One not to miss, though, will be the world premiere of Strong is the New Pretty, the origin story of the women’s professional Aussie Rules football league – a new work by acclaimed Australian playwright Suzie Miller, fresh from her sellout season of RBG: Of Many, One in Auckland . brisbanefestival.com.au
Brisbane Festival will keep the city pumping dawn-till-dark this September 4-26. Photo / Joel Devereux
Colorado goes dark
Colorado has a new guide for people who like their scenery after dark. The Colorado Tourism Office has launched the Colorado Stargazing Trail, a new statewide guide connecting travellers to 13 certified International Dark Sky Parks, eight Dark Sky Communities and a growing collection of astronomy-focused experiences across the state.
There’s a lot to pick from. You can join a ranger-led night walk at Great Sand Dunes National Park, or ride the Cumbres and Toltec Scenic Railroad Dark Sky Train through the southern mountains. There’s a night-sky packraft trip with Rewilding Expeditions in Rocky Mountain National Park. Or keep it simple with cookies, cider and dark skies at CampV in Naturita, or a dome session at The Nest at Blackhawk. It’s an easy add-on to a US summer trip, when the nights are warm and the high skies are clear. colorado.com/colorado-stargazing-trail
Trade city lights for constellations on Colorado’s newest statewide trail.
Sweden pins the sun
Sweden is chasing its sunniest spots. Ikea has identified Sweden’s sunniest square metre after analysing 20 years of solar data with the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute. Located on the island of Gotland, southwest of Burgsvik, the site is marked by a permanent monument featuring two stone armchairs inspired by Ikea’s Skarpo outdoor chair.
Researchers examined sunshine patterns between 2005 and 2025 before using topographic analysis to pinpoint the exact location. The chosen spot averaged 2137 sunshine hours annually over the study period. While unconventional, the project reflects Sweden’s long-standing appreciation for sunlight after months of winter darkness.
Two chairs now mark what Sweden says is its sunniest square metre. Photo / Supplied
Fiji finds its frequency
Wellness travellers heading to Fiji this year will have access to a limited-time residency from internationally recognised sound-healing practitioner Eunice Cheung. From October 20 to November 1, 2026, Cheung will host exclusive wellness experiences at Six Senses Fiji on Malolo Island in the Mamanuca Islands. Founder of Crystal Bowl of Light, Cheung combines sound healing, breathwork and mind-body practices through personalised sessions designed to support emotional clarity, nervous system regulation and relaxation.
Wellness takes centre stage as a renowned sound healer heads to Six Senses Fiji.
McLaren Vale pours gold
One of the best Shiraz in the world right now comes from McLaren Vale, Australia. Beresford Estate’s Classic Shiraz 2023 recently won the International Syrah Trophy at the 2026 International Wine Challenge, scoring 97 points, earning a gold medal and collecting four major trophies.
Beyond the bottle, the estate is worth a visit too. Beresford is a 70-acre vineyard in McLaren Vale, one of South Australia’s best-known wine regions, just south of Adelaide. You can do guided tastings of current releases at the Tasting Pavilion, eat at the Vale Restaurant and Bar, or stay on site in the suites and villas. For Kiwi wine lovers planning an Australian getaway, the recognition offers another reason to look beyond Adelaide’s city limits and explore a region known for its combination of wine, food and scenic landscapes. beresfordestate.com.au
An award-winning Shiraz is putting McLaren Vale back in the spotlight.