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Tropical banana cake with salted peanut caramel sauce

If you’re really looking to go all out, this tropical banana cake with salted peanut caramel sauce is a striking dessert that tastes as good as it looks. If there are any leftovers of, they will keep for a few days in the fridge. Serves: Six to eight Ingredients: Banana cake <ul> <li>125g butter, softened</li> <li>1 cup brown sugar</li> <li>1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li> <li>2 tablespoons rum</li> <li>2 eggs</li> <li>3 ripe bananas, mashed</li> <li>1/4 cup coconut milk</li> <li>1/2 cup desiccated coconut</li> <li>1/2 cup chopped tropical dried fruits, plus extra for garnish</li> <li>2 cups self-raising flour</li> </ul> Salted peanut caramel sauce <ul> <li>200g caster sugar</li> <li>60ml (4 tablespoons) water</li> <li>60g butter, cut into small cubes</li> <li>1/2 cup cream</li> <li>1 teaspoon soy sauce</li> <li>80g salted roasted peanuts, roughly chopped</li> </ul> Filling <ul> <li>300ml cream</li> <li>1 tablespoon icing sugar</li> <li>250g sour cream, whisked</li> <li>2 bananas, sliced, tossed in a little lemon or lime juice to prevent browning</li> </ul> Method: <ol> <li>Heat oven to 180°C. Grease and line the base of a 22cm spring-form tin.</li> <li>Cream butter and brown sugar together. Add vanilla and rum, beating to combine. Beat in eggs, mashed bananas and coconut milk. Add desiccated coconut and dried fruits, sift the flour over and gently fold to combine. </li> <li>Spoon into prepared tin and bake 45-50 minutes or until a skewer inserted in the middle comes out clean. Allow to cool. The cake can be made the day before it is needed.</li> <li>For the sauce, place caster sugar and water in a small saucepan and swirl the pan over a medium-high heat until sugar dissolves.</li> <li>Bring to the boil and cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until a rich caramel colour. Add butter carefully (mixture may spit) and whisk to combine.</li> <li>Add cream and soy sauce, whisking to combine.</li> <li>Add half the chopped peanuts. Serve immediately or leave covered on the bench (the sauce will become solid if refrigerated). </li> <li>For the filling, whip cream with icing sugar then mix into whisked sour cream.</li> <li>Keep chilled until needed. </li> <li>To assemble, split the cold cake and cover the bottom piece with a layer of sliced banana. Top with half the cream mixture then add the other layer of cake.</li> <li>Cover the top with remaining cream and garnish with remaining peanuts and extra dried tropical fruits. Pour over the caramel sauce and serve.</li> </ol> Written by Bernadette Hogg. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stuff.co.nz</a>. Images: Shutterstock

Food & Wine

11 breathtaking underwater hotels around the world

Your new dream vacation spot is six metres below sea level. Be their guest! Talk about a tropical oasis! These stunning hotel rooms from around the world share one thing in common: they’re all underwater. So whether you’re an ocean lover by nature or are always looking for your next adventure, take a deep dive into some of these exquisite stays. Conrad Maldives Rangali Island – Rangali Island, The Maldives <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/02_-conradhotel_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_VIA-CONRADHOTEL.COM-770-1.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Courtesy conradhotel.com This island resort is famous for its Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, the world’s first all-glass dining establishment completely submerged underwater. It’s also one of the only locations in the world where you shouldn’t be afraid of sharks staring at you. Above ground, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island provides spectacular views of the Indian Ocean. Stop for a unique massage in the Over Water Spa, tiki hut-style rooms with glass floors that allow you to watch colourful fish swim below you during your treatment. The Manta Resort – Pemba Island, off the coast of Tanzania <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/03_themanta_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_themantaresort-COURTESY-THEMANTARESORT.COM-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Via themantaresort.com The most exciting part of this underwater hotel isn’t even attached to the hotel. It’s called the Underwater Room, your own private floating island where you can sleep under the sea or under the stars. A boat takes you from the mainland to your little paradise. The landing deck with a lounge area and bathroom is at sea level. Climb up the ladder to sunbathe or stargaze on the rooftop, or head below deck to your bedroom for a nearly 360-degree view of underwater life. Prepare to see exotic fish, squid, and even an octopus during your stay at the Underwater Room. Atlantis The Palm – Dubai, United Arab Emirates <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/04_atlantisthepalm_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_VIA-ATLANTISTHEPALM.COM-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Via atlantisthepalm.com Atlantis The Palm with its picturesque views of the Arabian Sea is well worth the trip. It was the first resort built on an island and is located on the world’s largest man-made island, Palm Jumeirah, which actually looks like a palm tree. Atlantis The Palm also offers floor-to-ceiling views of the sea in its underwater suites, even in the bathrooms. Guests can dine at not one, but two underwater restaurants, Poseidon Café and Ossiano. The latter is renowned for its seafood, though it may feel disconcerting to eat the same creatures swimming mere feet away from your plate. Resort World Sentosa – Sensota Island, Singapore <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/05_resortworldsensota_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real-VIA-RWSENTOSA.COM-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: rwsentosa.com No need to waterproof your mobile phone when you want to take pictures here at this underwater hotel. The Ocean Suites at Resort World Sentosa are similar to two-story townhouses, the upper level being an above-ground patio with Jacuzzi and the lower level a private underwater suite looking into the depths of the Singapore Strait. Guests can see any number of the over 40,000 kinds of fish that live in the area from the comfort of their own beds. Plus, with seven hotels, four amusement parks, a museum, a cruise ship, and a casino all located on resort property, it’s safe to say this resort has something for everyone. Planet Ocean Underwater Hotel – Florida, US <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/06_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_PlanetOceanUnderwaterHotel-COURTESY-PLANET-OCEAN-UNDERWATER-HOTEL-LLC-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Courtesy Planet Ocean Underwater Hotel LLC While you’re in Florida visiting the best beaches in the US, take a detour to Key West, home of the Planet Ocean Underwater Hotel. Located almost 10 metres below the surface, the hotel’s 12 bedrooms are accessible via a glass elevator and provide a panoramic view of aquatic life. A marine biologist will accompany guests to explain the marine life around them. But here’s the catch: Only 90 groups (with 12 couples each) will be able to stay at the Key West location once it officially opens. After that, the hotel will travel to other locations – Okinawa, Japan, Singapore, and Thailand are listed on the hotel’s website – to bring the experience to other citizens of the world. Better make your reservation fast for this underwater hotel. Utter Inn – Vasteras, Sweden <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/07_utterinn_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_VIA-VISITVASTERAS.SE-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Via visitvasteras.se We would call this one of the strangest hotels you can ever visit, but technically it isn’t even a hotel. It’s an art project designed by artist and sculptor Mikael Genberg, which conveniently doubles as a hotel room. Guests enter the Utter Inn through a red Swedish-style house floating on the water, then climb down a hatch in the floor for the main attraction: the underwater bedroom surrounded by windows looking into Sweden’s Lake Malaren. Outlaw’s at Al Mahara at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah – Dubai, UAE <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/08_burj-al-arab-nathan-outlaw_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_jumeirah-VIA-JUMEIRAH.COM-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Via jumeirah.com Burj Al Arab Jumeirah rightly earns its place as one of the most outrageous resorts in the world. Its ambitious architecture resembles a sail blowing in the wind, each room is two stories with state-of-the-art amenities, and Hawksbill turtles are rehabilitated right on the resort’s premises. Its restaurant Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara famously serves the best seafood in Dubai, and the floor-to-ceiling aquarium gives you an authentic underwater dining experience without actually being underwater. Poseidon Undersea Resort – Katafanga Island, Fiji <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/09_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_poseidonresorts-VIA-POSEIDONRESORTS.COM-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Via poseidonresorts.com In some cultures, rain on your wedding day is considered good luck. But what about getting married in an underwater hotel? Poseidon Undersea Resort can host wedding ceremonies and vow renewals in its underwater chapel, which has a transparent wall overlooking a coral reef. We’re not sure if a mermaid-style marriage will bring good luck and happiness, but at least it will bring spectacular views. The five-star resort is only accessible via a submarine that you can learn to drive, if you wish. Register online to get notified when the resort starts taking reservations. Lovers Deep Submarine from Oliver’s Travels <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/10_submarine_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_oliverstravels-VIA-OLIVERSTRAVELS.COM-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Via oliverstravels.com After your aquatic wedding, keep the undersea fun going at this literal submarine hotel. The self-proclaimed founders of the Mile Low Club are on hand to make your submarine stay just the way you want it. Lovers Deep Submarine can be marooned wherever you’d like for your boarding. A personal chef will design your own aphrodisiac tasting menu. Other optional services include a free rose petal scattering service and champagne breakfast in bed. It sounds too good to be true – and it is. Just one night aboard the sub costs $450,000 per night. Subsix at Niyama Private Islands – The Maldives <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/11_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_niyama-VIA-NIYAMA.COM-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Via niyama.com You definitely don’t want to forget proper dining etiquette when you eat at this luxurious restaurant, which serves champagne breakfasts, prix fix lunches, and gourmet dinners six metres below the Indian Ocean. Getting to Subsix involves taking a speedboat from the mainland and descending a three-tier staircase; you will undoubtedly feel like James Bond in doing so. As the world’s first underwater club, Subsix also throws glow parties twice a week so you can dance with the fish, eels, and sea turtles all night long. Hydropolis – Dubai, UAE <img src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/2022/10/12_Underwater-Hotels-Around-the-World-that-Look-Too-Beautiful-to-Be-Real_dubailime-VIA-DUBAILIME.COM-770.jpg" alt="" width="770" height="500" /> Image: Via dubailime.com This underwater hotel could join the ranks of the most expensive resorts in the world – if it ever opens. Hydropolis has been in the works since 2005, was supposed to open in 2009, and is still incomplete in 2020. The project has been postponed indefinitely due to costs (only $850 million) and to address the impact the building could have on marine life, but the artist renditions of what it could look like are still breathtaking. The above-ground portion looks like something out of The Jetsons, and the undersea section contains the 220 luxury suites designed with transparent walls. Those working on Hydropolis call it a 10-star hotel. We’ll need to wait until it opens to find out if that’s actually true. Written by Claire Nowak. This article first appeared in <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/flightstravel-hints-tips/11-breathtaking-underwater-hotels-around-the-world" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=articles&utm_campaign=RDSUB&keycode=WRA87V" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here’s our best subscription offer.</a> Image: Getty Images

International Travel

Scrumptious mocktail: Tropical super drink

Prep time: 5mins Ingredients <ul> <li>1 passionfruit</li> <li>1 tbsp (or 3 tsps) lime juice</li> <li>1/2 cup coconut water</li> <li>½ cup Soda water</li> <li>Mint for garnish Ice cubes</li> </ul> Method 1. Scoop passionfruit pulp into a glass 2. Add 1 x tbsp lime juice 3. Add ½ cup coconut water 4. Add ½ cup soda water 5. Optional: Add one level spoon of <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.lifespaceprobiotics.com/products/probiotics-skin-glow" target="_blank">Life-Space Skin Probiotics + Skin Glow</a> and stir until dissolved 6. Add lots of ice Stir well Garnish with mint and serve Recipe supplied by Life-Space Probiotics + Skin range, visit: <a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.lifespaceprobiotics.com/collections/skin-health" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="4">www.lifespaceprobiotics.com</a>

Food & Wine

From the Red Centre to the green tropics, Australia’s Outback presents a palette like no other

By Reader's Digest, in partnership with APT From the sunburnt sands and ochre-hued escarpments of its Red Centre to the lush green rainforests of Tropical North Queensland, Australia’s Outback packs a punch when it comes to the kaleidoscope of colours on show. <a href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/?utm_source=readersdigest&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_readersdigest_native&utm_campaign=outback2020">APT</a> has been operating tours in the Outback for more than 50 years, and are experts in tailoring holidays to showcase the best of each magical region. A world of rainforest and reef In Cape Tribulation, rainforest-clad mountains tumble down to meet the coastline, where pure white sands and turquoise waters dazzle. This is the only place on Earth where two World Heritage-listed sites meet – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The Daintree is the oldest tropical lowland forest in the world and is home to thousands of species of birds, animals and reptiles. Here, giant fan palms, emerald green vines and ancient ferns tangle together, forming a dense rainforest that makes you feel as though you are stepping into Jurassic Park. On tour APT offers an 11-day 4WD adventure through Cooktown & Cape York. Arrive in Cairns and transfer to Port Douglas, where you’ll spend a night at the luxurious Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. Travel to Mossman Gorge in Daintree National Park and set off on a Dreamtime Gorge Walk. Explore Cape Tribulation and Cooktown then visit Split Rock, an intriguing Indigenous rock art site. Take a helicopter flight into the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve before continuing north to the tip of Cape York. Here, set out on a walk to the tip of the peninsula and enjoy a helicopter flight for an aerial perspective on this incredible landscape. Be moved by the outback’s heart As the light shifts and changes throughout the day, so does the landscape at Uluru – the Outback’s spiritual heart. At sunrise, feel an overwhelming sense of calm as you watch this mighty monolith come to life against a pastel-coloured sky. In the afternoon, Uluru appears as an ochre-brown hue, scored with dark shadows. As the sun begins to set, it bathes the rock in burnt orange, then a series of deeper and darker reds, before it finally fades into charcoal as night falls. Spend a night at the Field of Light and savour dinner under the stars, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the didgeridoo. With Uluru in the background, watch in awe as 50,000 soft lights cover the desert floor behind you. On tour On APT’s 11-day Central to South Explorer tour, start your journey in Uluru, where you’ll embark on a base tour at sunrise and experience a night at the Field of Light. Learn about the history of opal mining in Coober Pedy then travel along the iconic Oodnadatta Track to WIlliam Creek. Take an included scenic flight over spectacular Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre before journeying to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. While here, spend two nights at the Ikara Safari Camp – the perfect base for exploring Wilpena Pound National Park. A winery lunch in Adelaide’s Clare Valley is the perfect ending to your journey. Getting your fill of Lake Eyre Few sights in Australia stir the soul more than that of the normally dry Lake Eyre filling with water and suddenly teeming with life. The lake, properly known as Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, relies on monumental rains in Queensland and the Northern Territory for water to begin to flow into it. Last year saw the lake reach levels unseen for almost half a century, and it is hoped that 2020’s northern monsoon season will see the region once again alive with fish surging through the rivers that feed Lake Eyre, and its surface thronged with an array of birdlife including hundreds of thousands of pelicans. In a land battling drought and bushfires, the vision of water shimmering on the surface of the lake is life affirming. And it is something to be treasured and celebrated, so take this rare chance to go with the flow. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.413612565445px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843793/red-centre-2-um.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/1ef8aa559b194a00b0a26c2255414afe" /> Paradise found amid corals and blooms Stretching over 1,100 kilometres of seemingly untouched coastline, Western Australia’s Coral Coast is a marine paradise like no other. Here, waves lap lazily on pristine white-sand beaches and turtles sweep through sheltered turquoise bays. The crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Marine Park harbour the world’s largest fringing reef. Beneath the surface, you’ll find dolphins, dugongs, manta rays, and more than 500 species of fish. There’s more to discover on land, where colourful blankets of native wildflowers burst into bloom between August and September along the spectacular Wildflower Way. For a whole new perspective on the region, take to the skies on a helicopter flight over the Dampier Archipelago. The staggering contrast between brilliant white beaches, aquamarine waters, and the rugged red Pilbara landscape is a breathtaking sight – one that can only be experienced from the air. On tour Board the MS Caledonian Sky in Broome and navigate the remote islands of Western Australia’s Coral Coast on a 15-day small ship expedition cruise and 4WD adventure. Discover life below the surface while snorkelling the clear waters of this marine paradise. Disembark in Geraldton and continue the adventure as you explore Kalbarri National Park and the eerie limestone Pinnacles. To finish up your journey, there’s a stay in a luxury eco-tent on the beautiful Rottnest Island. This article originally appeared on <a href="mailto:https://www.readersdigest.com.au/travel/from-the-red-centre-to-the-green-tropics-australias-outback-presents-a-palette-like-no-other">Reader's Digest.</a> Photos: Reader’s Digest

Domestic Travel

Surprise discovery of huge tropical fish on US beach

A large colourful fish has washed ashore on the US coast, with aquarium officials describing it as a rare occurrence. The 45-kilogram opah fish, also called a moon fish, was found on Sunset Beach in Seaside, a city in northwest Oregon. “While rare this far north it is not unheard of,” Seaside Aquarium said of the unusual appearance of the fish in the area in a <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.facebook.com/SeasideAquarium/posts/6224256220917665" target="_blank">Facebook post</a>. Keith Chandler, the general manager of Seaside Aquarium, told CNN that finding an opah on the Oregon coast is “uncommon” and that the fish was “in such great shape”. “They’re pretty cool fish, and we don’t normally see them on the shore,” said Mr Chandler. “It was pretty exciting for locals.” Due to the condition of the fish, Mr Chandler believes it had been on the beach for less than an hour before aquarium staff were notified. “Unfortunately, it washed up not living, but we got to it before the birds,” he said. Mr Chandler said the opah is being stored in a large freezer, and that one lucky school group would get the chance to dissect the fish once the school year starts. According to the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/opah#overview" target="_blank">National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)</a>, little is known about the opah since they live deep in the ocean. The species is usually found in temperate and tropical waters. The NOAA describes the opah as having a silvery-grey, round body, with a rose red belly, red fins, and eyes encircled with gold. Image: Seaside Aquarium / Facebook

International Travel

The tropical islands you CAN visit during the coronavirus pandemic

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> Thanks to a new travel bubble that's opened up between the Australian mainland and tropical islands in the Indian Ocean, Aussies are finally able to scratch that travel itch. 27 islands, including Christmas and Cocos Keeling Islands, have quietly announced travel zones with Western Australia in July, which is effective immediately. Only two of the 27 islands are inhabited and the islands have not recorded a single case of coronavirus since the pandemic began. Since the travel bubble was announced, tourist numbers have dwindled swiftly. But Christmas and Cocos Keeling Islands administrator Natasha Griggs is urging more people to visit. "All visitors to Australia's Indian Ocean Islands must have been in Western Australia for a minimum 14 days prior to travel, but there is no requirement to self-isolate upon arrival at the islands or upon return to Perth," she said. Christmas Island operators have been working overtime to promote the location as a tourist destination after years of bad press. Its immigration detention centre was shut down in 2018, and instead became a quarantine hub for Australians returning from Wuhan in the early days of the coronavirus crisis. Christmas Island marketing manager Jahna Luke told the Sydney Morning Herald that business is starting to pick up. <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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/CDQeco9puBP/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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/CDQeco9puBP/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Christmas Island Tourism (@christmasisland)</a> on Jul 30, 2020 at 12:13am PDT </div> </blockquote> "After the bubble was announced it took two or three weeks for people to get their bookings in place, but we are really noticing the numbers coming through," she said. "It is currently enough, we are coming into our peak season normally November to December at this stage not sure what our peak season will be." There are two flights from Perth to the islands each week, with prices starting from $570. </div> </div> </div>

Family & Pets

Tropical papaya refrigerator cake

End your mealtime with a bang and serve up this juicy dessert. The tropical fruit flavours blend well with the dairy to create a dessert to remember. Serves 12 Prep Time: 25 minutes Refrigerator Time: 8 hours Ingredients: <ul> <li>250 g cream cheese (one block)</li> <li>300 ml pure cream</li> <li>1/4 cup sweetened condensed milk</li> <li>1 tsp lemon juice</li> <li>1/2 tsp vanilla paste or extract</li> <li>1 1/2 packets Nice biscuits</li> <li>300 g papaya, thinly sliced</li> <li>1 x 440 g can crushed pineapple in juice, drained</li> </ul> To garnish <ul> <li>Extra sliced papaya</li> <li>1/4 cup flaked coconut, toasted</li> <li>1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted</li> </ul> Method: <ol> <li>With a hand-held mixer beat the cream cheese until smooth. Slowly add cream, beating to incorporate well as you pour, then continue to beat for one to two minutes until it thickens and holds soft peaks.</li> <li>Add the condensed milk, vanilla and lemon juice to the cream and beat until the mixture begins to re-thicken and the beaters leave trails in the surface. Spoon 1/2 cup of the cream into a separate dish, cover and place in the fridge for toping the cake when it’s ready to serve.</li> <li>Line a 1.5 litre loaf tin with cling-wrap to cover the base and over-hang on all four sides. Spread 1/2 cup of the remaining cream in the bottom of the prepared tin and arrange a layer of biscuits on top, cutting a few into smaller pieces to fill any gaps. Dollop over a quarter of the cream (about 1/2 cup again) and spread to cover the biscuits. Top cream with a third of the papaya slices and a third of the drained pineapple.</li> <li>Repeat with biscuits, cream and fruit for two more layers, then finish with a final layer of biscuits and the remaining cream.</li> <li>Cover the surface of the cake with the over-hanging cling-wrap. Press gently to compress and refrigerate eight hours or overnight – giving the biscuits plenty of time to soften.</li> <li>When ready to serve, peel the cling-wrap off the top of the cake and invert onto a serving platter. Remove all cling-wrap and discard. Spread the top and sides of the cake with the reserved cream. Decorate with the coconut, almonds and extra papaya. Keep cake refrigerated until ready to slice and serve.</li> </ol> Tips: <ul> <li>To toast coconut and almonds, spread over a tray and bake for 5 - 6 minutes in an oven preheated to 180°C, or toss in a hot pan until just golden.</li> <li>As long as the cream is thick enough to stay on the biscuits without running quickly off the edges it will do the job perfectly, however if you feel it’s too thin at the end of Step 2 you can refrigerate it for an hour and beat again.</li> <li>To cut biscuits into smaller pieces use a serrated knife in a sawing motion so they don’t shatter or crumble.</li> </ul>

Food & Wine

From the Red Centre to the green tropics, Australia’s Outback presents a palette like no other

From the sunburnt sands and ochre-hued escarpments of its Red Centre to the lush green rainforests of Tropical North Queensland, Australia’s Outback packs a punch when it comes to the kaleidoscope of colours on show. <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_over60s_native&utm_campaign=outback2020" target="_blank">APT</a> has been operating tours in the Outback for more than 50 years, and are experts in tailoring holidays to showcase the best of each magical region. A world of rainforest and reef In Cape Tribulation, rainforest-clad mountains tumble down to meet the coastline, where pure white sands and turquoise waters dazzle. This is the only place on Earth where two World Heritage-listed sites meet – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. The Daintree is the oldest tropical lowland forest in the world and is home to thousands of species of birds, animals and reptiles. Here, giant fan palms, emerald green vines and ancient ferns tangle together, forming a dense rainforest that makes you feel as though you are stepping into Jurassic Park. On tour APT offers an 11-day 4WD adventure through Cooktown & Cape York. Arrive in Cairns and transfer to Port Douglas, where you’ll spend a night at the luxurious Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort. Travel to Mossman Gorge in Daintree National Park and set off on a Dreamtime Gorge Walk. Explore Cape Tribulation and Cooktown then visit Split Rock, an intriguing Indigenous rock art site. Take a helicopter flight into the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve before continuing north to the tip of Cape York. Here, set out on a walk to the tip of the peninsula and enjoy a helicopter flight for an aerial perspective on this incredible landscape. <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/trips/australia/qld/gocy11?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_over60s_native_gocy11&utm_campaign=outback2020" target="_blank">Take me there.</a> Be moved by the outback's heart As the light shifts and changes throughout the day, so does the landscape at Uluru – the Outback’s spiritual heart. At sunrise, feel an overwhelming sense of calm as you watch this mighty monolith come to life against a pastel-coloured sky. In the afternoon, Uluru appears as an ochre-brown hue, scored with dark shadows. As the sun begins to set, it bathes the rock in burnt orange, then a series of deeper and darker reds, before it finally fades into charcoal as night falls. Spend a night at the Field of Light and savour dinner under the stars, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the didgeridoo. With Uluru in the background, watch in awe as 50,000 soft lights cover the desert floor behind you. On tour On APT’s 11-day Central to South Explorer tour, start your journey in Uluru, where you’ll embark on a base tour at sunrise and experience a night at the Field of Light. Learn about the history of opal mining in Coober Pedy then travel along the iconic Oodnadatta Track to WIlliam Creek. Take an included scenic flight over spectacular Kati Thanda–Lake Eyre before journeying to Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. While here, spend two nights at the Ikara Safari Camp – the perfect base for exploring Wilpena Pound National Park. A winery lunch in Adelaide’s Clare Valley is the perfect ending to your journey. <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/trips/australia/nt/gosa11?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_over60s_native_gosa11&utm_campaign=outback2020" target="_blank">Take me there.</a> Getting your fill of Lake Eyre Few sights in Australia stir the soul more than that of the normally dry Lake Eyre filling with water and suddenly teeming with life. The lake, properly known as Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre, relies on monumental rains in Queensland and the Northern Territory for water to begin to flow into it. Last year saw the lake reach levels unseen for almost half a century, and it is hoped that 2020’s northern monsoon season will see the region once again alive with fish surging through the rivers that feed Lake Eyre, and its surface thronged with an array of birdlife including hundreds of thousands of pelicans. In a land battling drought and bushfires, the vision of water shimmering on the surface of the lake is life affirming. And it is something to be treasured and celebrated, so take this rare chance to go with the flow. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7834872/travel-marvel-lake-eyre.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/dae070e4b00d4b49ba34857d1b37ffb2" /> Paradise found amid corals and blooms Stretching over 1,100 kilometres of seemingly untouched coastline, Western Australia’s Coral Coast is a marine paradise like no other. Here, waves lap lazily on pristine white-sand beaches and turtles sweep through sheltered turquoise bays. The crystal-clear waters of Ningaloo Marine Park harbour the world’s largest fringing reef. Beneath the surface, you’ll find dolphins, dugongs, manta rays, and more than 500 species of fish. There’s more to discover on land, where colourful blankets of native wildflowers burst into bloom between August and September along the spectacular Wildflower Way. For a whole new perspective on the region, take to the skies on a helicopter flight over the Dampier Archipelago. The staggering contrast between brilliant white beaches, aquamarine waters, and the rugged red Pilbara landscape is a breathtaking sight – one that can only be experienced from the air. On tour Board the MS Caledonian Sky in Broome and navigate the remote islands of Western Australia’s Coral Coast on a 15-day small ship expedition cruise and 4WD adventure. Discover life below the surface while snorkelling the clear waters of this marine paradise. Disembark in Geraldton and continue the adventure as you explore Kalbarri National Park and the eerie limestone Pinnacles. To finish up your journey, there’s a stay in a luxury eco-tent on the beautiful Rottnest Island. <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/trips/australia/wa/gkccb15?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_kimberleycruise2020_over60s_native_gkccb15&utm_campaign=kimberleycruise2020" target="_blank">Take me there.</a> <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.aptouring.com.au/destinations/australia/kimberley-outback?utm_source=over60s&utm_medium=advertorial&utm_content=20200302_outback2020_over60s_native_cta&utm_campaign=outback2020" target="_blank">Find out more about APT’s Kimberley & Outback Wilderness Adventures.</a> This is a sponsored article in partnership with APT.

Domestic Travel

Yummy low-carb tropical pizza

Time to prepare 25 mins | Serves 1 Ingredients <ul> <li>2 teaspoons (10ml) tomato paste </li> <li>15g pineapple, fresh </li> <li>15g semi dried tomatoes, in oil </li> <li>25g eggplant </li> <li>1 teaspoon (5ml) olive oil spray </li> <li>5g basil, fresh </li> <li>10g parmesan cheese, shaved </li> <li>25g black olives, pitted </li> <li>1 (205g) cauliflower pizza crust - <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/lifestyle/recipes/low-carb-cauliflower-pizza-crust.aspx">recipe here</a></li> </ul> Directions 1. Preheat oven to 220°C/425°F/gas mark 7. Place a <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/lifestyle/recipes/low-carb-cauliflower-pizza-crust.aspx">cauliflower pizza crust</a>on the pizza tray and spoon the tomato paste over the crust. 2. Slice the eggplant lengthways and spray both sides with the oil. Grill on the bbq or in a sandwich press until brown. These methods use less oil than frying. 3. Peel the pineapple and cut into bite size pieces. Do the same with the cooled eggplant. Top the crust with the pineapple, eggplant, semi dried tomatoes, pitted olives and the shaved parmesan. Place in the oven until the pizza is brown and bubbly, about 10 minutes. Scatter with basil and slice. Republished with permission from <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/low-carb-tropical-pizza.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a>

Food & Wine

Enjoy the taste of summer with a tropical granola breakfast tart

Juicy, delicious and bursting with nutritional goodness, these breakfast tarts are the perfect way to wake up. Serves: 4 Cooking time: 20 minutes Ingredients: Tarts <ul> <li> 3 Cups rolled oats</li> <li> 1 Cup sunflower seeds</li> <li> 1 Tsp vanilla paste</li> <li> ¼ Cup honey</li> <li> ½ Tsp cinnamon</li> <li> 4 Tbsp melted coconut oil</li> <li> 1 egg white</li> </ul> Topping <ul> <li> 1 Tub coconut yoghurt</li> <li> Fruits for topping – Ruby Rise Red Papaya sliced, mango cubed, blueberries</li> <li> Shaved coconut</li> <li> 1 Tbsp honey</li> </ul> Method: <ol> <li>Preheat the oven to 120 degrees.</li> <li>Lightly spray 4 small tart tins with vegetable oil.</li> <li>In a medium bowl combine oats, cinnamon, sunflower seeds, vanilla, honey, egg white and coconut oil. Mix well. Divide the mixture between tins. Press the mixture at the bottom of the pans and press evenly at the bottom and sides of pan – be sure to leave ditch/well for the yoghurt.</li> <li>Bake for 20 minutes or until light and golden brown.</li> <li>Allow to cool in the tins for 10 mins, then move to a cooling rack (keep in tins).</li> <li>When completely cool, gently remove.</li> <li>Place a few spoonfuls of yoghurt into the granola tarts, then top with the fruit and toasted coconut. Drizzle with honey.</li> </ol> Recipe and photo courtesy of Ruby Ryse Papaya.

Food & Wine

The tropical puppy island to add to your bucket list

The combination of sparkling sea waters, hot bright sand and adorable puppies might sound too good to be true, but it’s what you can expect when you visit this dreamy destination. Perched on the Turks and Caicos Islands near the Bahamas, Potcake Place is a dog rescue charity that allows tourists to walk local puppies and dogs along Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales. The pups are called Potcakes, named after the food that locals give them. According to the founder and director of the charity Jane Parker-Rauw, Potcakes are predominantly German shepherds, Labrador retrievers and fox terriers. The charity helps 500 strays get adopted every year. However, according to <a href="https://www.buzzfeed.com/terripous/theres-an-island-where-you-can-play-with-rescue-puppies-and?utm_term=.fn5XvGRAl&bffbanimals#.ia2DJP4Qj">Buzzfeed</a>, Parker-Rauw noticed that the puppies were quite wary around people. To solve the problem, in 2010 she started allowing locals and tourists to come and play with the canines for a few hours every day on “puppy socialisation walks”, in order to let them get used to being around humans before they find a new home. <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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BrgIXAvH8_6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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/BrgIXAvH8_6/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Mathilda Hermodsson🌍 (@mathildahermodssonn)</a> on Dec 17, 2018 at 12:34pm PST </div> </blockquote> <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/BuEf3hhBWmg/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BuEf3hhBWmg/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank">Hi, my name is DiVina and I like long, romantic walks on the beach with #shelterdogs. 🐾 #adoptdontshop #turksandcaicos #gracebay #animalshelter #crazydoglady</a> <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 post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/divinaface/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank"> DiVina Gurrola</a> (@divinaface) on Feb 19, 2019 at 8:35am PST </div> </blockquote> <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-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtkqlsbFDxT/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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/BtkqlsbFDxT/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Jessica Demaris (@booboojessy)</a> on Feb 6, 2019 at 11:53pm PST </div> </blockquote> <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/BtdzGtqBe_B/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" data-instgrm-version="12"> <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> <a style="color: #000; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none; word-wrap: break-word;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BtdzGtqBe_B/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank">We can’t adopt an island dog, we can’t adopt an island dog...</a> <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 post shared by <a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px;" rel="noopener" href="https://www.instagram.com/unstoppabledogs/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_medium=loading" target="_blank"> Meg McCarthy-Cataldo</a> (@unstoppabledogs) on Feb 4, 2019 at 7:53am PST </div> </blockquote> While there is no charge to walk a puppy, the queues could be long and the number of dogs available for trips varies day to day. Parker-Rauw said these short excursions could do wonders for the young dogs’ development. “These short interactions with nice people both in and out of the adoption center really help to give them confidence that yes, most people really are good,” said Parker-Rauw. “We have seen hundreds of times a very shy puppy just excel and develop over a short time this way. It's lovely.” Parker-Rauw said she and her rescue organisation, which is 100 per cent run by volunteers, are hoping to reduce the number of dogs on the street without resorting to euthanising. She said her efforts on educating, neutering and spaying the canines in her shelter seemed to have paid off, as she believed there are now fewer strays. “For the first time in a long time, I have some hope that we are actually getting where we need to be,” she told <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/potcake-place-puppy-turks-and-caicos/index.html">CNN</a>. “No more homeless dogs.” Will you add this place to your travel bucket list? Let us know in the comments.

International Travel

Tropical fruit stack with basil lime syrup

Make the most of the tail end of the melon season with this beautifully refreshing fruit salad, which is simple to make, but elegant enough to be a dinner party dessert. It's also perfect as a light breakfast. Serves: 2 For the syrup <ul> <li>40ml water </li> <li>30ml honey</li> <li>juice of 3 limes</li> <li>10 large basil leaves, sliced finely </li> </ul> For the fruit <ul> <li>½ small watermelon</li> <li>½ small rock melon</li> <li>2 ripe mangoes</li> </ul> Method: 1. First, make the syrup: Warm the water, honey, lime juice and sliced basil leaves in a small pot. Once the honey has melted, set the syrup aside to cool. When cool enough to handle, pass the syrup through a sieve and discard the basil leaves. 2. Cut the watermelon into 2cm thick slices and using a circular cookie cutter or a glass (about 7cm is ideal), cut out 4 circles from the flesh. Repeat this process with the rock melon. 3. Peel the mangoes with a sharp knife and cut 1cm off each side to get flat sides. Cut 2cm slices either side of the stone to get 4 oval-shaped rounds. Cut out 4 circles using the same glass/cookie cutter. 4. On 2 serving plates, build 2 stacks with the watermelon, rock melon and mango circles. Repeat the process until the stack is 6 rounds high. Once the syrup is cool, pour it over the fruit and serve immediately. Written by Jordan Rondel. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>. Have you ordered your copy of the Over60 cookbook, The Way Mum Made It, yet? Featuring 175 delicious tried-and-true recipes from you, the Over60 community, and your favourites that have appeared on the Over60 website, <a href="https://shop.abc.net.au/products/way-mum-made-it-pbk" target="_blank">head to the abcshop.com.au to order your copy now</a>.

Food & Wine

Visit the Wintle’s tropical garden for a very good cause

Ian and Judy Wintle have been opening their garden to the public since 2002 and although they have both reached 71 years young, they still intend to open their tropical paradise to the public for a very good cause. You could be forgiven for believing you’re lost in a tropical paradise walking through our garden. Our one acre labour of love is fondly called ‘The Giving Garden’ providing many years of satisfaction and solace to our family, friends, and visitors, not forgetting the wildlife. After finishing university our eldest son Scott went backpacking in Europe for a year. Only a couple of weeks before he was due to return home we received news from Switzerland that he had broken his back in a motorbike accident and would never walk again. The months that followed drew on our mental, financial, and physical strength. It was not for a further six months that he could finally return to his home. By that time not only he needed rehabilitation Mum and Dad also did. Our garden gave us the ability to heal, it was our rehabilitation and two decades on; it has blossomed into a lush sub-tropical oasis, featuring some of the world’s most exotic and unusual plants and fruit trees. The garden was part of ‘Australia’s Open Gardens’ from 2002 to 2013 and many thousands of visitors came to visit our garden. For the last three years, we have continued to open our garden and support a local Lions Club, we stipulated that all money raised assist disabled children. We have assisted the Lion’s Club by raising $12,523 in the last three openings. Overall we have raised around $50,000 for charities through our 14 “Open Gardens”. These openings have been so successful that we have decided to do the same again this year and will open our garden on the weekend of the 19 and 20 November 2016. After 48 years of marriage Judy and I know that the time and love we have invested in our garden will continue to give us and our visitor’s joy for many years to come. We plan to continue opening our garden for as long as we are able to as we enjoy the weekend and meeting so many fellow gardeners. There is always something new to see in this garden and 2016 is no exception with big changes to the garden. As usual there will be some great plants for sale, refreshments from the Lions Club and a raffle. Some visitors stay for up to four hours and they are welcome to bring their camera. We have welcomed many bus tours through our garden and have given over 135 power point presentations to gardening and service clubs throughout South East Queensland. So, please come and enjoy our beautiful garden, we are sure you will not be disappointed. When: 9am to 4.30pm, Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th November Where: 5 Carlton Court, Birkdale, Queensland Contact: Ian Wintle, (07) 3207 4683 To find more information about the event and to RSVP, visit the <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/event/?Event=141" target="_blank">Over60 Catch Up page.</a> To find out more about Ian and Judy’s garden, visit <a href="http://ianjudy.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Ian and Judy’s garden blog</a> or visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/birkdalegarden/" target="_blank">The Giving Garden Facebook page</a>. Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/relationships/2016/08/how-to-organise-an-over60-catch-up/">How to organise an Over60 catch-up</a> <a href="/news/news/2016/09/gallery-of-pictures-from-the-over60-craft-catch-up/">Lovely pictures from the Over60 craft Catch-up</a> <a href="/lifestyle/relationships/2016/06/the-best-places-to-meet-new-people/">The best places to meet new people</a>

News

How to grow tropical plants

Better Homes and Gardens’ resident landscaper, Jason Hodges, shares his top tips to create the perfect tropical garden. I’ve been lucky enough to find myself in the Sunshine Coast this week for work. The sunshine, waves and laid-back lifestyle have me falling in love with tropical gardens all over again. Many of us try to take inspiration from our holidays to transform our lives at home but just like that tie-dyed T-shirt that seemed a good idea on the beach in Bali, tropical plants that you love in the tropics fail to work in our cooler climates. If you’re like me and you want to come home to a garden that reminds you of a trip away, you need to follow some simple rules. How do you know what you’ve seen on holidays will grow in your area? Keep your eyes open while you’re out and about in your neighbourhood. Most gardeners are happy to share their successes if you ask them. I trust home owners more than the shop assistant in a nursery trying to sell you their plants. Don’t be fooled. Just because you see plants for sale in your local nursery doesn’t mean they are right for your place. Do your research to make sure the plant doesn’t require a tank of water that will send you broke or a rainforest plant that will grow as tall as a high-rise building and look out of proportion on your suburban block. Tropical gardens should be planted quite densely. To create a natural, almost jungle-like garden you need to plant en masse. A simple rule of garden design is to plant in multiples of odd numbers: threes, fives, sevens and so on. The reason is our brains don’t count odd numbers as easily as even numbers so straight away it looks more natural to our eyes. To create a natural planting, you can space the plants in their pots or for a completely random look throw a handful of rocks, tennis balls, lemons, anything over your shoulder. Wherever they land, you plant. That’s 100 per cent natural. Use the boundaries of your garden like a frame to a painting. Timber and Colorbond fences don’t scream tropics so paint them a dark colour to hide them. The darker the better and then hide them with shrubs like lilly pilly and hibiscus. This will give you height for scale and privacy from your neighbours. Plants like birds of paradise, hibiscus and bromeliads are easy to establish and need little maintenance. I know most tropical gardens rely on foliage rather than flowers but that doesn’t mean you don’t have colour. In fact, tropical gardens can be some of the most colourful gardens with plants that have their colour in the foliage meaning it’s with you all year ‘round like cordylines, red star and electric pink. There are heaps of plants whose foliage can give you the colour palette you’re after. Combine them with pillows, lighting and furnishings and you’ll never want to go on holidays again. To manufacture a micro climate, you may need to buy established palms to give you the canopy or ceiling your garden requires. Or you can plant faster-growing trees as nursery plants to create the same effect until your palms can mature and then they could be removed when no longer required. Tropical gardens, once established, are some of the easiest to maintain with very little pruning and very few weeds. They’ll help you towards the goal of relaxing in your garden as though you’re on holidays rather than working on it. Written by Jason Hodges. First appeared on <a href="http://www.domain.com.au/" target="_blank">Domain.com.au.</a> Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/09/cheap-and-trendy-recycling-tips/">7 cheap and trendy recycling tips</a> <a href="/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/09/5-ways-to-bring-the-outdoors-in/">5 ways to bring the outdoors in</a> <a href="/lifestyle/home-garden/2016/08/the-trick-to-growing-herbs-in-a-pot/">The trick to growing herbs in a pot</a>

Home & Garden

In touch with the tropics in Cairns

Not ready for winter? A short plane ride will get you enough palm trees, blue skies and tropical cocktails to help you pretend it isn't happening. Cairns is a town built around tourism and the centre is a thriving backpacker hotspot, with bars jam packed along the waterfront and touts popping out of every second shop front to offer you the best deal out to the biggest draw in town - the Great Barrier Reef. But a short 20-minute stroll away sits The Holiday Inn in a prime spot offering sweeping views of Trinity Bay - from the mangroves surrounding the airport to the bustling waterfront. It's calm and quiet, as you kick back on the sun lounger and watch the constant stream of dog walkers and lycra-clad yummy mummies make their way up and down the esplanade. The hotel is tucked in between palm trees and every outdoor spot is covered in lush and exotic plants - there is no mistaking we're in the tropics. Made up of two towers linked by a central reception, the hotel feels spacious and secluded, even though it's sandwiched between two quite busy roads. Once you spot the pool, twinkling invitingly in the sun, the water a deep oh-just-jump-in-me-now blue, all thoughts of traffic are gone. <img width="500" height="250" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/21472/shutterstock_413952421_500x250.jpg" alt="Cairns"/> Every room here has a private balcony, complete with sun loungers, and views of the bay or the mountains and rainforest surrounding Cairns. As well as the pool there's a wine bar/cafe and restaurant on site, as well as free wi-fi and unlimited use of the gym in the next street. My room is on the top floor looking out over the bay, and in the far distance Green Island where you can get your first encounter with the reef. It's quiet, spacious and decorated with a modern finish. All the usuals are here: TV, armchairs, minibar (filled on request, they don't want to force you into anything, the staff tell me. They encourage people to buy their own drinks and snacks from the local shops and stock the fridge themselves.) There is also a leather super-squishy chaise lounge that I become so fond of, I want to take it home with me. The bathroom is equally crisp and modern, with a shower over the bath and enough towels for you and all your friends. There's a kind note that they will happily bring you any toiletry you need free of charge - "forgotten your comb? Just call us." Well, now that you mention it, I have - so yes please. The bed is massive and one of the most comfortable I have ever slept in - that perfect mix of just soft enough and just hard enough, like sleeping in a cloud. But my favourite thing is the pillows - four in total - two with a stitched pillow case saying soft, two saying firm. This commitment to my personal comfort is appreciated. The hotel overall is very quiet with none of that annoying middle of the night door slamming or loud TVs you often get in thin-walled rooms. And everyone is very invested in your comfort, everywhere you turn there's a friendly, smiling staff member wanting to know if they can help, or just how you are. Can they bring you a towel? Are you hungry? You look lost, forgotten your room number? <img width="500" height="250" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/21473/shutterstock_207350500_500x250.jpg" alt="cairns"/> There is a free shuttle bus every hour into central Cairns if you fancy popping to the local mall, or Woolies, or just fancy a stroll around shops. There are eating options galore in Cairns, many of them an easy walk away at the other end of the esplanade. But if you can't drag yourself away, there is Teshi's restaurant. The flavours are Mediterranean and feature local goodies like barramundi, tiger prawns, lemon myrtle and Queensland's own chicken. They also have a special children's menu that's been designed with help from nutrition Australia to be healthy but still something the kids are actually going to eat. Highlights include pitta burgers, a nacho bowl and DIY falafels. If that's not alluring enough, the Holiday Inn has a "Kids stay and eat for free" plan for anyone under the age of 12. Next door to Teshi's is the Blue Mango cafe and wine bar, where you can get lighter snacks and salads at any time of the day, including the best beer-battered fries known to man. But if even getting into the lift and going downstairs is too much to face after a day exploring the rainforest, there is 24-hour room service on all of the menus. The main drawcards for Cairns are the reef and the Daintree rainforest and Cape Tribulation. Tours are abundant and the Holiday Inn staff knowledgeable, so do get them to help you book. There is still plenty to check out much closer to the hotel. The beach is basically a swamp (and croc-infested, the locals will tell you with delight) but there is a beautiful waterfront lagoon you could easily spend the entire day in. Further up the coast are the Northern Beaches, including Palm Cove and Port Douglas, where swimming is easier. Every night there are night markets, with stalls selling locally made soap, sweets, shoes and clothes. You can also grab a quick massage here or walk through to the food court. Have you ever been to Cairns? What was the highlight of your visit? Let us know in the comments below. Written by Kathrin Goldsworthy. First appeared on <a href="http://Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/05/10-amazing-queensland-waterfalls/">10 amazing Queensland waterfalls</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/04/top-10-australian-destinations-to-visit-in-2016/">Top 10 Australian destinations to visit in 2016</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/04/pictures-from-best-drives-in-australia/">10 jaw-dropping pictures from Australia’s best drives</a>

International Travel

8 things to do in Tropical North Queensland

Tropical North Queensland offers an abundance of natural beauty and genuine cultural experiences accessible from the front seat of your car. Here are eight of the best! Self-drive your journey through the only region on earth where two World Heritage listed areas collide - the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. 1. Mossman markets The charming Mossman Markets aren't as well-known as the Port Douglas Sunday markets but they offer an eclectic mix of quality homemade and second-hand goods. The Saturday market's stalls offer everything from organic fruit and vegetables to homemade preserves, clothing, artwork and live entertainment. Despite the markets being situated only 20 minutes from the tourist centre of Port Douglas they have an authentic feel, with locals coming in to pick up supplies for the week. 2. Hoglund Art Glass Gallery Ola Hoglund and Marie Simberg-Hoglund's <a href="http://www.hoglundartglass.com/" target="_blank">glassblowing studio and store</a> sits off the beaten track 40 minutes from Port Douglas. The husband-and-wife team have worked together for more than four decades to create world-renowned glass artwork. The stunning jungle glass gallery is where the pair create, display and sell their work. Hoglund Art Glass made the official glass art for the Sydney 2000 Olympics. The store is open from June to October and closed during the wet season. The pair also has a New Zealand shop located 20 minutes from Nelson, which is open year round. 3. Mossman Gorge Centre Dreamtime Tour The <a href="http://www.mossmangorge.com.au/" target="_blank">Mossman Gorge Centre in the Daintree Rainforest</a> offers a unique and authentic insight into the customs, rituals and everyday life of the local Indigenous population. The centre, which was dreamed up by community elder Roy Gibson and opened two years ago, offers tours guided by one of the local Kuku Yalanji people. As well as being a viable cultural-tourism operation, the centre offers a sustainable option for training and employment for the local Indigenous community. 4. Janbal Gallery Aboriginal Art Class Janbal Gallery is another way for visitors to <a href="http://www.janbalgallery.com.au/" target="_blank">immerse themselves in the culture and heritage</a> of the local Indigenous people. Aboriginal artist and co-owner Brian "Binna" Swindley shares stories and knowledge of traditional art, while visitors create an authentic souvenir. The gallery is open to the public for art classes, painting workshops and gallery sales Tuesday to Saturday, Sunday and Monday the gallery is open by appointment. 5. Hartley's Crocodile Farm Hartley's Crocodile Adventures offers <a href="http://www.crocodileadventures.com/shows.html">educational and entertaining wildlife presentations</a> with a focus on sustainability. Located between Cairns and Port Douglas, the park has more than two kilometres of walkways, leading guests on a journey through woodlands and wildlife where they can see an array of wildlife, including tropical birds, reptiles, insects and native fauna. The park offers a range of different presentations and experiences, including a daily crocodile feeding display. 6. Sweet Farm Tour Gerard Puglisi's family has been growing sugarcane in North Queensland for more than 90 years. The Puglisi's have branched out into the chocolate business and are one of the first cocoa farms in Australia and produces the only single-origin chocolate in the country. The <a href="http://www.sweetfarmtours.com/" target="_blank">newly-established Sweet Farm Tour</a> gives visitors a detailed look into how sugarcane and cocoa is grown and harvested, and turned into sugar and chocolate. Puglisi takes guests on a tour of the working farm and explains the operation's ethically and environmentally-sustainable practices. 7. Evening cocktail at Herbie’s Beach Shack An evening cocktail at <a href="http://www.thalabeach.com.au/port-douglas-resort/herbies-beach-shack/" target="_blank">Herbie's Beach Shack</a>, situated on Thala Beach nature Reserve's private beach is the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The shack is open between 4.30pm and 6pm daily for those who are keen to explore the delicious cocktail menu and watch the waves break on the nearby beach. 8. Thala Beach Stargazing A great way to wind up the night is under the night sky for <a href="http://www.thalabeach.com.au/star-watching/" target="_blank">Thala Beach Nature Reserve's stargazing experience</a>. Out of the city and free from pollution the sky above Thala offers a clear picture of well-known constellations. Resort staff use a light beam to introduce visitors to Southern Constellations, most of which can not be seen from Europe or North America. Guests emerge in a clearing where they can sit and gaze at the stars through their astronomical binoculars. A 10-inch telescope gives guests a closer look at red giants, star clusters, nebulae where stars are being born, globular clusters, and distant galaxies. Written by Laura Walters. First appeared on <a href="http://Stuff.co.nz" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz.</a> Laura Walters travelled to tropical North Queensland courtesy of Tourism Port Douglas & Daintree. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/03/lesser-known-australian-islands/">6 lesser-known Australian islands</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/03/best-aussie-wildlife-experiences/">6 best Aussie wildlife experiences</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.co.nz/travel/international/2016/02/guide-to-visiting-great-barrier-reef/">Tips to book the best Great Barrier Reef getaway</a>

International Travel

Visit this tropical oasis garden for a very good cause

When you wander through the Wintle’s garden, you’d be forgiven for thinking you had stumbled into a tropical paradise.The one-acre “Giving Garden” as Ian and his wife, Judy, fondly call their land is a labour of love. But at 70 years old, both never complain about the tireless efforts to create their plot of paradise – they do it for the satisfaction and solace of their family, friends, visitors and wildlife.<img width="233" height="350" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10697/qsuper_240413_79927-copy-_233x350.jpg" alt="QSuper _240413_79927 (Copy)" style="float: left;">In the last 11 years, Ian and Judy have opened up their garden to the public in order to raise money for local charities. In 2013, they raised $5700 for a local boy suffering from cerebral palsy, who was desperately in need of a special walker. In the 2014, they did the same and raised another $3000 for disabled children through the Lions Club. Overall, they’ve seen thousands of visitors and raised well over $37,000 for charities through opening their gardens.This year the Wintle’s are doing the same and opening their garden to support the Lions Club to raise money for disabled children. It’s why Ian is encouraging everyone near the area to come by, say hello and relax in their garden. And don’t think it’s your ordinary garden, the Wintle’s have worked hard to create sub-tropical oasis fill of rare, bizarre and beautiful botanicals. Winners of Gardening Australia’s Golden Trowel award, the Wintle’s are avid plant collectors so their one-acre land supports thousands of unusual and interesting plants.Ian says, “There will be some great plants for sale, refreshments from the Lions Club and a raffle. Some visitors stay for up to four hours and they are welcome to bring their camera.”<img width="530" height="242" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/10698/plants-for-sale_530x242.jpg" alt="Plants For Sale" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">When: 9am to 4.30pm, Saturday 21 and Sunday 22November, 2015Where: 5 Carlton Court, Birkdale, QueenslandContact: Ian Wintle, (07) 3207 4683To find out more information about the event, visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/birkdalegarden" target="_blank">Ian’s Giving Garden Facebook page here. </a>You can also visit <a href="http://www.ianjudy.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Ian’s garden blog here. </a>Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/gardening/2015/07/how-to-grow-organic-veg/">How to grow an organic veggie garden</a><a href="/lifestyle/gardening/2015/07/inspiring-balcony-gardens/">10 inspiring balcony gardens</a><a href="/lifestyle/gardening/2015/04/colourful-garden/">How to use colour in your garden to influence your mood</a>

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