Take a tasting tour in your own city with this local Sydney legend who's just won a huge award
When was the last time you went on a tour? I reckon it was probably when you were last overseas (I went on a food tour in Osaka just last week! Sorry for the flex). But have you ever done one in Sydney? A few years ago, I was lucky enough to join Justin Steele, founder of Local Sauce Tours, on one of his small-group experiences. And boy, was it good. Over a couple of hours, we delved into the rich and layered history of Chinatown, learning about the stories and people behind this significant – and seriously delicious – pocket of Sydney. And we ate. A lot. Think: plump, soupy and aromatic dumplings, fish balls doused in curry sauce, and a rocking Chinese-style pork burger with lashings of chilli oil.
In 2018, Steele founded Local Sauce Tours to bring together locals and tourists alike to discover Sydney from a fresh perspective. As he puts it: 'It's not about being a better tourist in your city, but about being a better local.' He and his team now offer a range of tours across Sydney, spanning food walks, secret bar crawls, street art explorations, cultural history tours and dining experiences with refugee chefs.
Now, Steele has been recognised for his efforts, winning gold at the inaugural NSW Top Tour Guide Awards, delivered by the NSW Tourism Association and held at Sydney Harbour this month. The awards celebrate individuals who bring destinations to life through storytelling, knowledge and unforgettable visitor experiences.
'The best tours aren't just informative – they make people feel something,' says Steele. 'Guests want to connect with a place, with each other and with a great guide. In a world missing spontaneity and real conversation, that human connection is everything.'
'This award is a timely reminder of the critical role guides play in shaping how NSW is experienced by international and domestic guests. So often, the focus is on attractions, landmarks or restaurants – but it's the tour guides who welcome visitors, share stories and create those unforgettable moments,' he adds.
As the winner, Steele will now go on to represent NSW at the national Top Tour Guide Awards in Canberra later this year.
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Time Out
4 hours ago
- Time Out
I went to the first ever Time Out Market in Asia Pacific – here's why you should too
I recently popped my Japanese cherry (blossom), spending a week in the Land of the Rising Sun – and I can confirm that what everyone says is, in fact, true. Japan is elite. Home to super-speedy bullet trains and ancient temples, cool streets dotted with vending machines, thrift stores, izakayas and life-altering 7-Elevens – as well as the kindest, most respectful people I've come across – Japan is not only beautiful and mind-blowing, it's safe, clean and, my favourite part: delicious. I was there to check out the brand-new Time Out Market Osaka – the first Time Out Market to open in Asia Pacific – which started welcoming locals and holiday-goers from March 21, 2025. It joins already established and beloved Markets across the globe, including Lisbon, New York, Barcelona and Cape Town. If you've never been to a Time Out Market, it's basically a massive food lover's paradise – a food and cultural hub that brings together the best of the city under one roof. Here's everything you need to know about Time Out Market Osaka – and why I reckon you need to add it to your hit list... What is Time Out Market Osaka? Time Out Market Osaka is a food haven featuring the best of Osaka under one roof. Think of it as the best food market you've ever been to, featuring dishes from first-class local chefs, the city's top restaurants, bars and cultural experiences, based on Time Out's editorial curation. There are 17 vendors to choose from, showcasing a variety of cuisines including Italian, Mexican, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean and, of course, Japanese. And if you're craving a really good burger, you can get that here, too. Plus, there are two bars (hello, sake and cocktails) and three dessert stalls. Spanning more than 3,000 square metres and seating up to 800 guests, Time Out Market is huge. There aren't many venues in Osaka big enough to cater for large groups with no reservation, so it's perfect for team lunches, birthday dinners and lunch and dinner when you're on holidays with friends. View this post on Instagram A post shared by avriltreasure (@avriltreasure) Where is Time Out Market Osaka? Time Out Market Osaka is in the heart of Osaka, within the architecturally striking Grand Green Osaka South Building. It's a six-minute walk from Osaka Station, making it an easy, convenient and central destination to catch up with friends and family – or check it out solo (and eat as much as you can) like I did. Where to eat and drink at Time Out Market Osaka? I'm so glad you asked. As I mentioned, there are 17 food stalls to choose from, featuring cuisines from all around the world. Of course, you'll find excellent Japanese fare, spanning traditional must-try street food snacks like takoyaki (balls filled with octopus), and okonomiyaki, a savoury Japanese-style cabbage pancake. And there's brilliant ramen – the one I ordered had an incredible frothy beef bone broth with soft and chewy noodles. But there are also banging tacos by chef Willy Monroy, who owns Milpa – the first and only Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant in Japan. You'll find handmade udon noodles and Korean hot pots, Napoli-style pizza with a Japanese twist, and a rocking Wagyu cheeseburger for when you're craving a taste of home. Feel like something sweet? My pick is the bowling-ball-sized shaved matcha ice, which had whimsy in spades. 'There's something for everyone' is a cliché, but it absolutely stands here. What are the opening hours of Time Out Market Osaka? Time Out Market Osaka is open seven days a week, from 11am through to 11pm, though last orders are taken at 10.30pm. Why should I visit Time Out Market Osaka? There are so many things I loved about Time Out Market Osaka. Walking in, I was truly blown away by how sleek and chic the space looked – with its warm lighting, natural wooden furniture and polished black splashback. So if you're after a cool hangout, this is it. I loved the communal tables and how it's great for big groups but also solo diners. And because all the food stalls have been curated by the Time Out team – AKA people who know what's up when it comes to food and drink – you can count on the dishes to deliver on quality and flavour. Osaka is an incredible food destination with so many top restaurants, and the Market brings the best of the city together under one roof. If you're after a taste of home, you'll find that here, too. Plus, there are DJs spinning tunes on the weekends with lots of fun things in the pipeline. Time Out Market is card-only and does not accept cash. And I think it goes without saying but I will anyway: come hungry. I hope you love it as much as I did – I have a feeling you will.
Wales Online
14 hours ago
- Wales Online
I stayed overnight in a surreal Welsh Village with no residents and this is what happened after dark
I stayed overnight in a surreal Welsh Village with no residents and this is what happened after dark Want Wales without the crowds? Stay overnight in this eccentric, empty village by the sea Portmeirion is also well-known as the home of TV cult classic, The Prisoner (Image: Portia Jones ) I'll admit, I love quirky and off-beat places, especially if you can stay the night and explore long after the daytrippers have gone. So, imagine my delight when I discovered a colourful coastal attraction in Wales with no residents, cars, schools, or banks. I knew I had to visit at once and packed my finest attire (£3 dress from Vinted). Inspired by Portofino's multicoloured façades, Portmeirion is a uniquely constructed tourist village that offers a slice of Italy on the bracing Welsh coast. Named one of the UK's 'most beautiful' places by Time Out, the pretty village is one of Wales' most popular attractions and is normally full of visitors. By night, however, Portmeirion empties out, leaving just the overnight guests, staying in one of the quirky 'village rooms' or in one of two luxury 4-star hotels. If you want to experience one of the most enchanting places in Wales without the crowds, book an overnight stay and you'll practically have the place to yourself. Especially if you stay outside of the busy school holidays. I booked an off-season stay for my wedding anniversary and experienced Portmeirion's charm after hours. Here's why you should, too. Article continues below Why Portmeirion is unique This pretty village in Wales has been compared to Italy for its beautiful buildings and coast (Image: Getty Images ) Portmeirion isn't quite like the other villages in Wales. There are no permanent residents at Portmeirion as it's a uniquely constructed village designed specifically for tourists who pay an entrance fee to wander around colourful Italianate buildings. This whimsical village was born out of the long-held ambition of its founder, architect Clough Williams-Ellis. His creative vision for an Italianate-style, private peninsula village on the Welsh coast resulted in a charming tourist destination with a Mediterranean feel. While many think of the village as the indulgent whimsy of an eccentric architect, Clough recognised the value of tourism to the Welsh economy. He had a clear vision for managed tourism and sustainability, clearly hugely ahead of the curve. Clough acquired the wilderness site in 1925 and dedicated his life to developing this run-down peninsula into a popular coastal attraction. He drew heavily from the coloured façades of Portofino, resulting in dream-like, pastel-coloured buildings, ornamental gardens, and piazzas with fancy fountains and a giant chess set. Strolling around, it feels like each building has its own personality; some are playful, with bright facades and ornate details, while others are stately, exuding an old-world charm. This is honestly like nowhere you've ever seen before, it's weird and wonderful and is bound to captivate even the most cynical of souls. This is honestly like nowhere you've ever seen before, it's weird and wonderful and is bound to captivate even the most cynical of souls. (Image: Portia Jones ) Sir Clough's clever use of arches, slopes and window sizes also makes the village appear larger than it is, and many of the buildings have been 'upcycled' from former sites. Classical buildings were salvaged from demolition, giving rise to Clough's description of Portmeirion as "a home for fallen buildings." Construction of the site continued in stages until 1976, when Clough sadly passed away. Portmeirion is also well-known as the home of TV cult classic, The Prisoner, starring Patrick McGoohan. The series was filmed here in the 1960s, and the village provided a surreal backdrop to the off-beat series. Alongside its unique architectural heritage, the private, ticketed site features two swanky hotels, self-catering cottages, an indulgent spa, gift shops, cafés, restaurants and an authentic Italian-style gelateria. From superstar gigs to cosy pubs, find out What's On in Wales by signing up to our newsletter here Portmeirion was born out of the long-held ambition of its founder, architect Clough Williams-Ellis (Image: Portia Jones ) Walking into Portmeirion for the first time is undoubtedly an experience. The village rises like a painted mirage, with pastel-coloured buildings and whimsical towers that seem plucked from a fairytale. Here, clusters of lush and green trees frame the view while the estuary beyond glitters under the changing light of the Welsh sky. From the moment you cross the threshold, it's clear that this is not just any village; Portmeirion is a visual masterpiece, and it's worth exploring when dusk falls and the crowds clear out. Why you should stay overnight in Portmeirion Staying overnight in one of the 'village rooms' is like being let in on a secret (Image: Portia Jones ) Portmeirion is a wildly popular tourist attraction in Wales, with around 200,000 visitors annually. During the day, the site is packed with people who come for the colourful architecture, cafes and spa. The village empties as the day draws on and the shadows grow longer. The daytrippers, who fill the streets with chatter and snapping cameras, slowly disperse. It's in these quiet moments that Portmeirion reveals another side to its character, a serene, almost mystical atmosphere that envelops the village as the sun dips below the horizon. This is the best time to be in Portmeirion when day visitors have gone, and you can roam the surreal site with fewer crowds. Only overnight guests can be on site after the village has 'closed' for the day, so make the most of the near-empty streets. Portmeirion village rooms We stayed in one of the 'Village rooms' above the central piazza (Image: Portia Jones ) Stay overnight in one of the 'village rooms' and you'll be right in the centre of Portmeirion. When the crowds are gone, Portmeirion is yours alone to discover. Wandering through the quiet streets, with the village illuminated by the soft glow of the street lamps, you feel like you're in a Wes Anderson fever dream. We stayed in one of the swish 'Village rooms' above the central piazza, giving you a gorgeous panorama of the village as the sun sets and the last guests leave. Stepping out onto the balcony, you can look over the picturesque piazza and the village and get some gorgeous photos without hordes of visitors in your shot. Perfect if you love taking photos like me. Accommodation options The Hotel Portmeirion overlooks the Dwyryd Estuary (Image: Getty Images ) Portmeirion offers various accommodation options, each with its own unique charm. Choose between the sophisticated 4-star Hotel Portmeirion, the chic and modern 4-star Castell Deudraeth, the characterful Village Rooms, or an array of distinctive self-catering cottages. The flagship spot to stay is the 4-star Hotel Portmeirion, lovingly converted from an old Victorian villa. It was opened in 1926 by village creator Clough Williams-Ellis to much fanfare. The hotel has undergone refurbishments over the years to modernise its style while retaining some original features. The Grade II-listed hotel is also famous for being the place where English playwright Noel Coward wrote Blithe Spirit in 1941. It feels very stately with its cosy sofas set around an Italian-style fireplace and Art Deco-inspired design in the bar and dining room. The other impressive accommodation, Castell Deudraeth, is a 4-star, Victorian castellated mansion built by David Williams with 11 modern and spacious rooms. In the heart of Portmeirion Village, you'll also find 32 individually designed rooms, each brimming with character. These charming accommodations combine the comforts of a traditional hotel with the added bonus of being located right inside the vibrant village. Dinner at Portmeirion The village has plenty of dining options (Image: Portia Jones ) The village has plenty of dining options for daytrippers, from cafés to a 1950s-style bar and even an Italian gelateria. Opening days and hours depend on the season, so it's always worth checking ahead first. The bonus of staying the night in Portmeirion, though, is having a fancy dinner at one of the village's two full-service restaurants without huge crowds. We had a romantic dinner at the Portmeirion Hotel Dining Room, the perfect end to a whimsical day. We chose dishes from the varied menu and feasted on Welsh beef filet and Welsh Pork tenderloin, which were utterly divine. With its elegant décor and sweeping views of the estuary, this award-winning Art Deco Restaurant offers a refined dining experience rooted in the local landscape. Executive head chef Mark Threadgill and his skilled team, led by head chef Daniel Griffiths, work their culinary magic in the kitchen. They source the finest local ingredients, some even foraged from within the village, to craft a distinctive modern Welsh cuisine. Their dishes blend traditional French techniques with Japanese flavours, offering a dynamic and ever-evolving menu that highlights the freshest seasonal produce. Celebrating? Splash out on the taster menu featuring six courses and an optional cheese course. Typical dishes include Wild sea bass with cep mushroom, Welsh black truffle and chicken sauce, Sand carrot with puy lentils and hazelnuts, and Banana with miso caramel. What to do in Portmeirion As the day rolls on, the crowds start to leave (Image: Portia Jones ) Whether you are a day visitor or staying the night, there are plenty of things to keep you entertained in Portmeirion Discover nature Despite its coastal location, Portmeirion is not just a summer destination. The 130-acre site, set amid woodlands and carefully manicured gardens, offers some of the most stunning scenery in Wales, magical for spring blooms or vibrant autumn colours. The microclimate of the peninsula also protects it from the worst of the winter frosts, although it has snowed here on occasion, much to the delight of photographers. Take the scenic, 40-minute walk through the Gwyllt woodland to explore a wild garden designed by the horticulturalist Caton Haigh, an authority on Himalayan trees and exotic plants. Two main paths lead into the pretty woodlands, and 19 miles (30.5km) of walking paths lead to highlights such as the Ghost Garden, Tangle Wood, and Chinese Lake. Each season brings new life to Portmeirion's manicured gardens with textures and colours anew as you wander through its cobbled streets and piazzas. For sweeping views of the estuary, head to Clifftop & Chantry Row or walk to the Mermaid Spa for superb coastal views. Nearby, you'll also find the Min y Don to Black Rock Sands section of the long-distance Wales Coast Path. After you visit the village, you can veer off for a longer walk on the Welsh coast to discover its impressive, rocky shorelines. Despite its coastal location, Portmeirion is not just a summer destination (Image: Portia Jones ) Shopping Portmeirion also has a range of well-heeled and bespoke shops, including the world's only Prisoner TV Show Shop. Here, you can buy memorabilia from the show, such as maps, badges, Village Foods tins and figures. Elsewhere, you'll find Welsh language and tourism books at the bookstore, a curated collection of gifts and local products at The Ship Shop, Welsh produce, and Portmeirion's very own wine and champagne at Pot Jam. Portmeirion Online also offers a range of Portmeirion-branded gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your visit. Browse printed mugs, tea towels, and chocolates alongside a small selection of discounted Portmeirion pottery. Portmeirion even has its own dedicated shop outside of the village in the harbour town of Porthmadog. Siop Fawr Portmeirion is a homeware store and café in the former three-storey Kerfoots, which is thought to be the oldest department store in North Wales, dating back to 1874. Have an indulgent spa The boutique Mermaid Spa offers a restorative experience by the sea and has a range of luxury and wellbeing treatments to help you unwind. Enjoy a re-energising facial, warming hot stone massage, or indulgent body wrap with views of the peaceful Dwyryd Estuary as you slip into quiet bliss. Expert therapists use high-quality and vegan-friendly products to deliver all-natural therapies that keep with the village's upmarket feel. Various spa packages, including bespoke options, are available, and you don't need to be an overnight guest to book. You can even indulge in a post-spa afternoon tea in Hotel Portmeirion for the perfect pamper day in North Wales. This is definitely not a budget stay in Wales, but if you want to splash out on a swanky stay, it's absolutely worth the money (Image: North Wales Live ) Verdict This is definitely not a budget stay in Wales, but if you want to splash out on a swanky trip, it's absolutely worth the money. My advice: go all in. Have a fancy dinner, book a spa treatment, splurge in the shop. This is a 'go big, or go home' type of staycation, so make the most of it. For more information and booking, click here. Article continues below
Press and Journal
15 hours ago
- Press and Journal
Greek war vessels arrive at Buckie Harbour as filming of The Odyssey ramps-up
In what could be the biggest clue that The Odyssey is due to start filming in Moray very soon, a number of wooden ships have been spotted at Buckie Harbour. Excitement has been building since The Press and Journal first reported that filming of the blockbuster movie was due to get under way soon at sites across the region. The film is to be the most expensive of Oscar-winning director Christopher Nolan's career and has attracted a top cast. Confirmed cast picks include Matt Damon in the lead role, with Tom Holland, Zendaya, Anne Hathaway, Charlize Theron and Robert Pattinson. Last week, The P&J reported that setup had already begun at the historic ruin Findlater Castle, with visitors prohibited from visiting until the end of July. Filming infrastructure has also begun arriving at other locations in recent days, including at Culbin Forest near Forres. There has also been activity at Buckie Loch, where equipment as well as trailers and tents were spotted on site. Now a number of Greek-style wooden ships have arrived at Buckie Harbour. Pictures show five war boats of varying size, which are similar to those spotted on the film set in Greece. The epic film dramatises the journey of the ancient Greek king of Ithaca back home to his wife following the Trojan War which, according to Greek myth, took place in the 12th and 13th centuries BC. The Odyssey is due to hit cinemas in 2026.
