IN THE KNOW: What to do, see and where to play

The new Neue

Berlin’s museum of modern art, Neue Nationalgalerie, has returned to its former splendour with the completion of an extensive restoration project. Designed by Mies van der Rohe in the late 1960s, the renowned steel and glass structure has been updated and modernised. The museum is now officially open after being closed for the duration of the project, which began in 2015.

America’s ultimate travel destination

Lonely Planet’s first Ultimate United States Travel List compiles the top destinations in America and Grand Canyon National Park takes out top honour. Followed closely by runnersup Yosemite and Yellowstone National Park, the list details 500 of the most unforgettable experiences awaiting your next visit.

Restoration complete for England’s Wellington Monument

The world’s tallest three-sided obelisk is once again open for visitors to climb to the top after a £3.1m restoration. Constructed in the 1820s as a tribute to the Duke of Wellington’s victory at the Battle of Waterloo, the obelisk stands 53 metres tall and has withstood an unsteady history, including a lightning strike or two!

Reintroducing Australia’s stunning holiday destination: K’gari

Fraser Island has officially reverted back to its original indigenous name – K’gari – after a long campaign by the Butchulla people, who have inhabited the island for thousands of years. K’gari, which translates to paradise, is the world’s largest sand island stretching for over 123km and a UNESCO World Heritage List site.

Gabrielle Chanel: Fashion Manifesto

An exhibition honouring the timeless style of Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel is making its international debut in Melbourne. One of the most influential designers of the 20th century, this showcase will celebrate Mademoiselle Chanel with over 100 garments on display, including some never-before-seen pieces. The exhibition opens 5th December at the National Gallery of Victoria.

Reaching record-breaking new lengths

The world’s longest known cave system has just become even longer! The aptly-named Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, USA has grown by nearly 13km thanks to the discovery of new underground passages. Surveyed by a team of volunteers from the Cave Research Foundation, Mammoth Cave now covers an incredible 675 kilometres.