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Three's a charm: Olympic champ shares baby news!

Australian Olympic champion Kyle Chalmers and his Norwegian swimmer fiancée Ingeborg Loyning have shared joyous news: they are expecting their first child. The couple, who have been together since 2022, celebrated their engagement ahead of the Paris 2024 Olympics, and now they are preparing to welcome a baby girl later this year. The announcement was made with heartfelt social media posts featuring ultrasound photos, matching 'mum' and 'dad' hats, and an adorable gender reveal. “We can’t wait to welcome our little Norwegian princess into the world later this year,” they wrote. The swimming community erupted with excitement over the news. Australian great Grant Hackett congratulated the couple, while Olympic champion Ariarne Titmus and fellow swimmer Shayna Jack expressed their happiness with enthusiastic messages. Isaac Cooper, British star Adam Peaty, and Dutch Olympic gold medallist Ranomi Kromowidjojo also sent their best wishes, with Kromowidjojo joking about a baby boom in the swimming world. She recently became a mother herself, while Italian legend Federica Pellegrini welcomed a child last year, and Swedish champion Sarah Sjostrom is currently pregnant. "This might gonna be a sick Olympic final some day," Kromowidjojo quipped, prompting World Aquatics to respond, "We can’t wait for 2044 then." Loyning, who competed for Norway at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, holds several national backstroke records and secured four titles at last year’s Norwegian national championships. Since moving to Adelaide to be with Chalmers, she has also become involved in his swimming academy. Chalmers, 26, cemented his Olympic legacy with a third straight medal in the 100m freestyle at Paris 2024, having won gold in Rio 2016. He also added silver in the 4x100m freestyle relay and bronze in the 4x100m mixed medley, bringing his total Olympic medal count to nine. <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHFxbaNJUq-/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DHFxbaNJUq-/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Ingeborg Løyning (@ingeborgvloyning)</a> </div> </blockquote> As the couple embarks on this new chapter, they have received an outpouring of support from the global swimming fraternity. Their fans and fellow athletes eagerly await the arrival of their little "Norwegian princess", who just might follow in her parents' Olympic-sized footsteps. Images: Instagram

Family & Pets

“Fashion diplomacy”: Julie Bishop's style choice that charmed Barack Obama

Julie Bishop has revealed the style choice that charmed former US President Barack Obama and how she used fashion to impress other world leaders during her time as foreign minister. "I've always understood that fashion and your personal style can be a powerful form of communication. It can send important yet subtle messages," Bishop told 9Honey. "While I was Foreign Minister, I embraced what I called 'fashion diplomacy' and would often dress in a way that would complement the visit or the person that I was meeting,” she added. In March 2016, Bishop stunned in a white Armani pantsuit when she visited the White House for the Nuclear Security Summit. Bishop impressed then-President Barack Obama in the ensemble she chose as a nod to the official residence and workplace of the US President. "I often wore the national colours of the country I was visiting as a form of compliment, a form of diplomacy," Bishop elaborated. "For example, my Chinese counterpart often noticed that I was wearing red when visiting China or meeting with him,” she said. In 2017 the Foreign Minister's office confirmed that all of Bishop’s fashion choices were her own, as she did not have a clothing allowance or stylist, and neither did she use taxpayer funds for her outfit. Despite being known for her close relationship with various fashion labels, she also buys most of her clothes herself. Although Fashion Diplomacy has helped the former politician get into the good books with other world leaders, she said that her intentions weren’t just to create better connections. "The Australian fashion industry is a vital contributor to the Australian economy, and particularly to our exports," she added, promoting the Australian fashion industry. Bishop hopes to change people’s attitudes towards the fashion and creative industries, both locally and internationally, so that they don’t view it as frivolous. The former politician has spoken up about her passion for fashion and representing the older female demographic in a previous interview with <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/beauty-style/style-doesn-t-age-julie-bishop-stuns-for-international-women-s-day" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stellar Magazine on International Women’s day</a>. Image: Minister for Foreign Affairs/The White House

Beauty & Style

“Works like a charm”: Edwina Bartholomew’s surprising trick for a happy marriage

Edwina Bartholomew has revealed that for the past seven years, she and her husband have been sleeping in separate bedrooms. The couple have been together for ten years and married for five, and Edwina claimed it is their unique sleeping arrangement that has “kept their love alive”. Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, the 39-year-old admitted, “it shocks people when they come to our house and see two rooms set up. One for me with a pinkish bedspread, big wardrobe and piles of magazines and books. “One set up for my husband with his gym gear and other ‘manly’ stuff. My room is always messy. His is always neat. He is a bed-maker. I am not. He puts his clothes away. I like to file mine away on top of a chair in case I need them again.” While the rooms are a surprise and an amusement to their guests, that’s far from the case for the pair, with Edwina announcing them “the secret to our happy marriage”. With some concerned about how their arrangement might impact their sex life, Edwina noted that she and husband Neil Varcoe share two children - Molly, three, and Thomas, who is nearing one. “When I would get up for work, he would struggle to get back to sleep, so we decided to trial separate rooms,” Edwina told News Corp Australia of their decision to try having their own rooms, before going on to explain how having kids locked in their decision. “When we had kids, it continued.” She explained, “I would sleep overnight with the baby in my room and then he would wake up early to take over. Ten years into our relationship and five years into our marriage, it works a charm.” Edwina and Neil are not the first public figures to keep their sleep separate. Retired NRL star Benji Marshall and his wife Zoe have had their own beds for over 10 years - Zoe once told news.com.au that it was “heaven” for the couple. In fact, it may even be something of a royal arrangement, with the late Queen and Duke of Edinburgh also having slept separately. Relationship experts are divided on the subject of separate bedrooms. Those who are in favour of the arrangement mention the benefits - from a good night’s sleep to an improved sex life. Some, however, fear it could lead to a lack of communication between a couple. It seems Edwina and Neil have found the sweet spot for a successful marriage - and for getting some much-needed sleep - with the couple set to celebrate their fifth wedding anniversary in April. Images: Instagram

Relationships

“I found my Prince Charming”: Paris Hilton reveals glam wedding details

After announcing her engagement to venture capitalist Carter Reum in February, Paris Hilton has shared a few details about her upcoming wedding. Appearing on The Tonight Show, the 40-year-old entrepreneur described the planning process as “very stressful”. <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/CR9iM8mpBfD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <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/CR9iM8mpBfD/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Paris Hilton (@parishilton)</a> </div> </blockquote> Though she admitted that picking a dress had been “basically the only thing that I’ve done” so far, Hilton insisted she’s “not a bridezilla at all”. “It’s gonna be like a three-day affair. We have a lot happening,” she told host Jimmy Fallon. To add to the stress, Hilton shared that she was documenting her wedding for an unscripted show, Paris in Love, set to air on US channel Peacock. “Why add that extra pressure?” Fallon asked the star. “I just feel like for my documentary, This is Paris, it ended in a way which … was amazing - but I just feel like I wanted my fans to see that I found my Prince Charming and my happy fairy-tale ending,” Hilton explained. <img style="width: 0px; height: 0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843310/238853613_526989238590322_4514895341700915503_n.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/a73c71a223dc4ac395be3ad844af34a6" /> Image: Paris Hilton / Instagram Asking about her other wedding plans, Fallon asked the heiress and DJ whether she would be DJing her own event. “You’re one of the most famous deejays out there,” Fallon said. “Are you going to deejay at your own wedding or get a band?” “I’ll definitely get a DJ because it’s too much,” Hilton replied. “We’ll have a band as well.” As for her wedding attire, Hilton said she would have closer to ten dresses as she loves “outfit changes”. “And what about your husband-to-be? Will he have outfit changes?” Fallon queried. “He’s not as high maintenance as I am,” Hilton replied jokingly. Hilton announced her engagement to 40-year-old Carter earlier this year on Instagram after the pair had been dating for one year, writing: “When you find your soulmate, you don’t just know it. You feel it.” <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/CLZYmbZBN8e/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="13"> <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/CLZYmbZBN8e/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank">A post shared by Paris Hilton (@parishilton)</a> </div> </blockquote> “My love & I have been together since our first date, and for my birthday he arranged a special trip to tropical paradise. “As we walked to dinner along the beach, Carter led us to a cabana adorned with flowers and dropped to one knee. “I said yes, yes to forever.” Image: Paris Hilton / Instagram

Relationships

Rare chance to buy ritzy house with murderous past

A ritzy home on the water of one of Brisbane’s most fabulous suburbs has hit the market, but it’s dark, murderous past has continued to haunt its walls. What was once a party house filled with socialites on the banks of the Brisbane River, turned into a murder scene in the 1950s when Hamilton resident Sylvia Joyce Clare Ferguson was convicted of the murder of her rich husband Roy Ferguson. The idyllic four bedroom Spanish-style home sits at 2 Grays Road, Hamilton, was a sight then and even now it continues to hold against the multimillion-dollar estates that surround it in the blue-chip suburb. With views of the river, city and Story Bridge – it’s not wonder why this listing is believed to go as quick as it possibly can. A True Crime episode by The Courier-Mail’s Kate Kyriacou explored the deep mystery of the little blue house, saying that Roy and his brother Jack owned pubs near Newcastle and Forbes, a poultry farm in Charleston, New South Wales and other properties, as well as directorships in various companies including breweries. Mrs Ferguson was a simple barmaid in Newcastle when she met Roy. They eventually settled down with each other and moved into the waterfront home in Hamilton, Brisbane. The scandal began when she was jailed along with her lover and a friend over Mr Ferguson’s murder. She protested her innocence from prison years later. The home retains so much charm with a library and multipurpose room, indoor living and entertaining space as well as a living room with a fireplace. The master suite has its very own floor with ensuite, a separate powder room, walk in robe, a living area and a balcony looking out over some of the best river views in Brisbane. The home last sold over 15 years ago and was described as being “like nothing else you will find on the market”, realestate.com.au wrote in the listing. “Boasting a character facade and traditional interior with decorative ceilings, beautiful timber floors, stained glass and classic chandeliers throughout, this is an exclusive offering with endless opportunities to make this home your own.” The property is set to go to auction on Saturday March 20 at 10am.

Real Estate

The charming Italian town that offers free houses

A town in the Italian island of Sicily is giving away free homes in a bid to attract new residents. The town of Cammarata – located about 60km southeast of Palermo – is offering homes around the town for naught in a new scheme to fight depopulation and urban decay. “I can’t stand to see this gorgeous, old historical center empty and turn into a ruin. It hurts me,” mayor Vincenzo Giambrone told <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/travel/article/italy-cammarata-free-houses/index.html">CNN Travel</a>. According to Giambrone, twelve stone buildings are available now, with “more to come shortly”. The scheme comes with a few conditions – interested parties must commit to renovating their new house within three years and pay the town a deposit of €5,000 (about AU$8,070), which will be returned once the building works are done. They will also be required to present a refurbishment proposal for the property. While all foreigners and Italians will be considered, the town will prioritise young couples with children as buyers and grant a €1,000 bonus for couples who settle and go on to have a baby there. New owners are allowed to transform the multi-story buildings into a private house, hotel, guest accommodation, shop or restaurant. Town councillors said the locals were “deterred” from living in Cammarata due to the town’s mountainous location and “tiny, winding roads, which were nigh on impossible to get a car around”, <a href="https://www.insider.com/italy-cheap-homes-sicilian-town-of-cammarata-offers-free-houses-2019-11">Insider</a> reported. Giambrone said he hoped the move will help the town go back to “being a lively, vibrant place”.

International Travel

Vientiane, Laos - the city of charm

Laos is not one of the new, bright young things to take the international travel scene by storm: It has made its move by stealthily edging its way into a few traveller’s itineraries and, more so, into their hearts. Flying in from Vietnam via Cambodia, we landed in the capital city of Laos, Vientiane, a modest and charming little city that resembles a sprawling collection of villages. Vientiane (translated as ‘sandalwood city’) dates from the 10th century. Vientiane is a small city that oozes charm; it’s a laid-back capital that is clean, inviting and a little bit fancy. It’s not what you expect of a capital city; it is quiet, with ordered lanes and tree-lined boulevards, majestic Buddhist temples, loved but shabby monasteries, unhurried traffic and smiling, shy people. The Laotian temples have their own characteristics and even though some appear ‘shabby chic’ on the outside, it’s an inside job with a wealth of spiritual atmosphere. One of the oldest sights of the capital is Wat Sisaket with 10,136 miniature Buddha statues in the walls of the city’s oldest surviving monastery. The temple complex was built in 1818 and when the Thais sacked the city in the 1820s they left it alone. After Wat Sisaket, wander around town for a coffee – Laotian coffee is brilliant – enjoyed with a delicate pastry, a legacy of French colonialism. Then off to absorb the beauty of Luang Stupa, the gold-tipped national monument representing both the Buddhist religion in Cambodia and the Laos sovereignty. It was while I was mooching around the sweeping entrance that I noticed an odd, local phenomenon. There were lots of men walking around asking foreign visitors if they wanted their pictures taken. In this digital age, it surprised me and I thought the guys wouldn’t get any business at all. But they were one ( with well-shod with cowboy boots) step ahead of me. Strapped to their waists were portable printers. So, click for the picture, and click for an image and voila, nice picture, good background and ‘only one US dollar please’. Bargain! The urban cowboys were out in force wearing faux foreign correspondent vests and cowboy hats as they strutted around the gorgeous Patuxay Monument known as Vientiane’s Arc de Triomphe. It’s so decorative, a sight to behold with its Lao friezes from Buddhist mythology. The structure is at the end of the grand Lang Xang Avenue. Stroll around the laid-back city and pass crumbling colonial mansions, immaculate shopfronts, hidden gardens and bamboo thatched beer gardens on the riverbank. Explore the hidden lanes running off the main streets and discover French-style bakeries and noodle and sticky rice vendors. Most of the main attractions of town are concentrated in the tightknit commercial district where you’ll find the museums and squares with a variety of fine restaurants. Fountain Square has the charm of an old-fashioned village green and is surrounded by compact eateries including Italian and Thai restaurants and a Scandinavian bakery. Vientiane is a lovely little city that invites you to turn up and stay for a few days. There’s much to uncover and enjoy here, and who knows, those urban cowboys could win your heart – for ‘only one US dollar’. The writer flew to Laos with Vietnam Airlines. This story first appeared in <a href="http://getupandgo.com.au/">Get Up & Go Magazine</a> and has been edited. Writtenby Bev Malzard. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/articles/travel/vientiane,-laos-the-city-of-charm.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a>

Cruising

Inside Georgie Gardner’s charming $800K beach house

Australian TV personality Georgie Gardner and her husband, Tim Baker, have just sold their Culburra beach home on the NSW south coast for a stunning AUD$800,000. Local residents shouldn’t expect to see much of the Today show co-host around the quiet beach town any longer once the sale goes through after the Easter holidays. The days of lazing on a hammock just metres away from the sand will end after the property spent six weeks on the market before being sold at a midweek auction. The 835sqm property rests on the coast of Culburra, a beautiful beach town on the south coast of NSW, and was snapped up back in 2007 by Georgie and her husband for AUD$570,000. The coastal getaway is a three-bedroom, two-bathroom retreat for those looking to getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Ray White Culburra Beach agents Julie Gauci and Craig Hadfield, who managed the sale, told <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/5975884/georgie-gardners-culburra-beach-getaway-sells-for-800k/" target="_blank">South Coast Register</a> 25 groups inspected the house before it sold. “It was a quick turnover because of that particular location,” Ms Gauci explained. “It's one house back from the beach and it's affordable. These days, you'd have to spend anything up to $2 million for a house right on the beach. “Yes, it may not have the water views, but it's the next best thing.” The expansive home features modern touches and a coastal feel. The Today show host also just recently offloaded her <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/domestic-travel/inside-georgie-gardner-s-900k-sydney-home" target="_blank">Woollahra</a> investment property, which is just 300m from Bondi Junction. The apartment failed to attract a buyer at an auction recently, but sold midweek at an undisclosed price, although the couple were seeking upwards of AUD$850,000. The property listings came just weeks after Georgie and her banker husband recently upgraded their AUD$4.5 million home in Artarmon on Sydney's north shore to a luxurious <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/tv/take-a-look-inside-georgie-gardner-s-new-6-million-sydney-home" target="_blank">Mosman property costing them $6 million.</a> Scroll through the gallery above to take a look inside George's $800K Culburra beach house.

Domestic Travel

10 charming Australian beach towns

Another thing Australia does, perhaps better than any other county in the world, is the charming beach town. No matter where you are in the country (except maybe if you’re visiting Alice Springs) you’re never too far away from a gorgeous patch of coast. Whatever part of the Australian coast you’re visiting you’re bound to come across something to like. But which Australian beach towns do it best? To save you some time, we’ve circumnavigated the coast of the country to give you a quick rundown of the best beach towns in Australia. To see them all, scroll through the gallery above. Have you ever been to any of these? What’s your favourite Australian beach town? Let us know in the comments section below, we’d love to hear from you.

Domestic Travel

Inside the charming English seaside village that inspired “Dracula”

<a href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/93981/71095/1880?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fdracula-popular-penguins-bram-stoker%2Fprod9780141045221.html" target="_blank">Dracula</a> – it’s one of the scariest books of all time and kicked off generations of readers obsessed with vampires and other monstrous creatures. But you might be surprised to see just where Bram Stoker got the inspiration for his dark, ghoulish tale – a quaint, English fishing village in which much of his story is set. On July 29, 1890, Stoker boarded a train at King’s Cross Station in London bound for the trendy and remote seaside village of Whitby in North Yorkshire for a desperately-needed holiday. The then-42-year-old manager of a London theatre was exhausted from a national tour with the celebrated Shakespearean actor, Henry Irving. Little did he know, by the time he returned home, he’d have the idea that would become one of the most famous novels in English literature. From the 13th-century Gothic arches of Whitby Abbey to the weathered headstones of St. Mary’s churchyard, it’s not hard to see why he was so inspired. There was even the shipwreck of the Russian vessel Dmitry, which inspired Stoker’s ship the Demeter, which bought Dracula from Varna, Bulgaria to England. “I think he was struck by the setting,” Bram’s great-grandnephew Dacre Stoker (a novelist himself) tells <a href="http://mentalfloss.com/article/506367/charming-english-fishing-village-inspired-dracula" target="_blank">Mental Floss</a>. He’s thinking, ‘This is perfect. I have the ships coming in, I’ve got the abbey, a churchyard, a graveyard.’ Maybe it was by chance, but I think it just became that perfect scene.” Flick through the pictures in the gallery above to take a virtual tour of the gorgeous village, and tell us in the comments, have you ever visited Whitby? Did you have any idea it was the inspiration for Dracula?

Books

10 charming country pubs every Australian should visit

Ah, is there anything more Australian than sitting down at the pub with your mates for a beer? Whether you’re knocking off after a hard day’s work, celebrating a bit occasion or simply looking to make new friends, Australia’s country pubs are the perfect places to see the unique, charming culture that makes our nation tick. But which country pubs are the best? While it’s impossible to single out one, we’ve narrowed it down to a list of 10 charming pubs we think every Australian should visit. Will colourful characters, delicious pub grub and great beer, these pubs are the perfect place to spend an afternoon. To see them all, scroll through the gallery above. Have you been to the pubs on our list? Are there any that didn’t make the cut that you feel we should’ve included? Let us know in the comments section below! Have you arranged your travel insurance yet? Save money with Over60 Travel Insurance. <a href="https://elevate.agatravelinsurance.com.au/oversixty?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=content&utm_content=link1&utm_campaign=travel-insurance" target="_blank">To arrange a quote, click here.</a> Or for more information, call 1800 622 966.

Domestic Travel

10 charming country towns every Australian should visit

Australia might be home to some of the <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/domestic-travel/2016/05/10-free-things-to-do-in-melbourne/" target="_blank">world’s most beautiful, highly-liveable cities</a>, but if you really want to get a sense of what makes this nation tick, it’s worth venturing off the beaten track to discover some of our charming country towns. From friendly locals to quant, historic buildings, and even the <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/travel/domestic-travel/2017/10/australias-super-sized-statues-have-a-big-problem/" target="_blank">attractions that make you scratch your head</a>, nowhere is Australia’s unique, cultural character reflected more. We’ve explored the country from top to toe and narrowed it down to a list of 10 charming country towns every Australian should visit at some point in their life. To see them all, scroll through the gallery above. Have you been to these country towns? Are there any that didn’t make the list, that you think we should’ve included? Let us know in the comments, we’d love to hear from you! Have you arranged your travel insurance yet? Save money with Over60 Travel Insurance. <a href="https://elevate.agatravelinsurance.com.au/oversixty?utm_source=over60&utm_medium=content&utm_content=link1&utm_campaign=travel-insurance" target="_blank">To arrange a quote, click here.</a> Or for more information, call 1800 622 966.

Domestic Travel

Prince Harry charms Denmark’s Queen Margrethe

It seems not even the Queen of Denmark is immune to Prince Harry’s royal charms! During an official visit at the Palace of Amalienborg in Copenhagen, 77-year-old Queen Margrethe couldn’t contain her giggles as she posed for photos with the 33-year-old Prince. <img width="498" height="245" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/44883/image__498x245.jpg" alt="Image_ (33)" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> Harry is currently in Denmark to meet with young leaders in fields such as business, sports and social development. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> After being impressed by the young people <a href="https://twitter.com/gamedenmark?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gamedenmark</a> HRH gives an impromptu speech encouraging them to keep giving back to their community <a href="https://t.co/35ezVaCCfO">pic.twitter.com/35ezVaCCfO</a> — Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/923210785203064832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 25, 2017</a></blockquote> He will also catch up with Danish veterans who took part in last month’s Invictus Games. The young royal has a particularly special bond with the country’s veterans, having served alongside them in Afghanistan. The royal visit is the first engagement of a few this month for Prince Harry, who will travel to Chicago next month to speak at the inaugural Obama Foundation summit. To see all the sweet photos of Prince Harry and Queen Margrethe (plus more from his Copenhagen visit) scroll through the gallery above.

News

How to add heritage charm to a modern home

Many 200-year-old buildings have an old-world charm that two-year-old homes lack. But with a little work (or in some cases a major facelift) new homes can be redesigned to evoke the character of yesteryear. Choose your style and era The first step is to consider which architectural era you want to evoke, then research key features and characteristics that you can replicate. Do you like these stained-glass windows found in Federation homes from the early 1900s? Or do you prefer the cast-iron lacework in Victorian terraces from the mid- to late-1800s? Different architectural <a href="https://www.houzz.com.au/ideabooks/26846438/list/roots-of-style-how-did-your-australian-home-get-its-look" target="_blank">periods have distinct styles</a>, which often clash when mixed, so try to pinpoint the era you love and stay true to it. Adopt a period paint palette To set the scene from the street, take inspiration from <a href="https://www.houzz.com.au/ideabooks/32454351/list/how-to-pick-the-right-paint-colours-for-your-federation-house" target="_blank">traditional paint palettes</a>. On the facade of this Sydney-based Victorian terrace, contrasting colours highlight the decorative details. Ornamental arches above the front door and windows are emphasised with an earthy grey, while black paint offsets the metal fence, glass-panelled doors, cast-iron lace balcony and the filigree frieze above it. Tip: If you are keen to incorporate decorative lacework, many companies offer panels in cast iron and lighter weight aluminium, in both traditional and contemporary motifs. <div><a href="https://www.houzz.com.au/photo/28664422-malvern-east-contemporary-hall-melbourne" target="_blank"><img width="500" height="750" src="https://st.hzcdn.com/simgs/6e01ad660539d7e8_8-3789/contemporary-hall.jpg" border="0"/></a></div> <div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #444;" href="https://www.houzz.com.au/pro/pleysierperkins/pleysier-perkins" target="_blank">Photo by Pleysier Perkins</a> - <a style="text-decoration: none; color: #444;" href="https://www.houzz.com.au/photos/hallway" target="_blank">Search hallway pictures</a></div> Give your entrance a makeover Don’t fancy retiling? Consider using a floor runner instead, such as the striking black-and-white one in this Melbourne home. Simply choose your design and unroll to give your hall an instant makeover. This home also features classic Art Nouveau timber fretwork above the hall, which was popular in Federation architecture. Fretwork is relatively easy to add to existing interiors. Tip: Try including decorative fretwork near your entrance to create classic appeal from the moment you open the front door. Opt for panelled and French doors These elegant French doors in Sydney’s Bellevue Hill are crowned with decorative timber fretwork, which enriches the home with timeless charm. <a href="https://www.houzz.com.au/pro/decus/decus-interiors" target="_blank">Decus Interiors’</a> clever use of glass (as opposed to solid panelled doors) divides the rooms while letting natural light pour through. Skirt the issue Tall skirting boards and elaborate cornices are hallmark features of period architecture. The higher the ceiling, the taller the skirting boards and cornices were. An old rule of thumb suggests that classical cornices should be between one-fifteenth and one-nineteenth of the ceiling height. <a href="http://www.classicarchitraves.com.au/faq.php" target="_blank">Classic Architraves and Skirting</a> offers a guide for finding the right skirting board height: for ceilings up to 2400 millimetres opt for skirting boards between 90 and 140 millimetres, while rooms with soaring 3600 millimetres ceilings can increase skirting boards to 180 to 450 millimetres. <div><a href="https://www.houzz.com.au/photo/20271432-ascot-residence-traditional-hall-brisbane" target="_blank"><img width="500" height="750" src="https://st.hzcdn.com/simgs/a9a1c068047162d2_8-3835/traditional-hall.jpg" border="0"/></a></div> <div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><a style="text-decoration: none; color: #444;" href="https://www.houzz.com.au/pro/highgatehouse/highgate-house" target="_blank">Photo by Highgate House</a> - <a style="text-decoration: none; color: #444;" href="https://www.houzz.com.au/photos/hallway" target="_blank">Discover hallway design inspiration</a></div> Paper your walls Wallpaper came into being in the mid- to late-1700s and has waxed and waned in popularity ever since. Originally, it was considered to be a background decoration, but in recent times it has evolved into a foreground feature. Whatever your preferences, this time-honoured material offers a pattern for every palette. Tip: Still trying to add age-old glamour to your home? Decorate a console table with a lamp and hang a dramatic mirror behind it for instant effect. A chandelier such as the one here adds a finishing touch. Consider pressed metal Don’t fancy wallpapering your rooms? You may enjoy pressed metal instead. Traditionally it was applied to walls, ceilings and sometimes wainscotting, though regardless of where you use it, the material references times now passed. Because it is flexible, pressed metal sheeting can be fitted to angled surfaces, such as this custom-made range hood canopy, which was colour matched to the kitchen cabinets. Go old school with fixtures Glance at this Art Deco bathroom in Auckland, New Zealand, and you would never guess it was recently renovated. The fixtures and fittings from The English Tapware Company remain faithful to the age – even the electric towel warmer complements the Art Deco-inspired pedestal basins. Add a background of small black-and-white floor tiles and we have ourselves a traditional bathroom, ladies and gentlemen. Add a hearth to your home If home is where the hearth is, what better way to give your house a cosy feel than by adding a flickering fireplace? Fireplaces have come a long way since the days of open wood hearths, so you can combine the best of both worlds and enjoy a classic design fired by the latest technology thanks to gas, electric and ethanol burners. If only we could all age so gracefully… Written by Julia Fairley. Republished with permission of <a href="http://www.domain.com.au" target="_blank">Domain.com.au</a>.

Home & Garden

Julie Andrews’ charming response to the new Mary Poppins casting

We were delighted when it was announced earlier this year that 33-year-old British actress Emily Blunt would be taking the reins of the iconic character Mary Poppins, but Julie Andrews, who brought the role to life in the 1964 Disney film, has stayed mum when it comes to the upcoming sequel – that is, until now. Chatting to <a href="http://www.ew.com/article/2016/08/27/emily-blunt-julie-andrews-mary-poppins-returns-casting" target="_blank">Entertainment Weekly</a>, Blunt revealed she’s received the green light from the legendary 80-year-old actress. “Rob [the director] said he was in the Hamptons, and he saw [Andrews], and he said, ‘It’s top secret, but Emily Blunt’s playing Mary Poppins’. And she went, ‘Oh, wonderful!’,” Blunt said. “I felt like I wanted to cry. It was lovely to get her stamp of approval. That took the edge off it, for sure.” Don’t expect Blunt’s interpretation of the famous nanny to be identical to Andrews’, however, as the 2018 sequel will reportedly be closer to the original book series by P.L. Travers (who famously <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/books/2016/07/5-authors-who-hated-the-film-adaptation-of-their-book/" target="_blank">hated</a> the 1964 film). “We’re delving into the books a lot more, which is a different version of the character, I’ll say that much,” Blunt said. “She's a little meaner.” We can’t wait to see it all unfold on the big screen in December, 2018. Tell us in the comments below, what do you think of the casting choice? Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/books/2016/07/5-authors-who-hated-the-film-adaptation-of-their-book/">5 authors who hated the film adaptation of their book</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/2016/06/julie-andrews-new-role/">Julie Andrews’ exciting announcement</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/2016/06/mary-poppins-returns-disney-cast-emily-blunt/">Disney reveal who will play Mary Poppins in new sequel</a>

News

Tassie apple picker’s cottage now a charming writer’s retreat

Writers looking to seek out secluded, beautiful parts of the world to sit down and really focus on their work is as old as literature itself. And even if you haven’t got a novel in the works, today’s incredible property represents a bliss escape. Originally an apple picker’s cottage, this <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/12856762/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_frenchmensriver" target="_blank">charming writer’s retreat</a> is the perfect place to relax and unwind. And as you can see in the gallery above, the view is something else. Life is good in the <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/12856762/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_frenchmensriver" target="_blank">writer’s house</a> with just a fence separating you from the neighbouring paddocks that feature some of the most picturesque scenery in Australia. The house has been completely reimagined with lofty ceilings and an open fireplace giving it a cosy vibe. A secret valley behind the house (that you can’t see driving up the hill) features a farm track that invites you to wander and explore the paddocks, and maybe even inspect the dam. Visit at dusk or dawn and you much just see the platypus that lives down there. Locations for a rural retreat don’t come much better than Cygnet. A small town with an agricultural heritage has become something of a mecca for artists, musicians, craftspeople and all sorts of creatives that culminates in the popular Cygnet Folk Festival. Whether you’re planning to stay for a week, weekend or maybe even longer, this <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/12856762/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_frenchmensriver" target="_blank">charming writer’s retreat</a> is the perfect accommodation to explore this beautiful part of Tassie. To find out more or book the writer’s house, <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/12856762/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_frenchmensriver" target="_blank">click here</a>. Even if you’re not headed to Tasmania any time soon, make sure you scroll through the gallery above to see just how incredible these properties are. <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60" target="_blank">Whether you want to make money by renting your place or to find affordable accommodation options and stretch your travel budget further, head over to Airbnb now and have a look around.</a> Related links: <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/07/train-carriages-converted-into-serene-rural-retreat/">Train carriages converted into serene rural retreat</a> <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/07/100-year-old-converted-log-cabin-in-yarra-valley-cottage/">100-year-old converted log cabin in Yarra Valley cottage</a> <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/07/cosiest-winter-retreats-in-the-blue-mountains/">Cosiest winter retreats in the Blue Mountains</a>

Accommodation

3 charming windmills you can spend the night in

If you’re looking for a fairy-tale getaway that lets you step into some of the most romantic architectural moments in history, these three charming windmills on <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_auhomepage" target="_blank">Airbnb</a> could be exactly what you’re looking for. 1. Old Smock Windmill in rural Kent Benenden, United Kingdom The Old Smock Mill is a gorgeous four storey building with eighteen-inch brick walls and an oak exterior staircase leading up onto the beautiful staging where you enter into the Mill. Each room has been carefully designed to be in keeping with both comfort and modern facilities. Enjoy a beautiful French, king size bed and a romantic yet unusual get away. See the full listing with all the photos <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/1237965?wl_source=list&wl_id=18842694&role=public/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_Smock_Windmill" target="_blank">here</a>. 2. Windmill by the sea in Tinos, South Aegean, Greece This unique windmill house has breathtaking views of the sea next to Stavros Beach and walking distance to the city centre. Enjoy 360 degree views, a well preserved island vibe and the experience of history and tradition, cultural events and festivals. He décor channels the sea breeze, with white walls, blue touches and simple, comfortable furnishings. See the full listing with all the photos <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/526402?wl_source=list&wl_id=18842694&role=public/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_Windmill_Tinos" target="_blank">here</a>. 3. Furnished in charming windmill, Vibrac, Poitou-Charentes, France Built in the 1780s, this windmill became the meeting point of many lovers. Recently restored to the idea of keeping the romance, the mill has a comfortable and original furnishings including the first level a kitchen, second bedroom with a double bed and the third living room with sofa bed for two people, the crowned with an open to amateur astronomers and those who just like to contemplate the countryside, sunsets and stars panoramic terrace. See the full listing with all the photos <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/1161676?wl_source=list&wl_id=18842694&role=public/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_French_Windmill" target="_blank">here</a>. Which one of these darling windmills would you most like to stay in? Let us know in the comments below. Related links: <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/07/converted-bakery-in-kangaroo-valley/">Stay in a converted bakery in the heart of Kangaroo Valley</a> <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/06/3-snowy-airbnbs-perfect-for-winter/">3 snowy Airbnbs perfect for winter</a> <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/06/6-perfect-airbnbs-for-getting-back-to-nature/">6 perfect Airbnbs for getting back to nature</a>

Accommodation

Stay at this charming Italian holiday cottage

"Enchanting" is probably the right word, but when you view the photographs of this charming Italian property you’ll probably agree the term barely does it justice. Set in an elevated position, <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/432044/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_italycottage" target="_blank">Trullo Edera</a> is a picture of peace and tranquillity, and provides a stunning vantage point to view the surrounding Italian countryside. This <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/432044/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_italycottage" target="_blank">Airbnb property</a> is located in the Ostuni, a city in the province of Brindisi that has a population of 32,000 and is located 8 kilometres from the coast. <img width="497" height="280" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/18336/airbnb-4_497x280.jpg" alt="Airbnb 4" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"/> Whether you want to explore the caves of Castellana, baroque cities of Lecce and Martina Franca, the excavations of Egnazia, small country streets and nearby beaches, of even just stay under an olive tree reading your favourite book, this <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/432044/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_italycottage" target="_blank">Airbnb </a>is the one for you. Even if you’re not on your way to Italy, have a look through the gallery above, because one can always dream! And to find out more about this property, <a href="https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/432044/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60_italycottage" target="_blank">click here</a>. <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/?af=61160407&c=apac_au_over60" target="_blank">Whether you want to make money by renting your place or to find affordable accommodation options and stretch your travel budget further, head over to Airbnb now and have a look around.</a> Related links: <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/04/this-castle-gatehouse-has-been-converted-into-a-holiday-cottage/">This Castle Gatehouse has been converted into a holiday cottage</a> <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/04/live-like-royalty-in-this-irish-castle/">Live like royalty in this Irish castle</a> <a href="/travel/accommodation/2016/04/most-popular-airbnb-listings-in-the-world/">10 of the most popular Airbnb listings in the world</a>

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