1579 by TNT Magazine

March 2014 Issue 1579 tntmagazine.com

! IN W TO CKETS

TI BARRAKUD FESTIVAL IN CROATIA!

QUEEN OF THE DESERT Jason Donovan on reprising his role in Priscilla

HEAD TO HEAD AFL & NRL season previews

R E V E F L A V I T FES

ic mosh pits s u m ’s r e m to this sum e id u g e t a im Your ult

+ PAM ANN RUNNING OF THE BULLS EURO VAN TOUR SOUTH AMERICA

ISSUE 1579/ 1578/ £1.95

9 772051 605008

48 49

THIS MONTH LONDON DIARY 6 YOUR LONDON

LONDON INSIDER

FOOD 14 DRINK 15 TRAVEL REVIEW

DIARY 36 TOP 5: BUCKET LIST 39 FEATURE: TRAVEL AFRICA 42 UK TRIP: THE NORTH

EURO TRIP: VAN TOUR 48 FESTIVAL: SAN FERMIN 52 GUIDE TO: EGYPT 56 BIG TRIP: SOUTH AMERICA 60 TRAVEL TIPS 66

HOTSHOTS 68 LATE DEALS 70

ON THE COVER

SPORT ROUND-UP 74 AFL PREVIEW 76 NFL PREVIEW 78 FOCUS: WORLD T20

QUEEN OF THE DESERT PAM ANN

Buckle up, she’s back in town

FESTIVAL FEVER LIFESTYLE STUFF

EURO VAN TOUR

SHOPPING 85 HEALTH: BE A BOOKWORM 86

RUNNING OF THE BULLS

CAREER: GET DIRTY

How to have fun and not die

MONEY

SOUTH AMERICA

LIVING: GET TAX BACK

Travel the destination du jour

DESPERATELY SEEKING 98

HEAD TO HEAD

CLASSIFIEDS 99

AFL & NRL season previews

TNTMAGAZINE.COM

Your guide to summer’s music mosh pits

Grab your mates and go. Simples

Jason Donovan on Priscilla

52 64

76 & 78

EDITORIAL Editor Caroline Garnar Online Editor Vicky Anscombe TNT Australia Editorial Ian Armitage Contributors Michael Gadd l Rachael Getzels Emily Ray l Amy Fallon l Andrew Westbrook EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES 0203 011 1066 ONLINE ENQUIRIES 0203 011 1068 To contact the various editorial departments via email please use the following email addresses: entertainment@tntmagazine.com lifestyle@tntmagazine.com sport@tntmagazine.com travel@tntmagazine.com SALES/MARKETING/EVENTS Sales manager Jaqui Ward PHONE 020 3137 5950 EMAIL jaqui.ward@tntmagazine.com Sales Executive Matt Syder PHONE 0207 9890491 EMAIL matt.syder@tntmagazine.com For all general enquiries please call 0207 989 0567 or email sales@tntmagazine.com DESIGN / PRODUCTION Head of design and production Lisa Ferron PHONE 01225 284107 EMAIL lisa.ferron@tntmagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS / DISTRIBUTION Manager Caroline Penn PHONE 01603 559004 EMAIL caroline.penn@tntmagazine.com ACCOUNTS Emma Overton EMAIL emma.overton@tntmagazine.com STARTRACK MEDIA LTD Directors Kevin Ellis, Ken Hurst Stuart Bidgood PUBLISHER Startrack Media Limited DISTRIBUTION Emblem Direct Ltd PRINTED BY Wyndeham Peterborough Limited NEWS AAP PICTURES Getty Images, TNT Images, Thinkstock TNT Magazine , 114 Coppergate House, 16 Brune Street, London E1 7NJ tntmagazine.com

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All thieves of TNT bins will be prosecuted. Cover image: Bilbao BBK Festival, Spain Editor’s image by photsolutions.me

FROM THE EDITOR

March is a bit of a ‘bleugh’ month. Sure you’ve got the excuse to stuff your face on Pancake Day and stuff up your liver on St Paddy’s Day, but there’s nothing else particularly thrilling on the calendar. This is why we’ve decided to fast forward and start getting excited about this summer’s music festivals. Big, small, muddy, sandy, finger-pointy, sway-to-the-beat-y... we’ve got all the best ones listed in our eightpage special, covering everything from London line-ups to Croatian camping fests. Turn to page 20 and start gathering your mates. It’s festival time. As well as music festivals, there are huge events in this crazy part of the world that involve trying not to let a bull turn you into a shish kebab (San Fermín), trying not to let fellow festival-goers turn you into a human bruschetta (La Tomatina), and trying not to let the Germans turn you into an alcoholic (Oktoberfest). To take in all three and more, see our feature on the infamous Van Tour Europe on page 48 – which is a rite of passage for any Antipodean in this side of the hemisphere. Part of the fun of this tour is spending time on the road in a van with your mates – after all, the journey can be just as memorable as the destination when travelling, as our intrepid writer Amy Fallon discovers on her all-vehicles-welcome trip from Uganda to Zambia and back again (p42). The traveller’s destination du jour, though, is South America, so for inspiration on travelling this incredible part of the world, see our Big Trip feature, pages 60-65. For action closer-to-home, Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical is returning to the London stage for one week only this month. On page 16 we talk to one of its stars and one of Australia’s most famous exports, Jason Donavan, about his role in the show, the homophobia allegations made against him and not bothering to shave his legs anymore. Elsewhere, another Aussie who rivals Priscilla’s queens in the hair and make-up stakes is Pam Ann, who is flying in to London with her new show this month. See page 30 for our interview with the mouth of the mile high club. Buckle up and enjoy!

caroline.garnar@tntmagazine.com

Great adventurers

Mia Wasikowska

Sri Lanka

TNT Magazine is printed on paper from sustainable forests. There is no business connection between the proprietors of this magazine and TNT Ltd, the worldwide transportation group. Copyright here and abroad of all original materials is held by TNT Magazine. Reproduction in whole or part is forbidden, except with permission of the publishers. Registered as a newspaper at the Post Office.

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THIS MONTH’S TOP PICKS GOT TO SEE BEYONCÉ

ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE March 16

Now-March 6

Every year London hosts a St Patrick’s Day Parade with marching bands, floats, street theatre and more, attracting more than 100,000 people. As well as the parade, there is also a free festival. Don’t miss out!

After sell-outs last year, Beyoncé is bringing the Mrs. Carter show back to the O2. Unsurprisingly tickets are like gold dust, but you can still get them from resale sites.

FREE

12pm-6pm Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DS Charing Cross london.gov.uk

£90+

6.30pm Greenwich, SE10 0DX North Greenwich theo2.co.uk

MARCH’S MUST-DO THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD SHOW March 11 Hailed as the biggest and most spectacular Pink Floyd tribute on the planet, the Australian Pink Floyd is coming to the London O2 arena. Tickets are expected to sell fast so get in there quick. This isn’t your typical tribute band! £28+

6.30pm

Sets the controls: Aussie Pink

The O2, Greenwich

North Greenwich

aussiefloyd.com

JOHN ROBERTSON’S I CAN’T SING! STAND-UP & WALK THE MUSICAL

QUICK! IT’S THE PANCAKE RACE

THE HEAD OF THE RIVER RACE

March 8

Ongoing

March 4

March 29

What happens when a hyperactive Australian comic is set loose in central London? Your guess is as good as ours, but if you fancy taking to the streets for what could be the most interactive comedy show yet, you won’t want to miss this. TNT reader discount code = Australia.

£20+

Harry Hill. Genius right? Yep. And his new musical I Can’t Sing! is among his very best work (badger dance aside). With a unique brand of humour and some cracking new songs, the show completely rips Simon Cowell and the X Factor apart.

Dress up, bring your own frying pan and gather three friends to take part in the Great Spitalfields Pancake Race on Shrove Tuesday. Teams race along Dray Walk on Brick Lane while tossing their pancakes. Will you win the engraved frying pan?

The Head of the River Race is one of London’s longest-running sporting traditions. Every spring, 400 crews from around the globe take to the waters of the River Thames to compete in this event, conceived as a way for crews to practice during winter.

1pm Trafalgar Square (exact TBC) Charing Cross geckosuperstar.co.uk

Mon-Sat 7.30pm; Thu & Sat 3pm Argyll Street, W1F 7TF Oxford Circus icantsingthemusical.com

12.30pm Brick Lane, E1 6QL Liverpool Street alternativearts.co.uk

2.15pm Hammersmith Bridge, W6 9DA Hammersmith horr.co.uk

£8

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FREE

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THE VOGUE FESTIVAL 2014 March 29-30

The third Vogue Festival will take place on Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 March, this year in partnership with Harrods. The two-day extravaganza promises to be even bigger than before and is one of the most sought-after weekends of the year by the fashion devoted. It will be held at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in the Southbank Centre offering interviews, panels, trend talks and workshops from big and upcoming designers. Confirmed speakers include Manolo Blahnik. £40

1.30pm-7pm South Bank, SE1 8XX

Waterloo

MOVE IT 2014 DANCE FESTIVAL

COMEDY NIGHT FOR CHARITY

March 7-9

March 10

Love to dance? Then you’ll love Move It 2014. It has a whopping three days of performances, classes, advice and, erm, shopping. There’s plenty to choose from whether you’re into ballroom, ballet, hip-hop or even bellydancing.

Lee Mack, Russell Kane, Greg Davis, Russell Howard and John Bishop are just a few names that’ll be performing live at GQ’s special Comedy Extravaganza. As well as some good laughs, you’ll be raising money for the Eaves women’s charity.

10.30am-6pm Hammersmith Rd, W14 8UX Kensington (Olympia) moveitdance.co.uk

8pm Queen Caroline Street, W6 9DZ Hammersmith eventimapollo.com

£12

Photos: Supplied

southbankcentre.co.uk

£28+

EXCLUSIVE PRICE AVAILABLE NOW

Quote TNT2014

Tickets from £17

Book now at ascot.co.uk

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Revealing all: The Full Monty is a feel-good experience, ahem

Deadly: Fatal Attraction is coming to the West End

Sitting on a gold mine: Beyond El Dorado

COMEDY NIGHTS

EXHIBITIONS

THEATRE

FREE UNTIL FAMOUS

COLLIDER

MAR 4-25, TUES & WEDS / 7.30PM / FREE

FATAL ATTRACTION

UNTIL MAY 6 / 10AM-6PM / £10

UNTIL JUNE 21 / 7.30PM / £12+

Controversial New York stand-up comedian Lewis Schaffer returns with another run of his hit show. Free admission with collection made.

This rather ambitious exhibition attempts to “step inside” the Large Hadron Collider (that massive uber-clever science thingy that some think will bring about the end of days).

Natascha McElhone turns nasty as the infamous bunny boiler in Trevor Nunn’s moviebased production of James Dearden’s 1987 psychological thriller of infidelity and obsession.

The Source Below Lower John St, W1F 9TY sourcebelow.com

Piccadilly Circus

CRYING DUCK COMEDY OPEN MIC

Science Museum Exhibition Rd, SW7 2DD South Kensington sciencemuseum.org.uk

HOSTED EVERY TUES / 8PM / FREE

BEYOND EL DORADO

It’s open season at Crying Duck Comedy and if you want five minutes of mic time all you have to do is turn up.

UNTIL MARCH 23 / 10AM-5.30PM / £10

Simmons Bar Canal 125, 125 Caledonian Rd, N1 9RG King’s Cross St Pancras cryingduckcomedy.co.uk

It is the stuff of legend, a terrible Indiana Jones film and it’s also the topic of a exhibition – we’re talking about the Lost City of Gold. Bling. British Museum Great Russell Street, WC1B 3DG Russell Square britishmuseum.org

TWICE AS NICE COMEDY

NEW ORDER II: BRITISH ART TODAY

MARCH 2 / 7.30PM / £5

UNTIL MARCH 23 / 11AM-6.30PM / Free

If you fancy a good-old chortle this is definitely one for you. Features three comedy greats: Tom Rosenthal, Jonny Pelham and Alistair Green.

A new and engaging exhibition from the Saatchi Gallery showcasing the best up-and-coming artists of the moment.

The Grove Bar Hammersmith Grove, W6 0NQ Hammersmith twiceasnicecomedy.com

Saatchi Gallery Kings Road, SW3 4SQ Old Street saatchigallery.com

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Theatre Royal Haymarket Suffolk Street, SW1Y 4HT trh.co.uk

Piccadilly

THE FULL MONTY UNTIL JUNE 14 / 7.30PM / £9.50+

Out-of-work Sheffield steelworkers get their kit off to raise some cash as well as their selfesteem in this touchingly funny adaptation of the 1997 hit film. Noel Coward St Martin’s Lane, WC2N 4AU Leicester Square delfontmackintosh.co.uk

URINETOWN: THE MUSICAL UNTIL MAY 3 / 7.30PM / £27.50+ Jamie Lloyd directs the UK premiere of the Tony Award-winning 2001 musical set in a futuristic drought-ridden city where a business tycoon controls the public toilets and bribery is rife. St James 21 Palace Street, SW1E 5JA Victoria stjamestheatre.co.uk

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CLUB NIGHTS

GIGS

CLUB DE FROMAGE

RIZZLE KICKS

UNTIL MARCH 29 / 10.30PM-3.30AM / £6+

MARCH 1 / 7PM / £22.50+

Head to Club de Fromage for cheesy tunes and fancy dress. Takes place every Saturday with a different theme each week. Perfect if you love busting a groove and pulling some serious shapes on a budget. O2 Academy Islington N1 Centre, N1 0PS Angel clubdefromage.com

BEDROCK AT THE BORDERLINE EVERY FRIDAY / 11PM-4AM / £7 If you are a fan of the indie genre this is one for you. The Borderline is a favourite with Londoners and hosts Bedrock every Friday. One of the few indie clubs that still accepts requests and drinks are served until 4am. The Borderline Manette Street, W1D 4JB Tottenham Court Rd bedrocked.co.uk

SIN CITY AT ELECTRIC BALLROOM MARCH 21 / 10PM / £7+ Love a bit of headbagging? Sin City was voted as

PARTY TIME

They might look about 12 but outspoken hiphop duo Rizzle Kicks have been described as the band of the Millennium Generation (teens through the twenties) and, while that might seem like a bit of a claim, it is worth noting that they have two UK top 10 albums with hits including ‘Mama Do The Hump’ and ‘Skip To The Good Bit’. Hammersmith Apollo Queen Caroline Street, W6 9DZ Hammersmith eventimapollo.com

STATUS QUO MARCH 28 / 11.30PM / £25

Status Quo – or just Quo depending on who you talk to – have recorded more than 64 British hit singles. Yep, 64! Even more impressive is the fact that 22 of them made the top 10 in the UK top charts. You should get ‘Down Down’ there and rock out. Dad moves optional. Hammersmith Apollo Queen Caroline Street, W6 9DZ Hammersmith ventimapollo.com

Skip To The Good Bit? Rizzle Kicks

London’s biggest and best rock and metal night by the readers of Kerrang! and Metal Hammer.

Photos: Getty / supplied / Hugo Glendinning

Electric Ballroom Camden High Street, NW1 8QP Camden Town facebook.com/sincityclub.uk

ETON MESSY PRESENTS AT XOYO MARCH 21 / 9PM-4AM / £10+ Following the success of their sold-out debut London show at the Nest in October, Youtube sensations the Eton Messy boys are back and are one of the leading names within the future garage/ bass movement. XOYO Cowper Street, EC2A 4AW Old Street xoyo.co.uk

C2C: COUNTRY TO COUNTRY MARCH 15 & 16 / 7.30PM / £40+

A massive treat for fans of country music and boasts a line-up of stars that would be the envy of any compilation album. The O2 Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX North Greenwich c2c-countrytocountry.com

KATH HALING MARCH 11 / 7PM / £15

Aussie-born singer/writer Kath Haling will take you into a world where jazz, soul, funk, pop and grunge live in harmony. Jazz Club Soho Tottenham Dean Street, W1D 3RW Court Rd www.southbankcentre.co.uk

CELEBRATE ST PATRICK’S DAY St Patrick’s Day falls on March 17, and in London Irish-themed shenanigans will be happening over the preceding weekend. Trafalgar Square’s parade and festival will be the focal point (see p6 for more), but away from this, London’s pubs will be making an effort too. Spitalfields boozer The Water Poet (thewaterpoet.co.uk) is going green for the whole weekend (and Monday), plus it’s showing the 6 Nations on Saturday beginning with Italy v England at 1.30pm. Guinness is £4.20 a pint. It’s a similar story over a Waxy O’Conners (waxyoconnors.co.uk), one of London’s biggest Irish pubs, so you can expect to see a lot of genuine Emerald Isle-blooded folk here. Over at Honky Tonk Clapham and Chelsea (honkytonklondon. com), there will be live Irish rock music, Jamesons Whiskeymarinated ribs, Irish beef burgers and of course lots of Guinness to drink. Don your top hat, shamrocks and green ribbons to head to Mr Foggs (mr-foggs.com). Here, guests will be welcomed by Irish jig band Banish Misfortune, and can sip on Tullamore Dew Irish whiskey for a St Patrick’s toast, filling up on some delicious canapés of Irish delicacies.

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YOURLONDON READER’S PIC OF THE MONTH

YOUR VIEW We ask our readers what they’ve been thinking about this month... As a fairly new vegetarian, I have been pondering people’s reactions to my new eating habits. It’s been mixed. I think I’ll stick with it, though. At a recent dinner party, one woman was so overcome with my choice to avoid meat that she started to cry (just to be clear, I went veggie because I finally admitted to myself that I simply hate the taste of meat – it wasn’t anything to do with animal rights). ‘My husband is such a brute,’ she wailed, pointing to an embarrassed man pushing some steak around his plate. I left soon afterwards.

If this is all we’ve got to look forward to, I may as well start making my way through the seven sins now... – Lucy Davis, taken near Limehouse

STATUS UPDATE What’s been happening on Twitter this month... We had another brush with fame on Sunday, February 9 (the day of our famous Olympic bronze victory – well done, Jenny Jones!). Taking to Twitter after a boozy pub lunch and watching the figure skating, we mused about our longing to do the same, using the Riverdance soundtrack like Jason Brown did. ‘A magnificent sight it would be,’ said @aoifedowd. ‘With Riverdance blaring away, I’m sure you’d have given it a good shot.’ However, nobody could have prepared us for what happened next – the official Riverdance Twitter account chimed in! ‘We like it,’ they tweeted. The member of staff in question then excitedly told Riverdance what an effect it had had upon their life. ‘I’m genuinely starstruck. I love you, Riverdance,’ they mewled. They are banned from Twitter until the Olympics are over. Want to have your say or see your photo in print? Email the online editor at vicky.anscombe@tntmagazine.com

UK Chauffeurdrive LTD Chauffeur driven for the price of a minicab!

To book call 020 8982 3630 or 07738 354490 E: wwcd@hotmail.co.uk www.Heathrowtransferuk.com 10

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My Nan is yet to embrace the concept of vegetarianism; when I popped round to see her last Sunday, she’d prepared grilled skate. I gently explained why I couldn’t eat it and she was genuinely confused. ‘But it’s not meat – it’s fish!’ she said, reading the back of the packaging. However, she was very sweet about the mix-up, and kindly prepared me a risotto. I love you, Nan!

Annette Warings

SIGN UP NOW! Want TNT delivered to your inbox five days a week? Of course you do! Visit tntmagazine.com to sign up and you can opt to receive any, or all, of the below: Monday: News & Sport – what’s happening in the world, plus all the big sports results and stories. Tuesday: Jobs – whether you’re jobless and on the hunt, or just hate the place you’re at now, check out these job vacancies and TNT’s career advice. Wednesday: Travel – We round-up the last-minute deals and travel news, as well as giving you an in-depth guide to our destination of the week. Thursday: London Living – If you’ve just arrived or you’re planning your exit, this is your e-newsletter. Friday: Entertainment – It’s the weekend! Woop! We tell you how to fill it, as well as the week ahead.

Photos: Supplied. Words: Vicky Anscombe

Airport transfer in a chauffeur driven Mercedes from London to Heathrow from only £39. We are licensed by TFL, we specialise in airport transfer (Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, City airport and seaports). All chauffeurs in suit & tie, complimentary newspaper and mineral water.

My sister’s friend was so concerned that I had embraced a veggie lifestyle that she posted me some iron supplements. ‘Just in case,’ read the note that accompanied them. ‘I know what you think is doing is okay – but I urge you to reconsider.’ This girl basically lives off ham, waffles and ketchup, and she wonders why she’s always feeling poorly.

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TRYTHIS

LONDONINSIDER

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Date idea: Small Car, Big City It’s not often people stop and take photos of me on the streets of London (hard to believe, I know), but when I’m sat in a classic Mini Cooper with The Beatles pumping out of its open-top roof on a sunny winter’s day, it seems my face will appear on a number of people’s Facebook pages over the next few days. It is a unique sight, and awesome to be a part of. Having never been in an old Mini Cooper before, let alone bombing around the streets of London in one, it’s a great way to see the capital city. Riding alongside boisterous taxis and mammoth double-decker buses, we wind our way through the traffic and listen to the confident driver’s fascinating facts (for example, Waterloo Bridge is also known as the Ladies’ Bridge as it was re-built by women in WWII – they used self-cleaning bricks. How resourceful). We’re also taken to hidden-away spots such as the location of the one door outside of an official government building which accesses London’s underground system, which, among other places, leads to Buckingham Palace. We’ll see you on your next mission, Bond. Picking you up from any central spot in London, the tours last from 30 minutes right up to a full-day’s rental. You can pick from a number of tours including Royal London, The

Italian Job, The Great Escape and more. Or you can just go bespoke – we saw Big Ben, Nelson’s Column, Pall Mall, Buckingham Palace, Saville Row, The London Eye, The House of the Guards and many other of London’s iconic and aweinspiring buildings. Infinitely cooler than an open-top bus and as quintessentially British as you can get, we give Small Car, Big City a massive thumbs ups. By Caroline Garnar From £54 per Mini for a 30-minute tour (seats three + driver) smallcarbigcity.com

MYLONDON When I want to chill out I.... paint canvas. I can lose hours just engrossed in paints and a blank page. Either that or I’m reading a gripping novel. I try to avoid anything relating to the internet as I am writing for Sex & London City more than I sleep these days! The most interesting person I’ve met in London is... Lulu Guinness. I love her because she built her brand from scratch. She left her schooling years without many qualifications, so through her own determination and business mind, she’s created an empire. Celebrities now yearn to own her accessories and she’s stocked world-wide, and that is just inspiring to me. For when you’re hungover in London you can’t beat... an extra shot skinny vanilla latte from Starbucks. That brings me back to life! Then of course it’s a brunch-time greasy fry-up to seal the deal.

My perfect Saturday would be... Shopping in Selfridges on Oxford Street, dinner somewhere like Sophie’s Steakhouse in Covent Garden and then moving on to cocktails at Aqua and finishing off at a club such as Maddox or Whisky Mist. What I love most about London is... the eclectic mix of people. You can wander from East to West and find the most amazing beings, from the vibrant edgy Shoreditch dwellers to the classical meticulous Chelsea-goers. It’s so diverse and I think that’s what makes it so special. You can discover new things every day, or visit new places and meet a whole new collective of people. Five words that sum up London are... Loud, vibrant, eclectic, grey, inspiring. sexandlondoncity.co.uk

My favourite spot in London is... For dining I really love St Christopher’s Place next to Selfridges, for partying I love The Wellington Club in Knightsbridge and for picnic days with your friends it has to be Hyde Park. I’m a West kinda girl.

NIXALINA WATSON FOUNDER OF SEXANDLONDONCITY.CO.UK TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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BITE SIZE TASTE TEST Forget canteen food fights, here’s one food battle we can really get XXXXX behind. XxxxxxxxOver eight evenings, chefs from around the world will each create [web]three courses which are inspired by their home countries’ gastronomic XXXXX traditions. Then it’s just down to the guests to decide which Xxxxxxxx dish tickles their fancy the most. Some of [web] the flavour expats taking to the kitchen at the Palm 2 Event Space in Hackney XXXXXinclude Two Hungry Girls, Gastronhome and Yummy Choo Eats. Xxxxxxxx flavourexpats.wordpress.com [web]

PIE’S THE LIMIT To celebrate British Pie Week in March, The Windmill is dishing up a specially created spiced chicken and chorizo creation. To ‘pie’ doing it yourself, see its Facebook page for a step-by-step tutorial on recreating their famous steak and kidney pie at home. windmillmayfair.co.uk

GILLRAY’S STEAKHOUSE English

This lavish restaurant is perfect for those who like their food and a quiet spot to watch the world go by; Gillray’s is unpretentious, the staff are warm and welcoming, and its riverside views are not to be missed. It’s tucked discreetly away inside the Marriott Hotel County Hall, and the classic, wood-panelled decor is stylish without being overbearing. The little touches of glam that Gillray’s adds to the restaurant – chandeliers, a bar stacked to the brim with exotic-looking bottles – mean that there’s always something to take in. Despite being in the very heart of touristville (i.e. Central), it’s a deliciously swanky place to spend an evening. THE GRUB Seeing as I like a challenge, I decided to take a vegetarian along to a steak restaurant, but my meat-eschewing friend was delighted with the fare. His seasonal vegetable pie arrived with a golden crust, and the curry and coconutflavoured root vegetables were creamy, well-cooked, and paired well with the truffle and Old Winchester chips. The chips themselves were things of wonder – buttery and crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. I plumped for a delicious bonein fillet steak, which was meltingly tender and cooked perfectly, paired with triplecooked chips. We nearly bailed on pudding as our food was so rich, but decided to bravely soldier on. My flourless chocolate cake was as close to perfection as a cake will ever get, and my friend’s trio of sorbets and ice creams was the perfect finish. BEHIND THE BAR The cocktails on offer are bound to please, Black Bramble is a decadent, fruity treat, and the ginger and ginseng-infused At Dusk comes under a bell jar full of smoke that permeates your drink. If you like your gin, you’re in luck – Gillray’s has over 70 waiting to be sampled. BILL PLEASE Starters from £7, mains from £20, desserts from £6, cocktails from £10, wine from £8/glass, fizz from £9/glass. VERDICT Terrific food, excellent service and mind-blowing steaks. Vicky Anscombe THE SCENE

Photos: Supplied

CHOP CHOP TO CHOP’D TNT eats meat. The juicier, thicker and more full of cholesterol the better. Show us a salad and we show you the door. Until, that is, Chop’d came into our lives. Making salads into a meal a man would be proud of, they are full of pasta, Parma ham, mozzarella, chunks of tuna, beans, chicken, prawns and flatbreads. In fact, they’re so hearty, TNT could only eat half at a time! Even better? Chop’d has teamed up with Orogo, an app that allows you to pre-order your lunch and receive a text when it’s ready, meaning you can queue jump. If anyone gives you evils, just knock ’em out with your salad. chopd.co.uk

London Marriott County Hotel, SE1 7BP

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Waterloo

gillrays.com

LiFestYLeMONEY LONDONDRINKS

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cash saVersCLUB THE DRURY NIGHTCLUB

Dreams come brew keiSha herBert, 24 We all know that JoB Market researcher Do you dream of screwing Spencer Matthews? Or perhaps a Binky bonk pounding headache from FroM Leeds istoo on your to-do list? If you have no idea who these people are, this placeBethnal probably much cheap bubbly LiveS Green isn’t your cup of tea (served in a china cup, natch). If you do rush home to watch the night before. Well the Made Chelsea gang, straight to budget? this yearinyour dream of however, then you should rush yourselfHow do you this Drury up Lane hotspot. Indeed, from one reality show to another,After Ziggymonthly from expenses and waking hangover-free can become a reality with the door here. Ushered in, we found adding a bitinto my savings, 2007’s Big Brother even works ourselves off acool stellar bottle space with red leather seating, glowing I trytravel to setchest myself a weekly a 50% seriously underground of champagne. Usually spending amount. It can be tables and exposed brick walls. The music is an awesome mix of old-skool R’n’B costing Heidsieck when (yep, they£29.75, even cranked out Gangster’s Paradise). Just be warned: difficult girls, wear yoursome weeks Blue tightest Top is £15 a pop are busier than others, but heels, dress, and at prepare for a battle of the hair flicks; men, get your Asda. Or you can opt for a I always try to go with the swagger on and your credit card out – the women flock to wherever the bottle of bottle of ‘I heart Prosecco’ cheapest options. Grey Goose from complete with firework is delivered. for £9.99 Budgens, BEHIND THE BAR Rhythm If you can’t theyou talented Tesco.com, & afford a whole bottle (peasant), then letDo have any tips for barmen mix you up a killer cocktail. We sampled the Passion Fruit House Booze or Londis. savingHighball, money in London?

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THE SCENE

Last big blow-out? I went to a second-hand clothes fair last month. Instead of leaving with a few cheap bargains, I ended up spending a lot more money than I imagined! I spent the last week of that month on a very small budget. What non-essential items do you spend money on? Each month I get something new to refresh my wardrobe. And if there’s a special occasion, that’s another excuse to hit the shops.

which mixed Havana rum, spiced Bajan syrup and club soda, and aIRhubarb Kir,my own lunch try to take a Fighting chance but I don’t always which muddled the fruit with aperol, rose wine and club soda. As into tastywork as dessert, The origins oflethal. the Oh, and you can rent an Absinthe fountain manage that. A Taste Card but much more for £350... term ‘Boxing Day’from are £10, wine from £11, beer from £7. BILL PLEASE Cocktails undecided, but we all VERDICT Watch your Made in Chelsea boxset and get your name on the guestlist. CG

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Photos: supplied and Getty. Words: Rachael Getzels

know it’s due to the punches that are thrown 167 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5PG as eager shoppers try to get the best deals on the first day of major nationwide sales. Oxford Street will be prime territory with up to 70% off all high street brands. Get ready to rumble.

Couple of queens: Jason, left (yes, really) performs with Graham Weaver in Priscilla Queen of the Desert

[Caption] 16

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CELEBINTERVIEW

Especially for us Jason Donovan is back in heels as Priscilla Queen of the Desert returns to London for one week only this month. We chat to Australia’s blue-eyed-boy-gone-bad(-then-good-again) to find out more WORDS CAROLINE GARNAR

It’s not every day you get to interview someone whose face used to adorn your favourite T-shirt. One of those rare creatures who could pull off a mullet, Jason Donovan’s wholesome smile, baby blue eyes and sun-bleached ’do made him one of the biggest heartthrobs of the ’80s. He was the prince of the soap opera, and Kylie Minogue his pint-sized princess. When the then-real-life couple released the song ‘Especially for You’ in 1988, it hit number one in the UK and number two in Australia, while Donovan went on to have five more hits of his own in 1989 (‘Too Many Broken Hearts’ was a favourite). Then he had a string of flops, Kylie met Michael Hutchens, dumped Donovan and, y’know, became a total and utter superstar. Gutted. Donovan took it well: he only collapsed from a drugs overdose the once. It was at Kate Moss’s 21st birthday (appropriate) and Michael Hutchens was the one to get him the help he needed (awkward). His professional career was back on track, though, albeit heading in a different direction. Moving to the UK in 1991, he found fame again with his role in the stage production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat (and had another number one with ‘Any Dream will Do’), and Donovan has been treading the boards in various musicals ever since. He also managed to kick his drug habit in 2000, after his first child was born. In 2009 Donovan performed in the West End’s Priscilla Queen of the Desert – The Musical as drag queen, Mitzi, also know as Tick. Adapted from the 1994 film, Tick performs his way across Australia with a fellow drag queen and a transsexual, in order to see his estranged wife and eight-yearold son in Alice Springs. Donovan left the show after its first 18 months, before it finished its West End run on December 31, 2011. So what made him come back to the role? “I just felt I’d had enough time away from it to actually appreciate it. After eight shows a week, it’s not fresh after a year-and-a-half. But I had to come back. Priscilla for me is a great marriage between an Australian musical and an Australian musical performer like myself. It makes sense.” On its first ever UK tour, the return to London is one of Priscilla’s last stops before the glammed-up bus heads back to the garage and the ladies hang up their sparkly stilettos once more. It’s safe to say the response so far has been positive.

“It’s been a big success. It’s a universal story about a bunch of misfits with a great soundtrack, some fantastic costumes, and I’m in it. Why wouldn’t you fucking come back 20 times to see it?” Well put. When he’s not on tour, Donovan splits his time between his Victorian home in West London and his country pad in Oxfordshire, along with his wife and three children. “I’ll always be an Australian, but my kids go to school here and my house is here. I’d love to go to Australia more but it’s 24 hours in a plane, and with three children and my wife and I, it’s not an easy exercise. But I see myself spending more time there as I get greyer and older, which is looming quicker and quicker. But I think this country has great history. The countryside is beautiful. I like the seasons, the change in weather. Don’t get me wrong, I love heat, but you appreciate good weather more when it’s rare.” And how about the reception he gets from folk on the streets of London? “People are always very warm towards me. When you’re on television for five years, twice a day, and watched by 20 million people, plus you’ve done a bunch ››

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Bus buddies: Richard Grieve as Bernadette, Graham Weaver as Felicia and Jason Donovan as Tick

Xxxxxx

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Indeed, not every straight Aussie male (or gay for that matter) would prance around a stage in full make-up and heels; although he doesn’t worry so much about the finer details these days... “I used to shave a lot, but as the distance between myself and the audience gets greater with the size of the venue, I tend to not bother as much.” And what do his kids think of it all? “They just think I’m an extrovert and weird and crazy and all those things that I am. I agree with them.” And when he’s ‘doing Priscilla’ eight times a week, does he hear disco music in his nightmares? “I think I’ve heard ‘I Will Survive’ enough in my life to not be going to a Gloria Gaynor concert ever again, that’s for sure. I don’t go to the theatre in my spare time. I’m fascinated by current affairs and real-life stuff myself, but I’m very lucky to have found a career that I love doing.” His heart, though, still lies with his first career path: “I’d like to do more TV, more drama. My spiritual home is acting, and the rest is a by-product of that. But as long as I can tell stories and as long as I can perform, that’s what matters. I’ve been doing it for 25 years, I’m self-employed and my credit rating’s pretty good... I hope that continues.” And, as our interview draws to a close, we have to ask the obligatory question: has he been watching Kylie on The Voice? “To be honest with you I’m on stage at that time most nights. I think she’s doing a great job, I think all those judges do great jobs; it’s a very credible line-up. I think what The Voice needs to do, though, before it becomes significant, is to find a star, and it’s yet to really do that. Let’s hope this year it might.” Despite his ‘Kylie and Jason’ days being the springboard for his career, it seems he has little nostalgia for them. Has he at least got some Neighbours memorabilia? “I’ve kept a lot of stuff. It’s all in storage somewhere in Narre Warren in Victoria. I’m very fortunate and lucky to have been part of a cultural moment. But I certainly don’t pull it out and look at it. I try not to live in the past, I let everyone else do that.” ❚ Jason Donovan will be starring in Priscilla Queen of The Desert at New Wimbledon Theatre from March 10-15. atgtickets.com/wimbledon

Photos: Supplied. Stage shots by Paul Coltas

of songs that people know and love, that never goes away, ever.” We feel like there’s a threat in there somewhere. He’s right though. Plus, from Priscilla Queen of the Desert to Muriel’s Wedding and Strictly Ballroom, the English seem to love nothing more than seeing an Aussie trussed up in skin-tight sparkles and hitting the dance floor. Why is that? “I think it’s more than just seeing someone in a skin-tight outfit. I think the Australians provide great stories with certain colour. We have a palette in our film-making that is very unique to us, and when we get that right and we stop trying to be like Americans, things work.” Donovan certainly seems to be comfortable in a bit of sparkle. He donned a variety of sequined/see-through/shiny/ all-of-the-above outfits when he competed (and came third) in the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2011, and the costumes are so outlandish in Priscilla, Tim Chappel and Lizzie Gardiner scooped two Tony Awards for their designs. Donovan, though, is unfazed about wearing a sparkly crotch box and feather headdress eight times a week: “I just get on with it and try to do my best each night. But the costumes are definitely different. I wouldn’t exactly wear them to the shops” Certainly his gay fans are happy to see Donovan embracing his drag queen side, as there was a time he was slammed as being a homophobe. Back in 1992 Donovan got into a legal battle with The Face magazine, which had claimed Donovan was gay and had been lying to his fans about his sexuality. “I sued The Face because they said I was lying about myself, and I wasn’t. Unfortunately, people assumed I was suing because I was worried I was perceived as being gay, and that’s the brush I got tarnished with. Am I proud of that moment? Not really. But does it keep me awake at night? No it doesn’t, because no one has the right to turn around in public and dictate what they think you are. So that’s why I felt vindicated.” And has his role as Tick helped him to win his gay fans back? “They certainly wouldn’t have cast me in a musical in the West End in a gay role if they thought it was going to inhibit their Box Office ratings. I think it’s well and truly in the past. Those days are gone.”

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Your 2014 summer

festival guide

There are few better ways to spend your summer than finger pointing in a field or partying on a beach. Whether you do it in London, pack your tent for further afield, or make an epic trip to Europe out of it, these are the festivals to put on your hit list... LONDON TOWN If you don’t want to camp, stick to the capital for your festival fix. You can still spend all day and most of the night hanging out in a park, listening to top music acts and drinking until you feel like passing out – and you can, in the comfort of your own bed no less. Bonus. MAY WE ARE FSTVL When MAY 24-25 Where The Airfield of Dreams, Damyn’s Hall, Upminster, Essex The vibe House and techno dominate at this dance-fest mega-party. And don’t worry, the Upminster tube station is nearby so you can get back to town easily after dancing all day and night. Line-up Fat Boy Slim, Annie Mac, Richie Hawtin, Luciano, Andy C, Kenny Dope. Tickets £77; weekend £149 wearefstvl.com 20

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JUNE FIELD DAY Best for an English fête vibe When JUNE 7-8 Where Victoria Park The vibe Pop, punk, indie, techno, electro and dubstep tuneage provide the soundtrack to fête games such as tug-of-war and tea bag tossing at this impossibly cool music fest. Line-up Metronomy, Pixies, SBTRKT, All We Are, Blood Orange, Charlotte OC, The Horrors, Temples, POND, Drenge. Tickets: Saturday £49.50; Sunday £38.50; weekend £78 fielddayfestivals.com CAMDEN CRAWL 14 When JUNE 20-21 Where Various venues in Camden, North London The vibe This is more of a ‘lots of gigs in lots of places at once’ affair rather

than a festival in a field, but with 250 artists, comedians and performers at 25 venues in a mile stretch of Camden, you’ll be sure to find something that tickles your fancy. Line-up Arctic Circle, Bird on the Wire, Death2Disco, Fierce Panda, Moshi Moshi, RWD. Tickets: Day £26.50; weekend £45 thecamdencrawl.com JULY WIRELESS Best for big names When JULY 4-6 Where Finsbury Park (also Perry Park, Birmingham) The vibe With a new location this year, Wireless is still bringing in the big pop acts (we’re talking cool pop, not teenybop pop). We’re sure Kanye will manage another foot-in-mouth situation at some point, and we plan

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on being in the front row to see it. Line-up Kanye West, Drake, Rudimental, Pharrell Williams, Basement Jaxx, Bruno Mars, Outkast, Ellie Goulding. Tickets: £71.50; three days £210 wirelessfestival.co.uk LOVEBOX When JULY 8-19 Where Victoria Park The vibe It may have whittled down from two days to one, but we’re sure it will still draw the big DJs to Vicky Park. Don’t ye worry, this box will still be full of love.... Line-up TBA, but last year’s acts included DJ Yoda, Mark Ronson, Rudimental and Annie Mac. Tickets: Early bird Friday £38.95; Saturday £55; Fri & Sat £77.95 mamacolive.com/lovebox ELECTRIC DAISY CARNIVAL LONDON Best for club fans

BKK TNTMAGAZINE.COM

THE BIG TOURS If you don’t fancy a festival but still want to quench your thirst for live music, here’s who’ll be touring in London this summer: Multi Brit-award winner, Tinie Tempah will be doing his thang at the O2 on March 30. Justin Timberlake is bringing sexy back to the capital at The O2 arena on April 1. Blues, folk and soul star Ben Harper will be at the London Palladium on April 27. Treasured New Zealand export Neil Finn will be at The Royal Festival Hall on May 3. Get your twerk on with Miley Cyrus at the London O2 on May 4. A bit further out, but worth the trek - Pearl Jam are playing at The National Bowl in Milton Keynes on July 11. For tickets visit

livenation.co.uk

When TBC Where TBC The vibe The details of this festival are yet to be confirmed, but with it happening in other party capitals including Las Vegas, Puerto Rico and New York, we wanted to make sure you knew about the London one coming soon. With fireworks and lazers it has an awesome open-air club night vibe. Line-up TBC, but last year’s included Tiesto, Avicii, Steve Angello, Madeon, Fake Blood, Chuckie, Sub Focus, CK. Tickets: TBC but last year’s were £72.50 electricdaisycarnival.co.uk

AUGUST V FESTIVAL When AUGUST 17-18 Where Hylands Park, Essex & Weston Park, Staffordshire Reading Festival

The vibe This crowd-pleasing festival features radio favourites, chart-toppers and the best of indie. Line-up The line-up is announced March 3. Last year saw queen of pop Beyonce, along with Kings of Leon, Calvin Harris, Stereophonics, Emile Sande and Basement Jaxx. Tickets: On sale March 7 vfestival.com SOUTH WEST FOUR Best for Aussies When AUGUST 23-24 Where Clapham Common The vibe Celebrating its 10th birthday last year, there’s no better way to end the summer than at the city’s biggest dance party - even Carl Cox calls it the “crowning glory” of London’s clubbing calendar. Plus, being in Clapham Common, it’s full of fellow Aussies. Line-up Above & Beyond, Alesso, Macheo Plex, Marco Carola. Tickets: Saturday £52.50; Sunday £49.50; weekend £99 southwestfour.com

ACROSS THE UK If you’ve seen the pictures of mud, wellies, thousands of rows of tents and people with eyes the size of saucers (they must be tired...) and thought, ‘that looks like awesome fun’, then grab your tent, jump in your (or a mate’s) car and go to one of our top muddy music fest picks. AN HOUR OR LESS FROM LONDON HIGH DEFINITION When JULY 5 Where Eridge Park, Tunbridge Wells, Kent The vibe The music at this fetival is a stellar mix of house, techno, disco, trance, electro, dubstep and rave. Line-up Carl Cox, All About She, B.Traits, Charlie Hedges. Tickets: £29.50 highdefinitionfestival.co.uk READING FESTIVAL When AUGUST 22-24 Where Richfield Avenue, Reading The vibe Huge names always headline this rock and alternative festival. Leeds Festival is on at the same time and they alternate with the line-ups, so if you cant get to one, get to the other! Line-up Arctic Monkeys, Blink 182, Jake Bugg, Disclosure, Metronomy, The 1975, SBTRKT. Tickets: Weekend £210, including camping readingfestival.com

Photographer credit: Sidney Bernstein

SONISPHERE FESTIVAL When JULY 4-6 Where Knebworth Park, Hertfordshire The vibe This heavy metal clanger is the mother of all rock shows with a programme dedicated to the loud stuff only. Line-up The Prodigy, Iron Maiden, Metallica. Tickets: Weekend £215, including camping sonisphere.co.uk STANDON CALLING Best for new names When AUGUST 1-3 Where Standon, Hertfordshire The vibe This relatively new hipster fest maintains a homegrown feel and the line-up of emerging artists always 22

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and there will be many more big names to come. Tickets: Weekend £205, with or without camping bestival.net BLISSFIELDS

Best for animal lovers When JULY 4-5 Where Vicarage Farm, near Winchester, Hampshire The vibe This year’s theme is ‘walk on the wild side’, in honour of its collaboration with the Born Free Foundation, so there will be talks and fundraising for the cause, plus dressing up as your favourite animal is a must. Quirky and quintessentially British. Line-up TBA, but last year’s included Bastille, Mystery Jets and Friends. Tickets: Weekend £95, including camping blissfields.co.uk

Busta Rhymes is playing Bestival feature big at the next year’s Mercury Awards. Line-up Lost in Latin America, Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls, Maxïmo Park. Tickets: Weekend £119, including camping standon-calling.com LESS THAN THREE HOURS FROM LONDON BESTIVAL When SEPTEMBER 4-7 Where Robin Hill Country Park, Isle of Wight The vibe With today’s stars and legends from the past, the charming location and fantastical themes make for a magical weekend full of non-stop auditory and visual delight; this year’s theme is ‘desert island disco.’ Line-up Busta Rhymes, Outkast, Foals, Beck, Disclosure, Major Lazer and London Grammar have already been announced

DOWNLOAD Best for head bangers When JUNE 13-15 Where Donington Park, Leicestershire The vibe Rock gods of the past and present take to the stage in the UK’s premier rock and metal fest that, as always, will be a paradise for head bangers. Line-up Avenged Sevenfold, Linkin Park, Aerosmith, Status Quo, Fall Out Boy. Tickets: £205 including three-nights camping downloadfestival.co.uk GLASTONBURY Best for saying you’ve been When JUNE 25-29 Where Worthy Farm, Somerset The vibe If you haven’t heard of Glastonbury, well then basically you haven’t lived. The legendary festival has the biggest and best names in music and it makes national headlines for weeks. In true Glastonbury style all 150,000 tickets sold out in record time this year (one hour and 27 minutes). But don’t despair, a resale of cancelled tickets will take place at some point in April. Line-up The world awaits this news with baited breath but so far there’s not been a whisper from the Eavis family though rumours abound. Last year the Rolling Stones, Arctic Monkeys, Mumford and Sons and Dizzee Rascal appeared, to name just a few. Tickets: Weekend £210+, including camping glastonburyfestivals.co.uk GLOBAL GATHERING When JULY 25 & 26 Where Long Marston Airfield, Stratford-Upon-Avon The vibe It’s all about neon and glow sticks at this 12-stage dance marathon which guarantees an awesome line up of world-class DJs. Line-up Acts haven’t been confirmed yet but last year’s included Disclosure, Rudimental and Plan B. Tickets: weekend £110 including camping globalgathering.com ISLE OF WIGHT FESTIVAL When JUNE 12-15 Where Newport, Isle of Wight The vibe This legendary festival continues its dominance as one of the festival calendar mainstays.

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Line-up Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Kings of Leon, Calvin Harris. Tickets: Day £75; weekend £190, including camping isleofwightfestival.com LATITUDE When JULY 17-20 Where Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk The vibe Let your artsy side come alive at this laid-back culture festival with music, comedy, poetry, literature, film and more. Indie music abounds. Line-up Two Door Cinema Club, Damon Albarn, Bombay Bicycle Club, Tame Impala. Tickets: Weekend £190.50, including camping latitudefestival.co.uk SHAKEDOWN When JULY 19 Where Waterhall Playing Fields, Brighton The vibe This one-day only festival features the best of the Brighton music scene as well as up-and-coming artists and the ‘shakedown’ goes on well in to the night at party venues across the city. Line-up TBA but last year Rizzle Kicks, Labrinth and DJ Fresh led the shaking. Tickets: This year’s price haven’t been released yet but last year tickets cost £45. shakedown.co.uk WILDERNESS Best for toffs When AUGUST 7-10 Where Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire The vibe This is as high-brow as a festival can possibly get. Along with music there’s a banquet hall serving gourmet food (with Simon Rogan in the kitchen no less), debating halls and literary arts, a spa, horse riding and croquet. Rah-rah dahling. Line-up Burt Bacharach (yep, you read that right!), London Grammar, Metronomy. Tickets: Weekend £151, including camping wildernessfestival.com

THREE OR MORE HOURS FROM LONDON CREAMFIELDS Best for a dance off When AUGUST 22-24 Where Daresbury Estate, Cheshire The vibe The ultimate dance fest with all the big names, this field-cum-club has space for 80,000 beat addicts. Line-up Calvin Harris, Fatboy Slim, Tiësto, Afrojack, Armin Van Buuren, Dead Mau5, Annie Mac, Sasha, Pete Tong. Tickets: Day £75; weekend £160, including camping creamfields.com FESTIVAL NO.6 When SEPTEMBER 5-7 Where Portmeirion, Wales The vibe In its third year, this intimate boutique fest is held at magical venues around a windswept faux-Mediterranean-style village with beach-side boogies and castle concerts. There’s also an oyster and champagne bar and a luxury spa. Line-up Promising to “curate a bespoke bill”, last year’s line-up included Manic Street Preachers, Chic featuring Nile Rogers and My Bloody Valentine. Tickets: Weekend £160, including camping festivalnumber6.com

CAMPING ESSENTIALS 1.

1. For all you ‘glampers’ out there, this double airbed will help pad out your tent. £20. woolworths.co.uk 2. Practical and retro-cool, this backpack is perfect for your bits and bobs. £60. asos.com 3. This ‘light bag’ is solar powered and fits in your pocket so you won’t have stumble in the dark to your tent again...well, you’ll still stumble, because you’ll be drunk. £9.98. ledhut.co.uk 4. A sleeping bag, pillow, chair, poncho and mat in one – now that’s how the lazy campers do it. £75. thelazycamper.co.uk Tip: If you don’t own a tent, book your festival tickets through tangerinefields.co.uk and you can book into a pre-pitched tent. Plus you get to keep your sleeping bag and head torch.

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BBK Bilbao

dedicated to the legendary Scottish venue The King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut. The Slam Tent brings you heavy bass lines, while the BBC Introducing stage allows you to check out the next big things. Along with the music there’s a fairground, pamper stations, a charity village and a Cabaret Club with burlesque, comedy and circus acts. Epic. Line-up Arctic Monkeys, Pharrell Williams, Paolo Nutini, Calvin Harris, Biffi Clyro. Tickets: TBA (on sale from Feb 28), but last year cost £75 day pass, £194 weekend pass tinthepark.com EUROPE Why not swap a field for a beach and go on an out-andout mates’ holiday to carry on the party? Here are our top foreign festivities...

PARKLIFE WEEKENDER When JUNE 7 & 8 Where Heaton Park, Manchester The vibe Expect a huge party in mad-fer-it Manchester. This lot know how to party, and with Snoop Dogg headlining, things will get messy, fo shizzle. Line-up Snoop Dogg, Foals, Bastille, Rudimental, Kendrick Lamar, Disclosure, Soul 2 Soul, Carl Cox Tickets: £49.50 day pass, £79.50 weekend (no camping) parklife.uk.com T IN THE PARK Best for variety When JULY 11-13 Where Balado, Scotland The vibe Radio 1 has a stage here, and there is a tent

Crazy horses: BBK Bilbao

GERMANY MELT! When JULY 14-21 Where Ferropolis, Germany The vibe The big draw at this electronic-meets-rock fest is its unique location in an open-air museum of huge industrial machines from the 20th century. At least doing ‘the robot’ will be welcome. Line-up Portishead, Royksopp, Robyn and Haim are so far on the list. Tickets: Three-day pass £114 excluding camping meltfestival.de ROCK AM RING/ROCK IM PARK When JUNE 5-8 & 6-9 RESPECTIVELY Where Nurburgring & Nuremberg, Germany The vibe Rock and guitar solos from global stars exchange between these two festival locations. Line-up So far Metallica, Iron Maiden, Linkin Park and Kings of Leon are confirmed. Tickets: Weekend £169, excluding camping rock-am-ring.com/rock-im-park.com

SPAIN BILBAO BBK Best for location When JULY 10-12 Where Bilbao, Spain The vibe Big acts set the scene on top of a hill with spectacular views of the city and mountains. The beach is also just 20 minutes away. Recommended. Line-up The Black Keys, Franz Ferdinand, Phoenix, MGMT, White Lies, John Newman, Jack Johnson. Tickets: Weekend £90+, including camping FIB When JULY 17-20 Where Benicàssim, Spain The vibe English festival-goers love Beni, with its hot weather and even hotter tunes. This year’s line up offers a nice mix of cool rock and quirky pop. Line-up Kasabian, Tinie Tempah, Ellie Goulding, Manic Street Preachers, Lily Allen. Tickets: Weekend £120+, including camping fiberfib.com IBIZA ROCKS When WEDNESDAYS AND FRIDAYS, JUNE 4-SEPTEMBER 19

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Where San Antonio, Ibiza The vibe The concert series that brought guitars and drums to the island of dance, Ibiza Rocks lasts 15 weeks and has an eclectic line up of six-stringer acts as well as rappers and DJs playing rocking tunes. Line-up Haim, Tiny Tempah, Rudimental, Bombay Bicycle Club. Tickets: Varies ibizarocks.com SONAR When JUNE 12-14 Where Barcelona, Spain The vibe Sonar prides itself on its selection of ‘advanced’ new music and hosts the most cutting-edge and forward-thinking artists out there, irrespective of genre. Line-up Massive Attack, Rudimental, DJ Harvey Tickets: Weekend £190; £125 nights only sonar.es/en

Hideout Festival, Croatia PORTUGAL SUPER BOCK SUPER ROCK When JULY 17-19 Where Fetais, Portugal The vibe As one of the longest-running festivals in Europe, this regularly attracts big names. The beach-side back drop is just an added bonus. Line-up So far Massive Attack, Metronomy, Cat Empire and Disclosure have been announced. Tickets: Day ticket £39; weekend £73 including camping superbocksuperrock.pt CROATIA HIDEOUT When JUNE 30-JULY 3 Where Zrce Beach, Pag Island, Croatia The vibe Hideout has beefed up with a bigger and better sound system and a foray into house music since its 2011 debut, but it still maintains a magical, hidden-away feel. Line-up Disclosure, Rudimental, Loco Dice, Solomun, Sasha. Tickets: £129+. Tickets have sold out but there will be a re-sale on March 6. hideoutfestival.com INMUSIC When JUNE 23-25 Where Lake Jarun, Zagreb, Croatia The vibe Croatia’s biggest open-air festival focuses on renowned indie rock and electronica – all in an ideal island setting. Yes please. Line-up The Black Keys, Pixies and MGMT are headlining. Tickets: Weekend £51, including camping inmusicfestival.com/en ULTRA When JULY 11-14 Where Split, Croatia The vibe Started in Miami, America’s foremost electronica event is coming to Europe for the second year running. Topped off by a pool-side set from a leading DJ, this is a

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Images: Thinkstock and Getty. Words: Rachael Getzels, Caroline Garnar. Alasdair Morton and Allison Pohle

Inmusic Festival, Croatia

SZIGET When AUGUST 11-18 Where Obudai island, Budapest, Hungary The vibe This is one of Europe’s biggest festivals with 200 daily shows and 400,000 festival goers – and it deserves all the hype as it continues to attract all the big names. Line-up Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, Queens of the Stone Age, Calvin Harris and Skrillex have been announced so far. Tickets: Day £40; pass £171, including camping sziget.hu

EASTERN EUROPE EXIT When JULY 10-13 Where Novi Sad, Serbia The vibe Often touted as one of Europe’s best, nothing quite compares to grooving out to echoing dance music and hiphop in an ancient fortress. Line-up Disclosure, Queens of the Stone Age, Rudimental Tickets: £115 including transport and accomodation exitfest.org Ibiza Rocks mammoth dance party to end all others. Line-up Headliners include Afrojack, Armin Van Burren and David Guetta. Tickets: Weekend £106 including camping ultraeurope.com UNKNOWN FESTIVAL Best for partying on a boat When SEPTEMBER 8-12 Where Rovinj, Croatia The vibe Think indie and electronica atop a boat at sunset, followed by a party on the beach or in a clearing in the forest. Pretty ideal really. Line-up So far Chvrches, Wild Beasts and Mount Kimbie have been confirmed. Tickets: £129 excluding camping unknowncroatia.com STOP MAKING SENSE When JULY 31-AUGUST 1 Where Tisno, Croatia The vibe You’ll dance all day and all night under the stars and on the beach in this magical private bay with tiki bars, beach sports and boat parties. Line-up Nick Hoppner, Gerd Janson, T.Williams and Severino have been announced as headliners so far. Tickets: £100; accommodation packages available stopmakingsense.eu

CENTRAL EUROPE OFF FESTIVAL Best for a bargain When AUGUST 1-4 Where Katowice, Poland The vibe This dirt-cheap festival feels anything but that with a well thought-out, extremely eclectic list of performers. Line-up Neutral Milk Hotel, Glenn Branca and Oranssi Pazuzu have been announced so far. Tickets: Weekend £45, including camping offsklep.pl

MEADOWS IN THE MOUNTAINS FESTIVAL When JUNE 13-15 Where Polkovnik Serafimovo, Bulgaria The vibe With top acts in delightful scenery, this is how all festivals should be. Line-up TBA but last year saw performances from Mt Wolf, San Proper and Nick Monaco Tickets: £100 from eventbrite.co.uk meadowsinthemountains.com

ARINSAL, ANDORRA 23RD - 30TH MARCH 2014

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Snowboxx is the ultimate snowsports & music festival. It’s huge main stage events, slopeside parties and late season powder - all in Europe’s hidden gem, Andorra. One week of your favourite artists playing against the backdrop of the mountains. Last March saw the birth of Snowboxx - and it’s huge. We watched 1,000 snow hungry music lovers take over the town of Arinsal creating a truly unforgettable week. This year we are in Arinsal and La Massana - this means more parties, more people and more to do. Both areas are connected by a very short bus ride, if you want to move between them but we will have loads happening in both towns. 2014 sees us bring in a huge raft of international & up and coming DJ talent, and parties hosted by the best in UK club brands. Already confirmed to play is Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Jackmaster, The 2 Bears amongst loads of others. The stages and venues are ramped up as well, with 2 huge main stages, 5 apres terrace parties, over 30 club parties as well as parties in the snow park and back country BBQs.

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Pam Ann The outrageous Aussie air hostess Pam Ann touches down in London this month. We hold our breath from the hairspray fumes and brave a few questions... INTERVIEW VICKY ANSCOMBE Heard of Pam Ann? If you haven’t, then you will – she’s the queen of in-flight entertainment and the first lady of rude comebacks – and she’s jetting into London this month. The alter-ego of Australian comedienne Caroline Reid will be touching down in the capital for a run in the West End with her most explosive show yet, the all-new Fly. This hostess with the mostess bares everything ridiculous about air travel and the culture surrounding it. No news story, airline or passenger is safe from this comedienne. This flight is not for the easily offended and definitely not suitable for children. But is Pam looking forward to her trip? Is she ready for London – and is London ready for her? So, Pam, you’re jetting into the UK in mid-March – will you be flying in economy, or have you managed to wangle you way up to first? What do you mean, ‘wangle’? Fuck off! I only turn left! Old habits must die hard – when you’re flying as a passenger, can you resist helping the cabin crew out? I am always in the galley, scouting for some hardcore gossip. If you don’t mind us asking, are you a member of the Mile-High club? I founded it in 1975 with Bob Marley – no woman no cry, as they say. What advice would you give to people who are a bit scared of flying? Oh, just shut up and get on with it.

Photo: Facebook

Londoners are known for their directness and dirty sense of humour – do you think that you’ll fit in? I lived in London for 10 years and my mum’s British, so I guess so. You’re in town for just over a month – what will you get up to when you’re not performing? I’ll probably just be sleeping and drinking. 30

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You’ve rubbed shoulders with loads of A-list celebs – who was your favourite, and why? Elton, because he throws damn good parties...

Pam Ann performs Fly at Leicester Square Theatre from March 26-April 26. boundandgaggedcomedy.com

Pam Ann corkers [On British Airways] “How many times can those bitches say ‘Welcome aboard’ and mean it? Now they’re greeting their passengers as though they are personally responsible for the death of Princess Diana.” “Thank you for choosing to fly Pam Ann Airlines, the world’s most experienced airline. The fact is, we don’t make the same mistake more than three times. Maybe four.” “This one time I set this economy passenger on fire. It was hysterical; she was running up and down the aisle. We couldn’t put her out ’cause it was jet fuel. We couldn’t put her out with water or foam!” “I babysit Madonna’s baby – David from Malawi. I actually flew baby David over on the plane. I said, ‘Madonna, put him in the overhead locker, just be quiet about it.’ She gets to Heathrow and there’s paparazzi and I’m like, ‘I told her not to say anything – I bring them in everyday.’”

MOUNTAIN HIGH The stunning Cerro Torre mountain range in South America. See page 60 for our trip through this amazing continent

Photos: Thinkstcok

INSIDE

TRAVEL AFRICA /42

VAN TOUR EUROPE /48

IN-SPIRE-D IN EGYPT /56

Is it the journey or the destination that counts? Our intrepid adventurer finds out by travelling from Zambia to Uganda and back.

An epic tour across the continent taking in festivals, beaches and party cities is a rite of passage for any Antipodean. Do it.

Egypt has featured in the news lately for all the wrong reasons, but this magical country still has a whole lot to offer...

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It’s all anybody could talk about: England’s floods. The heavy downpours caused chaos as residential streets and farmers’ fields flooded in southern England, leaving many without homes and crops destroyed. Bush fires back home, floods here... we really are on opposite sides of the planet.

Life’s a breeze: Set sail for Greece

SMOOTH SAILING FOR BOAT TRIPS GREECE

Sailing is usually the reserve of the rich and famous due to the price, but this May Sunvil Sailing is offering some incredible deals on trips. The holidays include optional tuition in the azure waters of the Greek Ionian Sea, which is dotted with white sand islands, both big and small, to explore. The weeklong trip costs a bargainous £250pp for two sharing a live-aboard cabin, or £350 for one occupant. The other great news is that the price doesn’t go up during the bank holidays (there are two in May) so this great little break is easy to fit around your work. The yachts will be manned by qualified instructors who will give you lessons if you opt in. If you’d rather sit out on deck all day under the sun, well so be it. You deserve it. Go to sunvilsailing.com for May’s departure dates.

HIKING FOR HIPSTERS IN THE COTSWOLDS UK

More of a shopper than a hiker, but don’t want to let your Welly-booted mates down? Fear not. A series of ‘retro-routes’ in search of vintage high-street shops, antique tearooms and historic pubs in the Cotswolds have been published online, meaning you can join their country jaunt with ease. Cotswaldsvintagetours.com has really put some effort in to ‘hiking for hipsters’ and there’s no end to what you may discover along the way. So far there are four routes that take you on a tour of tat and treasure, and you can look at them online or in the brochure. It’s a great source of inspiration 34

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for a day out of the city, and you don’t have to leave your desires for boutique browsing or coffee guzzling behind. Plus, you can don your tweed jacket and flat cap with pride. Go to cotswaldsvintagetours. com to see the routes.

DIRECT TO PARADISE COLOMBIA Wake up and smell the (Colombian) coffee – literally. This Latin American country is on most travellers’ hot lists right now with its Caribbean beaches, lush jungle and all-night parties. We don’t know anyone who’s not hankering to go which is why we’re thrilled by the news that you can now fly direct from London to Bogota.

Avianca Airlines are opening up the firstever direct UK to Colombia route and there will be four flights a week starting from this summer. Prices have not yet been released but they’re likely to hover around £500 plus. Is that the sound of the lapping sea? We think it so, because you’ve arrived in Colombia – and you haven’t lost a single day! Go to avianca.com for flights.

SNOWBOARD WITH TEAM GB SWITZERLAND Inspired by the Winter Olympics to get back on the snowboard that’s been gathering dust at the back of your cupboard? Or do you just feel like it’s time to learn

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MAD WORLD MARMITE AND IRNBRU BANNED CANADA

Canada has banned British exports including Marmite and Irn-Bru from being sold because they are ‘bad for the nation’s health’. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said the colourings and additives in these products, as well as Ovaltine, Lucozade, Penguin Bars and Bovril, are illegal in Canada. Hmm, it may not be our place to say, but surely there are worst things on their shelves?

[Caption] Colombia calling: take the red eye to paradise a new hobby? Well then, get on board (pun intended) with this great deal. From April 13-20, Rudechalets is offering a ‘Snowboarding skills week’ in the Alps that will include instruction from none other than Jenny Jones and Billy Morgan who represented Team GB in Sochi last month. Now if that doesn’t get your cold heart pumping, we don’t know what will. The week costs £489, including classes and gear rental, seven nights of accommodation in a high-tech chalet, halfboard and unlimited wine. To book go to rudechalets.com.

LEAP LIKE A LEPRECHAUN TO DUBLIN

Photos: Thinkstock. Words: Rachael Getzels

IRELAND This is possibly one of the UK’s best-kept travel secrets, so we’re not exactly sure why we’re going to ruin it by spilling all here (just remember, you’re special). St Paddy’s Day is fast approaching and the Emerald Isle beckons. So why not make a trip of it and plan a bit of an adventure? To bag a great travel deal, book a ‘rail and sail’ ticket to Ireland with Loco2. For £38 one way you can take a train and ferry from London to Dublin. In fact, you can travel from any station in England, to any station in Ireland, all on one ticket, which start at £29. May the luck of the Irish be with you. Go to Loco2.com.

It’s an open road, baby: Cruise the continent on wheels

ROAD TRIPPIN’ IN THE LOWER 48 USA Road tripping across America has always been a dream – NY to Cali and everything in between. But taking in that empty road ahead isn’t as easy as it sounds when you remember that you’ve got to rent a car, plan your route, choose the stop-offs (there are just so many) and learn the ways of Motel8, cockroaches included. That’s where On the Road Bus Adventures comes in. The travel company offers a firstof-its-kind trip across the lower 48 in one of their decked-out buses that will stop off at national parks, big cities, small-time towns and anything else that makes up the American road trip experience. There are six 25-day routes to choose from. With accommodation, park entrance, entertainment, lunch, breakfast, snacks and gear included, the month-long trips cost £1,777. ontheroadbus.com.

PILL-POPPING PENGUINS UK

It’s not just Aussies who detest the winter here – penguins do too. Zoo penguins that are native to Chile in South America are being given antidepressants to get them though the cold months. In the wild, penguins are known to commit suicide by leaving their packs and starving to death. Keepers at Scarborough Sea Life Sanctuary in Yorkshire said its penguins have stopped laying eggs, have become unsociable and have lost their appetite, so they are turning to tablets to help...

WOMAN ZAPS BOYFRIEND IN FIGHT AMERICA

A woman in Florida used a stun gun on her boyfriend for failing to pick up the phone to her. The 28-year-old woman was arguing with her boyfriend of two years because of his refusal to answer her calls – so she pulled out her stun gun and zapped him. The woman admitted what she did and is awaiting her plea date. The couple are expecting a child together.

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Setting the stage alight: Arcade Fire are playing Lollapalooza this year

XXX FOODIE HEAVEN xxx. Stevie Parle, food writer and chef at Dock Kitchen, recommends these xx: xxx destinations for food lovers. Cambodia: Khmer cuisine is undergoing a renaissance. Cambodians cook with more pepper and less chilli than other parts of south-east Asia, which gives a gentle, round heat – still spicy but more aromatic. Master local specialities at a cooking class, prepare a traditional meal with a local family, and sample fried tarantulas on Intrepid Travel’s Cambodia Real Food Adventure, from £580pp for eight days. Sri Lanka: There may be similarities to Indian cuisine, but in Sri Lanka you will also find unique dishes like coconut roti and cucumber curry. The multitude of spices (including cinnamon, cardamom and pepper) make it a fascinating destination for spice lovers. Intrepid has a Sri Lanka Real Food Adventure from £1,275pp which includes a traditional dinner with a local family, a lesson in making string hoppers, and tea leaf picking for the freshest cup of tea. Malaysia: Taking influences from China, India, Thailand and Europe, Malaysian cuisine combines spicy chilli, fragrant lemongrass and sumptuous coconut. Eat at the best hawker stalls in Kuala Lumpur, venture to rural kitchens to learn traditional recipes and visit tranquil tea plantations in the Cameron Highlands on Intrepid’s Malaysia Real Food Adventure, from £1,095pp. intrepidtravel.com

BONNAROO USA Bonnaroo – literally meaning ‘a really good time’ – promises to live up to its name. Despite its relative infancy, the festival has attracted some 12-15 big acts, with past performances from Paul McCartney, My Morning Jacket, Bob Dylan, The White Stripes and Wu-Tang Clan. The event also prides itself on its environmental efforts, so you can rock out guilt-free . JUNE

WHERE: Manchester, USA WHY GO: With big names across all musical genres, plus its close proximity to the Music City of Nashville, who wouldn’t want to go? WHAT ELSE? Only an hour’s drive from Nashville, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the festival spirit while soaking

LOLLAPALOOZA Sao Paulo, Brazil

Lollapalooza brings a bold line-up to stages across 5-6 North and South America, which this year includes Arcade Fire and Vampire Weekend. Up to 160,000 visitors are expected to descend on the Interlagos Circuit to embrace the Brazilian party atmosphere. APRIL

lollapaloozabr.com

MOOGFEST

North Carolina, USA

xxxx food: Cambodian fish Street

moogfest.com

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BLUESFEST

Byron Bay, Australia Take a trip home to help celebrate the 25th 17-21 anniversary of Bluesfest. John Johnson, John Mayer and Elvis Costello and his Imposters will take to the seven stages, with a five-day pass setting you back around £366, and day tickets about £104. APRIL

bluesfest.com.au

NXNE 7

Toronto, Canada Toronto is taken over by bands, films and comedians 13-22 for a 10-day cultural extravaganza. Boats, parks and downtown venues are just some of the unique backdrops around the city. JUNE

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Photos: supplied. Words: Emily Ray

Kraftwerk, Pet Shop Boys and M.I.A are just some of 24-27 the big names drawn to the festival’s 6th anniversary in Asheville. There will also be a host of cultural conferences during the day. APRIL

up Johnny Cash memorabilia and the historic RCA Studio B. HOW MUCH: Weekend passes (with a Nashville shuttle pass) currently cost around £142, but payment plans are available to help spread the cost. Hurrah!

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TOPFIVE

TOP 5

BUCKET LIST ADD-ONS So, you’ve had your fair share of thrills and spills, but have you tried these hairraising ways to see the world? We’re not just talking dipping your toe outside of your comfort zone; we’re talking living on the edge (sometimes literally) and experiencing travels from the most spinetingling of perspectives. From scaling the frozen water of a waterfall, to ascending the tallest trees in the world, we’ve rounded up some of the top experiences that should be on everyone’s bucket lists. So, ditch the fear, mustle up your courage, and show us your mettle.

1. EDGEWALK, Toronto Get a head for heights up the CN tower, which soars above all the other Toronto skyscrapers. It’s described as the city’s ‘tallest extreme urban adventure’ and you can see why. Visitors to the EdgeWalk tread around a five-foot metal ledge which circles the top of the Tower’s main pod 1168ft above the ground. To put it into perspective, that’s more than 80 double decker buses balanced on top of one another. Of course, participants are all safely strapped into harnesses which are

clipped onto the overhead safety bar. However, with nothing to hold onto, you just have to put all your trust into the safety equipment. To make things a little bit more thrilling, once you get up there, try the go-to EdgeWalk pose, which involves leaning backwards off the ledge as if you’re about to abseil down. Rather you than us with that one. Once you’ve conquered your nerves and stepped out onto the ledge, sweeping views of Toronto will be your prize. On one side, the urban jungle of the city is sprawled out beneath your feet, disappearing off into the distance. On the other, the Toronto port and extensive Lake Ontario spreads out to make you feel like you’re perching on the edge of the world. And, if you want to do something even more different, why not get married up there? (Yes, it is possible – if you have £3,000 to spare). The EdgeWalk experience costs £96, but the ticket also includes access to the Glass Floor, SkyPod and the slightly less terrifying movie and motion theatre ride. A keepsake video and photos will also be yours to take home after completing the feat. edgewalkcntower.ca TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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2 TROLLTUNGA ROCK, NORWAY Trolltunga (literally translated as ‘Troll’s Tongue’) overlooks the Ringedalsvatnet Lake close to the village of Tyssedal. This ascent isn’t for the faint hearted. However, if you do manage to survive the eight-hour climb, hike and cycle up, you’ll be rewarded with an epic view across the fjords. OpplevOdda organises group tours for £93 per person, with all equipment included. opplevodda.com

Photos: Supplied Words: Emily Ray

3 EXTREME PICKNICKING No, we don’t mean living life on the edge by bringing glass flutes instead of paper cups. Extreme picnicking is all about, well, picknicking in the most extreme place you can think of. Previous attempts have ranged from the acceptable (think folks on plastic chairs in the sea) to the practically insane, where people have dangled off a cliff on a bench to enjoy a bottle of beer. The more inventive the scene, the more kudos you receive. Just don’t be an idiot and make this picnic your last.

CLIMB REDWOODS, USA

CLIMB A FROZEN WATERFALL

These trees are slightly different to the ones we used to climb in our back gardens at home. To begin with, they’re in America, crazily resistant to diseases – oh, and can reach over 350 feet tall, making them the tallest in the world. Growing along a narrow 450-mile stretch of land, from central California into the wilds of Oregon, the mighty trees tower over visitors. North Coast Adventure Centers gets dare-devils racing through the treetop canopies at heights of up to 100ft for just £45pp.

Adrenaline junkies who seek out the best frozen waterfalls to conquer are really icing with death (sorry). There’s not just danger from thin ice, avalanches or frostbite. Before undertaking a climb, you have to make sure the frozen waterfall is bonded to a base and wall of rocks – otherwise, the ice may collapse at any point, bringing you down with it. Gulp. If this still hasn’t deterred you, grab your ice axes and crampons and head to Colorado, the Canadian Rockies or Norway where the best climbing sites are.

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MY EXPERIENCE

DEREK HILSON ON CLIMBING REDWOODS WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO TRY OUT THIS EXPERIENCE?

It seemed like a once-ina-lifetime opportunity. To experience the beauty and marvel at the size of the Redwoods, nothing beats it. WHAT DID IT INVOLVE?

While on the ground, we learnt how to use the safety equipment and safely navigate the zipline. Next we climbed 100ft to the beginning of the canopy tour. Once at the top you take your first of three zips. The first zipline is kind of a practice; the second and third zips are much longer, faster, and thrilling. The third zip is the longest and has the greatest elevation change, which makes for a fast run. I enjoyed the tour so much, I asked to go around a second time, which my guide was happy to oblige as we had time before the next tour began. WHAT WAS THE BEST BIT?

Not many people get the opportunity to be so close to these ancient trees. Also, doing the equipment transfers ourselves (under the watchful eye of our guide) made the zip line much more exciting than others I’ve done.

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Photos: Amy Fallon, Thinkstock and http://trottininthet.blogspot.co.uk

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Planes, trains and tuk-tuks Is it about the journey or the destination? Amy Fallon travels thousands of miles from Uganda to Zambia and back by plane, train, motorbike, bus and tuk-tuk to find out… DECISIONS, DECISIONS “In East Africa buses don’t move until all the seats are full and we had to wait for people to load all sorts of luggage,” my friend Anna, who’d made the two-day journey (a £25 fare) from Uganda to Tanzania via bus, warned when I told her I was considering doing this. “When the bus was loaded somebody turned up with several giant planks of timber and placed it in the aisle, making it difficult to move around. Some of the passengers had feathers. And, when we reached the border in the middle of the night, the bus broke down and we had to unload it – including the wood – wait for several hours for a new one to come, then load everything on again.” Hmm, I decided to fork out the £150 for the twohour Air Uganda plane ride (air-uganda.com). TIP: Safari Inn is a budget hotel in Dar es Salaam popular with backpackers (safariinn.co.tz). The city has some great markets like Kariakoo, where you can haggle for a bargain, and the fish market, where you can watch an auction.

ON MY BIKE

Photos: Amy Fallon, Thinkstock and http://trottininthet.blogspot.co.uk

In Uganda, I’m a boda-boda babe. There’s said to be at least 100,000 motorbike taxi drivers in the capital Kampala. Although often described as a “deathtrap on wheels”, they’re inarguably the quickest way of snaking through the city’s notorious gridlock. Dar appears to have less, even though the traffic seems worse. For the trip across town to the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) station, my suitcase is strapped down to the bike’s back. I’m running late for the Friday 13.50 Mukuba (meaning copper in Zambia’s Bemba language) Ordinary (read: slowest) service to Kapiri Mposhi, a small town in Zambia’s Central Province. When I arrive to check into my first-class sleeper cabin (£40 one way) I’m told the train is running 10 hours late. I kill time buying supplies – then eating them and buying more – at Shoppers supermarket and the Kahawa Café in Masaki (check out the mini chocolate mousse, plus there’s free wifi). Dar is also home to many colourful tuk-tuks, but I’m a motorbike girl so am easily seduced by the Bajaj bikes. But they drive

even more recklessly than bodas and it’s a nail-biting ride back to the Tazara station (tazarasite.com). TIP: Book your Tazara tickets in advance if you can. Sykes Travel is highly recommended for this (sykestravel.com).

T MINUS ZERO FOR TRAIN DEPARTURE TIME When I arrive at the station my mousse is squashed but I’m told the train is leaving on time. Built in the 1970s with an interest-free loan of about £252.5 million from China, the Tazara, aka the Great Uhuru Railway (‘Uhuru’ means ‘freedom’ in Swahili). It became a significant alternative transport system for Zambia, a copper-rich but landlocked southern African state which, at the time, was sanctioned by still-colonised neighbouring regimes for supporting the liberation struggle of many of those countries. There’s close to a million passengers using the railway annually today, with the train a necessity for locals in southeastern Tanzania where the roads are poor, impassable or nonexistent. Locals, including men sitting on bags of cement, have been camping outside the station waiting for the train all day and when it arrives the children cheer and run towards it. Luggage is passed in through the window. I’m sharing a car with thee women including Mary Mwape, a trader from Lusaka, Zambia’s capital, who’s been in Tanzania for work. “We get there when we get there,” the frequent Tazara traveller replies when I ask about our ETA in her home country. I spend my time onboard getting to know the locals and reading. The fan in our car doesn’t work, making it unbelievably sticky and humid, there’s no running water and the dining car menu leaves a lot to be desired. Despite the train squeaking and jolting heavily when it stops, it’s surprisingly easy to get some sleep. But two days into the trip no one seems to know when we’ll arrive in Zambia. As railway spokesman Conrad Simuchile warned me before leaving, “The things you experience on TAZARA are the real life experiences Africans have on a daily basis. So the important thing is to get on TAZARA with an open mind.” Danish couple Sara Strandstoft and Jacob Anderson are travelling with their two young boys ›› TNTMAGAZINE.COM

All aboard: On the Tazara

Just my shade: Lipstick fruit at the Zanzibar spice farm

to Livingstone seems like a walk in the park. My three-day stay in the adventure capital of Zambia includes a stroll through the Victoria Falls National Park to see the stunning waterfalls, high tea at the Royal Livingstone Hotel (livingstone-hotel. com), where I practically rub shoulders with a zebra, and a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, watching hippo and crocodile while sipping G&Ts. TIP: In ‘Livi’ stay at Jollyboys Backpackers Lodge and Camp (backpackzambia.com)

ARRESTING VIEWS

Boda-boda boys and babes and planning on doing a Zambian safari later on. “We took our watches off, time goes as it goes,” she laughs towards the end of the trip. After we cross the border into Zambia women run alongside the train selling caterpillars, a popular high-protein delicacy in the country, to passengers onboard who’ll take them to Lusaka to resell at Soweto Market. By the time we arrive in Kapiri, nearly four days after leaving Tanzania, we’re at least 17 hours late. But it’s been the trip of a lifetime. TIP: You can buy visas for both Tanzania and Zambia onboard the Tazara. Take some US dollars.

SPINNING OUT OF CONTROL No longer in the land of boda-bodas and tuk-tuks, I get a minibus from Kapiri to Lusaka, which takes about two hours. The capital is off the tourist track and appears tame, but scratch beneath the surface and you’ll be surprised at what it offers. The ‘block party’ held in Hollywood City Night Club (1686 Panganani Road, 10101 Lusaka) in the Villa Elizabeth neighbourhood, usually every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 9pm, is something you won’t hear about from other tourists. Besides dance-offs, a highlight is the ‘burn outs’ by the BMW sports club, featuring local women half hanging out the window of cars as the stunts are performed, the crowd rushing to capture the action on their phones. “You’d get locked up for doing that back home!” exclaims Dan, an Aussie I met at Paseli Hostel, a good stop for travellers passing through (paselibackpackers.com).

FALLING FOR ZAMBIA After a four-day rail trip, the seven-hour bus ride from Lusaka 44

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The Tazara ‘Mukuba Express’ service, which I take from Kapiri back to Dar, has plenty of local Kilimanjaro and Mosi beer on sale to keep me happy. This time we depart on time and the trip only takes two days, although it’s not without drama. Just before we reach Mbeya, in Tanzania’s southwest, we’re told a cargo train has derailed, affecting our journey. We’re packed into two minibuses and driven to a train station before we board another railway at night. On the way I meet Lukáš Zavadil and his girlfriend, both TV producers from Studenka in the Czech Republic. They’ve been volunteering for an NGO in Zambia and are now taking the train to Dar, where they’ll get a ferry to Zanzibar. “It’s much, much better than travelling by bus, which is fast and furious,” Lukáš says when I ask him about the journey. “You feel so free as you enjoy the beautiful views and abandoned train stations, where time seems to have stopped.” Back on the railway, the next afternoon we travel through the spectacular Selous Game Reserve, the largest expanse of game reserve in Africa. As I wander through the carriages, spotting impala and elephant out the window, I see a man being led through the carriage in handcuffs. The next day, through the local paper, I learn he was detained for carrying 14 elephant tasks and one hippo tooth.

CHOPPY SEAS Back in Tanzania it’s boiling, but there’s just enough time for a quick trip to Zanzibar for a swim. I book an afternoon ferry through Costal Fast Ferries (azammarine.com). It’s a slightly wild ride, if only I’d had some ginger, which the next day while on a spice tour I learn is good for seasickness (but can also put men ‘in the mood’). Nutmeg is good for women, we’re told. But I’m more mesmerised by the inedible elephant apple (which apparently doubles as a hair gel) and annatto or lipstick fruit, which is just my shade of orange. We receive free accessories hand-made from leaves and have lunch before going to the beach. Before I know it, I’m on the plane back to Uganda and I’ve got my answer: it’s the journey. While I’ve had a great time in Livingstone and Zanzibar, the undoubted highlight of my month-long holiday has been my time on the train. I’m certain I’ll never have a trip like it ever again. TIP: In Stone Town stay at Jambo Guest House (info@ jamboguest.com). They can arrange spices tours, among others, for you.

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Millennium Bridge, Manchester York MInster

The North UNITED KINGDOM

Newcastle by night

Caption

Stone Roses, Manchester

Liverpool waterfront at night

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Party in Newcastle

UKTRIP

Th’up North “Ey up mi duck, there’s more to England than London you know.” Don’t believe (or understand) us? Here’s our rundown of the best the North has to offer. WORDS IAN ARMITAGE There’s a lot that makes England great and, yes, most of it is in London, but not all. Almost every Aussie can trace his or her roots to Manchester and that must be reason enough to plan a trip north of Watford, right? You’ll open yourself to some weird and wonderful cultures and best of all some of the most epic nights out on the planet (trust us). The North really does have it all. Best for: Music MANCHESTER: Manchester and the northwest in general is well known for its music, fashion and clubbing and, while most people would probably think of Liverpool first when it comes to music, we’re telling you to head to Manchester instead. Why? A few reasons: The Stone Roses, New Order, Oasis, Happy Mondays, The Smiths, Joy Division, Buzzcocks... we could go on. The great thing about Manchester is, as well as producing some of the greats, it isn’t afraid of new talent. So if it’s the next big thing you’re looking for then head down to live music venues Roadhouse and Night and Day. The city has a lively club scene and if it is a rave you want (it isn’t nicknamed ‘Madchester’ for nothing) then Sankeys and the Warehouse Project are where you want to go. If it’s the indie scene you’re into then Piccadilly Records and Bridgewater Hall, both in the heart of the city centre, are a must see. For the big names head to the Apollo and the MEN Arena. thewolseley.com Best for: Shopping LEEDS: Leeds has an abundance of designer stores and shops. Its Victoria Quarter is home to names such as Vivienne Westwood, Karen Millen, All Saints, and the first Harvey Nichols out of London. The Corn Exchange is similarly impressive and houses a large number of independent stores, with vintage, craft, record and food fairs taking place regularly. They say good things come in threes and completing the hat trick is Trinity Leeds, the city’s newest and biggest shopping centre with 120 shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. After all that retail therapy you’ll need somewhere to sit back and relax, have a wellearned dinner and a cocktail or 10. Again Leeds comes into its own here: you could stay in Trinity, but there are absolutely loads of restaurants and bars in the Financial Quarter. We recommend Blackhouse (‘proper’ food done well), Sous Le Nez En Ville (authentic French cuisine) or the Living Room (perfect for cocktails). visitleeds.co.uk

Best for: Culture LIVERPOOL: This could easily have been Manchester again, but in the interests of diversity, fairness, and so that you can add a couple of notches to your travelling bedposts, we’re going for Liverpool. Named Capital of Culture a few years back, it is of course the hometown of The Beatles, which means it holds a special place in many hearts the world over. But there is more to Liverpool than the Fab Four – the Tate Liverpool and the Walker Gallery display some of the world’s best art. There is so much to see from sculptures on the beach to old dock tours, and the city looks wonderful by night (there are also a couple of famous football clubs to boot). Liverpool held the fantastic Titanic Sea Odyssey giant puppet spectacular in 2012, which marked 100 years since the Titanic sank. They have a similar event lined up for the summer, marking 100 years since the outbreak of World War One. itsliverpool.com Best for: History YORK: Again, it’s hard to pick a winner here, but York is undeniably one of England’s finest and most beautiful historic cities. The Romans called it Eboracum, the Vikings Jorvik, and in the film Braveheart it was sacked by William Wallace (in reality this didn’t happen). Within its ancient walls, which encircle the city, York’s narrow medieval streets and buildings are beautifully preserved and the historic heart of the city is pretty much traffic-free, making it quiet, clean and perfect for a stroll around, day or night. Stonegate and Petergate are two of its most stylish and popular shopping streets and, believe it or not, still run along the same routes as they did 2,000 years ago. The highlight is York Minster, which dominates a city that is recognised the world over as an archaeological treasure trove. visityork.org Best for: Drinking NEWCASTLE: Going out for a beer is BIG in Newcastle. And what variety there is – from the rundown (or ‘budget’) to the flash (big bucks), Newcastle has it all and then some. Most visitors will go to either the Quayside, Bigg Market or both. Our favourite place to go? Sam Jacks. Okay, technically it is in Gateshead, but it has a dentist’s chair – just replace the mouth wash with straight alcohol, and no spitting! Newcastle is a brilliant place to go for a drink or two, and the Geordies (locals) will love you and you will love them, if you can decipher what they are saying (accent + drink = ‘what the fuck did he just say?’). newcastlegateshead.com TNTMAGAZINE.COM

Photos: Sarah Tucker, Thinkstock and http://trottininthet.blogspot.co.uk

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Hit the road What could be better? A van packed with mates and a summer packed with as many destinations as you can fit in... WORDS IAN ARMITAGE

For many Antipodeans, to go on Van Tour Europe is the reason they moved to London. To be on the doorstep of the months-long tour of ancient cities, landmarks and festivals... and a whole bunch of debauchery. It is a rite of passage, without any formal arrangements or routes, and the general idea is to grab some buddies and a beat-up van and embark on the road trip of a lifetime. This chaotic rampage across the continent involves tonnes of travel, beer, partying, festivals, big gigs, laughs, hot surfing spots and cool cities – you could use one word, really: epic.

The route

Photos: Sarah Tucker, Thinkstock and http://trottininthet.blogspot.co.uk

Traditionally, Van Tour begins in June at Pamplona for the famous Running of the Bulls festival (see p52 for more info) and ends at Oktoberfest in Germany. Where you go in between is up to you. Our suggestion would be to head to Pamplona through France (get the ferry to Calais, spend time in Paris, drive towards Bordeaux) and then into Spain (taking in San Sebastian and Pamplona) before driving into Portugal. There, take in Lisbon and Lagos, and then head back into Spain to Seville and then up to Madrid. From the capital go east to the coast and see Valencia and then up the coast to Barcelona and spend a few days in one of Europe’s most glamorous cities, admiring the sights. Keep up the coast (taking in Girona and Sant Quirze de Colera) and head into France, eventually reaching Marseille. This historic French city is great to explore and is steeped in history. If you’re more of a beach bum, we’d recommend those between La Pointe Rouge harbour and La Madrague. Where you go from Marseille is up to you. Some would suggest going inland putting in a stop in Lyon, which has a network of underground passages – traboules – and a great clubbing scene. Alternatively you could head up the coast to Cannes (beaches) and Nice (more beaches) before crossing the border to Italy. Here, some head straight for Venice, but it’s a fair drag (about 350 miles), so you should probably stop off and where

better than Milan, or maybe even Genoa, or both? You can also work in Florence and perhaps even Pisa. Once you’ve enjoyed Italy, cross into Austria and, when in Innsbruck, wander its medieval lanes and sip sundowners while admiring the surrounding Alps. It’s about 100 miles from Innsbruck to Munich, which is the last big festival stop, and you should arrive just in time for Oktoberfest. Once the hangovers pass, take time to explore Germany (we recommend driving to Cologne) before heading to Holland and taking on Amsterdam. You could head back to the UK from there but why not go down to Belgium (via Rotterdam), see Antwerp or Bruges, and then make the short journey to Calais and head to Dover? Your choice. The rules are there are no rules.

The van The van is going to be your home for a couple of months so you’d better get a good one. Buying is an option, and although there’s always the danger you’ll end up with a piece of crap, it will be your piece of crap, so you can do whatever you want with it. Still, renting a van will make the insurance part of the proceedings a hell of a lot of easier. There are various companies that specialise in van rentals. Try Spaceships Campervan Hire (spaceshipsrentals.co.uk) or Wicked Campers (wickedcampers.co.uk).

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Best of the fests There’s no shortage here. You’ve got the Running of the Bulls (July 6-14), BBK Live Bilbao (July 10-12), La Tomatina (August 27), Oktoberfest (Sep 20-Oct 5), La Batalla del Vino (June 29), Boom Festival (August 4-11) and even the Ibiza closing parties (Sep 17-Oct 5). You certainly won’t get bored!

Documents It is absolutely essential to make sure you’ve got the right licences, insurance and visas. Medical insurance is also a must, considering the hijinks you’ll be getting up to.

Campsites It’s worth researching where to stay and doing it properly because there’s nothing cool about turning up to a quiet, family oriented campsite and pissing off everyone by being noisy and getting shit faced. Ask fellow travellers (you’ll meet heaps) and any mates that have been before to find party-friendly campsites and look into which sites are Van Tour-friendly. vantoureurope.com

MY EXPERIENCE

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Blair Cowan from New Zealand did his Van Tour with five mates. They travelled 11,000 miles, covering every country in Europe except for Poland, and even popped over to Morocco. Blair says the highlight was the final stretch of the journey from Salzburg to Munich. “About 50-60 of us drove to Munich in one huge convoy. The atmosphere was highly energised, everyone was partying. It was coming to the end of the tour so people were trying to outdo each other, play the loudest music, just going wild.” Talking of wild, many Van Tourers gather together for the 100 Club Munich party just before Oktoberfest. Mainly consisting of drinking challenges, Blair tells, “No pissing or vomiting is allowed, although if you vomit in a beer bong and finish it they let you off.” Nice.

Campervan hire from £29 per day London | Dublin | Edinburgh | Europe What’s included - Bedding - No hidden charges - Standard insurance - No extra driver fees - Cutlery and crockery

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FESTIVALGUIDE

SAN FERMÍN

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WHEN? JULY 6-14, 2014

FESTIVAL GUIDE

SAN FERMÍN, PAMPLONA It’s 8am and the cobbled medieval streets throb with people. Some are fresh faced, determined. Others twisted from all-night binging. Everyone wears the same – white from head to toe, including a terror-stricken face. A rocket suddenly screams and explodes in the sky and the tension rises even further. We all know what that means. They’re coming. The bulls are coming and there’s no escape. This is how each morning begins at the San Fermín Festival, one of Europe’s wildest fiestas, held in the Basque region of northern Spain from July 6 to 14. After drinking, dancing and generally partying through the streets all day and all night, the morning's runners converge along the 875m course that runs through the city, from the Town Hall to the Bull Ring. When the crowds part and the skies 00 52

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fill with the flashes of the spectators' cameras (safely secured behind wooden barricades or hanging over balconies), you know the 15 or so bulls and bullocks are upon you. All that remains is to run like never before and to somehow control the overwhelming fear. If you reach the end, more horrors await. Make it into the Bull Ring before the gates are shut and you'll provide the entertainment for the packed crowd as the successful runners stay put on the sand, daring to touch the procession of angry young bulls that are regularly released into the ring. Held since the Middle Ages, it's a fiesta that is brutal and bloody and not just on your liver. Since 1910, 15 runners have been killed, while the six fighting bulls that take part each morning always meet their end at that evening's bullfight. But it's not just about the bulls. Since the 12th century, San Fermín has meant costumed processions, devotion to a Catholic martyr and red wine.

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Photos: Thinkstock Words: Andrew Westbrook

CHECKING IN

WHY PAMPLONA?

WHAT TO EXPECT

The festival of San Fermín may have caught the world’s attention with the running of the bulls and Ernest Hemingway’s 1926 novel The Sun Also Rises, but its core purpose is to celebrate the region’s patron – Saint Fermín. It’s thought Fermín was the son of a Pamplona bigwig in the third century when the area was under Roman control. A French bishop, San Saturnino, visited the region to spread Christianity and converted Fermín in the process. Fermín then became Pamplona’s first bishop, but later upset the pagan authorities in France, who decided to behead him. His mentor, San Saturnino, also met an untimely end. His method of execution, however, was to be dragged through the streets by a bull.

The revelry begins on the morning of July 7, when everyone crams into Plaza Consistorial. The excitement builds until midday, when a rocket, the ‘txupinazo’, is fired into the sky, and the square erupts with champagne. The following nine days are then a non-stop party. The bull runs take place at 8am, with the six bulls returning to face the matadors at 6.30pm each day. Other main events include the San Fermín procession, when thousands dance and parade through the streets behind a statue of the patron, and The Roar, when crowds gather at Town Hall at midnight to make as much noise as they can. The fiesta is brought to a close at midnight on July 14 with a candle-lit ceremony in the square where it began.

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To feel truly involved in the San Fermín madness, it’s important to look the part. That means donning the festival uniform worn by the vast majority of people – white trousers and white T-shirt with a red scarf tied around your waist like a belt and a red handkerchief tied around your neck. Next is the obligatory Pamplona drink, Kalimotxo. Stock up with supermarket red wine and Cola for a few euros, then mix. Drink, then repeat the process constantly for a week. Watch as the serious fiesta drinkers’ whites get progressively more pink (from spilled Kalimotxo) as the week progresses. Runners should also invest in a newspaper, the local weapon of choice for discouraging overly inquisitive bulls.

If you’re just visiting Pamplona during the fiesta, it’s unlikely you’ll find time to do much beyond the partying, but there’s plenty to see if you do need to escape the insanity for a bit. Literary fans wanting to discover Hemingway’s first travel love should head for a coffee at Café Iruña before hitting the harder stuff at Bar Torino or Bar Txoko. There’s plenty for culture vultures too, for example at the treasure-laden Museo de Navarra. Pamplona is also a great gateway for other sights in the Navarra region. San Sebastian, with its sublime surf beaches and gourmet pintxo (tapas) scene, is just 80km away. La Rioja wine region, with its ancient vineyards, is also nearby, offering plenty of wine tasting tours.

ALOHA HOSTEL OVERVIEW A great location, stylish modern finish and super-friendly owners mean it's little surprise the Aloha often tops the Pamplona rankings on hostel booking websites. Literally a couple of minutes walk from the bus station, the Aloha's modest size also means its atmosphere enjoys an enviable reputation – it's small enough to avoid the faceless hecticness of big hostels, while big enough to mean there's always people around, especially as all the common areas are excellent. WOW FACTOR Step onto the gorgeous roof terrace, complete with well-kept garden and fresh herbs. It's the perfect place for getting the night started, or for finding some inner calm, away from the craziness below. ROOMS Very clean but still cosy, the four spacious and modern dorms sleep from four to 10 people. A free breakfast is included, as is wifi, lockers, plus tea and coffee whenever you want it. BILL PLEASE Beds cost from £12 a night, but expect prices to soar during the fiesta.

Calle de Sangüesa 2, Pamplona. alohahostel.es

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Exotic Egypt The marvels of the ancient world await and the beaches sizzle in this magical country that’s bursting with culture WORDS RACHAEL GETZELS After the violence in Cairo in December last year, Egypt is slowly but surely picking up the pieces. However, at the time of press the FCO advised against all but essential travel to South Sinai, with the exception of Sharm el-Sheikh, after four tourists were killed when a tourist bus was attacked in Taba on February 16. Be sure to keep an eye on gov.uk/foreigntravel-advice/egypt for up-to-date advice to ensure you can enjoy this amazing country at its finest... Best for culture: Cairo The urban sprawl of Cairo sits dramatically in the shadows of towering ancient pyramids that have struck awe in the hearts of travellers for centuries. The Giza Pyramids are truly a sight to behold and can’t be missed. Also, exploring the Egyptian Museum, with its avalanche of ancient artefacts that spill out on to the gallery floor, is like entering Aladdin’s cave. But there’s a lot more to this city than its history. This buzzing metropolis, weighed down by traffic and noise, has a vibrant art and music scene. The café culture should also be savoured here. Taking influence from the French, quaint cafés spill onto sidewalks in the affluent district of Zamalek, or you should capture a second of peace smoking sheesa under a sycamore tree. The city parks are also worth a visit as tropical birds chirp in time to the city noise and exotic plants bloom along the paths. What else? When you’ve hit the galleries and sampled some Egyptian 56

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rap at the numerous gig venues, a great way to kick back is on board a boat. You can travel down the legendary Nile River as the sun goes down with the lights of the city glimmering along the banks. Dinner is served onboard and some boats have bellydancers to really get you in the spirit. Best for partying: Sharm el-Sheikh Sharm el-Sheikh, or ‘Sharm’ as it’s affectionately known, is located on the Red Sea, which already makes it a hot bed for tourists who want to fit some sunbathing into their busy cultural schedule. As the five-star resorts catering to their needs cropped up, so too did the clubs. The Pacha here is as world-class as any and international DJs often man the decks. Na’ama bay is the centre of the nightlife with dozens of hotel beach bars buzzing with the region’s gliteratti as well as travellers from abroad. There’s even an aptly named Soho Square, which is crammed full of trendy places to drink. When major artists come to Egypt this is where they play, so look out for any big concerts that might be going on while you’re visiting. What else? Sharm is a prime snorkelling and scuba diving spot, with its plentiful tropical fish and colourful coral reef. There are two main destinations, Tiran Island, where dolphins follow the boats into the bay, and Ras Mohamed National Park where you can explore a shipwreck.

AN INSIDER’S GUIDE Dom Kehat, 25, couch-surfed through Egypt getting to know the country from a local’s point of view. Here are her top tips... Bibliotheca Alexandrina are plenty of little fishing towns to explore. Egypt’s Med remains relatively unpopulated so it really makes for a chance to kick back and soak up some rays. What else? The Bibliotheca Alexandrina is one of the most impressive pieces of architecture in the modern world. The huge cultural centre hosts every manner of artistic performances and the list of things to see is endless. As well as three permanent museums, there are four specialised libraries, a planetarium and many temporary exhibitions.

FOOD TO TRY IN EGYPT Egyptian food is simple and fresh. It relies heavily on vegetables and legumes because they grow so well in the Nile Delta and the spices used are delicate – but effective. Here are some things you must try... Fattah Bread, meat and rice layered on top of one another with vinegar, garlic and tomato sauce. This is usually served at special events. Sayadeya A seafood dish made with seabass, bluefish or mullet with garlic and tomato, baked in a tagine to really get the flavours flowing. Hawawshi Every country seems to have a version of the meat pie, and this Egypt’s. In this version the meat is sometimes flavoured with cinnamon and nutmeg. Ful medames A staple in Egypt, this dish is made up of lava beans with garlic, lemon and oil and is eaten in a bread bun, sometimes with extras like egg or tomato.

Photo credit: thewholebasicprinciples.wordpress.com

Halawa Found all across the Middle East, this sweet is made of sesame paste infused with nuts or spices to give it a unique flavour.

Hawawshi

Eat Kushari on the street This traditional dish of pasta, rice and lentils with a tomato sauce is incredibly filling and costs just a few pence. It’s sold from street carts that are decorated to the extreme so look out for them around the cities. My favourite was one covered in about 80 Egyptian flags, fairy lights and tinsel. You’ll definitely find a cart of choice… Follow the graffiti There’s brightly coloured graffiti all over Cairo which I didn’t expect. You have to find it for yourself, but it’s a fun way to get to know the city and you can learn a lot from what’s been painted. The artists use vibrant colours and take influence from street art all over the world; it’s cool to see it in context. Listen to music at El Sawy Culture Wheel There are tons of gigs and fun events at this venue in Cairo. It’s a great place to hear some of the up and coming bands in Egypt and it’s full of hip locals and young travellers who are really friendly. Once you get chatting you’ll come up with a whole new list of things to do on your trip. Eat at Nola Cupcakes This quaint café in Zamalek is a welcome taste of home when you’ve been travelling for a while. The cupcakes come in unusual flavours like apple, sweet potato and tiramisu, which is the best. The owner is really friendly, and the cupcakes make great gifts.

GETTING THERE The major international airports in Egypt are in Cairo, Alexandria, Luxor and Aswan. All are served by budget airlines as well as Egypt’s own carrier. Flights from London to Cairo start at £300.

Cairo

ISRAEL

EGYPT

LIBYA

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GETTING AROUND Egypt has good public transport and it’s easy to use. The most common way of travelling is by bus, but if you’re going between cities these get crowded very quickly and you may not get a seat. Taking an internal flight will save you some time but prices do go up hugely during the busy season (October-May). There’s no main website for bus companies so enquire in each city. osoris.com for

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Tours, day trips and festivals! 16 APRIL Barcelona

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BARCELONA PORTAVENTURA COACH HOLIDAY 7 DAYS Barcelona is the capital of Catalonia, also the second largest city in Spain after Madrid. It is unforgettable city of Art, Culture, Beauty, Museums, Concert and FC Barcelona’s football team homeland. DISNEYLAND PARIS – Eurodisney by coach - What can we say about Phoenix Tours’ convenient and fantastic value coach trips to Disneyland Paris that haven’t been said a hundred times before by delighted customers? Be thrilled by Mickey, Donald, Goofy and all the cast on a magical experience that will linger in the mind long after you’ve returned from a memorable trip to Disneyland by coach. Coach trips to Eurodisney at Disneyland Paris are the perfect treat for all ages. Relax on Phoenix Tours’ coach trips to Disneyland and watch out for our special deals to Eurodisney Paris, which are advertised only on this website. Keep checking back for the best deals. LADIES DAY ASCOT - Want an excuse to don your gladdest rags? Book a Ladies Day tour with us! The Royal Meeting is a week long event combining tradition, with unmatched horse racing. The Gold Cup meeting - ‘Ladies Day’ is one of our most popular tours. ALTON TOWERS - Phoenix Tours’ coach trips to Alton Towers from London are not to be missed. Enjoy a trip to the famous house and spectacular theme park with its awesome rides. Londoners and visitors taking our coaches to Alton Towers arrive relaxed and have plenty of time to delight at A. W. N. Pugin’s architectural masterpiece, which he later used as inspiration for his Victorian gothic reworking of the Houses of Parliament.

Get In Touch. Call us now on: + 44 (0) 20 7231 1118 Email us on: sales@phoenixtours.co.uk www.phoenixtours.co.uk TNTMAGAZINE.COM

Mount Fitz Roy at sunrise, Patagonia, Argentina 60

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Salsa through South America Spell-binding scenery, hip-shaking beats, sultry summer sun and endless partying on the beach – you will fall in love with South America in a heartbeat. WORDS RACHAEL GETZELS South America is an explosion of colour and chaos, with vibrant cities that never sleep, tropical coastlines and wild jungle terrain. Every country has its own flavour – and the dance of choice will tell you all. From sexy samba in Brazil, to sassy salsa in Colombia to fiery tango in Argentina, this is a continent that really knows how to move and we guarantee your hips will be shaking in no time. The continent bursts with passion: religion turns magical as pre-colonial rituals merge with Catholicism and the Latin spirit burns bright no matter what. Nowhere else in the world does an airport delay turn into a full-flung fiesta – believe us, in no time you will have made friends with your pilot’s grandmother, grandfather, great-aunts (all seven) and even their chickens who will be joining you on board. Not to mention you will have mastered salsa and feasted on fresh empanadas that mysteriously emerged from behind the service desks... at least that’s what happened to us. Latin cities will feel familiar to anyone who has spent time in Europe, with white-washed colonial buildings surrounding buzzing green plazas. Except here, rather than rushing to work, the entire population, it seems, meet each afternoon to chat over street food and kick back under the shade of the tropical trees. In urbane Buenos Aires you can feast on steak to your heart’s content (or until it gives out). Just across the border is wind-battered Bolivia where the Andes mountains stretch from Peru and cliff-top towns make your head spin in the thin air – not to mention what the views can do. And then there are the non-stop parties of Rio where bronzed babes and muscle-men sun themselves on the city shores under the watchful eye of Christ the Redeemer. There’s something for everyone and the captivating mix of old and new, of European and pre-colonial, will pose endless questions that everyone is happy to answer along the way. Most people start their trip in Argentina and travel up by coach or plane depending on how much time they have. But as you will quickly learn, ticking clocks are irrelevant here and all you will have the power to do is sit back and let the adventure come to you. It won’t take long.

Let’s dance: You’ll find a party everywhere you turn ARGENTINA Argentines, or more specifically ‘Portenos’ (people from Buenos Aires), like to think of their country as the most European of the bunch. Their neighbours often joke that Argentina has a chip on its shoulder, but the truth is both are right: the country has a unique culture that stems from close European alliances combined with Latin passion. There is beautiful wilderness in Argentina when you get down to the pristine and untouched icebergs of Patagonia and then there’s also pulsing nightlife and culture with parties that rival Ibiza’s. And don’t forget that steak... What to do: Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires will give you a sense of the city’s old-style pomp and grandeur. Although this graveyard of the rich and famous is also home to hundreds of cats who are left to freely roam the graves. The glitzy clubs in Palermo and the arty street markets in San Telmo will give you a sense of the city’s split personality, and then for some true celebration, head to Maradona’s hometown. Nowhere could a footballer be more adored. ›› TNTMAGAZINE.COM

All white: Bolivia’s Salt Flats

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BOLVIA This is the land where coca smugglers hide out on mountainsides and ladies in traditional dress sell love potions; where Inca spirituality meets modern-day Christianity; where llamas rule the mountains and piranhas the rivers. And if that doesn’t get your head reeling, the altitude certainly will as you struggle to breath in the thin air. Bolivia does not make for easy travelling – take Death Road for one, which has been labelled the most dangerous road in the world due to it’s soaring cliff-cut paths – but it’s certainly an adventure. What to do: The surreal Salt Flat landscape in the south of the country is mind-blowing. In the space of a historic dried lake is now miles and miles of white salt which has hardened into a reflective surface studded now and again with the odd cactus. You can trek across the flats by Jeep or, if you’re hardy, motorbike. Stop-offs include bright blue lagoons, hot springs and a lake that has been taken over by flamingos. There’s also good jungle in Bolivia along Amazon tributaries. A death-defying coach journey or a flight to Rurrenbaque Airport (simply a wooden hut in a field) will lead you on to wooden jungle shacks reachable only by boat. On your trip you will encounter crocodiles, pink dolphins, piranhas, tropical birds and perhaps even jungle cats. La Paz is a dizzying capital city with market stalls, music and food jammed into the steep alleyways. There’s a witches’ market where you can find shrunken llama foetuses used for healing and there are also many museums and galleries. Food and drink: Food is simple here but hearty – grains and potatoes abound and grilled meats can be found sizzling on street corners. Lunch is the most important meal and often includes chairo, a beef and vegetable soup, followed by chicken or meat cooked in a tomato-based sauce with rice. Bolivia, like most countries in South America, has its own version of meat cooked in pastry; saltenas, as they’re known

Pictures: Getty, Thinkstock, and 50bucksabroad.com/blog

There’s more partying to be done in the city of Rosario, where the women are said to be the most beautiful in Argentina. And if you continue further West you’ll get to wine land, where you can cycle through vineyards and sample the fine Argentine Malbecs as you go. Ultimate adventure can be found in the south of the country where glaciers make up Patagonia. It’s also the furthest point on earth before you reach the Antarctic, and the surreal launchpad town of Ushuaia truly feels like the final frontier. Food and drink: You can’t utter the name ‘Argentina’ without someone piping up about the steak – and it really is that good (and cheap). In Buenos Aires, La Cabrera (parillalacabrera.com.ar) is the tourist bench mark and your juicy slabs will come served with a mouthwatering selection of sides. Family run ‘parillas’ or grills are also abundant and they’re good for some authentic flavours. Empanadas, which are pastries stuffed with meat or cheese and sold in street stalls or small cafes, are also tongue-tickling good. Where to party: Capital Buenos Aires is party central with nights that don’t get started until 2am. Tourist bars are located in Palermo and the bigger clubs can be found along the water in Puerto Madero. San Telmo has an array of smaller pubs and arty watering holes that will take you off the beaten track. Weekly Bomba del Tiempo (ciudadculturalkonex.org) is BA’s biggest party; it combines African drumming with folk beats in a huge warehouse turned theatre. Where to stay: Buenos Aires is full of ‘boutique hostels’ and, though prices aren’t as cheap as they used to be, you can still do better than a dorm room for a decent price. Milhouse (milhousehostel.com) is legendary in the city for it’s sociable guests and all-night parties. Further afield, you can stay in stunning ranches in ‘guacho’ (Argentine cowboy) territory such as El Bordo de las Lanzas in Salta (estanciaelbordo.com).

here, are extremely juicy and drip with a delicious spicy kick. Market Squares are the best places to head for food and most restaurants or stalls serve up the same menu. Where to party: The clubs in Bolivia are not exactly worldclass hot spots but they’re an authentic experience as you learn to swivel your hips to salsa with the locals. More ‘Western’ clubs verge on disco cheese but that isn’t to say they’re not fun and travellers in Bolivia certainly know how to party. Malegria in La Paz combines Afro-beats with more familiar tunes. Party hostels such as Wild Rover are also good hang-outs. But the most fun you’ll have is at local village fiestas which take place non-stop and will have you sipping on home-brewed Chicha (an extremely strong beer), listening to Latin trills, late into the night. Where to stay: Hostels in Bolivia are incredibly cheap with rooms in some starting at £3 a night. There are also many ‘Posadas’ which are family-run guest houses with private, clean rooms that have some extra comforts. In La Paz you can stay at five-star hotels such as Hotel Europa (hoteleuropa.com. bo) or Camino Real (caminoreal.com.bo), for as little as £60.

Volunteer for puma care at Parque Jacj Cuisi in Bolivia

PERU Peru is synonymous with Maccu Picchu and the Inca Trail, but beyond the sky-high trails to this hidden, perfectly preserved ancient city, there is plenty more to see. That isn’t to say give Maccu Picchu a miss – it is truly one of the most spectacular journeys on earth – however, it is just to remind you that besides the now well-trodden trail that is heavy with tourists and guides, there is a whole country to explore. What to do: Cuzco will be an important stop-off if you’re doing the Inca Trail and here you can explore traditional markets, see ancient city walls and enjoy some ‘gringo’ (Western-style) cafes. As well as jungle terrain in the Amazon basin, you can also get a taste of the desert. Flying over the mysterious Nazca lines is a stomach-churning experience (seriously, bring a sick bag) but the views over the ancient geoglyphs from the fourman plane is worth it. Huacachino is a traveller’s paradise – the oasis in the desert has some really chilled-out backpacker hostels and the weather is almost always good so you can get some sun in. The most fun you’ll have however, is sandboarding down the towering cliffs of sand. A high-speed ride in an opentop 4WD will take you up and over the dunes so that you can surf down as gracefully – or as clumsily – as your heart desires. Unintentionally face-first, skidding in a zig-zag pattern is usually the name of the game, but the speeds you can gather are immense. Lima is not a particularly beautiful city but, if you spend some time exploring, you will discover just how much this cosmopolitan centre has to offer. There are museums where hundreds of archaeological artefacts have been kept in pristine condition and there are nightclubs with sizzling hot tropical beats. There’s also some world-class food in Lima, which won’t go amiss if you’ve been travelling for a while. Food and drink: You may have noticed that Peruvian food is becoming a bit of a thing in London. Trendy restaurants are cropping up everywhere to introduce us to the exotic mix of indigenous Inca spices with hints of Japanese cuisine. Along the coast you will get some truly spectacular meals of this ilk. In Lima the ever-famous restaurants Astrid y Gaston (astridygarcon.com) and Rafael (rafaelosterling.com) offer up delicious seafood dishes with a curious combination of sauces. On your travels you’ll probably eat more simply – stews and grilled meat. Still, many of the ingredients

Bolivian train cemetery near Uyuni

Sandboarding in Peru

and spices are unique to the region so new tastes will abound. Lomo Saltado – stir-fried beef and vegetables – is a dependable and easy-to-find staple. Ceviche, which is raw fish marinated in lime juice, is also refreshing and delicious. Where to party: The best after-dark scenes in Peru can be found in the bohemian neighbourhoods of Miraflores and Barranco in Lima. The Plaza de la Pizzas road in the former location is lined with bars, discos, all-night clubs and it even has an English-style pub. La Noche (lanoche.com.pe) in Barranco features lesser-known Peruvian indie artists; at La Posada del Angel (facebook.com/PosadaDelAngelI) you can sip your drinks on a terrace overlooking the sea. Where to stay: There’s a vibrant hostel scene in Peru so it’s easy to meet other travellers. The Loki Hostel (lokihostels. com) in Lima is a particularly popular option for backpackers, £5 a night. The Point Hostels (thepointhostels.com) offer all the backpacker amenities and can be found at good locations around the country. Rooms start at £5 a night. BRAZIL Brazil is everything you ever hoped it would be, and more: non-stop street parties, wilderness adventure, tropical islands and lush rainforest. The beaches are picture-perfect and it’s impossible not to get swept away in the energy and rhythm of the cities. This is the country people fall in love with – and fall in love in – and it’s all down to those sultry summer nights and sexy samba beats. Brazil is the fourth largest country in the world and you’ll feel it – distances travelled are huge and you’ll barely scratch the service. But that doesn’t matter – you’ll want to come back again and again. Oh yes, and again... What to do: Nowhere is quite like Rio where dazzling coastline, dotted with dolphins and lush jungle mountains, merges onto a grimy urban backdrop. So up for having fun are Rio’s residents that just sitting on the beach each night is a party, and you will feel the good-time vibes right away. There’s dramatic architecture and street art to explore and nothing will take your breath away quite like watching the sun set behind Christ the Redeemer from Sugar Loaf Mountain. Ilha Grande, a foot-traffic-only island near Rio, has some spectacular beaches and offers endless hammocks to relax in after drinking the nights away in the city. Sao Paolo is a sprawling metropolis of world-class museums, theatres, restaurants and clubs and is good for a heavy dose of culture. Further up north in the state of Bahia you will find the beaches of your dreams; turquoise water and white sand bordered by bright red tropical flowers and hidden waterfalls that plunge in to sun-soaked bathing pools. This is truly paradise. On your way you should stop in the northern city of Salvador which is an eclectic mix of Brazilian, African and Caribbean art, culture, food and music. Food and drink: Street stalls sell moreish fried parcels of meat, cheese and potato. Coxinhas, which are the most popular, consist of potato or manioc-coated spicy chicken and creamy cheese, but there are hundreds of variants of these quick bites and all are delicious. The acai berry, which is native to the Amazon and is known for it’s medicinal properties (and it’s power to aid weight loss), is sold in the form of smoothies all over the place. Indeed, the fruit in Brazil is out of this world; the ultimate in sweet, ripe and locally grown. Menu staples include a black bean and meat stew called feijioda, which is popular in the south, and in the north, Moqueca de Camarones, which is a sort of seafood coconut curry. Where to party: More apt perhaps would be the question: 64

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where not to party? Brazilians really know how to have fun. From the biggest carnival on earth in Rio, to street gatherings in villages: the drinks will be flowing, the music pumping and the dancing ‘hip’notic. Each week (yes, each week!) there are huge street parties in an area of Rio called Lapa – it will be easy to find. Everyone goes. Paraty may as well drop the extra ‘a’ because it’s another stop that is always happening. The stunning coastal town is legendary for beach hang-outs that range from chilled guitar circles to hip-swinging sandy raves. It’s no use listing clubs in Brazil because that’s not where it’s at – the fun happens out in the open as you make new friends. People are friendly and if you go where the night takes you, you’ll find house parties, village ‘festas’ and dance circles that crop-up with no rhyme or reason, but are simply open to those in the know.

Christ the Redeemer, Brazil

Tayrona Park, Colombia, Caribbean coast

Where to stay: It’s not easy to find cheap accommodation in Brazil and city hostels can be extremely cramped. The Che Legarto Hostels (chelegarto.com) have good offerings in Rio and on the beach of Ilha Grande. Rooms start at £20. COLOMBIA You will not be disappointed with Colombia. Lush Caribbean beaches, spellbinding colonial cities, towering skyscrapers or sacred ancient ruins, Colombia has it all. But it’s the dream-like quality of the land that will really capture your imagination. Nothing is quite as it seems here, which makes it no wonder that it’s the home of magical-realist writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Perhaps it’s the Caribbean sun setting over ancient pirate walls or maybe it’s the fact that tourism is relatively new due to decades of civil strife.

Whatever it is, Colombia is as magical as it is beautiful and words will never do it justice. What to do: Cartagena is a fairytale maze of cobbled streets and vine-draped balconies protected by an ancient pirate wall that comes alive at dusk with musicians, dancers and lovers who nestle in to the ramparts and watch the red-hot Caribbean sun sink behind the ocean. Nearby you can get to the hippy beach hang-out of Tanganga, which will suck you in with its local boardwalk bars and open-top clubs. Tayrona National Park has wild beaches fit for treasure seekers. There’s also the Lost City Trek which will take you up in to lush jungle mountains where camouflage-clad military still guard over the ancient ruins of a sacred city. Capital city Bogota doesn’t have the same Caribbean feel but its Andean mountain roots are strong and it’s a serious city full of art, friendly people and intellectual chatter. Medellin, on the other hand, is party central and it’s worth checking out Botero’s fat-bottomed lady paintings at the Museo del Antioquia. There’s also the endless coffee growing valleys of Salento where outdoor adventurers get their fix. Food and drink: Beans, rice, fried plantains and meat or fish are the staples here, but you’ll learn to love it as you eat it directly from an abuela’s (grandmother’s) kitchen on makeshift tables that look out over the ocean. Pig-roasts are also a favourite and you’ll eat the meat with arepas, traditional Colombian bread. Don’t forget of course to wash it all down with their world-famous coffee. Where to party: Clubs in Medellin and Bogota attract international DJs. However, open-top bars along the beach are where it’s at. The city of Cali, which is considered the world capital of salsa, has some great places to dance. Tropical Cocktails (tropicalcocktails.com.co) is a firm favourite. Tin Tin Deo (tintindeo.com), which is the oldest and best salsa club in the city, is for really serious lovers of Afro-Caribbean music. Where to stay: The white-sand island of Playa Blanca near Cartagena has hammocks under the stars for £1 a night. You can’t book so just turn up and stroll until you find your spot of choice. La Casa de Felipe in Taganga (lacasadefelipe.com) is close to perfect for a hostel – its chef used to work in a Michelinstarred restaurant. Rooms start at £7.50 a night.

Streets of Cartagena, Colombia

Tayrona National Park, Colombia

Local pub at La Casa de Felipe in Taganga

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A Vietnam’s east coast runs all the way from north of Halong Bay right down to the Mekong Delta, which is over 3,000kms. If you are starting out by travelling south from Hanoi in the north of Vietnam, begin your trip by visiting the stunning Halong Bay where you find the breathtaking collection of thousands of limestone islands, or its lesser-known neighbouring collection of islands at Bai Tu Long Bay. If you have time, also stop at Cat Ba Island’s national park for a spot of outdoorsy activities such as hiking and biking or continue south and explore the impressive cave systems at Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park instead. Continue south to central Vietnam where you will find the gems of former imperial capital Hue and the beautiful and quaint Hoi An. Spend some time reflecting on Vietnam’s turbulent history at Vinh Moc tunnels, which

provided refuge to Vietnamese villagers from American bombs during the war. Then head to the south central coast where you will find a number of stunning sandy beaches to enjoy the hot weather. Take your pick from surfing at Mui Ne, the paradise islands of Con Dao and the sands of Long Hai. Finally, visit the Mekong Delta, this lush wetland landscape is where life revolves around water. Sample floating markets at Can Tho, stay at a homestay around Vinh Long and explore the canals around My Tho and Ben Tre for a window into Vietnamese rural life. Finish up with a few days in fast paced Ho Chi Minh City. Soak it all in from one of the city’s rooftop bars, sample top Vietnamese cuisine and take some time to understand more about Vietnam’s history with a visit to the Cu Chi tunnels, the infamous underground network which was integral to the Vietnamese war effort. If you have time, visit the pagodas at Cholon, a intricate architectural remnant from Chinese immigration or the impressive Jade Emperor Pagoda. You can travel throughout Vietnam using a combination of buses and boats.

FOLLOW THE LOCALS When eating out, always head to the places busy with locals as it’s likely they’ll know the best places to eat. In general, it’s always wise to ask the locals for tips as you might be able to uncover some hidden gems. Max Charles Compton

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WINNER WINNER GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS Ash Palmer, New Zealand TELL US MORE After days of sunny weather, clouds rolling in provided the chance to snap this crab without the light reflecting off the volcanic rock and ruining the photo. Knee deep in water and one hand gripping the wharf, I finally pulled off this wicked shot.

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Three nights bed & £159pp breakfast accommodation at the 4-star Winters Hotel Berlin Mitte Am Checkpoint Charlie from £159pp. Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing on various dates throughout March. Qwerty Travel 0208 588 9943 qwertytravel.com

< £250 MOSCOW from only £227pp. Four nights bed & breakfast accommodation at the 4-star Zarya Hotel in Moscow. You’ll be close to the Botanical Gardens and Ostankino Palace. This 4-star hotel is within close proximity of Monument to the Conquerors of Space and Museum of Cosmonautics. Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing March 20. travelrepublic.co.uk LISBON £67.50pp Two nights at the 5-star Dom Pedro Palace in Lisbon in a fantastic location in front of a shopping centre, the main restaurants and bars, as well as very close to Marques de Pombal, on a bed & breakfast basis. Includes return flights from London Gatwick, departs March 24. holidays.easyjet.com

MILAN Three nights bed & breakfast accommodation in the 4-star St John hotel in Milan, located at the end of Viale Monza, close to the Sesto Marelli MM1 subway station, with a direct line to the centre of town from £128pp. Includes return flights from London Luton departing March 24. holidays.easyjet.com

£250 – £500 TENERIFE Seven nights staying at the 4-star Hotel Blue Sea Interpalace on a bed & breakfast basis from £286.50pp. With the beach and resort centre with a great selection of shops, restaurants and bars only 1.5km away, you will not be left short of things to do. Includes return flights from London Stansted departing March 20. lowcostholidays.com

BIJILO, GAMBIA Seven nights at a 3-star resort situated on the golden beach of Bijilo in the new Bijilo tourism development area, from £325pp. The centre of Kololi with its shops, bars and restaurants are a five minute taxi ride away. Staying on a bed & breakfast basis, includes return flights from London Gatwick departing on March 20. icelolly.com

TUNISIA Seven nights all-inclusive accommodation at the 4-star ClubHotel Riu Marco Polo in Yasmine Hammamet from £406pp. This beachfront hotel gets full marks for its grand-scale pool. Includes return flights from London Stansted departing April 2. firstchoice.co.uk

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> £500 GOA Seven nights in the 3-star Marinha Dourado in Arpora, from £573pp. On a B&B basis in a standard twin room. Marinha Dourada is surrounded by palm trees, green hills and paddy fields and overlooks the Baga Lake. Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing March 15. onthebeach.co.uk

AGADIR Seven nights room-only accommodation in the 3-star Tagadirt Hotel in Agadir, Morocco. Moorish style architecture gives this hotel a distinctive look. The Tagadirt offers an excellent location near to all amenities, along with basic, yet comfortable, accommodation. This is a great base to enjoy the beach or explore Agadir. From £503pp, includes return flights from London Gatwick, departs March 18. onthebeach.co.uk VIETNAM Seven nights B&B in a Double Signature Superior Room at the 4-star Palace Hotel Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City from £648pp. The hotel is situated in the heart of the city centre. Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing on March 20. lowcostholidays.com

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SPORT NEWS | FEATURES | GAMES TO WATCH | VIEWPOINT IMAGE OF THE MONTH

TOP OF THE PECKING ORDER Wigan Warriors dominated both the Super League grand final and Challenge Cup in 2013, but when it came to NRL opposition, granted the best the Australian competition had to offer last year in the Sydney Roosters, they were mauled. The World World Club Challenge in Sydney ended 36-14 with tries from Michael Jennings (3), Sam Moa, Jared WaereaHargreaves (pictured) and Shaun Kenny-Dowall bettering Wigan’s three through Josh Charnley (2) and Joe Burgess.

Photos: Getty

INSIDE

READY TO RUMBLE /76

... AND BOUNCE /78

WORLD T20 PREVIEW /80

Can Tomkins cut it? Can the Roosters be beaten? Will Barba boost the Broncos? These questions and more in our NRL 2014 preview.

Can the Hawks go back-to-back? Is Buddy worth it? Will the Bombers explode? The answers will be found in AFL season 2014.

The fifth ICC World Twenty20 takes place in Bangladesh in March, here’s how Australia and New Zealand are shaping up.

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YOUNG BULL DANIEL READY FOR BIG TIME FORMULA ONE The 2014 Formula One season puts the pedal to the metal from March 16 when qualifying begins for the Melbourne Grand Prix, with Aussie Daniel Ricciardo lining up as four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel’s teammate having taken over from Mark Webber. TNT caught up with Sky Sports F1 expert David Croft ahead of three green lights. Can anyone beat Vettel in 2014 or will he make it five titles in a row? If you look at the talent on the F1 grid in 2014, there are plenty capable of toppling Vettel. Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen at Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg at Mercedes, Jenson Button at McLaren: all proven race winners who will fancy their chances in a year where we’ve seen such major regulation changes. I’m expecting big things from Mercedes. What will be the most significant of the major rule changes? The change in engine size from a 2.4L V8 to a 1.6L V6 and all the associated energy recovery systems that go with it is the most seismic change to take place in F1 for a long time. Drivers will have to cope with more torque from the new power units, whilst coping with less fuel (just 100kg per race) and less down-force than they’ve been used to in recent years as well. Ricciardo steps into Webber’s shoes at Red Bull – how do you think he’ll go? Daniel will do well now he’s made the move up to the big team. He’s been a part of the Red Bull driver talent programme for years, is a super driver and very quick, especially over one 74

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FLASHBACK... 2012 qualifying lap. He put his Torro Rosso into places on the grid that weren’t expected during the past couple of seasons, now he needs to do it consistently and in races too. If the car is quick there will be plenty of expectations on him to score podiums, but he’ll handle that the way he handles everything: with a massive smile on his face and a great attitude. The season starts in Australia – which team is best placed to get off to a flyer? Because of the change to the new Powerunits (engines to you and me) any manufacturing team should have a head start. So not Red Bull, who may be Renault’s de facto manufacturing team but their base is in a different country to where the new units have been designed and built. Which leaves Ferrari and Mercedes and of the two it’s Mercedes that I’m expecting to do well from the outset. Sky Sports F1 HD is the only place to watch every practice, qualifying and race day on TV and online.

New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum is no stranger to a record – he scored the first triple century by a Kiwi with 302 against India at the Basin Reserve in Wellington last month to seal a shock series win. He also holds the mark for biggest score in a World T20 match, a whopping 123 off 58 balls in his side’s opening match of the 2012 tournament in Sri Lanka, which is on again this month in Bangladesh.

UNDER THE PUMP Australia have their final hit-out as a team before the World Cup on Wednesday, March 5, against Ecuador at The Den in London. It will be the first time the Aussies have played Ecuador and they will be an ideal chance to take on top opposition before they head to Brazil and do battle in their group of death – Netherlands, Spain and Chile. Ecuador’s side, including Manchester United’s Antonio Valencia, are no mugs having finished fourth in South America qualifying. The Aussie strip, sported right by Marco Bresciano, pays tribute to the 1974 Socceroos, the first to qualify for the World Cup.

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HIGHLIGHTS THIS MONTH

Photos: Getty

Waratahs flyhalf Berrick Barnes Testing time: South Africa T20 captain Faf du Plessis

PREVIEW ATTENTION TURNS TO SHORT FORM T20: SOUTH AFRICA V AUSTRALIA

MARCH 9, 12 & 14, SKY SPORTS The third Test between Australia and South Africa wraps up on Wednesday – if it lasts that long – before the nations turn their focus from the whites to the pyjamas in preparation for the Twenty20 World Cup in Bangladesh. The sides – with a significant amount of new blood for the short-form of the game along with a number of Test stars – will meet three times in Port Elizabeth (the spin-friendly ground where the second Test was held), Durban

and Centurion (where Mitchell Johnson wreaked havoc in the first five-dayer). Fiery Johnson returns for the T20s, although is likely to be rested by the Aussies ahead of the tournament. Australia and South Africa, although being the top or thereabouts ranked Test and ODI nations in the world, have never won the T20 Cup, with the Aussies going the closest when they were beaten by England in the 2010 edition. So they’ll be looking to get a some momentum going before they take on the world. TURN TO P80 AS TNT PREVIEWS NZ AND AUSSIE CHANCES IN THE T20 WORLD CUP

LET’S GET TRIVIAL | 6 Nations stars & Wembley If you’ve been getting into the Six Nations – and it’s hard not to have with so many cracking games – but have had to concede that Twickenham seats are for the well-heeled, the next best thing is happening on March 22 at Wembley Stadium when big guns of Premiership Rugby Saracens and Harlequins clash. Tickets are priced from £16.50, but keep an eye out for even cheaper deals. And with this you’ll still get to see some of the top Six Nations stars in action – the English ones anyway, as these two sides make up the bulk of Stuart Lancaster’s side. A world record 83,761 fans made it to this fixture last year. Among the Quins big names are Joe Marler, Chris Robshaw and Mike Brown while Sarries boast Mako and Billy Vunipola, Danny Care, Richard Wigglesworth, Owen Farrell, Brad Barritt, Chris Ashton and Alex England gun: Mike Brown Goode. Chuck into that Scots Kelly Brown 74and Duncan Taylor and you have world-class rugby.

1-5 CRICK 3RD TEST: S.Africa v Australia 5 FOOT INT: Australia v Ecuador, England v Denmark, Japan v New Zealand 6 NRL SEASON KICKS OFF – SEE P76 7 SUPER RUGBY: Hurricanes v Brumbies, Reds v Cheetahs 8 SIX NATIONS: Ire v Italy, Scotland v France 8 FOOT EPL: Arsenal v Swansea, C Palace v S’hampton, West Ham v Hull, Chelsea v Spurs 8 SUPER RUGBY: Force v Rebels 9 CRICK T20: S.Africa v Australia 9 SIX NATIONS: England v Wales 9 FOOT EPL: Fulham v Newc, Spurs v Arsenal 11 FOOT CL: Bay Munich v Arsenal 12 CRICK T20: S.Africa v Australia 12 FOOT CL: Barcelona v Man City 14 AFL SEASON KICKS OFF - SEE P78 14 CRICK T20: S.Africa v Australia 14-16 F1: Australian Grand Prix 15 SIX NATIONS: Italy v England, Wales v Scotland, France v Ireland 14 SUPER RUGBY: Rebels v Crusaders 15 SUPER RUGBY: Brumbies v Waratahs 16-APR 6 ICC World T20 18 FOOT CL: Chelsea v Galatasaray 21 SUPER RUGBY: Waratahs v Rebels 22 PREM RUGBY: Saracens v Harlequins 22 FOOT EPL: Chelsea v Arsenal, Tottenham v Southampton, Man Utd v Man City 28-30 F1: Malaysian Grand Prix 28 SUPER RUGBY: Crusaders v Hurricanes; Melbourne Rebels v Brumbies 29 PREM RUGBY Harlequins v London Irish, London Wasps v Saracens 29 FOOT EPL: C Palace v Chelsea, Arsenal v Man City 29 SUPER RUGBY: Bulls v Chiefs, Sharks v Waratahs TNTMAGAZINE.COM

AFL 2014 preview Can the Hawks go back-to-back? Is Buddy worth it? Will the Bombers explode? WORDS MICHAEL GADD The 118th season of top-flight Aussie Rules football begins on March 14 when Collingwood host losing 2013 grand finalists Fremantle at Etihad Stadium. This kick-starts 18 clubs’ push to be one of the teams battling for the holy grail, the grand final, on the last Saturday in September. The experts have Hawthorn going two premierships on the trot, but a bee’s proverbial behind them is 2012 Premiers the Sydney Swans with their new signing Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin at the centrepiece of their title tilt. Here’s some of the season’s talking points to get those footy juices flowing.

BOMBERS TO DROP OR EXPLODE?

BUDDY HUGE EXPECTATIONS

ST KILDA SAINTS OR SPOONERS

Anything less than stand-out, game-changing performances from Buddy Franklin when he appears in red and white won’t justify the outlay the Swans have made to get him – he’s signed an epic $10m deal over nine years. Good news for the 2012 Premiers is he has only been goalless six times in his 159 AFL games and, in his five appearances at the Sydney Cricket Ground as a Hawthorn player, he’s kicked a decent enough 15 majors and 14 minors. With such strike power adding to the likes of Kurt Tippet and Adam Goodes, the Swans rightly fancy themselves to be there on Sept 27. Buddy takes on former club the Hawks in round eight.

The mighty Saints, they call themselves, but this could be a season of shame – it’s called rebuilding when a side loses talented experience and replaces it with kids, but St Kilda fans’ patience is being tested. No finals in 2012 and third last in 2013, they’ve lost stars such as Brendon Goddard, Nick Dal Santo and Ben McEvoy and more, and not really replaced them. They face Melbourne and GWS, the teams to finish behind them last year, and anything but wins will see their stocks rise to take out a record 27th wooden spoon (Kangaroos are second with 13 in their history).

JUMPIN’ JACK IS FLASH

Uh oh, Brisbane. New Brisbane Lions coach Justin Leppitsch – another former star after Michael Voss was axed – has an uphill battle from the start of the season to keep his side out of the cellar. Four of the Lions’ first five games are against 2013 finalists, starting with the winners Hawthorn, and the other is the Suns who many are tipping to improve big time. The future looks bright, with plenty of talent from the draft, but that won’t help this year. With the abolition of the NAB Cup in favour of a series of fancied-up friendlies, it’s hard to get a read on clubs before the season starts, but the flogging by the Hawks – 154 to their paltry 23 – is not a good sign.

If the feverish hype is to be believed, Jack Martin is a gun about to go off. The 19-year-old from Broome is an allrounder the Gold Coast Suns are delighted to have picked up as they look to climb from the cellar of the AFL and push for a finals spot. Footy legend Malcolm Blight says the midfielder dubbed Jumping Jack is the best young player he’s seen, which is a massive endorsement. His biggest asset, along with his athleticism, is his versatility – he’ll win clearances, carry the ball, find space, tackle with gusto and kick goals. He’s already favourite to win the Rising Star nod.

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Ah Essendon, was there anything in 2013 that didn’t go wrong? Might as well get it all out in one hit rather than a sustained period of misery we say. Coach James Hird was booted and they were banned from playing in the finals after being the star of the ASADA supplements scandal circus. With premiership-winning coach Mark Thompson at the helm and much of their side intact, and no doubt a chip on their shoulder about the past 12 months, it’d be a brave punter to bet against them being there at the season’s end.

UNLUCKY LIONS MEOW

On the rise: Jack Martin

High-flyer: Sydney Swans star recruit Buddy Franklin

Bombed: Essendon have high hopes

TIPPING

ROOS ON THE RISE A smokey for most improved, if not an overdue top eight finish, is North Melbourne. In fairness, they should have made the finals last year, but when on track for the top four they flopped to finish out of the play-offs. Coach Brad Scott has picked up genuine first-teamers in Nick Dal Santo and Luke McDonald though, and with friendly fixtures, if the Roos can find a way to close out those nail-biters (they lost five games by less than a goal) a top-four year should be theirs. HUNGRY HAWKS TO BE HUNTED Buddy who? Sure, the 2013 champs Hawks are without their superstar but the foundation of their premiership victory was in the rock solid defence and with the likes of Josh Gibson and Brian Lake at the heart of that still, with Luke Hodge leading a tough midfield, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be hard to beat.

Top eight tipped Hawthorn Hawks Fremantle Dockers Sydney Geelong Collingwood Richmond North Melbourne Essendon Wooden spoon favourites Greater Western Sydney

LOSSES AND GAINS ADELAIDE In: Eddie Betts. Out: Bernie Vince BRISBANE In: Jackson Paine (swap for Karnezis). Out: Coach Michael Voss, Patty Karnezis CARLTON In: Dale Thomas. Out: Eddie Betts COLLINGWOOD In: Taylor Adams. Out: Heath Shaw, Dale Thomas ESSENDON In: Paul Chapman. Out: Stewart Crameri FREMANTLE In: Colin Syvia. Out: Viv Michie GEELONG In: NA. Out: Josh Hunt, Trent West, Paul Chapman, James Podsiadly GOLD COAST In: NA. Out: NA GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY In: Heath Shaw, Shane Mumford, Jed Lamb. Out: Dom Tyson, Taylor Adams

HAWTHORN In: Billy Longer. Out: Buddy Franklin, Xavier Ellis MELBOURNE In: Coach Paul Roos, Daniel Cross, Dom Tyson. Out: Colin Sylva NORTH MELBOURNE In: Nick Dal Santo. Out: Luke Delaney PORT ADELAIDE In: Matt White, Jared Polec. Out: NA RICHMOND In: Shaun Hampson. Out: Matt White ST KILDA In: Shane Savage, Billy Longer, Luke Delaney, Josh Bruce. Out: Nick Dal Santo, Ben McEvoy SYDNEY In: Lance Franklin. Out: Andrejs Everitt, Jed Lamb, Jesse White, Shane Mumford WEST COAST In: Xavier Ellis. Out: NA WESTERN BULLDOGS In: Stewart Crameri, Sam Darley. Out: NA

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NRL 2014 preview Can Tomkins cut it? Can the Roosters be beaten? Will Barba boost the Broncos? WORDS MICHAEL GADD

When the 2014 NRL season kicks off on March 6 it will be with the code on a rare roll. The Auckland Nines tournament was a huge hit, while the visit of the Wigan Warriors for the World Club Challenge against the Sydney Roosters brought a full-on clash to league HQ to get us pumped up for the big hits and flair to come. The Roosters are favourites to take the title again, with bookies tipping a similar finish to last season with South Sydney believed a strong chance to make the most of last year’s experience. After NRL debutant Trent Robinson’s success last year, two more new faces join the head coach ranks. Paul Green has taken over the North Queensland Cowboys – the Nines winners – having coached the Roosters’ Holden Cup side, while Brad Arthur steps up from Manly assistant to Parramatta’s main man after Ricky Stuart left for Canberra. TOMKINS A TINY TARGET No player has more pressure on him to perform this season than England full-back Sam Tomkins, who comes to the NRL’s Warriors from Super League’s Wigan Warriors. The $1m-aseason three-year contract is a massive investment from the Kiwi club, especially considering his wispy 79kg size and the fact he’s hardly been tested at this level, save for a couple of games against New Zealand and Australia. He’s won everything in England but that means little Down Under and Aussie hard men will be gunning for him. Well on his side is Warriors owner Eric Watson who, after seeing him perform in the Auckland Nines, said “he looks worth it”, in reference to the huge hunk of his salary cap. And the man himself is saying the right things: “I know it is going to be a tough challenge, but that is why I came here.” GONE WITH GOD, NOW WILL’S BACK Just as Will Hopoate was getting his NRL career cranking, and after landing a spot in the NSW State of Origin side aged

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just 19, he turned his back on the game to spend two years as a Mormon missionary in Queensland. Reluctantly released from his Manly contract, he’s popped back up this season at Paramatta. Still just 21, the star back hasn’t played since winning a premiership with the Sea Eagles in 2011. Another big return this year is Eric Grothe Jr, the former Eels winger who fell out of love with the game and retired, but he’s done a John Farnham-style backflip and is back at almost 34 to see if he can cut it for the Sharks. CHANCE AT REDEMPTION From the penthouse to the outhouse and back again, Ben Barba lines up for the Brisbane Broncos after a muchpublicised exit from the Bulldogs. Super-talented Barba burst onto the scene with moments of brilliance in 2011, then won the Dally M medal with an epic 2012 that added consistency to his considerable arsenal. But in 2013 he found all sorts of strife and made some bad choices that saw him start last season in the wrong kind of rehab. A change of scenery in a new city and at the heart of his new club’s hopes in a likely five-eighth playmaker role could make or break Barba. Of course, as if there wasn’t enough drama to the scenario, the NRL’s kindly made his season opener against his former club. READY TO EXPLODE Canberra’s player of the season last year, Anthony Milford, is a superstar in the making if the chorus of gaga is to be taken seriously. Or was last year a fluke? The Brisbane Broncos don’t think so after signing him up from the 2015 season after a tussle for his services. The 19-year-old plays in the halves or at fullback, and the Raiders are loathe to lose him after he turned down almost $1m a season there to return home to Queensland. It will be interesting to see how he goes given he really doesn’t want to be in the nation’s capital playing for new coach Ricky Stuart’s side.

Second chance: Bronco Ben Barba

Under pressure: Warriors’ record recruit Sam Tomkins

Comeback: Will Hopoate

ONE MORE YEAR Rugby Union kicked its rival in the guts in the off-season when South Sydney and England prop Sam Burgess was confirmed to be leaving the code to play for Aviva Premiership side Bath and hopefully for his country in their home World Cup in 2015. He’ll have no lack of motivation to perform for this season though; one last chance to taste glory with his three brothers who he’ll leave behind at the Rabbitohs. He’ll be keen to say farewell – for now anyway – to the Bunnies on a high after Michael Maguire’s side finished second on the ladder last season. It’s also a farewell season – until his next one – for proven mercenary Sonny Bill Williams at the premiers. After making the World Cup final with the New Zealand Kiwis, defeated by Australia, he’ll look to keep the title at Bondi Junction before an attempt to win another union World Cup with the All Blacks.

MAJOR LOSSES AND GAINS The annual ins and outs of the NRL didn’t disappoint this year with a host of top players switching allegiances – in some cases one club’s trash is another’s treasure, while in others the salary cap monster was lurking. Here are each club’s biggest losses and gains for 2014. BRONCOS In: Ben Barba (Bulldogs). Out: Scott Prince (ret.) RAIDERS In: Lagi Setu (Storm). Out: Blake Ferguson (rel.) BULLDOGS In: Reni Maitua (Eels). Out: Ben Barba (Broncos) SHARKS In: Daniel Holdsworth (Hull). Out: Ben Ross (ret.) TITANS In: Faifai Loa (Cowboys). Out: Jamal Idris (Panthers) SEA EAGLES In: None of note. Out: Brent Kite (Panthers) STORM In: Ben Roberts (Eels). Out: Gareth Widdop (Dragons) KNIGHTS In: Clint Newton (Panthers). Out: Russell Packer

TOP EIGHT TIPPED Sydney Roosters South Sydney Rabbitohs Manly Sea Eagles Melbourne Storm Canterbury Bulldogs North Queensland Cowboys New Zealand Warriors Newcastle Knights WOODEN SPOON FAVOURITE Parramatta Eels

COWBOYS In: Lach Coote (Panthers). Out: Matt Bowen (Wigan Warriors) EELS In: Will Hopoate (unattached), Liam Foran (Salford). Out: Reni Maitua (Bulldogs) PANTHERS In: Peter Wallace (Broncos), Jamie Soward (London). Out: Luke Walsh (St Helens) RABBITOHS In: Lote Tuqiri (Irish RU). Out: Roy Asotasi (Warrington), Matt King (ret.), Michael Crocker (ret.) DRAGONS In: Gareth Widdop (Storm). Out: Michael Weyman (Hull KR), Matt Cooper (ret.) ROOSTERS In: Heath L’Estrange (Bradford). Out: Luke O’Donnell (ret.) WARRIORS In: Sam Tomkins (Wigan). Out: Todd Lowrie (Broncos) TIGERS In: Pat Richards (Wigan), Dene Halatau (Bulldogs). Out: Benji Marshall (union), Eddy Pettybourne (Wigan)

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Big bash: George Bailey and Luke Ronchi will line up for Australia and New Zealand at the World T20

Anzacs on course for World T20 triumph One’s the favourite, the other a dark horse, but Australia and New Zealand are both contenders The fifth ICC World Twenty20 takes place in Bangladesh in March, with Australia the bookies’ favourite to take out the tournament for the first time and New Zealand doing their best to coast into the series under the radar. Should the George Bailey-led Australians live up to expectations they’ll join India and the West Indies as the only countries to have claimed all three of the ICC’s limited overs trophies. Australia haven’t discriminated on age or reputation with their squad. Brad Hogg and Brad Hodge will be among the oldest there but their form in the KFC T20 Big Bash was too irresistible to ignore. They’ll line up with Test firebrand Mitchell Johnson and sluggers David Warner and Aaron Finch in a wellbalanced side with probably the greatest depth of any nation. New Zealand are total dark horses, but with Ross Taylor and Brendan McCullum leading their line-up they have enough fire power to beat any side over the shortest format of the game on their day. Proving their penchant for giant-killing, last month the Black Caps beat the world’s second best Test nation, India, in a two-match series. It was no fluke and several of the players who

can take credit for the victory will be lining up in Chittagong – where their group matches will be played – for this campaign. There are no easy fixtures when the top eight nations join the tournament to form groups 1 and 2 from March 22 – prior to that the lower ranked nations play their own mini-tournament in two groups (A and B) to decide which of them goes through to the Super 10s stage against the big boys. The winner of group A (Nepal, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Hong Kong) will go into the Super 10 group 2 with Australia, India, Pakistan and West Indies, while the group B (Zimbabwe, Ireland, United Arab Emirates, Netherlands) victors join New Zealand, England, South Africa and Sri Lanka. Just the top two in each group go through to the knockout stage. Given there are two previous winners (India and West Indies), the favourites (Oz) and the nation that plays by far the most T20 cricket (Pakistan) in group 2, it’ll be considered the toughest to get through, but the two teams who make the semis have an advantage – all of their group games are at the same ground at the semis and final, Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur.

WORLD T20 FIXTURES

KNOCKOUT STAGE

Australia: Bailey (cap), Christian, CoulterNile, Faulkner, Finch, Haddin, Hodge, Hogg, Johnson, Maxwell, Muirhead, Starc, Warner, Watson, White.

New Zealand: B.McCullum (cap),

March 23: vs Pakistan 9.30am March 28: vs West Indies 9.30am March 30: vs India 1.30pm April 1: vs A Winner, 9.30am

March 22: vs England 1.30pm March 24: vs South Africa 9.30am March 29: vs B winner 9.30am March 31: vs Sri Lanka 1.30pm

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Anderson, Boult, Devcich, Guptill, Mills, McClenaghan, N.McCullum, Munro, Neesham, Ronchi, Southee, Taylor, Williamson.

APRIL 3: Semi Final 1 1st Group 1 v 2nd Group 2 1pm APRIL 4: Semi Final 2 1st Group 2 v 2nd Group 1 1pm

FINAL APRIL 6: 1PM (All times GMT)

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LIFESTYLE CAREERS | MONEY | LIVING | HEALTH & BEAUTY IMAGE OF THE MONTH

CASH WITH A SIDE OF FABULOUS? Sydney’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras draws to a close this month. We bid it farewell with a shot of these awesome ‘GayTM’s.

Photos: Getty and supplied

INSIDE

BE A BOOK WORM /86

LET’S GET DIRTY /88

HEY MR TAXMAN /94

We celebrate World Book Day this month by looking at how reading is so much more than a way to pass the time.

Good with your hands? We’ve got the career for you. No, it’s not porn (unless that’s what you fancy). Get into horticulture and farming.

We shudder at the word ‘tax’, but there are easy ways to figure out those forms, and you may even be owed some money...

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Free

CULINARY INSPIRATION

GIVE IT THE D

WHAT’S ‘APP’-ENING NEXT?

Discover new recipes from countries across the world. shop.lonelyplanet.com

Keep bikes secure with the easy-to-carry D-lock. hiplok.com

Match city break excursions to your mood. momondo.co.uk

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LOVE A FILM THAT’S SO ‘CRAP’ IT’S GOOD?

ON THE BRINK WITH THE JEZABELS

FREE YOUR EARS

A janitor is cleaning toilets when zombies attack. amazon.co.uk

The Aussies sparkle with their unique blend of indie rock. amazon.co.uk

Music on the go with these bluetooth headphones. wesc.com

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GET LOST IN THE APRIL MAZE

NEVER MISS A MATCH AGAIN

BRING A SLICE OF LONDON TO YOUR FRONT ROOM

The Aussie alt-folk duo release their debut UK album. aprilmazemusic.com

Find out which matches are on at pubs near you. matchpint.co.uk

Prop up books with your very own London bus. iwmshop.org.uk

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compiled by Emily Ray. Photos: supplied

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ion h s a f l a v i t s Fe

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FIND YOUR WILD SIDE WITH ANIMAL PRINT

A STAPLE FOR YOUR SUMMER WARDROBE

A STRIPY BELT BRIGHTENS UP ANY OUTFIT...

Keep your nether regions cool in the sun. Littlewoods.com

It doesn’t matter whether you’re in Reading or Nevada. next.co.uk

...except your onesie. Put that away. jshoesonline.co.uk

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Compiled by: Emily Ray. Photos: Supplied/ prshots.com

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SHOW THAT MUD WHO’S BOSS

ADD A TOUCH OF RETRO GLAMOUR

GIVE YOUR CALVES SOME BREATHING SPACE

Gives a new meaning to ‘taking your dogs out for a walk’. spylovebuy.com

They also double up as a handy portable mirror. asos.com

Get to the gym now. No one enjoy looking at chicken legs. riverisland.com

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COVER UP THAT HEAD OF YOURS IN STYLE

GO FOR THE GRANNY-CHIC LOOK

Ideal for hard-core moshing and drunken tumbles. missguided.co.uk

If you’ve ever sunburnt your head, you’ll want one of these. houseoffraser.co.uk

Bring a jumper to help keep you warm in the cooler evenings. oliverbonas.com

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LIFESTYLEHEALTH TREAT OF THE MONTH

THE SPELL Everyone has their own little worries: from concerns over which outfit to wear tonight, to the mental torture that only comes about when you use a hot piece of technology (‘Did I leave the oven/iron/straighteners on?’). The Spell treatment at Lush Spa aims to banish any anxieties or woes – and all through gentle massaging of the feet. Sounds good to us. Arriving at the spa, I was led down to a quintessentially English kitchen complete with farmhouse sink and quirky mismatched furniture, where I was introduced to all the Lush lotions and potions that would be used. To begin, the therapist invited me to write down any worry on a piece of paper, which was then made to disappear (or, uh, burnt). Next, the therapist got to work on my feet, concentrating the massage on areas linked to the digestive system – the site where all worries rest. It was so relaxing I fell into a restful sleep, before waking up to some mint and lemon tea (in a kitsch floral mug) and a life-affirming quote to take home. Magic. Emily Ray Cost: £55 Where: 123 Kings Road, Chelsea, SW3 4PL Transport: Sloane Square lush.co.uk/spa

Get read-y To celebrate World Book Day, TNT talks to bookworm and blogger, Louise Barnard, about the power of simply reading a book... Louise Barnard was on the tube on the way to work when her life’s path changed. She was reading Uncertainty by Jonathan Fields, a lawyer who gave up his six-figure income to make $12 an hour as a personal trainer. Risking his “security” to follow his dream led to even greater success. Inspired, Louise took a look at her own life, and saw how she was grinding herself into the ground with a job she had lost her passion for. So she decided to do something about it. Louise cut her job down to four days a week and started up her own business, A Novel Concept (anovelconcept.co.uk). Currently at blogging stage (she has ambitions to develop it into an events company), her weekly posts cover the ways that reading a book can be so much more than a way to pass the time: it can inspire, teach and even change the path of your life, just as it did for her. With World Book Day on March 6, make this the month you pick up that book you’ve been wanting to read for ages. It could change your life. Here, Louise shares what reading a book can do...

“Empathy is the ability to view the world from another’s point of view. When TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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Turn off the TV: Pick up a book

It teaches you empathy

you read, you step outside of your own consciousness and into someone else’s mind. You are witness to the thoughts that run through their heads, you hear the stories they tell themselves, you even feel what they are feeling, according to new research carried out at Emory University in the US. In the study, when participants read a book, clusters of neurons associated with physical sensation and movement lit up in their brains, suggesting that their minds were being tricked into thinking they were doing something they were not. So if you are reading about your protagonist running, the area in your brain associated with the motion of running activates, resulting in you sharing the experience with the protagonist. “The ability to see the world through another person’s eyes is a key life skill and, as with many things, the more you practice the better you become. Therefore, by reading more, you will gain a greater understanding of the people around you.” Read: A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Husseini; Grace Williams Says it Loud by Emma Henderson; The Reluctant Fundamentalist, by Mohsin Hamid.

It makes you smarter “From the moment you are born you start

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LIFESTYLEBEAUTY LIFESTYLEHEALTH Not so lazy day: Reading is a great way to gain life experience

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to learn about the world by listening to stories. Stories teach us about the world, our culture, our morality. They even help us to understand ourselves. “As you read, you go on a journey with the protagonist, you try to solve the problems they face. The story may throw up new arguments, introduce you to new facts, or explore a different way of looking at something; this process opens up your understanding, develops your problem-solving abilities, and increases your general knowledge.” Read: The Garden of The Evening Mists by Tan Twan Eng; Life a User’s Manual by Georges Perec

Words: Louise Barnard. Images: Thinkstock and supplied

It inspires you to do more “A story can introduce you to new cultures, countries, places, experiences or even pieces of music (Thomas Tallis’ classical piece ‘Spem in Alum’ went on to sell more than five million copies after being featured in Fifty Shades of Grey). “After reading a book you can visit a place featured in the novel, try the food described, or even to go on a new adventure inspired by the story. Books can be an endless source of inspiration, so after finishing your next book make a point of exploring one new thing

that the story has introduced to you to.” Read: Yes Man by Danny Wallace; Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts.

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It can shape your beliefs “Unlike watching TV, films or online content – which are often social experiences – reading is a private experience. When you read you can respond to a story with no fear of being judged, or your reactions being influenced by those around you. This unique place gives you a platform to question your own beliefs, to face up to your own fears, and to consciously choose to build these reflections into your own personal narrative.” Read: Enduring Love by Ian McEwan; Honour by Elif Shafak

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It can change your life “Every book you read will change you in some small way: inspiring a new experience, teaching you something new, developing your world view, or even just providing a moment of escapism. And then one day you may read a book and something almost magical occurs – it is your perfect book read at your perfect time – and it totally alters you in such a profound way that it sets you on a new life path.” Read: Now that’s down to you to find out.

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Muck in: It’s mud pie time

Farmhands for rent Getting down and dirty on the farm can earn you some decent cash, so get your work boots on and dig in to these jobs Mating season is upon us (we’re talking lambs here) which means farms are busier than ever – and they’re recruiting. In fact, it’s not only farmhands that are needed come spring. Recruiters are also on the look out for gardeners, landscapers and general green-finger types. This line of work is for people who prefer the sun on their backs and some dirt under their fingernails to shooting the shit around the office water cooler. Although we’re not saying that shit is entirely out of the picture. It’s just from now on you’ll be calling it manure. We spoke to recruiters from Anders Plus, which specialises in finding gardeners and landscapers, and 4xtrahands, which works with farmers, to find out what jobs are out there and what you need to do to get hired. 88

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Farm labourers This is one of the only jobs where the line, ‘I’m up to my neck in shit’ is literally possible – though we hope for your sake it never comes to that. Shit aside, we recommend you get on board with the many farmhand jobs that become available in the spring. From tractor driving, to dairy assistants to maintenance men, these jobs will have you using your hands in the great outdoors. Tasks include things like feeding and mucking out animals, using milking machines, and looking after agricultural buildings and land. Qualifications and experience: Most of this is physical labour so you need to be fit, but other than that it’s mainly a learn-on-the-job kind of gig. Pay and hours: Most farmhands live on site because hours can be early (5am to

pick up fresh eggs, that kind of thing). Don’t expect to make much more than minimum wage. However with room and board included for week- or month-long stints, you can save a tonne. See 4xtrahands.com for listings.

Gardeners and landscapers Hedge trimming and garden upkeep in everything from backyards to stately manors becomes big business in the spring. Andersplus.com advertises general tasks such as lawn maintenance and turfing. In London, work for private garden owners can be found through gumtree.com or by asking in local newsagents. Englishcountrygardeners.com offers roles in public gardens for more experienced workers. Sarah Ronan, a consultant for Anders Plus added that

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there are also lots of landscaping jobs around. She explained: “Maintenance gardeners are always in demand but the current upturn in the industry means that people are building again. This is great news for anyone with hard landscaping experience.” Qualifications and experience: Aussie White Cards are not accepted here but they are easily translated in to CSCS cards, which will help with getting work in public grounds (cscs.co.uk). Private gardening requires some knowledge and experience. A horticulture degree is needed for landscaping roles. Pay and hours: Full-time gardeners can make from £15-20,000 a year. Private gardeners charge from £12 an hour to £20 depending on experience, and you can obviously take as much or as little work as you want.

Cultivation

Photos: Thinkstock. Words: Rachael Getzels

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A great way to enjoy the great outdoors in London is to get involved with city farms, community gardens or horticulture centres. Places such as Mudchute and Hackney City Farm are generally volunteer run, but if you have any special experience with farming, you may be able to earn some cash by helping out with the animals or crops. If you ask around your area you may also be able to find some paid work in community gardens – this can range from general maintenance to growing organic vegetables which are delivered to restaurants in the city. It’s also a great way to meet like-minded

Get your hands dirty: the garden isn’t going to plant itself

ON THE JOB Rachel Plumb CAREER Director of Drink Deck London AGE 29 LIVES London FROM East London

greensters. Working in a garden centre or tending to greenhouses in places such as Kew Gardens is a good option if you have some knowledge of plants. Farmgarden.org.uk promote community managed green spaces and they have some great job listings. Gardenorganic.org.uk has a database of organic gardens in London which you can contact about jobs. Qualifications and experience: Again it’s all about experience and enthusiasm here rather than formal qualifications. For paid farm jobs, however, you will need to have worked with animals before. Pay and hours: We’re talking around minimum wage here, so £7-10 an hour, but these are filler jobs rather than full-time options, which make them great for fitting into summer plans.

Gardening Landscaping Horticultural Specialists Temporary and permanent work. Register today and start tomorrow! Award winning clients. All areas of outdoor work. Register online or call us direct

How did you get into your line of work? In Chicago I met the founder of Drink Deck, which is a deck of playing cards providing exclusive offers of up to 30% off at 52 handpicked venues. I thought it would be a success here as there are many cool bars and restaurants. What do you do day-to-day? By day I’m a senior account manager. In my spare time I work on Drink Deck London, which means establishing relationships with venues and sampling their food and cocktails. The most rewarding part of the job? Besides discovering quirky new places, it’s hearing people get excited when I share the concept with them. And the most challenging? Managing a company on my own is tough, especially with a day job. thedrinkdeck.com

HOW TO... STAY AWAKE AT WORK Your eyelids feel heavy and before you know it you’re facedown on your desk, drooling, only to be woken up by your boss talking about tortillas – and you have no idea why. Here’s how to avoid the work nod-off.

• Stay refreshed: Water will keep

you alert and it’s a great excuse for a break at the cooler.

• Get some fresh air: Stroll

around the block or keep the window open to avoid epic hibernation.

www.andersplus.com

020 7793 7825

• Have a mint: Peppermint

boosts energy so have a guiltfree suck for the team.

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LIFESTYLECAREERS CASH-SAVING TIPS

Photos: supplied and Getty

CAR BOOT IT March is the month of the spring clean, which means plenty to throw out, but also plenty you suddenly realise you need (we use the word ‘need’ loosely). As such, there’s no better time to check out the city’s car boot sales which will be bursting at the seams come the first of the month. carbootjunction.com

HARRIETTE HARRINGTON, 25 JOB Art operations assistant FROM London LIVES London How do you budget? When I get my pay cheque I syphon off the money I need for rent, transport and food. Then I know how much I have left for socialising and I try my best to save a little. Do you have any tips for saving money in London? Walk everywhere! London is surprisingly easy to get around and takes a lot less

Last big blow-out? A holiday to Turkey last summer. Living in London I rarely have extra money for luxuries. I don’t really allow myself to sacrifice things like my social life (friends and wine). I don’t even remember the last time I got a haircut! What non-essential items do you spend money on? Pret, work clothes (dull), the tube, fags and booze. Also, my phone bill is always astronomically large.

Katy Perry tipped a girl – and she liked it

We wonder if this is how Katy looks at the strippers? Scary...

We get expensive habits but we’d say spending thousands on strippers is a bit, er, below the belt. Not for Katy Perry, however, who allegedly dropped thousands on exotic dancers with boyfriend John Mayor after the Superbowl. ❚ Katy Perry appears to have ❚ When Akon visited a strip a penchant for strippers, club in Rhode Island he also ending her raucous turned $50,000 into $1 dollar bachelorette party (Russel notes so he could make it Brand, remember?) at a strip ‘rain’ on the exotic dancers. club in Vegas, where she got a private lap dance. ❚ Scarlett Johansson celebrated her 21st birthday ❚ Rapper Rick Ross holds the in a strip club with friends (known) celebrity record, and family – er, awkward. dropping $1million at a strip In a TV interview she club. Diddy, Busta Rhymes said that the lap dancer’s and Pharell were also pelvis bruised her. Blimey, supposedly in on the action. that really is up close Whatever that means. and personal...

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COFFEE FOR A QUID Caffeine-craving is a pricey habit but the good news is that from here on out, all coffees at Gino D’Acampo’s My Pasta Bar will cost just £1. Yep, £1 for your cappuccino, macchiato, Americano or even the chef’s very own ‘Nutellatte’, which is a latte and Nutella combo. Mondays just got better. mypastabar.co.uk SCORE A TOUR We know voucher sites abound, but if you’ve got visitors in town check out Discount London which rounds up all the special offers on tourist attractions so that taking family around the city doesn’t have to be a royal pain in the arse – um, we mean pockets. There are deals for the London Eye, the London Zoo, St Paul’s Cathedral and the Shard. discount-london.com

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The bad news? This article is about tax. The good news? It’s about getting your tax money back. Hoorah! June 30 is the end of the Aussie tax year, but in good old Blighty it falls on April 5. According to the Domesday Book of 1086, fact fans, our old friend William the Conqueror – also known as William the Bastard – was actually quite a nice chap who, unlike David Cameron (also known in some circles as David the Bastard), would accept honey as payment of taxes due. Now, given that you probably haven’t got that much honey, but have paid a heap of tax money, April 5 is the time to start claiming some of it back...

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Paul Goodlad, a tax specialist for TNT Taxback (tnttaxback.uk.com), explains that most foreign workers in the UK overpay their taxes and are owed money when they go home. This is usually a result of leaving before the tax year is over or work-related expenses that should be taken into account. He tells: “Thousands of people come to the UK to work, travel and explore. The attractive wages and employment regulations make this country a great place for international people to work, and while you’re expected to pay tax, you may be paying too much and deserve a tax rebate. This may sound like one big headache, but getting your tax rebate means you have extra funds to spend on something you’ve always dreamed of doing.” Of course the government are not the easiest people to deal with, especially when they’re giving money back, bless ’em. So it’s

Pocket money for piggies: Find out what you’re owed before you go

not easy getting it by any means. They’re not going to just roll over and let you scratch their tummy. No, they’re going to turn into snarling rottweilers and hang on to what they think is rightfully theirs. However, help is at hand – TNT Taxback is good with rottweilers. The easiest way forward for you is to complete the online application and sit back and let TNT Taxback do the rest. The service only charges a commission if you get a refund, otherwise there’s no charge at all, not a penny. It operates on a no-refund no-fee basis. By the way, its average tax refund is £1,367 – that could be yours in two to three weeks. Think of the shopping session! Being a TNT service, we’ll admit we’re a smidgen biased, so you could contact Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and try and get it back yourself. Be warned though, it’s like pulling teeth! What’s more they don’t have an online facility for filing Pay As You Earn (PAYE) refund applications. So, do the smart thing: get a hold of your P60 or CIS certificates, go online to tnttaxback.uk.com and await your refund!

TNT Taxback FAQs Q When can I apply for a tax refund? A You can apply when you have finished work, are leaving the UK, or at the end of a tax year (April 5). Q What do I need to claim my tax refund? A We will need to see any P45s or P60s or CIS Certificates you may have received from your

LIFESTYLELIVING WHAT ELSE?

Death by taxes: Stay on top of your finances

employers (CIS certificates are for if you are in the construction industry).

Photos: Thinkstock. Words: Paul Goodlad and Rachael Getzels

Q My employer hasn’t given me any P45s, P60s and/or CIS Certificates. What do I do? A Don’t worry, we can obtain these for you; just remember to give us as much information about your employment(s) as possible. Q How will I know if I am due a tax refund? A There are many reasons why you could be due a tax refund. The more common ones are: 1 You are from overseas and this very simple fact usually qualifies you for a refund. 2 You haven’t worked a full tax year (tax years here run from April 6 to the following April 5). 3 You have been paying ‘emergency tax’, which is a big bad thing. It means, through no fault of your own, you have been paying too much tax every week/month. Emergency tax codes look like this…. BR, Mth1, Wk1, LX1, MX1, 945LX. 4 You work in the construction industry on CIS certificates – this is highly taxed and more often than not you will get a refund. You can claim for expenses such as tools, travel, clothing etc. Q If I am leaving the country, can you transfer my tax refund to my bank in my home country? A Yes, anywhere in the world and it is free of bank charges.

Q My friends said they got all of their taxes back, is that possible? A Some people who are from overseas but work for a UK company and get taxed in the UK but don’t actually physically work in the UK (you did ask), are usually the ones that get ALL their taxes back. We do those sorts of refunds too. Most often though you will be due some sort of tax refund, so get in touch and let us get it for you. Q I earned less than the single person’s allowance this tax year, does that mean I get a full refund? A Yes! Q Can I claim any tax back on workrelated expenses? A If you are under the CIS certificates, then yes. If you are working under Pay As You Earn (PAYE – P45s & P60s etc), then generally speaking, you can claim for anything, as long as you needed to spend it to enable you to do your job and your employer hasn’t reimbursed you. For example, they make you buy a laptop to do your job, so, yes you can claim for the laptop. Or you have to wear a special uniform, eg nurse, doctor, chef etc, then you can claim for costs such as laundry, cost of equipment etc. You can’t claim for travel to and from home to work, however you can claim for travel once you’re at work and your employer then sends you elsewhere to carry out some work. Just remember to keep all your receipts!

Transfer your money home If you’ve saved yourself a nice little chunk of cash, it’s worth doing an online transfer back home. After all, stuffing cash down your pants just looks dodgy. Tntforex.com specialises in transferring money between the UK and New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. With better exchange rates than banks and no fees on transfers that are more than £3,000, it’s pretty much a no-brainer. The site also has a calculator so you can see exactly how much your hardearned cash will be worth back home and the transfer shouldn’t take more than three days. What to do with your bank account when you leave If you keep your account open you must have money in it. Some people choose to keep their earnings in UK banks until exchange rates improve. But, remember, if you’re relying on the account from home you have to pay fees every time you withdraw money. If on the other hand, you decide to transfer all your money to the southern hemisphere, make sure that you close your account here before you go. If you don’t you may be faced with reams of paperwork and you may even have to pay a fee. To close your account you just need to show up at your branch and let them know. If you’re already home by the time you remember, you can close it down by sending a letter but it’ll take a bit more time, obvs.

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SAY WHAT?! Stevie wonder is great, considering he has no eyes. uhh...he does have eyes, he’s just blind.

i didn’t choose the flappy bird life. the flappy bird life chose me.

Big screen: I’m on the look out for a London cinema buddy who won’t mind going to see all the latest blockbusters with me. Preferably someone who can go the length of a film without eating/slurping so I can concentrate on the film. Ben. Don’t cry over spilt coffee: To the guy I accidentally bumped into on the tube last

lovestruck optometrist. John the plumber: Thank you so much for all your amazing hard work in my kitchen. Those tiles look incredible, and it’s so nice to have running hot water again. Swing by for a beer when you’re next in the area. Sally. Take off: Spring is in the air and so is my private aircraft. If the stewardess from flight

THINGS THE QUEEN SHOULD DO BEFORE SHE DIES i kind of just want to put mayonnaise on that cat and eat it.

we’re young, single, twenty-somethings living in London. If we want to stay in with a meal for two, candles and the Notebook, then we will, god damn it.

when i was younger i used to cut slow worms in half and give them little insect funerals.

do you ever talk to the mirror so you can see what your face looks like during conversations?

the second biggest selling supermarket item is the same shape as a banana. uh...milk?

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Get muddy at a festival. Everyone will be wearing that hat next year.

week - sorry I made you spill your coffee over an old man. I would like to take you out sometime to apologise. Jess. Love is...blind? Miss G, I believe in love at first sight. Email me if you agree. The

IM666 remembers our chat about beekeeping, maybe she could give me a buzz? Charles x Destination Brazil: There was a power cut at the pub last week and I got talking to

Photos: Getty

My mum has sent one text in her life. She was in Singapore during the Asian Tsunami. She sent me the following: It’s mum. The wave missed. It’s mum.

a bloke who said he would give me his spare ticket to the World Cup for free if I painted his fence for him. I couldn’t tell if he was joking or not, and I couldn’t find him to get his contact details. If you’re serious, my painting skills are all yours. Derek. Lonely no more: After another Valentine’s Day alone, I’m determined next year will be different! I’m a big homebird on the lookout for a guy or girl with a great sense of humour and the ability to handle my 24 cats. Don’t be scared by my feline friends – I have room for another special person in my life! Geraldine. Winter lovin’: We got talking in the pub last week while watching some of the Winter Olympics coverage. I was the girl who impressed you with my knowledge of technical ski moves. Let me know if you fancy seeing my angulations in person. Holly. Lost ring: I dropped my mood ring in Greenwich high street last Thursday (Feb 20th). I know it’s so circa 1990, but I’ve had it since I was eight and it’s my lucky piece of jewellery. Please get in touch – I’m currently feeling very orange (unsettled). Joe At last: A big congratulations to my best friend Joanna on her engagement to Richard! (Only took you 10 years to pop the question...). Let’s hope I can get a date before the big day! Love you. Lisa. Dancing queen: To the hot guy in my Saturday Zumba class. You impress me with your dance moves every week, but I think you need some bigger shorts...I keep getting distracted. Let me know if you fancy a coffee some time. Kirsty. Cold shoulder: Jack, stop playing Coldplay at 3am each morning, or you’re out. Rob.

TOUR SEARCH DESIGN 1

TOUR SEARCH For the last 30 years TNT Magazine has brought travel advice and news to a growing audience of travellers. 18 to 35 year olds from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa have been using TNT as their guide to living and working in the UK. With a growing audience comes growing demand and over quarter of a million users are now demanding travel offers and information for tours across the globe from their base in the UK. Here at TNT we have listened to the demands of our readers and we’re excited to launch TNT Tours. Whether you’re looking for a weekend in Dublin, a group tour across North Africa, or a ten day epic adventure in South America, the TNT Tour Search facility is here to meet your travel wishes. With tours being added on a daily basis and reviews to give you peace of mind, TNT Tours will become your primary destination when looking to travel anywhere around the globe and you know the process will be as good as you can get anywhere else, if not better. Oh! and you don’t have to be Australian.

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