to three Asian Cups and representing Wigan in the Premier League. The Socceroos attackers will have to be on their game when they face Al Habsi on January 13 at Stadium Australia, the 33-year-old has showed before he’s tough to get past.

Server Djeparov (Uzbekistan)

A two-time Asian player of the year (2008 and 2011) Uzbekistan forward Djeparov has been skipper of the side since 2011 and scored twice at the White Wolves’ semi-final finish at the last Asian Cup. Now at Korean side Seongnam FC, Djeparov’s country will look to their skipper to provide the goals in another wide open group featuring the Uzbeks, Saudi Arabia, Korea DPR and China.

View Source Article for Video Clips of these Star Players

Romantic Things To Do in Sydney

Looking for somewhere romantic to take that special someone? Offering fantastic waterfront dining, picturesque picnic spots, outdoor cinemas and a diverse calendar of events, Sydney is home to many places that can set the mood for a romantic day or night out.

Get planning your next date night, or celebrate a milestone with a loved one with one of these romantic things to do in Sydney.

Outdoor cinemas

For a fancier affair than a visit to the local cinema, catch a flick in the evening air at one of Sydney’s outdoor cinemas this summer. Enjoy one of the many new releases or cult classics scheduled, or watch a special preview screening. Choose from a stunning Sydney Harbour backdrop at the St George Open Air Cinema, or relax on Bondi Beach at Ben and Jerry’s Openair Cinemas Bondi.

Ben and Jerry’s Openair Cinemas Bondi

Picnic at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

With stunning views of Sydney Harbour and many shady trees to spread a picnic blanket under, the Royal Botanic Garden is an idyllic and central spot for a romantic breakfast, lunch or early dinner. Once you’ve finished picnicking, take a stroll around the extensive grounds and explore its many themed and manicured gardens.

Picnic at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

Blacktown Skyline Drive In

For a cinematic experience with a hint of nostalgia, spend the evening at the Blacktown Skyline Drive In and enjoy a movie from the comfort of your car. Stock the car with your own food or dine on American-style food and refreshing beverages at the cinema’s 1950s-themed diner.

Image credit: Peter Dobson and Blacktown Skyline Drive In Cinema

Dinner by the harbour

Set the scene for a romantic night out with dinner at one of Sydney’s many harbourside restaurants and cafés. Time your date to see the sun set over Sydney Harbour. Popular dining locations with spectacular waterfront views include Darling Harbour and Circular Quay, with plenty of acclaimed restaurants, bars and cafes perfect for dinner and a nightcap.

Dining beside Sydney Harbour at Opera Kitchen

Night visit to the Sydney Observatory

Gaze up at the stars and explore the night sky alongside your partner during an evening visit to the Sydney Observatory. A tour after dark gives visitors the opportunity to learn more about the universe, discover ancient Indigenous astronomy, and trace planets and galaxies through the observatory’s telescopes.

Stargazing at the Sydney Observatory

‘Roar and Snore’ at Taronga Zoo

Experience a date with a difference with Taronga Zoo’s Roar and Snore program. Come face-to-face with some of Taronga’s furry, feathered and scaly creatures during behind the scenes tours in one of Sydney’s most enchanting date itineraries. Spend the night within the zoo grounds in a safari tent and wake up to the sounds of the zoo’s resident birds and animals as you watch the sun rise over Sydney Harbour.

‘Roar and Snore’ at Taronga Zoo

See a theatre production or musical

Experience world-class theatre and musicals in Sydney. With local and international acts performing as part of a varied year-round program, there are plenty of shows to choose from for a romantic night out. Stellar performances to look forward to this season include Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on Stage, on now at the Sydney Lyric Theatre until February, and Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour from 27 March – 26 April 2015. This year’s Hand Opera on Sydney Harbour program features Verdi’s dramatic Aida, an epic story of a royal love triangle set in Egypt at the time of the pharaohs.

Dirty Dancing – The Classic Story on Stage

Limbo | Dirty and Dangerous Circus Cabaret - Sydney Festival 2015

Limbo | Dirty and Dangerous Circus Cabaret - Sydney Festival 2015

After a sellout season at Sydney Festival 2014, the ultimate other-worldly party, staged somewhere between heaven and hell, returns to the Festival Village once more with circus that’s wild, wicked and out of this world.

“An irresistible cocktail of circus skills, live music and sexy humour”

Time Out (UK)

LIMBO is dirty and dangerous circus cabaret, whisking audiences into a sinister netherworld of jaw-dropping contortion, gut-churning aerial acrobatics, nail-biting stunts and staggering illusions.

Set to Sxip Shirey's thrilling live score of brass, electronics, hip-hop and club beats, LIMBO is poised to set Sydney on fire again.

Event Duration: 70 mins, no interval

Event Preview: 7 January at 7.30pm 

Event Dates: 8–25 January 

8 January at 5.15pm & 9.45pm 
Tues–Sun at 9.45pm 
Sat at 5.15pm & 9.45pm 

No performance on Mondays

View the official Sydney Festival Site

#sydneyfestival #sydfest #sydfest2015

Richie Benaud Becomes ‘Lambassador’ for Australia Day Lamb Campaign

Richie Benaud is spruiking lamb for Australia Day this year. Picture: Damian Shaw

HE’S been the recognisable dry, voice of Australian cricket for decades, now Richie Benaud will be lending his vocal talents to the Aussie lamb industry.

The national treasure is joining Sam Kekovich as a ‘lambassador’ for this year’s Australia Day lamb campaign.

Benaud has been missing from the Channel 9 commentary team this summer as he battles skin cancer, but he’s found time to implore Aussies to celebrate Australia Day with some chops and cutlets.

“To me, Australia Day is the perfect excuse to get together with friends and family over a BBQ and tuck into some delicious lamb chops,” Benaud said.




Sam Kekovich will have some competition at his lamb barbecues now. Picture: Stuart Quinn

Kekovich has become synonymous with the lamb campaign, while this is the first campaign involving Benaud.

“Just like cricket, the annual lamb campaign is synonymous with Australia Day and I’m thrilled to be part of it in 2015,” Benaud said.

Meat & Livestock Australia spokesman Michael Edmonds said Kekovich and Benaud would form a brilliant team.

“We are very proud of how previous campaigns have captured the nation’s attention over the past 10 years,’’ Edmonds.

“For 2015 we wanted to evolve the campaign and it was only fitting to have one of Australia’s most treasured icons, Richie Benaud join Sam on his annual crusade to get Aussies together over lamb on Australia Day.”