1580

April 2014 Issue 1580 tntmagazine.com

!

IN W TO CKETS

TI SOUNDWAVE FESTIVAL IN CROATIA!

WALKABOUT WOMAN Mia Wasikowska on her latest role in Tracks

TNT BAR CRAWL Booze with a side of comedy, karaoke and quizzes

E R U T N E V D A MR

opefully) (h e v li y b r a D p, see Rhys m a c e s a b ’s t to Everes From London

+ BRILLIANT BILBAO BBK LA TOMATINA SRI LANKA BEAT THE BOOZE BLUES

ISSUE 1580/ 1578/ £1.95

9 772051 605008

48 50

THIS MONTH LONDON DIARY 6 YOUR LONDON

10

LONDON INSIDER

11

FOOD 14

60

DRINK 15 CHATROOM

30

TRAVEL REVIEW

34

DIARY 36 TOP 5: CITY VIEWS 38 UK TRIP: THE HIGHLANDS

44

EURO TRIP: LISBON 48 GUIDE TO: THE MED 56 WEEKENDER: NAPLES

68

TRAVEL TIPS 70

16

HOTSHOTS 72 LATE DEALS 73

ON THE COVER

SPORT

MR ADVENTURE

ROUND-UP 76 INTERVIEW: SAM ROBSON 78 INTERVIEW: ANDY GOODE

80

84

SHOPPING 85 FESTIVAL WORK

88

MONEY

90

PHONE HOME

94

DESPERATELY SEEKING 98 CLASSIFIEDS 93 4

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WALKABOUT WOMAN

16

Mia Wasikowska on her latest role

TNT BAR CRAWL

24

24

Booze with a side of guaranteed fun

LIFESTYLE STUFF

20

See Rhys Darby live (hopefully)

BRILLIANT BILBAO BBK

40

Why this is one of Europe’s best fests

LA TOMATINA

52

Prepare to make lots of tomato sauce

SRI LANKA

60

Well up over this tear-drop island

BEAT THE BOOZE BLUES How to shake that morning-after guilt

86

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EDITORIAL Editor Caroline Garnar caroline.garnar@tntmagazine.com Online Editor Vicky Anscombe vicky.anscombe@tntmagazine.com TNT Australia Editorial Ian Armitage ian.armitage@tntmagazine.com Contributors Michael Gadd l Rachael Getzels Stephanie Palmer l Nina Bertok l Emily Ray l Alisdair Morton l Sarah Tucker l Megan Hogarth Harriet Sinclair EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES 0203 011 1066

FROM THE EDITOR

SALES/MARKETING/EVENTS Sales Manager Jaqui Ward 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 Credit controller Abby Nightingale EMAIL abby.nightingale@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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‘Knock knock.’ ‘Who’s there?’ ‘Opportunity.’ ‘Opportunity who?’ ‘Just opportunity, they say I’m supposed to come knocking, so I have.’ Yeah, I just made up that killer joke (believe it), but as well as being hilariously witty, it is also making a point. Two in fact: 1. Opportunity has come knocking for you, yes you dear reader. You have the chance to trek to Mount Everest base camp in October to help raise money for Save the Children. 2. You will do the trek with six comedians and watch the world’s highest ever stand-up gig (hence the hilarious ‘knock knock’ joke. Don’t worry, I’m sure the pros will do better).

Kiwi comedian Rhys Darby, aka Murray from Flight of the Conchords, is one of said comedians, and we had a chat with him about it, as well as his new Mr Adventure tour, which is hitting London in July. See page 20 to find out how you can join him, whether it be up a mountain or in a comedy club.

If we’re more likely to find you camping out in a pub than on a mountain, then turn to page 24 where you will find our guide to the top 25 drinking spots in London.

But it’s not just pints and peanuts; oh no, there’s karaoke, live music, comedy, quizzes and quirky events to be had.

Plus, not only have we got your night out covered, but your morning after too. Turn to page 86 to find out how to remedy that feeling of, ‘Please someone put me out of my misery and kill me now’ when you are hit by the hangover blues.

One solution of course is to drink through the pain (although this is not one we recommend long term), which is what you will likely do if you head for La Tomatina, the crazy drunken festival in Spain where you throw tomatoes at each other. See page 52 to find out more about this. If sophisticated sipping is your thing, you can head to Scotland for a dram or two of whisky before hitting the Highlands for a hike (p44). Or, if you’re looking to take a break from the craziness, we highly recommend Sri Lanka (p60). It’s early nights all round (well, mostly), with elephant spotting, temple viewing and tea leaf picking to be done by day.

Whether it’s Mount Everest, Sri Lanka or the pub for you, have a good one!

All thieves of TNT bins will be prosecuted.

Editor’s image by photsolutions.me

caroline.garnar@tntmagazine.com

A taste of home

Epic Iceland

Check out China

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 SECOND CHANCE CINEMA

DRIVE-IN FILM CLUB

Wed & Sat throughout Apr

UNTIL APR 11

Second Chance Cinema does exactly what it says on the tin... it’s your second chance to see all the good new releases you missed first time round. Plus it’s in a high-end location with posh food and drink included.

The Drive-In Film Club is back and will be appearing at Alexandra Palace between March 31-April 11, and then Brent Cross Shopping Centre April 15-27.

Make like an American and drive on down.

Various times Patriot Square, E2 9NF Bethnal Green thesecondchancecinema.co.uk

Various times Top Car Park, Alexandra Palace, N22 7AY experiencecinema.com

£22

£12+

APRIL’S MUST-DO RÜFÜS GIG April 29 Aussie band RÜFÜS will launch their debut album Atlas in the UK on April 28 and have also announced plans to tour the UK this month. They’ll be at London’s Scala on April 29. Tickets are just £11. Don’t miss out, these guys are suitably rufus. £11

There is a third member, but we couldn’t fit him in – sorry!

7.30pm Pentonville Rd, N1 9NL gigsandtours.com/tour/rufus

King’s Cross

LONDON COFFEE FESTIVAL

MID CENTURY MARKET

CUT COPY GIG

2.8 HOURS LATER SURVIVAL

Apr 4-6

Apr 12

Apr 16

Apri 24-May 3

The London Coffee Festival celebrates the city’s bustling caffeine scene, and it’s an unmissable event if you’re a discerning type that loves a bit of black gold. It’ll feature more than 250 artisan coffee and gourmet food stalls. Mmm mmm, we can smell that freshly brewed coffee already...

Inspired by the 1950s?

Love the era? The lifestyle? The fashion? Then head down to Bettina Scarlett presents the Mid Century Market when it returns to London this month. Be prepared for retro central and some of the most cool vintage stuff you’ll ever see.

Grammy-nominated Australian quartet Cut Copy will release their new single ‘Meet Me In A House Of Love’ in the UK on April 17 and will play the HMV Forum in Kentish Town the night before. The new single is from the ‘Free Your Mind’ album which has been a global sensation and huge hit.

It’s a zombie apocalypse and you’re trying to escape the undead meat-eaters. Decisions you make along the way in this unique street game will have repercussions on the route you take, the characters you meet and, ultimately, whether you live or die. Eeek!

10.30am-4pm Rutland Grove, W6 9DH Hammersmith bettinascarlettpresents.co.uk

7pm-11pm Highgate Rd, NW5 1JY Kentish Town cutcopy.net

7pm TBC, Wembley, East London Wembley Central 2.8hourslater.com

£11+

Various times The Old Truman Brewery, E1 6QR londoncoffeefestival.com

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£3

£17

£33

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ANZAC DAY APR 25 This year marks 100 years since the outbreak of WWI and the 99th anniversary of the Anzac landings at Gallipoli.

On Friday April 25 the New Zealand and Australian High Commissions will hold three commemorative ceremonies in London: a dawn service in front of Wellington Arch (Hyde Park Corner), a wreath-laying ceremony at the Cenotaph and a service at Westminster Abbey. Apply at the site below for tickets.

FREE

Compiled by: Ian Armitage. Photos: Getty, Thinkstock and supplied

Various times Across London anzacdaylondon.com

ZIPPO CIRCUS ‘UNCHAINED’

CARNABY SHOPPING PARTY

APR 24-MAY 13

May 1

Always astounding, Zippo is a popular travelling circus. A colourful and action-packed medley of thrilling new acts including aerial, contortion, juggling, clowning and feats of unimaginable skill and strength, prepare to be left open mouthed.

A night that no self-respecting fashionista should miss, the Carnaby Shopping Party is back and it’s bigger than ever.

Live music, money-can’t-buy experiences, and awesome money-can-buy discounts – not just at clothes stores, but the bars and restaurants too.

Various times Across and close to London during April and May zippos.co.uk

5pm-9pm Carnaby Street, W1F Oxford Circus carnaby.co.uk

£7

FREE

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Scream Editions are bringing gems such as this to Carnaby Street

Goldie stars in Kingston 14 as gang leader Joker Russell Howard has a fournight stint at the Albert Hall

COMEDY NIGHTS

EXHIBITIONS

THEATRE

THE SOUTH LONDON COMEDY CLUB APR 4 / 8PM / £12 The South London Comedy Club is a new monthly night with some of the hottest stand up talent on the UK circuit. Launches April 4.

ANOTHER COUNTRY UNTIL JUN 21 / £19.50+ Will Attenborough and Rob Callender take on the roles which made Kenneth Branagh and Rupert Everett famous over 30 years ago in Julian Mitchell’s public school play of betrayal.

Mitcham Ln, SW16 6NR

SCREAM EDITIONS POP-UP CARNABY STREET UNTIL APR 18 / 6.30PM / FREE Scream Editions is taking its newly launched online print gallery to the streets of Soho with an exciting pop-up, offering gems such as the lamb poster above.

Tooting Broadway

Carnaby Street

The Furzedown thefurzedown.co.uk

Whitehall, SW1A 2DY

20 Foubert’s Place, W1F 7PL

MIRANDA HART APR 11-12 / 7.30PM / £35+ Famous for her hugely popular television show, Miranda will perform stand-up at the O2 on April 11 and 12.

The 02 Arena Peninsula Square, SE10 0DX North Greenwich

theo2.co.uk

Oxford Circus

Charing Cross

atgtickets.com/trafalgarstudios

screameditions.com

RED TAPE UNTIL MAY 4 / 6-8PM / £28.50 A diverse outlook on the crossover between classical fine art and new media.

Gazelli Art House Dover Street, W1S 4NN Green Park

Trafalgar Studios (2)

ONCE WE LIVED HERE UNTIL APR 26 / £15+ Dean Bryant directs the UK premiere of his Aussie musical set in a Victoria sheep station.

King’s Head 115 Upper Street, N1 1QN

Angel

kingsheadtheatre.com

gazelliarthouse.com

RUSSELL HOWARD WONDERBOX APR 14-17 / 8PM / £30+ Howard rounds off his Wonderbox tour with a four-night stint at the Royal Albert Hall. Always a gem for topical comedy.

RUIN LUST UNTIL MAY 18 / DAILY / £11 A guide to the use of ruins in art featuring Constable, Turner and Rachel Whiteread.

KINGSTON 14 UNTIL APR 26 / £7+ A British police officer is sent to Jamaica to investigate a murder in award-winning Roy Williams’ hard-hitting drama starring Goldie.

Royal Albert Hall

Tate Britain

Theatre Royal Stratford East

Kensington Gore, SW7 2AP

Milbank, SW1P 4RG

Gerry Raffles Square, E15 1BN

South Kensington

Pimlico

Stratfordeast.com

8

russell-howard.co.uk

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tate.org.uk

Stratford

LONDONSOUND

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CLUB NIGHTS

GIGS

EASTER OVER EASY APR 17 / 8PM-4AM / £5 The Queen of Hoxton is going all out for its legendary Easter Thursday party this year, with one of its biggest and bassiest line ups to date.

Welsh house duo Bodhi top the bill. Get ready to hop to it!

DAVE DAVIES APR 11 / 7.30PM / £32.50 Dave Davies of the Kinks will play his first UK concert in 13 years at the Barbican Hall, celebrating the 50th anniversary of a revolutionary guitar sound that changed rock ‘n’ roll forever.

Queen of Hoxton

Barbican Centre

Curtain Road, EC2A 3JX

Silk St, EC2Y 8DS

Old Street

Barbican

queenofhoxton.com

WATCH THIS

barbican.org.uk

SPIDERMAN: HE’S A SWINGING GUY

St Vincent: aka singer/songwriter Dappy loves a hat Annie Clark

NZ SHAPESHIFTER APR 12 / 7PM-LATE / £15+ This multi-award-winning electronic outfit packs a serious punch and this London gig will be hugely popular, trust us.

The Forum Highgate Rd, NW5 1JY Kentish Town

mamacolive.com/theforum

DAPPY APR 10-11 / 6.30-10PM / £19+ Dappy – you know, him from Camden-based trio N-Dubz – will play the O2 Academy in Islington this month much to the delight of his fans, we’re sure. Best known for his eye-catching head wear.

O2 Academy Islington Parkfield St, N1 0PS Angel

LONDON ELECTRONIC MUSIC EVENT APR 12-13 / 11PM-10AM / £60 LEME is a revered and respected electronic music event put on by a group of industry buffs and well-respected movers and shakers, comprising a range of Q&As, hands-on seminars, open panel discussions, networking sessions, live performances and club nights.

Rich Mix, Shoreditch Bethnal Green Road, E1 6LA

ticketweb.co.uk

ALKALINE TRIO & BAYSIDE APR 26 / 7PM-11PM / £22.50 Cult Rock heroes Alkaline Trio have announced details of an extensive European tour including a date at The Forum in London. Support will come from punk rockers Bayside. Sounds pretty cool!

The Forum Highgate Rd, NW5 1JY Kentish Town

alkalinetrio.com

Photos: Getty

londonelectronicmusicevent.com

SECRETSUNDAZE EASTER SPECIAL APR 17 / 10PM-7AM / £16.50 Headlining this special Easter event is none other than Derrick May.

KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD APR 30 / TBC / £22.50+ Five-time Grammy-nominated and multiplatinum-selling blues/rock guitarist hits the O2 Acadamy for a jam session.

Electric, Brixton

O2 Academy Islington

Town Hall Parade, SW2 1RJ

Parkfield St, N1 0PS

Brixton

Angel

secretsundaze.net

We’re climbing the walls with anticipation for the release of The Amazing Spider-Man 2, the sequel to the 2012 blockbuster that follows the continuing adventures of Peter Parker/Spidey, and it looks pretty darn good if what we’ve seen is anything to go by – and we’ve seen a heck of a lot of footage of it in the form of trailers, featurettes and more.

Fans should be excited as Spidey (Andrew Garfield) once again runs the gauntlet, struggling to find the balance between ordinary guy and superhero web-slinger as the mysterious Oscorp sends up a slew of new super-villains – Jamie Foxx’s Electro as the main villian, a new Green Goblin (who pops up at the end) and Paul Giamatti’s Rhino – against him. The focus of the film is on Spidey himself, with a family subplot that deals with the fate of his missing parents. Some of Sony’s recent promotional posters have labelled the film the start of “A sinister new era”, perhaps a hint at the Sinister Six who’ll probably pop up in Spidey 3 before getting their own film (what say you Sony?). The Amazing Spider-Man 2 hits cinemas on April 18 and fans will hope it’ll be an improvement on the first film.

Shouldn’t be hard.

kennywayneshepherd.net

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READER’S PIC OF THE MONTH

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ASK THE BOGANS

Got a problem? No worries, mate – the lads from Bogan Bingo are here...

This glorious picture of the wintry London skyline was taken by Jared Thomson, who found himself on the London Eye last November. ‘I managed to catch a glimpse of the sun for the last time,’ he says. ‘Now that the weather’s picking up, it reminded me of that chilly autumn day.’

Want to see your photo in print? Email the online editor at vicky.anscombe@tntmagazine.com

STATUS UPDATE What’s been happening on our social media accounts this month...

TNT sent out a massive ‘thank you’ to readers who attended its London Travel Show last month and helped raise £1,200 for deserving charities by bidding in the live auction. A donation of £500 will go towards ex-smoker, Ollie Blackmore, who is cycling 2,300km unaided around Vancouver Island to raise £25,000 for Big C UK and $25,000 for BC Cancer Agency. London Legacy, and more specifically the James Dunsby Appeal, will be the beneficiary of £350. James died on the Brecon Beacons in Wales during trials to join the SAS, leaving behind his wife Bryher Dunsby. The final £350 is to go to WWF Australia, particularly for its Fight for the Reef campaign. Well done TNT Travel Show bidders!

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Dear Katie, A simple garden hose would easily solve this problem and give the couch a good once over too, but failing that, have you tried sleeping with him?

That way you get your couch back and you’ve isolated the problem to your own bed, giving your flatmates the common space back. You’ll be like a shared flat martyr! Then all you need to do is carry this on for a few months and break up with him. He’ll then be forced to leave. Or possibly move back to the couch. Might be an idea to get that garden hose.

Got a problem? Need some advice?

No fear. Submit your questions to info@boganbingo.co.uk and the boys will do everything they can to solve it. No worries!

Don’t miss Bogan Bingo every Thursday night from 8pm at The Slug at Fulham. There’s more than £400 worth of prizes up for grabs each week from Travel Talk. boganbingo.co.uk Twitter @BoganBingoUK

Photos: Supplied. Words: Vicky Anscombe

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 give you the chance to book your perfect break through TNT Tour Search as well as round-up the late deals and travel news.

Thursday: London Living – This is our practical and not-so-practical guide to making the most of life in this great city.

Friday: Entertainment – It’s the weekend! Woop! We tell you how to fill it, as well as the week ahead.

Dear bogans, Recently one of my flat mates has given the all-clear for her friend to stay on the couch. He has now been camping in our living room for over a month and the couch smells of his farts. Please help!

Katie, Kentish Town

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TRYTHIS

LONDONINSIDER

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Date idea: cooking class MasterChef, Saturday Kitchen Live, The Taste, The Great British Bake Off... the list goes on. There’s no denying the TVviewing public loves a cookery show. But, although I enjoy watching them and pretending I will recreate whatever they are cooking up, I always end up feeling sad that they are yet to invent ‘smellyvision’ and very, very hungry.

So for me, the cooking class at The Urban Kitchen was perfect. I got to watch a talented cook create gorgeous dishes, plus I could smell the herbs and spices and, even better, eat the end product. Plus, seeing as I helped create the dishes and was given the recipes to take home, I really will recreate them in my own kitchen.

Founder, Toral Shah, hosts the classes in her own apartment, which has a ridiculously mod-conned kitchen and cupboards so full they would rival any restaurant’s. Pouring our small group a glass of wine each (which she kept fully topped up throughout), Toral talked us through each recipe step by step, getting us involved with kneading bread, crushing cloves, chopping chillies and stirring the bubbling pans of curry (we were there for the classic Indian cooking class, but she also teaches Spanish, Italian, dim sum and more).

Toral is a firm believer in the 80:20 rule – 80% good food, 20% naughty. And these recipes followed that, with ghee

substituted for small amounts of olive oil and dishes that included lots of fresh veg, garlic – which is good for your immune system and cholesterol levels – and chili, which is good for your metabolism. But there’s a little bit of cream and butter in there to balance things out and, quite frankly, make it taste damn delicious.

I can testify to that as we finished the class by sitting down to eat our three curries, freshly baked naan and rich bowl of daahl... MasterChef, eat your heart out. By Caroline Garnar £55. 7pm-9.45pm. See site for upcoming classes. The Urban Kitchen, Unit 2 The Flag House, 47 Brunswick Court, SE1 3LH theurbankitchen.co.uk

MYLONDON When I want to chill out I.... head to a new opening serving up the finest comfort food. You can’t beat a good burger or hot dog. The type of food that leaves you with a massive meat-juice-covered grin and a mountain of used napkins! Bukowski Grill, Byron Burger, Honest Burgers, Patty & Bun, Dirty Bones and Chicken Shop are all great for this.

The most interesting person I’ve met in London is... David Morrison, master blender at Appleton Estate Rum. A fun-loving guy, immensely passionate about his rum with the most infectious laugh known to man.

I joined David for a tour of rum hotspots in East London.

For when you’re hungover in London you can’t beat... The Breakfast Club in Angel with their All American. That’s pancakes topped with eggs, sausage, fried potatoes, streaky bacon and maple syrup accompanied by a freshly squeezed apple Juice. It doesn’t get much better than that!

My perfect weekend would be... A combination of cocktails and culinary delight. Instead of a big night out, I love a trip to Hawker House for the awesome street food night market. The treats on offer are incredible and the atmosphere is buzzing. I’m also a huge cider fan and love a rooftop spot for a drop of some of Somerset’s finest in the sun. None of that Strongbow and Magners stuff though! I’m talking proper cider; cloudy, still and bursting with flavour. I’d top it all off with a visit to On The Bab for some Korean fried chicken, a cocktail or three at Happiness Forgets and the best Sunday treat ever... a visit to Notting Hill’s Electric Cinema for a movie experience like no other.

What I love most about London is... The variety and vibrancy. I’ve met so many interesting characters and experienced some awesome events that would never have been possible anywhere else in the UK. Five words that sum up London are... Indulgent, crazy, mesmerising, stimulating, inspiring.

My favourite spot in London is... Hoxton. That’s where you’ll usually find me, whether it’s for food, cocktails, chilling in the square or atop a roof terrace enjoying a cider in the sun.

CHRIS FYNES BLOGGER AT WETHEFOODSNOBS.COM TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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BITE SIZE BOOM SHAKALAKA Does the world need another burger joint?

When it’s Jamaican influenced XXXXX yes, yes it does. Plantain fries, house Xxxxxxxx mayo pepped up with Scotch Bonnets and fiery jerk chicken wings are served [web] up alongside the juicy burgers. You can dine in or takeaway from the XXXXX Portobello Xxxxxxxx Road spot, which is lined with reggae LPs and painted in the colours [web] of the Caribbean. Oh, and don’t forget to wash it down with an Appleton rum cocktail. Every-ting XXXXX really is gonna be irie.

Xxxxxxxx boomburger.co.uk [web]

WHAT CAME FIRST? If you like your chicken eggs as much as your chocolate ones, head to the newly opened Clutch in Hoxton.

Free-range Wiltshire farm eggs are served up with halloumi, tomato and guacamole for brunch, while you can tuck into a copper bucket of guilt-free gourmet fried chicken for dinner.

HOLBORN DINING ROOM English

clutchchicken.com

St Patrick is so last month. April is all about St George (his day is April 23), and so for this month’s restaurant review, we are celebrating all things English. And it doesn’t get much more English than the Holborn Dining Room & Delicatessen in the newly opened Rosewood London. Housed in what was the East Banking Hall of Pearl Assurance, the interior is grand – impressive chandeliers, reclaimed oak furnishings, antique mirrors and leather upholstery – and yet perfectly intimate and unpretentious – soft candlelight, chatty, smiley waiters and a soundtrack of The Beatles and David Bowie’s epic hits. Perfect.

THE GRUB Holborn Dining Room is the latest venture from renowned restaurateur and ex-Ivy chef, Des McDonald. This means the bar is set high, but this place vaults over it with Olympic-level flare. Tempted by the aged meats calling us from the charcuterie, we only resisted when our waiter’s recommendations confirmed our favourites from the cold and hot counter – a steak tartar from the former and a goat’s cheese and red onion tart from the latter. Both were perfect for their own reasons, and my dining partner and I shared each one with enthusiasm.

I was surprised to see corned beef hash on a five-star menu, and I was even more surprised when I heard myself ordering it, but I was convinced Holborn Dining Room would turn this working-class fodder into something special, and I was right.

A fried duck egg sat atop the salty beef and potatoes, with a dash of Tabasco and Lea & Perrins the perfect addition to this tasty comfort food. My dining partner’s lamb chops with bubble and squeak was delightfully pink and tender, although we both agreed I had won the battle of the mains. I also went on to win the war with my boozy treacle and whiskey pudding with custard. Drool.

BEHIND THE BAR The cocktails are killer – I recommend the frothy but fiery Fire Side Sour and oh-so-smooth Montecristo Daiquiri. There are a couple of English sparkling wines, but a bottle of Californian Zinfandel matched our meal perfectly.

BILL PLEASE Starters average around £8.50, mains £15, puddings £6.50.

VERDICT Makes us proud to be temporarily British. Caroline Garnar THE SCENE

Photos: supplied

THE BRUNCH BUNCH The New York brunch scene is hitting London with the launch of La Plage day club on April 26. Palm trees and sun beds on a West End rooftop set the scene for an indulgent weekly Saturday brunch with bubbles until 3pm. Next, DJs and plenty of booze will turn the sophisticated affair into a raunchy ruckus until 8pm. Whistles, flower necklaces and face paints help get the party started, while electric orchestras, Brazilian samba bands, circus acts, fire breathers and stilt walkers take you into sunset. millenniumhotels.co.uk/millenniumgloucester

252 High Holborn, WC1V 7EN

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Holborn

holborndiningroom.com

LiFestYLeMONEY LONDONDRINKS

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how You spEnd iT

cash saVers BELUSHI’S Bar & diner

Dreams come brew keiSha herBert, 24 We all know that JoB Market researcher Belushi’s has branches scattered across London and beyond, and pounding headache from FroM Leeds each is rigged its own particular personality. The multinational vibe too one much cheap with bubbly LiveS Bethnal Green ofthe thenight Hammersmith branch is not surprising, considering upstairs harbours before. Well Stthis Christopher’s a hostel world. year your Inn, dream of for backpackers from all corners of the How do you budget?

Lightshades from maps hover overhead, while punches of colour waking upmade hangover-free After come monthly expenses and can bunting becomehanging a realityfrom withpillars and exposed red brick walls. After-hours adding a bit from theto my savings, 50% off aarea stellar bottle into a club-like space, with happy hoursI try to set restaurant transforms – three inmyself fact a weekly champagne.

Usually – of offered every day.

And you’ll need them: this place loves a Jager.spending amount. It can be costing £29.75, Heidsieck difficult when some weeks BEHIND THE BAR Unpretentious fruity cocktails are the stars of the menu, served in Blue Top is £15 a pop at are busier than others, but jam jars for a twist. We were hooked on the naughty Wham Jam Thank You Mam, Asda. Or you can opt for a I always try to go with the a moreish blend of Southern Comfort cherry and Luxardo amaretto. A tipple of bottle of ‘I heart Prosecco’ cheapest options. the bourbon and cherry brandy, plus a pint of on-tap Doom forCherry £9.99 Mash from Sour’s Budgens, Bar beer was enough Tesco.com, Rhythmto & see us right through to the edge of tipsiness.

Do you have any tips for THE GRUB The company recently launched a new menu made up of saving innovative and in London?

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Photos: supplied and Getty. Words: Rachael Getzels

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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?

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And if there’s a special occasion, that’s another excuse to hit the shops.

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❚ At least Beckham has earned his ridiculous fortune honestly – his old team, Manchester United, MAKE A MESS are the most valuable sports Gallery Mess has given its club in the world, clocking afternoon an Easter twist in at £1.4 tea billion. with egg-laden cupcakes, shortbread ❚ Nothing and can rainbow get in the way of business for J-Lo and exmacaroons accompanying its husband Marc warm scones andAnthony. cucumber,The divorced pair still egg and salmon andco-own cream the Miami Looks cheese fingerDolphins. sandwiches. like a sports team is for life, saatchigallery.com/gallerymess not just for Christmas.

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That’s dessert, followed by a full a hefty price afternoon tea. for a team with no money. Sounds like he brownshotel.com may have missed a trick.

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CELEBINTERVIEW

Making Tracks Mia Wasikowska takes a well-deserved seat and chats to TNT about stepping into the shoes of the woman who walked 1,700 miles across Australia WORDS NINA BERTOK

We thought we lived in a world where it was near impossible to go ‘off radar’. But then we lost a plane.

At the time of press, evidence was mounting that the Malaysian Airlines flight MH370 crashed into the Indian Ocean, but this was only due to the sighting of potential aircraft debris. Before this there had been no communications, no radar pick-ups, no sign of the plane whatsoever. And the world struggled to believe that, in the technology-crazed, all-accessible age of today, a plane holding 239 people had effectively vanished.

When we sat down with Australian actress Mia Wasikowska to talk about her role in Tracks, the mystery of the MH370 had yet to hit the headlines. On reflection, this interview has taken on an added poignancy.

Tracks is about adventurer-come-author Robyn Davidson, who took off on a seemingly impossible 1,700 mile-long trek across the Australian desert, completely alone. We spoke of how when Davidson did this, back in the 1970s, she was labelled as ‘crazy’, but that now we could relate to her longing to escape and be completely autonomous.

“I think people will relate to Robyn’s story even more now than they did back then,” Wasikowska said. “It’s very relevant in this day and age that people would want to take off and remove themselves from being always accessible.

However, I think it would be much harder to get lost now than it would have been in those days. Technology and things like the internet and having a phone; people can always keep track of us in one way or another. I think it’s unlikely that it would be the same journey today, but you never know.” You never know is right...

Of course, unlike the passengers of MH370, Davidson consciously chose to ‘go missing’. She set off alone on this epic journey, and it takes a special – even complex – kind of person to have the guts and determination to tackle such a challenge, and an even stronger character to see the mission completed. For the young Wasikowska, it was quite a nerveracking experience to meet the real woman behind the amazing tale, but also an eye-opening one, which allowed her to understand the reasoning behind Davidson’s journey.

“People had such a hard time understanding her. After doing this film, I do understand her now and I know that she’s not just straightforward – you can’t guess what she’s going to do next. It just seems very understandable to me

to want to remove yourself from your environment and put yourself into a place where things are simplified. She took it all back to the basics of survival and attending to her needs as they were in the moment. I think that’s very brave. I was quite nervous about meeting her because the Robyn in the book was ready to punch anybody who would try to play her, but while shooting the film she was so incredibly warm and kind. She’s a really nice person.”

Even more flattering, Davidson all but hand-picked Wasikowska to portray her inspirational character on the big screen after many, many pitches from movie studios and various actors vying to take on the role. For a number of years it seemed people were lining up to re-create Davidson’s journey via motion picture and faced nothing but rejection from the woman herself, until producers Emile Sherman and Iain Canning approached her with director John Curran. For the first time, the stars aligned and, with Wasikowska in tow, Tracks was underway.

“The book had been around for such a long time, so many times people had pitched to Robyn that they wanted to make it into a movie but it never happened. It had gone through a number of people’s hands and I don’t think Robyn felt that it was right at the time. We got along really well and, when I got to know her, I realised she was such an amazing person in real life. Her individuality and the ››

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Photos: Supplied and Getty

Take her out back: Adam Driver plays Robyn’s love interest, Rick

strength of her character is so admirable. I respect that she decided to do something and saw it through. She overcame a lot and, in that way, it was such a self-testing experience, seeing whether she could overcome and conquer this really harsh environment.”

And, although Davidson walked 1,700 miles from Alice Springs to the west coast on her own, in many ways she wasn’t really alone. With four camels and her pet dog by her side, Davidson also found herself occasionally accompanied by the ever-persistent National Geographic magazine photographer Rick Smolan (Adam Driver) who not only helped her receive funding for her adventure, but also documented the nine-month trip. Also an on-again-off-again love interest, Wasikowska claims Davidson experienced many “blessings in disguise”, including Rick, whether she was aware of it at the time or not.

“The very things that enabled her to take this journey were also the things that took away the essence of the journey. National Geographic was going to fund her, which was great, but it also took away from the essence of her being on her own. But I think she also has this openness about her where the universe brings these people and things into her life which turn out to be important for her to complete her journey. She wanted three camels at first, but ended up with more – she got four. Rick came along when she wanted to be alone, and yet he helped her so much.

There were so many blessings in disguise. I think Adam Driver plays Rick in such a super spontaneous way, he’s amazing.

He’s so unfazed with the idea of improvising and staying on his toes the whole time.”

For Wasikowska, meanwhile, it was adjusting to the towering camels that required the actress to stay on her toes. By the end of it all, she came to realise the size of the animal doesn’t mean much when a relationship is established between man and beast.

“In the beginning the camels will test you to see how 18

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much they can get away with and whether you’ll let them have control,” Wasikowska explains. “You have to let them know you’re the boss, though, you have to keep them in line, otherwise they’ll realise they’re stronger than you. They turned out to be quite sweet. I was so surprised because usually you associate big animals with something you shouldn’t touch. They actually have the personality of a cat or a dog – they’re goofy one minute then a bit snooty when they want to be. You can navigate their mood easily once you get to know them.

“When you put that experience together with the whole adventure Robyn went on, I think the whole message is to be in control of your own life, seize it.” ❚ Tracks is out in cinemas from April 25

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CELEBINTERVIEW

Fight or f light TNT Magazine? Present. Murray Hewitt? Sadly, absent.

But Rhys Darby is very much here and he’s up for an adventure...

INTERVIEW CAROLINE GARNAR

Imagine this: you’re fulfilling your dream of trekking to Mount Everest’s base camp, and you turn to your right to see Murray Hewitt, the hopeless band manager of Flight of the Conchords, trekking alongside you. No, you haven’t died and gone to ‘hiven’. Come October this could be a reality.

Well, almost. Rhys Darby is as close to Murray you’re ever going to get, and the Kiwi comic is taking part in Stand Up on Everest later this year. They’re still looking for people to join the 50-strong audience and help raise money for Save the Children.

“I think it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” says Darby, his distinctive voice bouncing out of our phone as he chats from his home in California. “You have to make a real

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commitment to go to a place like that. Your regular comedygoers would not necessarily think to go up to Everest Base Camp to watch a gig,” he laughs.

Fellow comedians joining the trek are Stewart Francis, Craig Campbell, Glenn Wool, Simon Evans and Terry Alderton. “You get a big adventure and the comics are all fantastic. And you’re not just watching them perform, you’re getting to spend nine or 10 days with them, so relationships will build there too.” Imagine saying you’re mates with Murray? Awesome.

Darby is also heading for London in July with his new Show, Mr Adventure, so TNT took the chance to find out more, and to ask if we will ever see Murray again...

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CELEBINTERVIEW

“ UK audiences are my true homies ” We must confess, we miss Murray. Do you miss him too?

I do miss playing him. It was a lot of fun. It was a very exciting time in my life. Things were really taking off and we were having all this success on a fantastic network in America. It was all a bit dreamy, looking back. Murray was a character that felt very natural to play. I just sort of plucked him out of nowhere. I suppose he was inspired by the multitude of bosses I’ve worked for; I think a bit of a throw-back to my military days are definitely in there. Some of the guys who used to tell me what to do and really had no idea what they were doing (laughs). He’ll always be close to me, that character, and the three of us get together to reprise those roles and do a little skit here and there, for charity events and things like that.

There was talk of a film...

There has always been talk of a film – it’s one of those mythical things (laughs). I think there will be a point in the future, when things calm down a bit, and we’ll get together and possibly do that. Never say never... but don’t hold your breath.

Do you often get asked to ‘do Murray’ as it were?

Not in my live stand-up shows because most people who come to those know what I do is very different. But I get requested to play him for various projects. ››

Do people shout “ginger balls” to you on the street?

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CELEBINTERVIEW Tell us about Mr Adventure...

Over the last few years I have been on a number of adventures and I looked back and thought, ‘Wow I should tell some of these stories.’ I’ve been to Africa a few times, trekking for mountain gorillas, I’ve been up Mount Kilamanjaro. I’ve been to Loch Ness twice. There I stayed with a new-age, raw-food-eating Buddhist couple who introduced me to UFO spotting. They were possibly shooting stars or satellites, but I got swept up in the whole thing; some of them moved in such a fashion that you would question, ‘Are they something else?’. The woman also told me she had seen the Loch Ness monster twice, so I will put that in the show.

Our readers are travelling types – what tips would Mr Adventure give them?

To go off the beaten track. Follow your nose. Go to places that have been recommended by Lonely Planet and so on [“or TNT” we interject] or TNT more importantly! (laughs) – but it’s meeting the locals that is going to lead to new adventures. They want to meet people from other places of the world, tell their stories and lead them in different directions – if you listen, you will have a different experience to the one you would if you just did the tourist thing.

So let’s talk about this Everest gig. You’re known for your physical comedy – do you not worry you’re going to be too knackered and cold to jump around and make people laugh?

Yeah I do really worry about that. I had this idea of doing a small set when I got to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro last year – to be the comedian at the highest altitude to tell jokes. But when I got up there I was in so much physical pain; I was upset; I could barely talk. It’s all very well at sea level – we’ve got all these great ideas and we feel good – but as soon as you get high up, humans just sort of fall apart. I’ll be happy to get just one joke out!

No, I’ve never had that – I get the odd “Murray!”. The funniest one was when I was on safari in Tanzania. There I was looking at giraffes and things like that, and I heard “Murray!”, and there was this Land Rover full of Americans looking through their binoculars at me (laughs).

For your new show you are rocking a ’tash. What with Murray’s goatie and now the lip fur for Mr Adventure, do you find your facial hair gives you comedic powers?

Yeah it does. It’s all about the hair really. I’ve got big, thick hair – a lot of people used to think my hair was a wig when I did The Conchords because of the way they combed it; it looks like they just bought something and plonked it on there. It was refreshing to get rid of the goatie, and the moustache makes me feel more adventurous. And I like any excuse to look like a dork (laughs).

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Do you have any snow jokes prepared in advance?

(Laughs) No – although I did have one about the Winter Olympics, how New Zealand came fourth in the snowman making competition. They would have got into the top three, but they misplaced the carrot.

We bet they did. You’ve just turned 40 – is that one of the reasons for your recent wanderlust?

Yeah it ties in nicely with Mr Adventure. At 40 you want to look back at what you’ve done so far, and to think that I have been to a few places and experienced some fantastic things makes me feel good. So this whole Mr Adventure is a bit of a celebration for myself for my 40th really. I can still do it, I’m still kicking it. ❚

For the chance to join Rhys Darby and the five other comedians for Stand Up on Everest, register at standuponeverest.co.uk.

His Mr Adventure gig will be held at the Shepherd’s Bush Empire July 23 & 24. To book tickets visit livenation.co.uk

Photos: Supplied

You’re touring New Zealand in May and the UK in July.

New Zealand is, of course, your home country, but the UK is arguably where you found initial success on the comedy circuit – where do you feel most at home when on stage?

That’s a good question. It probably is the UK for me because I spent a good seven years there and that’s where I really cut my teeth in stand-up. So, yeah, the UK audiences are probably my true homies.

Will you be performing a unique set at the Everest gig?

Yes I will be doing a set based on my experiences on that nine-day trek.

Check out TNT online for the latest news, gossip, gigs, bizarre headlines and awesome features

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Here we are now entertain us Want more from a pub than pints and peanuts? TNT tracks down the top 25 drinking spots that offer more bang with your booze

Photos: Old Blue Last, The Bedroom Bar, The Late Night Cocktail Club, Rockaoke nights at AAA, Madame JoJo’s, Scott Chalmers, The Social, Family PR and Getty

WORDS NINA BERTOK

Most days we’re happy to prop up the bar with a pint and good company, but every now and then we want a little more than a dartboard or worse-for-wear pool table to provide the night’s entertainment.

Whether it’s belting out ‘Gangster’s Paradise’, flexing our grey matter or, er, stroking a pussy or two, we find the top drinking spots in London that always have ‘fun’ on the menu.

TOP 5 KARAOKE BARS HIP HOP KARAOKE @ THE SOCIAL 5 Little Portland St, W1W 7JD

Taking place every Thursday in central London, this is the perfect chance to channel your inner-Eminem a la 8 Mile – just try not to throw up “mom’s spaghetti”. At around £5 it’s value for money, plus performers get a free beer for their trouble. With requests e-mailed in advance, things do get busy, so get ready to pop a cap in anyone’s ass who gets in your way (not really).

TRANNYOKE @ ESCAPE BAR 8 Brewer St, W1F

Offering a fun, unique twist on the traditional karaoke night, Trannyoke at Escape gives you a reason to whack on

a wig, trowel on the make-up and glam it up in an atmosphere that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Despite its name and ‘transexual’ theme, Trannyoke is actually open for everyone and has no specific dress code, so you can expect a crowd from all walks of Soho life – from city bankers to hen parties to gay guys and gals warming up for the clubs.

Contest every Friday and Saturday.

Bunga Bunga features cheeky political caricatures on the walls, vintage mopeds suspended from the ceiling and loads of colourful memorabilia accompanied by live music and, of course, your chance to get on the mic and sing your favourite tunes while sipping on Silvio Berlusconiinspired drinks.

ROCKAOKE

ASSA

11-13 Kensington High St, W8 5NP

53 St Giles High St, WC2H 9LH

Playing at the AAA at Archangel on the first and third Friday of every month, Rockaoke is the UK’s original, best and, well, only specialist live karaoke band, giving people the chance to ‘live the dream’ up on the stage with the backing of a full live band. Unique among the karaoke bars, Rockaoke has been spreading its brand of fully interactive rock’n’roll fun for the last eight years, both up and down the country as well as worldwide. Join in and rock out!

Although many eateries across London offer sing-along sessions, Assa restaurant’s basement is the one-stop K-pop karaoke destination. The songbook features a wide variety of tune selections, from kitsch Western classics to poppy singalongs, but what this club specialises in is K-pop, so the ability to read hangul script could prove to be an advantage, or you should at least be good at improvising.

Other selling points are the well-priced drinks and the eccentric murals in the loo.

BUNGA BUNGA

TOP 5 LIVE MUSIC BARS

37 Battersea Bridge Rd, SW11 3BA

Equipped with a full stage, karaoke system and DJ booth, what is normally the Italian restaurant Bunga Bunga transforms into the Eurovision Song

THE OLD BLUE LAST 38 Great Eastern St, Shoreditch, EC2

The Old Blue Last has a reputation for being the epitome of ‘cool’. Owned by TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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Old Blue Last

Vice Magazine and praised by music institutions such as NME, this is the go-to pub for live music, and it’s just as likely to attract up-and-coming bands as it is Arctic Monkeys, Lily Allen and Diplo. Even our Kylie made an appearance here earlier this year. With many claiming its jukebox is literally the best in the world, failing to stop by this pub would be sacrilege for any self-respecting live music fan.

THE DUBLIN CASTLE 94 Parkway, Camden, NW1

The Dublin Castle was second home to the band Madness in the ‘70s and the number one rockabilly hotspot in Camden in the ‘80s. From the ‘90s onwards it’s been popular with indie kids and has seen plenty of up-and-coming bands who went on to do huge things. Amy Winehouse once played an amazing set at this venue, which guarantees at least a three-band set for just £6.

Bedroom Bar

early on in its history, and then the likes of Ash and The Futureheads in the mid‘90s, as well as US bands Tortoise and Jon Spencer Blues Explosion. These days Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays host some very impressive three-band bills.

WAXY O’CONNOR’S 14-16 Rupert St, W1D 6DD

Waxy O’Connor’s is London’s biggest and best Irish bar located in the heart of the West End. Not only does the pub offer fantastic live music at least two nights a week, but it also prides itself on its four unique bars covering six levels, all linked together by a maze of staircases and passages. As well as classic live Irish music nights known as Trad Sessions (they’re brilliant fun when you’ve had too many Guinnesses – try not to do a jig, just try!), they also host indie-grunge bands, including The Monday Club and Biblecode Sundays (described as The Clash on Irish steroids), and that’s just this month.

THE WINDMILL 22 Blenheim Gardens, Brixton, SW2

The beer is very affordable and the bands are aplenty at The Windmill, a live music venue that has a particularly bohemian vibe about it and is home to indie music lovers. The venue is also touted for celebrating more obscure and unusual artists just as much as the big ones including Bloc Party, Guillemots, Biffy Clyro and Florence And The Machine.

THE HOPE & ANCHOR 207 Upper St, Islington, N1

Resurrected in 1996 after being overtaken by a wine bar, the Hope & Anchor built its reputation on hosting bands such as The Clash, The Damned and The Stranglers

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TOP 5 QUIZ NIGHT BARS ANTELOPE

The Social

THE LEXINGTON 96-98 Pentonville Rd, N1 9JB

Music enthusiasts can’t pass up The Lexington’s weekly quiz night, which is organised by Rough Trade record shops, who certainly know their stuff. The quiz features a mix of musical questions that are both silly and serious, and the quizmaster has somewhat of a potty mouth on him at times, so do take it all with a grain of salt. The team that picks the best name is rewarded with a multipack of crisps. Bonus.

PINEAPPLE 51 Leverton St, NW5 2NX

The questions you’ll get are mighty challenging, but it’s worth the effort in the end because the prize for the winning team consists of the entirety of the evening’s entry fees. Pretty motivating stuff. But there’s plenty in it for every team thanks to jackpot and raffle rounds, so even the team on the bottom rung gets its moment of glory. Pineapple is a charming pub in itself, tucked away in a maze of backstreet terrace houses and with original Victorian features.

76 Mitcham Rd, SW17 9NG

Antelope’s quiz is made up of some very well-crafted questions that should appeal to just about everyone with some knowledge of both trivia and more serious subjects. Rounds cover general knowledge, pictures, music and films.

With a quizmaster described as “a darkhaired Smithy from Gavin and Stacey” get ready to laugh – and potentially have insults thrown at you. The pub’s decor is quirky – you’ll feel like you’ve got one foot in a school assembly hall and one foot in a traditional British boozer.

BOOGALOO 312 Archway Rd, N6 5AT

Known for particularly challenging questions, the Boogaloo monthly quiz night offers an interactive experience with a focus on films. It’s unique in that it uses projections, sound clips and posters as part of the quiz and places no restrictions on the team sizes, which is a good thing considering you’ll need to be quite the movie buff to win at this one. They also have a weekly ‘Who Killed Bambi?’ music quiz.

THE CAMDEN CRAWL

The Social

Atari Teenage Riot OLD QUEEN’S HEAD 44 Essex Rd, N1 8LN

If you’re after a good hearty laugh and a relaxed, fun time while answering some silly questions, then the Old Queen’s Head is the place to go. With a host who is described as ‘truly outrageous’, the quiz rounds feature paper planes, rude drawings and kazoos, so it isn’t necessarily for the intellectual types. The teams play for cash prizes and there is plenty of fine food and quality drinks, plus big leather sofas to chill out on.

TOP 5 COMEDY NIGHTS THE COMEDY STORE 1a Oxendon St, SW1Y 4EE

Pretty much the ultimate comic’s destination and renowned for championing ‘alternative comedy’, this place started the careers of Simon Pegg, John Sparkes and Craig Ferguson, and was home to improvisational group The Comedy Store Players (featuring Mike Myers). Here you’ll get topical newsbased comedy, improv and classic stand-up from the best comics from around the world, making it London’s busiest comedy venue with more than 3,500 people passing through its doors each week.

LIVE AT THE CHAPEL Compton Ave, Greater London, N1 2XD

Self-described as “the most dramatic comedy club in the country”, it’s actually a fairly accurate statement given that the venue has hosted Ed Byrne, Noel Fielding, Russell Howard and loads more since opening its doors in 2007. Throw live music into the mix and a tea-serving kiosk and you’re guaranteed the most fun time you can have in a church.

The Camden Crawl festival takes place June 20 & 21 when a whole host of bars and pubs will be hosting bands across the weekend so you can hop from one to the other on one ticket.

Here’s our pick of the bunch...

ATARI TEENAGE RIOT Electric Ballroom, June 20

The German digital hardcore band were formed in 1992 so they’re somewhat stalwarts of the scene, with their highly political and anarchist song themes making them legends 22 years into their career. Punk vocals mixed with an electronic twist is what earned them the reputation of being unique and also one of the most electrifying bands in a live setting.

SLAVES Underworld, June 21

Kent two-piece Slaves released their new single ‘Where’s Your Car Debbie’ earlier this year and completed a UK tour with Canadian rockers PUP after appearing at the NME Awards Show.

Shouty, short and snappy is how they like their tracks, and they’ve been receiving a lot of attention lately for their ferocious and energetic live shows, having also played alongside Andrew WK and Drenge.

TALL SHIPS

titled Everything Touching in 2012, and they are currently in the process of writing their follow-up. The band has received notable airplay from Zane Lowe and Huw Stevens at the BBC, also headlining the BBC Introducing Stage at the 2012 Reading and Leeds festivals.

They’ve been described as indie fused with math-rock.

DIRTY BEACHES Camden Town Brewery, June 20

Fans of sampling and improvised tunes shouldn’t miss Dirty Beaches, who first began as a one-man-band founded

by Alex Zhang Hungtai and is now a three-piece. The critically acclaimed fulllength album Badlands was released in 2011 and followed up by the double LP Drifters/Love Is The Devil last year, which saw Dirty Beaches tour Europe and the Asia Pacific.

STEVE MASON Koko, June 20

Lead singer and one of the founders of The Beta Band, Steve Mason has released solo material as King Biscuit Time and worked under the name Black Affair, as well as releasing Boys Outside in 2010 with producer Richard X. The album received a 4/5 rating from Q and saw Mason swap his more indie sensibilities for a dabble in the world of electronic pop.

Proud, June 21

This experimental Brighton band have released two EPs and a debut album

thecamdencrawl.com

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Madame Jo Jo’s

The Roof Gardens

HAMPSTEAD COMEDY CLUB 100 Camden High St, NW1 0LU

Founded by Ivor Dembina – a veteran comic in his own right – you can expect to catch a huge variety of acts on the Hampstead Comedy Club stages, from circuit regulars and instantly recognisable TV comics, to the upand-coming rising stars and a new generation of funnymen. Dembina’s reputation rests on putting on quality shows above anything else and you’ll find the best of Edinburgh Fringe previews here too.

99 CLUB Leicester Square, WC2

When 99 Club first opened in a tiny room on Great Windmill Street in 1994, it could barely squeeze in 30 people. Two decades later, it has won the London Critics’ choice for comedy and has steadily played host to the best UK comics from Monday to Friday – which is something not all venues can say for themselves.

Preferring to nurture and support true comedic talent over focusing on commercial imperatives, 99 Club offers a true ‘you saw them here first’ experience.

DOWNSTAIRS @ THE KING’S HEAD 2 Crouch End Hill, N8 8AA

Downstairs at The King’s Head presents some of the best new and established acts in comedy, with a side of music, dance and, occasionally, even magic. Its marketing team may still be clinging on to Sean Lock’s comment he made some 10 years ago that he thought it was the ‘best comedy club ever’, but it does continue to bring in the famous comics who passed through its doors on their way up to stardom.

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TOP 5 QUIRKY EVENT NIGHTS MAD HATTER’S TEA PARTY @ THE ROOF GARDENS 99 Kensington High St, W8 5SA

One of London’s most prestigious and popular venues will transform into an Adventure in Wonderland and the surreal world of the Mad Hatter’s tea party, hosted by The Late Night Cocktail Club. Tickets to this special night at The Roof Gardens on Saturday April 19 include a complimentary cocktail, live entertainment and a good-old barbecue throughout the night for £30 (£18 early bird) – all you need to do is follow the dress code, which is smart... with an Alice In Wonderland twist. Tickets are available from thelatenightcocktailclub.com BURLESQUE IDOL @ MADAME JOJO’S 8-10 Brewer St, W1F 0SE

Tassel-twirling their way to victory, the UK and the world’s fastest-rising burlesque starlets put on one hell of a show as part of Burlesque Idol at Madame Jojo’s on the last Friday of every month. Now in its fifth year, the competition is London’s biggest burlesque spectacular and features an array of critically acclaimed UK, European and Australian talent, all vying to be the next superstar. The audience gets to judge the contest as part of this highly entertaining evening.

THE BLACK CAT PRESENTS... SALON DES ARTISTES FRIDAYS @ CAFE ROYAL HOTEL 68 Regent St, W1B 4DY

The Black Cat Cabaret presents a beautiful and raucous show at the iconic Grill Room at Cafe Royal Hotel every Friday night, featuring luxurious shows

and some of the finest performers in the city within an intimate setting. You can also expect magicians as well as dancers.

Tickets tend to go very quickly so book early for this night that also includes fine dining, amazing entertainment and superb cocktails until the wee hours.

FEELING GLOOMY: THE PULP SPECIAL @ THE PHOENIX 37 Cavendish Square, W1G 0PP

Every month this quirky club night celebrates being miserable. You know those tunes you love but when you listen to the words you actually realise how damn depressing they are? That’s basically the playlist. This month they are getting down about the fact that Pulp released their His’N’Hers album 20 years ago. Twenty! To ‘celebrate’ The Phoenix is playing some of their classic songs, along with tracks from The Smiths, Suede, Blur, The Libertines and more. This mash-up takes places on Saturday April 5 from 10pm at £4.50.

LADY DINAH’S CAT EMPORIUM 152-154 Bethnal Green Rd, Shoreditch, E26 DG

You can’t beat a cat cafe for a unique night out in London. You have to book in advance for brunch, lunch or dinner (and it’s currently booked up until June!), but this is the best – and only – way to kick back with a cup of tea while spending time with some purring feline residents (well, outside of your home perhaps). Expect a very English-looking tearoom which also serves as a safe, comfortable home for 11 rescued cats.

Cakes, scones, pastries, teas and coffees are the stars of the menu, but even they don’t outshine the cute kitties. Just look out for fur balls.

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Go to tntmagazine.com/competitions. See webpage for terms and conditions. Winners will be selected at random.

WIN TICKETS TO SOUNDWAVE CROATIA FESTIVAL WITH FAT FREDDY’S DROP Europe’s most beautiful boutique music event, Soundwave Festival Croatia, is offering two pairs of festival tickets (worth £125 each) plus a host of boat party and afterparty tickets.

Set in a secret cove at the heart of the Dalmatian Coast, the idyllic fishing town of Tisno is a beautiful backdrop to one of Europe’s finest independent festivals. Back for its sixth year, the festival has produced a line-up as eclectic and exciting as ever; with legendary Kiwi band Fat Freddy’s Drop headlining! Don’t miss out on this festival experience of a lifetime.

Soundwave: “Perhaps the summer’s most beautiful festival”.

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A COUTURE HAIRCUT WITH AWARD-WINNING HAIRDRESSER LEE STAFFORD 82 FOR EVEN MORE COMPETITIONS SEE TNTMAGAZINE.COM/ COMPETITIONS

PREVIOUS WINNERS TANDEM SKYDIVING EXPERIENCE WITH TRAVEL CHANNEL: Penny Ford / TICKETS TO EVERY EGG LONDON SHOW IN MARCH Ben Audsley ST PATRICK’S DAY PARTY FOR 8 Tony Machin

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Melle Stewart If you don’t recognise her from Home and Away (you might have blinked), you should check out Melle Stewart’s talents on the stage in Once We Lived Here’s UK debut...

INTERVIEW CAROLINE GARNAR

Tell us a bit about Once We Lived Here...

It’s a contemporary Australian musical written

by Dean Bryant and Mathew Frank. Set at the family homestead on a sheep station in Victoria, Australia, it’s a stunningly powerful and touching story about a family dealing with life, love, loss and each other. It’s played in Melbourne and New York to great acclaim.

It’s reportedly pretty moving and addresses a lot of important issues – do you think that’s important for a musical? Or is it more about how catchy the songs are?

Once We Lived Here is quite moving and, I hope, also funny and entertaining at the same time.

I believe it’s most important that musicals – just like plays and films – have a strong script and an engaging story. If the script is strong then I don’t think it matters if it’s about something important or about something hilariously ridiculous.

The best ones always have a bit of both don’t they? To me musical theatre is at its best when a fantastic script, soaring score and, when required, dynamic choreography work hand in hand to tell a wonderful story.

Photo: supplied

It’s received an award for Best New Australian Musical – do you think it will be as well received over here?

I was so proud of Dean and Mathew and the talented original cast for winning that award.

I do feel confident that the piece will be received well over here. I look at the way pieces like London Road can succeed alongside megabudget hits like Book of Mormon and feel that London really does have an audience for a diverse range of musical theatre.

Do you see it as more of a challenge, performing a very Australian role to primarily English audiences? Do you think people will ‘get it’?

I guess there may be the odd reference that may needs to be deduced, but I feel that the themes of the piece are certainly universal enough for English audiences to ‘get it’. You’re a pretty savvy bunch aren’t you?

You’re married to an Englishman who 30

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performs in Australia, and now you’re performing in London – are you trying to get away from each other?

Not at all! Although my husband was born here in London, we actually met while we were both studying in Australia. We lived and worked together back home and have made the move over here together also. We’re a good team.

He’s working on a musical adaptation of Thérèse Raquin at the moment, so between that and me working on Once We Lived Here, our neighbours are copping an earful.

What do you think of London?

I am in absolute cultural heaven. London is a stunning city with such a rich and diverse artistic heritage. I have really enjoyed getting to see and experience this side of the world.

You appeared in Home and Away for a couple of episodes. What are your

memories of the experience? Are you still in touch with any of the cast?

Well it was only in a guest role so it was a very short experience! There have been no barbecue invites from the Hemsworth brothers let’s put it that way!

What have you been up to since?

I have worked primarily in the theatre since graduating from WAAPA. I have enjoyed working on big blockbuster musicals and also supporting and developing contemporary works such as The Hatpin and Once We Lived Here. My main goal as an actor is to search for projects that will challenge and stretch me…it’s the only way to move forward and really see what you are capable of.

Once We Live Here is playing at King’s Head Theatre April 2-26. Tickets £15-£25. kingsheadtheatre.com

25th & 26th July 2014

25th

26th

The Feeling Alabama 3 Martha Reeves & The Vandellas The Zombies Big Country Finding Albert Model Aeroplanes

Become a myTNT VIP for access to fantastic freebies, huge discounts and heaps of benefits. For just £50, joining our new members club will give you the chance to do more in London and beyond for less.

For full details see tntmagazine.com/myTNT-VIP

EAR FESTIVAL SITE N DUNDRENNAN, GALLOWAY DUMFRIES AND

WITH TEN STAGES, A DEDICATED CHILDREN’S AREA, A HOST OF OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, LUXURY CAMPING OPTIONS, A FIREWORKS DISPLAY AND THE SPECTACULAR BURNING OF THE WICKERMAN AT MIDNIGHT ON SATURDAY, IT IS AN ADVENTURE NOT TO BE MISSED.

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’S GREAT SUMMER LINE UP

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JUST KEEP SKIING Thanks to the excellent snow conditions, the ski season in Cortina d’Ampezzo in the Italian Dolomites has been extended until the beginning of May. Get your skis on! cortina.dolomiti.org

Photos: supplied

INSIDE

LET’S GET HIGH /44

SEEING RED /52

SUNNY SRI LANKA /60

Scotland may want its independence, but we’re still in love with the place (please don’t leave us!).

If you have lachanophobia (a fear of vegetables) it may be best to avoid La Tomatina, otherwise get in there!

Once we manage to tear ourselves away from our hammock, we uncover the beauty of this tear-drop shaped island

TRAVELREVIEW WORLDREVIEW

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Shark-tastic times to be had

FIN-TASTIC NEW HOTEL AT THORPE PARK UK It’s not often we’d tell you to walk straight into the jaws of a shark, but we’re about to.

Opening this month, the Thorpe Park Shark hotel greets you via the wide-open jaws of a giant metal shark, emerging from a lake. However, we can guarantee that this friendly fellow will leave you in one piece so you can go on to enjoy the crazyfun rides at the theme park.

Short break packages start from £39.99 pp (based on four sharing) and include two-day park tickets. That’s a total bargain as a one-day pass costs from £24.99 anyway, so you get to sleep in the belly of a shark for just 15 quid! thorpepark.com

DISCOVER THE SITES OF THE DEAD SEA ISRAEL You will never fully understand the Dead Sea until you’ve been there.

For starters, it isn’t actually a sea but a lake, and it’s 8.6 times saltier than the ocean, which means you will bob around like a cork.

To float here is to obtain a sense of tranquility (as long as you don’t get any in your eyes), and now it’s not even stressful to get there thanks to the aptly named DeadSeaBus. Operating Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, you can purchase return tickets and entry passes to select Dead Sea destinations and attractions: Kibbutz Ein Gedi, Kikar Sodom, Ein Gedi and Masada, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area is also home to the remains of King Herod’s winter palace. thinkisrael.com

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Want to experience the sensation of flying underwater? Well you can thanks to the all-new watersport, the Subwing. It’s a device that is towed behind a boat, allowing the rider to ‘fly’ underwater. Try it at the Beach the Blackberry fortnight, held at The Peligoni Club in Zakynthos June 19-July 3. peligoni.com/holidays/beach-the-blackberry

GUINEA PIGS WANTED UK This is possibly one of the coolest things we’ve encountered – Steppes Travel is looking for guinea pigs (not literally) to road test some new tours.

We once knew a couple that was lucky enough to land a job testing condoms for Durex, which is hands-down the best job in the world, but this comes a close second.

For a reduced cost you can go on what looks like some fantastic tours of exotic spots such as Mongolia, Nepal and Gabon.

But beware, the point of testing is that, sometimes, things aren’t what they seem – website pictures turn out to be fake and the ‘four-star’ hotel isn’t fit for a tramp. But still worth a go, eh? steppestravel.co.uk

THE ROAD TO MANDALAY BURMA Except that it’s not a road, it’s the Irrawaddy River, which is even better.

Travel Indochina are combining a swanky culture fix with minimal-effort adventures, all aboard the luxurious Irrawaddy Explorer.

A 10-day cruise sends travellers on a mystical journey from Yangon to Mandalay with a peek at the markets, memorials and colonial bits and bobs along the way.

Then there are the on-board perks. Daily dinners are part of the package and rooms have private balconies. The maiden voyage will set sail in November. Book your bunk online at travelindochina.co.uk

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MAD WORLD GIANT SQUASH SEIZED AT CUSTOMS UK

Some people really do try to smuggle the most random things through customs don’t they, but a four stone squash? Really?

This one is 100 per cent true and left staff at Birmingham airport scratching their heads. The passenger who was travelling from Bangladesh also had 175lb of fish and 94,000 cigarettes with them. Officers were probing a consignment of illegal foodstuffs imported from Asia and also discovered 2,000lbs of illegally imported betel leaves in three separate shipments. A vat of squash soup, fish and chips and, er, a fag for dessert anyone?

[Caption] Sunset on the Irrawaddy: Best by boat

AQUAHOLICS ANONYMOUS VIRGINIA, USA Virginia is one of the top wine destinations in the good old US of A. It’s also a great place to go kayaking: brave souls the world over coming to experience its magnificent whitewater.

And now you can combine the white wine with the whitewater in one trip.

SouthEast Expeditions runs a ‘Paddle Your Glass Off’ kayak wine tour to Chatham Vineyards on Virginia’s historic Eastern Shore. The tour costs £50 per person and includes one bottle of wine per couple.

Wine not? southeastexpeditions.com.

DON’T LOOK BACK IN ANGER

Photos: Thinkstock and Getty/supplied

ORLANDO, USA Here at TNT Towers we all agree that there’s nothing more fun than waterslides because they’re amazing.

Climbing those steps and zooming down to splash in the pool below.

So when we read about one that’s six stories tall and pits you against others in a race, we became embarrassingly excited (not like that, we just squealed a lot). On Wet ‘n Wild Orlando’s new Aqua Drag Racer you’ll be shifting at a speed of 15 feet per second through a network of interwoven, twisting tunnels in one of four race lanes. On your marks... wetnwildorlando.com

MYSTERIOUS CASE OF THE GLOWING VIRGIN Yoga, warmth and lush greenery: It could be you [Caption]

YOGA GOTTA DO THIS UK Fan of the downward dog? How about sun salutations? Okay, final offer – child’s pose? We’re talking about yoga and, more specifically, news that yoga holiday specialist Destination Yoga has announced its 2014 programme featuring 23 groupyoga retreats.

Choose from sweeping Andalucían vistas, the romantic countryside in southern Italy or a Relais and Chateaux country retreat in India, with prices as low as £695pp for seven nights. All destination yoga retreat prices include all classes and equipment, accommodation, towels, meals, local transfers, insurance, massages, guided hikes and excursions. So brush up on your chaturanga dandasana and eagle pose and pick from six departure dates: April 16, May 10, May 17, September 10, October 1 and October 8.

BELGIUM

Police in the normally sleepy Belgian town of Jalhay have been forced into posting guards around a pavilion housing a statue of the Virgin Mary after it mysteriously started glowing.

Witnesses say the small statue glows at night and, as yet, no plausible explanation for the bizarre phenomenon has been presented, but clergymen have been dispatched to check on its validity. Is it a miracle? Time will tell...

MAN GOES NUTS IN HEADBUTT RAMPAGE PAKISTAN

Mohammed Rashid (remember the name) has a lot to celebrate: he’s cracked the world record and smashed open 155 walnuts in just one minute – by headbutting them.

He paid the price for his nutty behaviour as he could be seen wiping blood away from his forehead as officials ran to congratulate him for breaking the previous record of just 44 walnuts.

destinationyoga.co.uk

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TRAVELDIARY

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Midnight Sun: Indulge in 24-hour daylight xxxx at Iceland’s Secret Solstice festival

XXX A HIKE TAKE Gordon Steer, UK Manager of World xxx.

Expeditions, tells us about a few tours suitable xx: xxx for the first-time trekker.

Annapurna and Everest: Traversing two of Nepal’s most impressive mountain ranges, this trek shows off The Himalayas in all their grandeur with views to Mount Everest and across rhododendron forests as well as flights over the peaks. The 15-day round-trip includes accommodation in Kathmandu, camping equipment, internal travel and local guides, and prices start at £1,490 per person.

Sapa, Vietnam: This seven-day trip follows in the footsteps of French colonists, passing through the rice terraces, mountains and villages of northwest Vietnam. The trip includes an overnight train and stopovers with local families, as well as a bilingual guide and some sightseeing time to explore the Old Quarter of Hanoi. From £790 per person, the tour is available all year round.

Rocky Mountains: Canada comes into its own in The Rockies, where most of the landscape boasts UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Starting from £1,490 per person, this seven-day trek spans three National Parks, Lake Louise, and The Columbia Icefields, plus a chance to experience the summer colour schemes of the mountains. worldexpeditions.co.uk

SECRET SOLSTICE Iceland Making its debut this year, this Midnight Sun Music Festival takes advantage of Iceland’s 24-hour daylight to keep an eclectic medley of 20-22 music coming well into the night. The site features its own pool and petting zoo, and, set over the Summer Solstice weekend, the whole shebang blends Norse mythology and Icelandic tradition with super-modern tunes.

JUN

WHERE: Reykjavik, Iceland WHY GO: Massive Attack brushes shoulders with the likes of Skream and neofolkster Woodkid, plus a spattering of local artists and Nordic gods. What’s not to love?

WHAT ELSE? It’s a city centre affair, so take a break from the festivities and trek up

BARRAKUD Pag, Croatia

barrakud.com

dcjazzfest.org

Taking over the whole town, this festival features 13-21 evening concerts in the Medina, free al-fresco entertainment and spiritual Sufi evenings, all based around 2014’s theme: “Journey of Culture”. Certainly different...

JUN

fesfestival.com

BEALE ST FESTIVAL Memphis, USA

Contemporary rock, blues and soul combine in the 2-4 hometown of American tunes. Tom Lee Park will play host to Kid Rock and Alabama Shakes. One of the coolest festivals going.

MAY

memphisinmay.org/musicfestival

Photos: supplied and Thinkstock. Words: Stephanie Palmer

The capital of the USA will be swathed in riffs and 24-29 smooth grooves as the DC Jazz Festival celebrates its 10th birthday. Entertainment meets education in concerts that explore the city’s musical heritage, while venues range from riverfront to restaurants.

JUN

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ESTIVAL OF WORLD F SACRED MUSIC Fes, Morocco

This electronic adventure blends the best of the 9-16 European club scene with seaside relaxation. There’s a lot of love in the air as ravers unite as family, all to the tune of Sven Vath and Dubfire.

DC JAZZ FESTIVAL

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secretsolstice.is

AUG

Washington DC, USA

xxxxhigh: Trekking in Nepal Sky

the steeple of Hallgrímskirkja for panoramic views of the colourful capital. Or head to the countryside for geothermal frolicks.

HOW MUCH: Three-day passes are available from £73 with a WOW Air offer, and camping is £40 for the weekend.

SAIL THE MED? SURF THE ATLANTIC? CLIMB MONT BLANC? SKI THE ALPS? The ultimate all-inclusive, action sports trips to world-class resorts for adventure travellers on a budget. From Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, extreme sports capital of the world to Lacanau, stage host in the surfing world championships, locations and prices are unbeatable. Learn, improve and push your limits with expert instruction for all levels included in the all-inclusive package.

1 WEEK PACKAGES, PRICE EXAMPLES: • DOWN HILL MOUNTAIN BIKING – £491 • SURFING – £353 • ROCK CLIMBING – £427 • SKI & SNOWBOARD – £464 • CATAMARAN SAILING – £397

Winter & Summer – every week – full details on: www.action-outdoors.co.uk

All included in the price!

ACCOMMODATION ALL MEALS EQUIPMENT HIRE INSTRUCTION OR GUIDING LIFT PASS

Tours, day trips and festivals!

17 MAY

CalaisShopping

Disneyland Paris

19 JUNE

Ladies Day Ascot

Alton Towers

CALAIS SHOPPING TRIP Since the opening of the Euro-Tunnel, Calais has be come one of the most visited place in France. There are plenty of retail outlets and warehouses offering amazing value for money. The Complex itself offers more then 120 shops from the latest fashion to health & beauty. Also over 20 restaurants cafes and bars all under one roof.

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

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CITY VIEWS

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CITY VIEWS

Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world

1

To celebrate the re-opening of the ArcelorMittal Orbit – you know, the crazy, twisting red thing at the Olympic Park in Stratford – we thought we’d trawl the world to find you the most killer city views because, from the top of that thing, you can see pretty much all of London. We hope you have a head for heights because some of these buildings are serious, especially in the case of the Burj Khalifa which took more than 110,000 tons of concrete to build (the weight of that is equivalent to 100,000 elephants apparently, ooh er).

PETRONAS TWIN TOWERS When they opened in 1998 the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, with 88 floors, were the tallest buildings in the world. Today, that title has long been passed on, several times in fact, but it remains a Malaysian icon and the views from the top – a stunning 360° view from the observation deck – are absolutely incredible.

The only drawback is that the ticket 38

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office opens at 8.30am and provides, on a first-come-first-served basis, a limited number of tickets for that day, so arrive early (some get there as early as half six!) because it’s like trying to get tickets to a free Prince concert (you think we’re joking?).

For a cracking view of the Towers themselves – they’re a lovely looking pair too – head across to the Traders Hotel and its SkyBar perched on the 33rd floor. Sit back, enjoy a few drinks and take it all in. It is majestic.

Entry to the Petronas Twin Towers is RM80 which works out at about £14, so hardly pricey. If you don’t mind camping out like tennis fans at Wimbledon it’s well worth it because at 452m high, the iconic towers are officially the world’s tallest twin building. Double the fun.

If you are brave enough, you can also tackle the Skybridge that links the twins. At 170m above ground, it’s the world’s highest double-deck bridge and offers superb bird’s eye views of the city. petronastwintowers.com.my

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TOPFIVE MY HIGH EXPERIENCE

Left: Jenni

BURJ KHALIFA

EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

The tallest building in the world of course offers one of our top five city views, particularly as the city of Dubai looks like the future.

The centrepiece of downtown Dubai, it’s a real draw for tourists, fascinated by how the hell they managed to build something so big (830m!). The observation deck is on the 124th floor – although that’s actually only the third highest in the world.

We were tempted to go for the new One World Trade Centre at number three but you don’t get more iconic than the Empire State Building do you, so how could we leave it out?

You just can’t beat this building, which was the world’s tallest from 1931 to 1973, boasting an 86th-floor observatory and spectacular views of New York City and beyond. Head to the roof and for an ‘Affair to Remember’.

burjkhalifa.ae

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JENNI DENNIS ON THE BURJ SO, WHAT’S THE VIEW LIKE?

Pretty incredible. What’s great is you get a mix of futuristiclooking buildings, desert and the sea and beach – so unlike anywhere else in the world. What really surprised me was how empty Dubai actually looks from up there.

From ground level you are surrounded by skyscrapers – but really that only makes up a tiny part of the emirate. It’s also amazing to see how tiny 50-floor buildings look from the 124th floor of the Burj.

Photos: Thinkstock and Getty. Words: Ian Armitage

WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO ENJOY ASIDE FROM THE VIEW?

SKY TOWER

ARCELORMITTAL ORBIT

At 328m high, Auckland’s Sky Tower is the tallest structure in the southern hemisphere and, not only are the views from the top great, you can also jump off it!

Yep, this one is for all the adrenaline junkies out there, home to New Zealand’s highest jump, a base jump by wire which offers a gentle introduction to an extreme sport. Great views and adventure? We approve.

Last but not least, we have the Orbit, a feat of modern engineering that looks a lot like a giant Meccano.

Don’t let that fool you, there are cracking views of over 20 miles across London from the top. The 114.5m structure re-opens this month and it’s a tantalising mix – both playful and entertaining and a hybrid of art and architecture. Sadly it doesn’t have slides.

Maybe they could add some?

skyjump.co.nz

There’s a fancy restaurant – At.mosphere – although you pay sky-high prices so I would recommend just heading to the bar for a couple of cocktails at night. There’s also a good exhibition, which shows the design, progress and people involved with building the Burj.

WHAT’S CLOSE BY?

You enter the tallest building in the world via the biggest mall in the world, The Dubai Mall. There’s also the Dubai Fountain, which, surprise surprise, is the world’s largest of its kind.

arcelormittalorbit.com

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BBK

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EUROPEANFESTIVAL

Basque in BBK’s glory With bands, beaches and beer in The Basque Country, Bilbao BBK Live is one of Europe’s finest music festivals WORDS ALISDAIR MORTON

I’m in a park, on a mountain, clutching a beer, and I am watching the sun sink behind the city below. I am also about to go and watch Green Day live on stage. I’m at Bilbao BBK Live 2013. Does life get any better? Well yes, it does. This year, The Prodigy are headlining.

There’s little doubt that you, dear reader, are in the UK so you can travel until you can’t stand up properly without a backpack on. There’s also little doubt that you don’t enjoy an event where you can drink until you pass out, see your favourite bands perform live, and wear a sleeping bag suit in public. So, by heading to Europe to take in a music festival, you can combine two of your favourite past times. And this is why, having experienced it first hand, I recommend Bilbao BBK Live.

Birthed in 2006, the fest has seen the likes of Pearl Jam, Kaiser Chiefs and Radiohead take to its stages, and has been steadily rising in size and profile year on year as the demand for tickets has exploded since its inception. It’s scooped numerous fest award noms for Best European Fest (UK Fest Awards 2010 and 2011) and Best Medium-Sized European Festival (European Fest Awards 2009 to 2011). Having taken it in last year, it is clear to see why – its combination of intimate surrounds with bumper bands an irresistible appeal.

This year has already got the likes of aforementioned The Prodigy, Ohio garage rock duo The Black Keys, electro stars Polica, Scot-indie rock outfit Franz Ferdinand (and their infamous pointy shoes), MGMT and English folk rock superstar Frank Turner along with his Sleeping Souls, already confirmed to star at this multi-stage three-day event. But, unlike many music events this summer, it is far more than just a ‘fest in a field’.

Located in Kobetamendi Park, which is atop Mount Cobestas overlooking the city of Bilbao, you are treated to fantastic views, not to mention a unique, secluded atmosphere as evening descends and the music kicks off. And it is this evening-and-night-time set-up at Euro fests, BBK Live especially, that means they can be so much more than a beer-fuelled fight on through from lunch to midnight as Brit-fests often become (not least by the Brits). This leaves you free to occupy your days with recovery, should you need it, or, as I opted for, exploring the city and taking in all the region has to offer.

Bilbao city itself is a thriving destination; its postindustrialist make-up meaning, while the port business has dwindled, it has reinvented itself as cultural melting pot of music, art, architecture and gastronomic delight. The Guggenheim, sitting proudly in the centre of town, is one of the city’s chief attractions, and rightly so. Standing like a towering combination of shining silver shells, its design – by Frank Gehry – is a wondrous spectacle of its own, with Jeff Koons’ giant floral Puppy standing at the front (it was meant to be a temporary piece but was liked so much it has become a permanent entrance welcome).

This level of wonder is kept through the impressive myriad of rooms and levels inside that take in everything from world-renowned artists such as David Hockney and Willem De Kooning, to local Basque talent – the star-studded L’Art En Guerre show last summer was a particular stunner that took two afternoons of my time to take in. Big shows this year include none other than Yoko Ono’s Half-A-Wind, a multi-disciplinary retrospective incorporating more than 200 pieces taking in everything from films, paintings, photos, installations and documented performances, illustrating this most diverse of artists.

Hopping the subway a couple of stops out of town one afternoon, I took in one of the most impressive structures the city has to boast, yet one that is too infrequently visited.

Jumping off the Metro before making my way through a rabbit warren of houses and apartments I walked out onto the river side where the towering Vizcaya Bridge stands.

A suspension bridge dating back to 1893, it is one of the earliest of its kind – and one that is still in operation today – and holds the lofty accolade of being designed by Alberto Palacio, a protégé of Gustave Eiffel (yes he of many-a famous Parisian photo op). It runs across the Nervion River every eight minutes and has a lift on either side allowing you to stroll across its 164m width at a height of 50m. However, although the views of the city, the port and coast are breathtaking, its minimal design means it is not for those prone to the odd moment of vertigo (like myself), who might quickly find themselves grabbing the arm rails for some semblance of comfort. (They offered little, much to the amusement of locals showing out-of-town family their proud heritage.) ›› TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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If the industrial heritage of the city is in decline, its proud Basque history is very mush the opposite. Situated in the heart of Basque Country the city is proud of its origins – Basque not Spanish! – and this shines through in everything from the food to the local football team: Athletic Bilbao, also known as Los Leones, The Lions.

A stroll around the city’s old town, the Casco Viejo, and a trip to the Plaza Nueva, both east of the city, allowed me to venture down narrow winding streets, and into ancient churches and designer shops. Moreover, it is the local pinxtos – a Basque variant of Spanish tapas – that floods the streets with a delicious aroma. An assortment of meat, vegetable and fish served up on toasted bread, it is a local snack that’s enjoyed at all times of the day – and often with a cheeky glass of vino, a tradition I was only too happy to abide by.

Strolling around this area of town, it is clear to see how the past has met with the present to form contemporary Bilbao, which brings the best of both worlds together in a beautiful and imposing whole.

But if a week of cultural indulgence is not enough, then Bilbao has the benefits of a seaside holiday too. A short subway journey brings you to the northern coast of the city limits and Basque region (on the Spanish side), which offers a plethora of watersports, beach-side cafes and bars to explore, which I gladly did.

First stop was the expansive plains of Plentzia, a sheltered beach ideal for those looking to kick back and take in some more genteel water activities. Perfect for soothing the postfirst-night hangover of BBK fest, I took in a load of paddle boarding on its calm and tranquil waters before kayaking out. A word of warning though, even to sun-weathered Aussies: make sure the sun screen you apply is a high factor and water-resistant. Two hours of paddling in the midday sun leaves you with red-as-hell shins (a new one for me) and a very unflattering life jacket tan line.

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If you want to take in some more adventurous beach life, then head to Bakio: the waves are unfiltered by artificial harbour defences, like they are in Plentzia, and the surrounding life is a little more grown-up orientated with bars taking prominence over cafes and eateries. Sadly, my journey here took place the day after the Plentzia debacle, by which point the skin covering my lower legs had turned a nice blood-red colour and had stretched tight as a wetsuit.

This limited my surfing activities to hiding in the shade with nothing but my embarrassment for company as I watched the rest of my pals board out and take it on.

Another top feature of the Bilbao fest is that it is only a couple of hours away from the UK, meaning it is possible to make it for a long weekend. The festival runs from Thursday night to Saturday night, so you can be back for work on the Monday if needs be. It’s also a fraction of the price of other Euro and Brit fests (three-day tickets with camping cost £92) with week-long package deals available too. Whichever way you look at it, Bilbao BBK is a bargain. Bands, beaches, and cultural education to round off the debauchery, just try and take it all in. I tried and failed, so can’t wait to get back this year. See you there.

Bilbao BBK takes place July 10-12, 2014. Kobetamendi is a 10-minute bus ride from Bilbao city centre. Three-day ticket: £88; three-day ticket + camping: £92; day ticket (Th/Fr/Sa): £47.50. Includes camping if needed. Booking fee not included. Available on See Tickets, Ticketweb and Eufest. bilbaobbklive.com/2014/en

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Caption

Photos: Thinkstock, Tomatin Distillery, West Coast Railways, Naelimits Rafting, Eileandon Castle., The National Wallace Monument, dunkeldandbirnam.org.uk and bungeejumpscotland.co.uk

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The Highlands

SCOTLAND

dunkeldandbirnam.org.uk and bungeejumpscotland.co.uk

UKTRIP

Kilty pleasures Scotland may want its independence, but we’re still up for a quick Highlands fling…

WORDS SARAH TUCKER

In September this year, the Scots are voting to decide if they want their country to be independent from the UK. While for you this might only mean the hassle of having to flash your passport when crossing the border, it’s still as good an excuse as any to get up there this summer.

The cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow are fantastic, but for a true escape you can’t beat the wilderness of the Highlands. It’s a world of monsters and mayhem; overwhelmingly dramatic and stunning scenery; haunting vistas and incredible tales of dreadful bloody and tragic battles. Here are the top things to do…

Trek to Braveheart country and sip on whisky Start the day with a forest walk into the Highlands where guides will tell tales of clan rebellion. Listen intently while walking through Braveheart country to the National Wallace Monument. nationalwallacemonumnet.com Taste some whisky while taking in the Grampian mountains at Aviemore. Listen to the tales of battle at Killiecrankie before heading to Pitlochry where you can go water rafting. naelimits.zenfolio.com Head to the Isle of Skye Cross the water to the Isle of Skye, seeing if you can spot the Loch Ness Monster on the way. The magic of Faerie Glen, stunning lochs and amazing waterfalls will stun those who visit into silent awe. Climb up the distinctive rock formation on the Isle of Skye, especially the Old Man of Storr, an overwhelmingly beautiful sight – the kind that leaves you misty eyed (yep, even you tough types).

“ We like the English really – just not the football supporters ” mountain. And then to the haunting landscape of Glen Coe where you can imagine the battles fought out in the tales of the highland outlaws as though the air still echoes with their battle cries and the earth is still stained with their blood.

Travel to the Trossachs Take in the Standing Stones at Oban and hill forts of ancient Scotland before making your way through Argyle and into the Trossachs National Park trossachs.co.uk, known as the Scottish Highlands in miniature. Travel into the heart of William Wallace country and learn about Scotland’s fight for independence from the English – which they are still fighting to this day. When we asked a Highlander if they like the English, they responded, “We like the English really – just not the football supporters.” Which is fair.

Do the Chariot of Fire run Spend time in Dunkeld, the first capital of Scotland dunkeldandbirnam.org.uk, and stop for a forest walk in

Find haunting landscapes and Harry Potter Leaving Skye, check out the famous Eilean Donan Castle eileandonancastle.com, then north to Torridon and test for vertigo at the Corrieshalloch Gorge nts.org.uk, which means ‘ugly hollow’ in Gaelic, but is totally undeserving of that title – it is stunning. Discover the unique setting of the Black Isle before heading to the Highlands capital of Inverness.

Next head to the west coast of Scotland taking in the Glenfinnan viaduct westcoastrailways.co.uk – made famous by the Harry Potter films – and the Bonnie Prince Charlie monument as well as Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest

Pine Cone Point viewpoint overlooking the River Tay

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The Jacobite: Travel in Harry Potter-style coaches

the beautiful Hermitage. On to St Andrews visitstandrews. com, famed for its golf course, its beach (the celebrated Chariots of Fire run) and where Kate met Will. Then enter the Kingdom of Fife and head down the coast, getting the best views of the world-famous Forth Bridge and back to Edinburgh.

Organised tours

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MacBackpackers macbackpackers.com and Haggis Adventures haggisadventures both offer excellent-valuefor-money tours with affordable accommodation. The companies offer a freedom pass, so you can go where and when you want, but their five-day and three-day tours to Skye and the Highlands are especially good, taking in all the major sites, with expert guides leading the way and evoking the scene of each battle en-route. Staying at hostels and small, comfortable bed and breakfasts along the way, both companies offer tours to the Highlands whisky distilleries and Loch Ness excursions as well as learning about the famous haggis – although when you learn what is actually in it, you may prefer the vegetarian version.

Outdoor adventures The rugged terrain of the Scottish Highlands is ideal for mountain biking. There are miles of purpose-built trails and many off-road, unmarked routes through the wilderness considered the best in Europe. Some companies offer two- to five-day long trips staying in tents or bothies along the way.

In Cairngorn National Park there’s a wealth of companies offering a variety of outdoor adventures. From zip-lining, white water rafting, canyoning and gorge walking to kayaking, canoeing, hill walking, rock climbing and abseiling and bungee jumping bungeejumpscotland.co.uk.

For more details visit g2outdoor.co.uk.

Quinta da Regaleira, Sintra

Beyond Anzac: Explore the pretty coastline of Gallipoli while you’re there

Lisbon PORTUGAL

Tower of Belem

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Photos: Chris Diewald

Quinta da Regaleira, Sinta

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EUROPEANBREAK

Lisbon to your heart Packed with culture, character, art and history, Lisbon demands attention, time and comfortable shoes WORDS MEGAN HOGARTH

While it’s tempting to see Lisbon from the window of an old cable car straining its way up the hills (and you should at least once), you’ll be rewarded if you explore on foot.

Walk the maze of streets through the Portuguese capital and appreciate the small details that make this city so wonderful – flower-filled balconies, colourful tiled buildings, art-drenched alleys and stunning panoramas. To top it off, Lisbon is one of Europe’s cheapest and sunniest capitals, and its location makes it a convenient base as you explore more of the country, with towns such Coimbra, Tomar, Porto, Aveiro and Batalha possible to visit in a day. Here are our top spots to explore while you’re there...

The Belém District Lisbon’s Belém neighbourhood is famous for two things: museums and egg tarts. The Number 15 tram from the city centre will drop you within walking distance of several museums and galleries, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Monastery of Jerónimos and Tower of Belém.

Both are free to visit on Sundays before 2pm, as are most of Portugal’s cultural sites, and the lines form early. Speaking of lines, expect a big one outside Pastéis de Belém, close to the Monastery. The shop opened in 1837 and is famous for its Pasteis de Nata, Portugal’s delicious egg tarts.

The views of Lisbon

Quinta da Regaleira where you can explore a labyrinth of underground tunnels. Don’t bother buying a ticket to go inside Pena Palace. A pass to the park will still let you admire the extravagantly decorated building up close and the interior is disappointing by comparison.

The most western point of Europe There’s not much at Cabo da Roca except an information centre and a plaque acknowledging you’ve gone as far west as you can without getting your feet wet. But it’s pretty unique to know you are standing at the ‘edge of the world’, with the North Atlantic Ocean stretching on until it hits America. The 403 bus runs regularly from Sintra (35 minutes) or from Cascais (25 minutes).

Bertrand bookshop It’s enough to make a book lover weak at the knees – stepping inside the oldest bookshop in the world. Livraria Bertrand opened in 1732 and holds the Guinness World Record as the longest-running bookstore. It’s been at its ›› current location on Rua Garrett since 1755.

Livraria Bertrand is the oldest bookshop in the world

Lisbon’s hills may tire your legs, but they also offer countless vistas, or ‘miradouros’. The views from Miradouro das Portas Do Sol, Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Miradouro da Graça are worth the hike and free to enjoy. One of the best views in the city, though, is found at Saint George’s Castle. Some of the remains date back to the 6th century, although the castle was heavily damaged by the earthquake in 1755.

Sintra Just a 40-minute train ride from Lisbon, Sintra is the most popular day trip from the capital, but the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town deserves more time than most visitors allow. A few hours will not be enough to see all the impressive sites hidden in the hills here including the Sintra National Palace, Palace of Monserrate, Moorish Castle, Quinta da Regaleira and the colourful Pena National Palace. If a day is all you can spare, prioritise Pena Park and the garden at TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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EUROPEANBREAK GETTING THERE Fly direct from London to Lisbon with Ryanair in April from £60. The underground metro will take you from the airport to Lisbon city centre in about 20 minutes. Take the red line to Saldanha and change for Baixa-Chiado to reach the centre. ryanair.com

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GETTING AROUND Lisbon has an extensive public transport network including buses, underground metro, trains and trams. A rechargeable Viva Viagem card will cost €0.50 and can be topped up at metro and train stations. If you don’t have a Viva Viagem card, you’ll need exact change for the trams (€2.85).

BUDGET

MIDRANGE

LUXURY

EAT

The cheap breakfast and lunch menu, yummy cakes and free wifi make Pois Café (pictured) in the Alfama district a good choice at any time of day. A sizable bowl of soup is less than £3, while sandwiches and salads start at £5. (218 862 497) poiscafe.com

Specialising in Portugese dishes, Príncipe do Calhariz is known for its veal, seafood and generous servings.

Main meals range between £6 and £14 (213 420 971). principedocalhariz.com

Bica do Sapato’s main claim to fame is that it’s partly owned by John Malkovich. The waterfront restaurant offers several dining options including a sushi bar, upmarket cafeteria and restaurant. Mains from £17. (218 810 320) bicadosapato.com

PARTY

The atmosphere at Maria Caxuxa will depend on what time of day you visit. In the early evening expect a relaxed, retro hangout, but turn up later and you’ll find a DJ at the helm.

(965 039 094)

Pensão Amor (pictured) pays tribute to its past as a former brothel in Lisbon’s red light district with décor rich in risqué art, erotic books and a pole dancing room, which customers can take a spin on. (213 143 399) pensaoamor.pt

Head to the top of the Espaço Chiado shopping centre for an all-night party at Silk, one of several rooftop bars in the city. There’s a bar, club, sushi and panoramic views of Lisbon.

Reservations are recommended and can be made by SMS. (913 009 193) silk-club.com

STAY

From Milkshake Mondays to a free pancake breakfast every morning, Lisbon Central Hostel packs in the extras for budget-conscious travellers. Stay a few days and you’ll feel as if you’ve known the staff for years. From £11pp/pn. (309 881 038) lisboacentralhostel.com

The Good Morning Hostel (pictured) offers all the perks of a hostel including a free waffle breakfast, kitchen and laundry facilities, common areas and cheap dinners, but without the budget atmosphere.

There are private rooms available, with an en-suite bathrooms. Privates from £23pp/pn. (213 421 128) goodmorninghostel.com

Guests can choose from four ‘concepts’ at the bold and colourful Internacional Design Hotel, with rooms styled in Urban, Tribe, Zen and Pop themes. From £111pr/pn. (213 240 990) idesignhotel.com

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FESTIVALGUIDE

LA TOMATINA

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WHEN? AUGUST 27, 2014

FESTIVAL GUIDE

KING’S DAY LA TOMATINA, BUÑOL For 364 days of the year nothing really happens in the drab industrial town of Buñol, 38km west of Valencia, Spain.

But today things are a little different – we’re about to take part in the world’s most famous food fight.

It’s 8am and an already buzzing crowd is pushing its way towards the central square, pints of sangria in hand.

In a few hours there’ll be thousands of people crammed into these mean streets, and the early birds are trying to secure a spot near the ‘palo jamon’ (which loosely translates as greasy pole), a huge pole covered with lard, with a ham on top.

The tradition is for men, and occasionally women, to climb over each other in an attempt to reach the ham and become the hero, or heroine, of the festival – a near impossible task, but it’s the intention.

The premise of La Tomatina though is incredibly simple, stupidly so: throw, mash, squidge or otherwise propel over-ripe tomatoes at as many of your fellow Tomatinas as possible.

As 11am, the official start time, 52 00

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approaches, tensions build. Despite the fact that massive speakers have been blaring out Spanish pop tracks and everyone has been dancing, drinking and seemingly enjoying life for a few hours, they’re also sinisterly preparing for what’s about to unfold.

Then, a cannon explodes and at the end of the packed street massive trucks roll into sight, the facilitators of what’s about to go down.

Somehow managing to navigate through the crowd, with a swoosh a tsunami of juicy tomatoes flood the street, turning the world red in a flash (you say tomato, I say bring it on!).

For the next 45 minutes or so, all hell breaks loose, people throwing tomatoes faster than they can think.

“BOOM”, the second cannon is sounded and weapons are laid down.

Game over.

Euphoric but exhausted and dazed, the crowd, looking like extras from Kill Bill, shuffles home slowly, exchanging laughs while marvelling at the destruction that has befallen this once sleepy town.

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LA TOMATINA

FESTIVALGUIDE

Words: Ian Armitage Photos: Getty/Home Hostels

CHECKING IN

HOW DID IT ALL BEGIN?

WHAT TO EXPECT

La Tomatina has gained momentum in Buñol since 1944, but its origins are shrouded in mystery.

Some say La Tomatina began with a fight between youths who overturned a vegetable cart, while others claim it started as a way to humiliate a bad musician. Another theory says the residents would throw tomatoes at animals eating their fruit and the fight started when they missed and hit a person. Then there’s the plausible explanation that it started as a political protest against unpopular councilmen.

However it originated, after several years of the police putting a halt to the festivities, it’s now an integral part of the town’s calendar and is held on the last Wednesday of August every year.

Most people who go to Tomatina stay in Valencia and make the trip by train or with an organised coach tour.

The festival used to be a free-for-all, but not anymore because the town hall couldn’t afford to foot the bill for the truckloads of tomatoes and the police and medical staff needed in case of a tomatoey emergency. Revelers are now required to pay a €10 entrance fee, and only 15,000 tickets are allocated.

The fee is worth it though so make sure you get booked in as nowhere else can you spend hours dancing and chanting, drink more sangria than is recommended before 11am and proceed to launch tomatoes at your fellow man before emerging from a crowd of crimson with a big smile on your face.

GET IN THE SPIRIT

WHAT ELSE?

Many dress in all white as if to show-off their stains when the carnage ends, but some people have been known to dress up or strip down to their undies – a group of Ninja warriors were spotted a couple of years back, complete with kamikaze headbands, while some have worn Borat-style unitards.

The best thing to do is wear something you won’t miss, a naff or old pair of trainers and goggles. You definitely need goggles. People have been known to get black eyes from other objects being flung, such as carrots. Some people just don’t know their veg. And be warned ladies, the odd tosser (literally) has been known to pull off women’s tops. Wear several layers, including a sports bra.

Tomatina aside, nothing much else happens in Buñol, so most festival goers ship in and ship right back out again.

They usually head to nearby Valencia, Spain’s third largest city and a rival to the cosmopolitan and cultural centres of Barcelona and Madrid.

With a vibrant nightlife, fantastic architecture and a rich heritage, it’s a beautiful place with so much to offer and explore. Valencia boasts fantastic beaches, picturesque landscapes and historic towns. A must-do is is the trendy, thriving area of Barrio del Carmen, which has undergone several stages of regeneration and is the place to go to experience the city’s famed nightlife, with loads of restaurants, clubs and open-air drinking spots.

HOME YOUTH HOSTEL OVERVIEW The Home Youth Hostel, in the very centre of Valencia, is colourfully decorated and lively. It’s a step up from a basic backpackers, which means there aren’t any bunkbeds, even in the three-to-four person dorms. This trendy and amazingly priced hostel is full of life and attracts a mix of individual and group travellers of all ages from all over the world.

WOW FACTOR Because it is bang in the middle of the city centre, pretty much anything is within reach. It’s only a few metres from Mercado Central (Central Market) and next to La Lonja (Silk Market), two popular tourist stops where you can get all the fresh food you want.

The Home Youth Hostel’s location is handy for the train station too, which is only eight minutes away.

ROOMS The rooms are comfortable, clean, air conditioned and quiet. What more do you need?

BILL PLEASE Beds from around £12 per person/night.

Calle de la Lonja, 4, 46001 Valencia, Spain. homehostelsvalencia.com

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WIN

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HOW TO ENTER

Go to tntmagazine.com/competitions. See webpage for terms and conditions. Winners will be selected at random.

WIN TICKETS TO WONDERFUL WYCHWOOD FESTIVAL TNT has joined forces with this year’s Wychwood Festival and is offering two pairs of weekend camping tickets to one of Britain’s best-loved festivals.

Celebrating 10 years of folk, indie, rock and world music, Wychwood Festival will once again take place at the stunning Gloucestershire site at Cheltenham Racecourse from May 30 to June 1.

Headlining acts this year include Sir Bob Geldof with the Boomtown Rats, The Stranglers, plus Newton Falkner, The Real Thing and Craig Charles. Also ones to watch include

Bipolar Sunshine, Benin City and Wolf Alice and a whole host of incredible music across the three days.

Music is not the only highlight as Wychwood offers a plethora of activities with brilliant comedy, yoga, arts & craft, theatre, the hilarious headphone disco and so much more!

Tickets are non-transferable and the winners will be informed no later than two weeks before the festival on how to pick up their winning tickets.

Enter at tntmagazine.com/competitions wychwoodfestival.com

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The magic of The Med The Mediterranean coast and Balearic Islands boast glistening waters, sun-bleached cliffs, ancient ruins and idyllic villages, making for the perfect summer escape WORDS RACHAEL GETZELS Best for: Partying

Best for: Food

IBIZA, THE BALEARIC ISLANDS This island is synonymous with massive beach raves, but there are also plenty of refined clubs and bars to enjoy. If you’re big into clubbing, the south is the place for you. Known as the party capital of the world, the list of big venues and famous nights is endless. Here the action goes on all-night. Wild gatherings on the beach, rowdy booze cruises at sunset, day-time fiestas, and world famous club nights. Toned bodies of the young and beautiful rub up against each other as alcohol flows and dance beats blare. There is nowhere in the world where you can pack more partying into the day, and all while getting a tan. The northern half of the island is more upmarket; here, sunset lounges and boutique hotel bars make up the nightlife. It is elegant and classy, reserved for the elite few who are in the know. But word is spreading. Get here quick to indulge in some Mediterranean glam before the riff-raff arrive.

What else?

Enjoy a candle-lit dinner under a medieval castle in Ibiza Old Town before exploring ancient rambling alleys and cobbled streets. The town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers spectacular panoramic views and comes to life at night with street artists and transvestites in platforms higher than Charlie Sheen after a bender.

AMALFI COAST, ITALY You can’t talk about the Mediterranean without mentioning the food, which is probably one of the best-known cuisines in the world. The hot, dry summers and wet, rainy winters make perfect conditions for plump, sunsoaked fruit and veg. And what a coastal cuisine also has to offer is incredible fresh fish. Although dishes are good across The Med, food fanatics love the Amalfi Coast for its range.

Here, Italian classics can be found alongside traditional coastal dishes, and the recipes have been passed town for generations.

The best of the fisherman’s catch drizzled in tangy olive oil, plump tomatoes that are to die for (believe us, you haven’t tried a tomato until you’ve eaten one on the Mediterranean coast), and juicy vegetables grilled to perfection. Spices are light, but that’s because the food’s natural flavours are enough and everything is fresh, fresh, fresh. Cetera, a small fishing village on the eastern edge of the coast has been specialising in catching and preserving anchovies for thousands of years.

Just west is the town of Praiano, where grandmothers serve up homemade dishes from their kitchens – and only they know the secret ingredients. There’s no doubt about it: you’ll eat some of the best meals of your life along this idyllic stretch of Mediterranean coastline – and everything tastes better when you’re overlooking the sea.

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A GUIDE TO THE MED

What else?

Hop on a local SITA bus for a stomach churning drive along towering roads carved into the cliffs. With sharp switchbacks and 500-foot drops into the glimmering Med, the trip is not for the faint hearted but the views are breathtaking.

Images: Thinkstock, Getty and Positive/Negative and john-fisher via Flickr

Best for: Hiking CINQUE TERRA, ITALY The rugged portion of the Italian Riviera is made up of stunning hikes along sheer cliffs that drop into the bright blue ocean. The area is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and a national park. Impossible to reach by car, train or boat, the land is free from development and completely unspoiled. The trails, which were carved into the cliff faces by farmers and herders many hundreds of years ago lead to five ancient villages. Although the jaunts are short, you could spend days trying out the different routes.

The Blue Trail also known as Trail Number Two is the easiest and most popular, covering eight miles of crisp coastline.

The more taxing Sanctuary Trail will give you a taste of the area’s history. Along the path are five shrines where locals have come to pray for centuries. Today, people still make pilgrimages to leave memorial messages and flowers for family members long gone.

What else?

Don’t miss Lover’s Lane along the Blue Trail. Easy to reach without having to hike, the pathway is famous for a statue of an embracing couple and a tunnel covered with romantic graffiti from starry-eyed lovers. Hold tight – the messages will make you giddy, and so too will the views.

Vernazza in the Cinque Terra

Amalfi Coast

Best for: Beaches THE CYCLADES, GREECE These are the beaches that dreams are made of, with azure waters, sparkling white sand and the sun pitched perfectly for a tan. The islands are located in the Aegean Sea, which is an arm of the Mediterranean that stretches between Greece and Turkey. The Cyclades are part of Greece and they’re dotted with sun-kissed olive groves and blue and white domed villages that are iconic of TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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the country. Popular with the jet-set and party-goers are the islands of Mykonos, Santorni and los (yep, no capital letter).

Here, the nightlife is pumping and the sun-loungers are out in force. But there are also more sedate islands with quiet, unspoilt beaches and small fishing villages to explore. Island hopping by ferry – or sail boat if you’ve got the cash – is the best way to get to know the islands, and each beach will be better than the last. Snorkelling, windsurfing and scuba diving are also popular pastimes here and it’s easy to rent gear or sign up for classes.

What else?

When you need a break from sunbathing, head to the ruins of ancient Thira. The archaeological site graces the top of a mountain in Santorini and the views are spectacular. Here, layers of history collide as Roman baths fight for space alongside Byzantine temples and Hellenistic shops. Don’t worry though, you’ll never be too far from the sea as the area is flanked by two magnificent beaches.

Oia village on Santorini island, Greece

Best for: History TURQUOISE COAST, TURKEY This dazzling coastline makes up Turkey’s Mediterranean side, and it’s often forgotten in the hubbub of cheap holiday packages to Spain and Greece.

But the beaches are no less beautiful and the area is jampacked with ancient ruins. In Dalyan, on the west side of the coast, you can visit the ancient city of Kaunus, which still has Roman baths and an amphitheatre. From here you can also admire the majestic Lycian Tombs, which are carved right into the cliff face and are the resting places of fourth and fifth-century kings and queens. Kekova Island, which can be reached by boat from Antalya, is home to a sunken city. Ancient steps rise out of the sea and you can explore submerged mosaics and remains of a 2,000-year-old city that was plunged into the sea due to earthquakes. The area is closed to swimmers (though you can dive with permission) but kayakers can reach the site, which would spark joy in the hearts of even the most seasoned of treasure hunters. It’s worth going the extra mile with this one and organising a day or weekend kayaking expedition.

What else?

When history has got the best of you and you want some pure relaxation, book a boat trip from Dalyan to the surrounding islands. As well as diving into the crystal-clear sea, you’ll also visit the mud baths which are celebrated for their promise of youth.

Youthful Turkish mud-larking 58

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Beginnings of bouillabaisse!

FOOD TO TRY IN THE MED Moving away from the Italian classics, Mediterranean food is bursting with flavours that come from the Middle East and Africa, and there are many lesserknown but extremely delicious dishes worth sampling on your travels.

Sac Kumvara If you’re in Turkey make sure you don’t miss this stew which is made up of meat, peppers and onions, and is cooked on a high heat with exotic spices that taste out of this world.

Frittata This Spanish twist on a breakfast classic combines all the best of Mediterranean vegetables (and some chorizo if you’re lucky!) with oven-cooked eggs, for an omelette that will give you a flavourpacked start to the day.

Bouillabaisse Italy and France have their own versions of this spicy fish stew, which is a staple along the coast, but is easily overlooked amid their more famous recipes. It’s fragrant and fresh and some serious skill goes into getting the perfect balance of spices in the saffron-infused broth.

Keftedes Greek meatballs are to die for, and they offer a different experience from chowing down on the Italian version that we know and love. In Greece spicy pork and mint make up these juicy morsels and the tangy tomato sauce is cooled down with yoghurt.

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A drop in the ocean Snorkel with turtles, watch herds of elephants, discover temples, and trek through tea plantations on the teardrop island of Sri Lanka WORDS HARRIET SINCLAIR

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Tucked away at the bottom of India and surrounded by the Indian Ocean, the island of Sri Lanka is a haven for wildlife, filled with solitary beaches and snorkelling opportunities, plates of spicy curries, bustling cities and temples galore.

The usual mentality of people visiting Sri Lanka is to choose either the greenery and wildlife of the hill country and the north, or the relaxing vibe of the south, where all those beautiful beaches are. However, there’s no reason why a trip to Sri Lanka can’t take in the best bits of the whole county – particularly now that the previously war-torn north has become more accessible to tourists (although there is still a visible presence of the former situation in the region, such as checkpoints and so on). A well-planned trip to the country has the potential to include everything from a surf lesson in Weligama and a dive to an old shipwreck to a cooking course in Galle town and elephant feeding in Kandy.

Colombo Many travellers pass through this sprawling city and head down to the south without as much as a backward glance.

Don’t make the same mistake – Colombo has plenty to offer visitors, from museums, galleries and tours to balloon rides, meditation centres, golf, shopping and restaurants.

THINGS TO DO: Get your camera out and be prepared for a whole lot of sightseeing. Colombo has a seemingly endless list of temples, churches, mosques, bell towers, and period buildings to see; and yes, some of them really are worth a visit. The Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Devasthanam Kovil is said to be the oldest Hindu Temple in the country and is one of the most elaborately decorated buildings you’re likely to see, while the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple is the most famous Buddhist site in the city. For culture vultures, the Colombo National Museum houses artefacts important to

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The Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Devasthanam Kovil in Colombo is said to be the oldest Hindu Temple in the country

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Hostel in Mount Lavinia colombobeachostel.com, or, for a more central location close to the action, try Clock Inn Colombo clockinn.lk.

Galle & surrounding areas Although many people consider a visit to Sri Lanka incomplete without including beach time in Unawatuna or a stroll around Galle fort, the area is refreshingly free of crowds and largely unspoilt by tourism.

THINGS TO DO: In such a beautiful area, it’s hard to muster up the energy to do anything bar taking pictures and kicking back with a cocktail. However, Galle and the areas nearby (including Unawatuna and Koggala) have a lot more to offer. A stroll around Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must. Much of the fort’s walls are now covered in grass, facing out into the sea, and there are more than a few photo opportunities here. In the town of Galle itself, cafés, cute shops and restaurants are dotted up and down picturesque streets, and locals are more than happy to point you in the direction of top-notch grub. The little town is also a great place to book onto a Sri Lankan cooking course.

Most lessons will encompass a market tour – where you can see exactly which spices and produce are going into the food you’ll prepare later – and are a great way to take some knowledge of the country’s delicious cuisine back home with you. Plus, you get to eat at the end of the evening. Winner.

Just outside Galle, near Koggala, it’s possible to book onto a rainforest trek to learn more about the country’s ecosystem and spot exotic birds, monkeys aplenty and, unfortunately, the odd leech. Top tip: long sleeves and trousers are a must.

In Koggala itself, the turtle hatchery (yes, it is as cute as it sounds) is a great place to see baby turtles, and, for a lucky few, release them back into the sea. If you’re fortunate

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

Sri Lanka’s history, while the National Art Gallery alongside the museum is a great place to check out the country’s best artists. Indoor exploring isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, and luckily Colombo has an abundance of outdoor activities. The cycling tour of the city is a great way to get your bearings and see Colombo’s hotspots. Choose from a suburban cycling tour – taking in the Talangama Wetlands, semi-urban areas, and lake surrounding the Sri Lankan Parliament – or the urban tour, which includes the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Manning Market station, and Sri Lanka’s Supreme Court.

If you’re keen to stay active, but want to try something a little more adventurous, there are white-water rafting trips in the area, or you can organise a hot air balloon trip over the city. When all the ballooning, biking, and general hubbub of the city get to be a little bit much, relaxation is the order of the day. There are seemingly hundreds of day spas in Colombo, which offer everything from a quick foot rub to a full-on body polish. If you’re in need of an even longer break from the hustle and bustle, there are several yoga classes (or courses) to try.

GOING OUT: Although Colombo doesn’t have quite the nightlife reputation of Bangkok or Hong Kong, like any big, bustling city there are still plenty of pubs, clubs and bars to be found. Curry Leaf restaurant is well known for serving fantastic Sri Lankan fare, and there is also plenty of street food on offer from stalls dotted around the city. Big spenders would be well-advised to head to the Fort district – which is also the financial centre of the city – where there are a string of upmarket cocktail bars, as well as fancy hotel dining.

Alternatively, a little way down Galle Road, there are a number of drinking establishments and clubs (both classy and questionable) to choose from.

STAY: Escape the city’s hustle and bustle at Colombo Beach

Galle Fort, Galle

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See tea plantations around Galle and Kandy

enough to be in Sri Lanka between December and April, the area is a perfect base from which to book a whale watching trip. Tours take place about an hour’s drive from Koggala and start at around 6am (so get set for an early wake-up call). All that yawning is worth it though; you’re likely to spot sperm whales, blue whales and dolphins.

GOING OUT: Head to one of the beachfront bars and restaurants in Unawatuna for some Sri Lankan food and beer (or try the locally brewed arrak, which is distilled from the sap of coconut flowers, if you’re feeling brave). You’re also likely to find the odd late-night bar or low-key club along one of these stretches of beach if retiring early doesn’t float your boat, but be warned – Ministry of Sound it ain’t. Think drunken dancing in flip flops to dubious music with a gaggle of other backpackers.

STAY: Treat yourself with an eco-luxury style stay on an old tea plantation at kahandakanda.com or try one of the many (cheaper) backpacker hostels in Unawatuna.

Kandy and nearby A visit to Kandy and the hill country is an absolute must during a trip to Sri Lanka. This green wonderland is the cultural heart of the country; filled with trekking opportunities, tea plantations, monkeys, dense jungle and temples – this verdant wonderland is just begging to be explored.

THINGS TO DO: The beauty of this area is, well, the beauty of it. A simple drive or stroll provides myriad opportunities to gaze over miles and miles of green – a little like The Land of Oz, but without the wizard. There are flying (or rather leaping) monkeys in abundance though – and their chattering is a wonderful sound to wake up to. If you’re really keen to get into the nature of the area, there are a variety of treks

Temple of the Tooth, Kandy

on offer, mainly to the Knuckles Mountain Range and other nearby sweet spots. Hikes in this area can vary from short (just one day) to a long weekend or even a week, and include dazzling views, waterfalls and tea plantations. For the more adventurous, there are also opportunities to try mountain biking and rafting. A visit to the hill country wouldn’t be complete without a proper tour of a tea plantation, where visitors learn about how tea is grown and harvested, as well as get an opportunity to try the tea (yum). There are also some beautiful temples in the region, including the Temple of the Tooth, which houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha.

The temple is situated within the Royal Palace Complex in Kandy, right next to a rather picturesque lake – perfect for quiet contemplation (and a few holiday snaps to make the folks back home jealous). Visits to the hill country are often associated with the nearby elephant orphanage of Pinnawala, where visitors can feed elephants, watch them frolicking in the river, and learn about how paper can be made from elephant poo (lovely).

GOING OUT: Kandy and the hill country isn’t known for the crazy nightlife – a single glance at the quiet natural beauty of the place is enough to suggest that most of its inhabitants are likely to be tucked up in bed by 9pm. That said, there are a number of rather up-market restaurants hidden away in the region – including Heritance Tea Factory in Nuwara Eliya; the most extravagant of its several eateries being TCK 6685, a converted 1930s railway carriage. For a less excessive evening, there are a number of massage centres in Kandy that specialise in ayurvedic treatments – a full body massage will ensure a blissful night’s sleep.

STAY: For a central location in Kandy and a breathtaking balcony, the Drop Inn Kandy is a good bet, or there are opportunities to arrange a homestay in hill country, which is a TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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See tea plantations around Galle and Kandy

great way to learn more about the area and the people who live there (plus enjoy a home-cooked meal).

The south Sri Lanka’s southern coast provides a real mish-mash of places – from good surf and snorkelling destinations, remote beaches, religious sites and new developments to stunning nationals parks filled with a variety of flora and fauna.

THINGS TO DO: There’s a reason many backpackers bypass the allures of the hill country and head straight for the coast – the beaches. Busy, empty, developed or remote, Sri Lanka’s beaches have a little something for everyone. Start by grabbing a board and hitting the waves around Weligama (surf lessons can be booked here, or those who already know how can opt for board hire), or, if you’d rather see what’s under the waves, head to Polhena beach and rent a snorkel or book onto a dive. You’re likely to spot a variety of fish among the reefs, and even the odd turtle. Out of the water, Weligama is largely a sleepy beach town, but does have a few little spots worth exploring. The coconut factory is a great little place to poke around and learn about the variety of uses for the humble nut, plus there’s the usual offering of splendid temples as well as an organic fruit farm. Inland, Udawalawe National Park is well worth a visit. Slap bang in the middle of two provinces, Uva and Sabaragamuwa, the park is home to wild boar, leopards (eek!) and herds of elephants. The best way to explore the park is, of course, with a guide ( srilankaecotourism.com), usually in a 4x4 – meaning you can cover more ground and hopefully see some of the more exciting animals the park has to offer. Around an hour’s drive from the national park is the town of Kataragama, which is one of the country’s most important religious sites. People from all manner of religious backgrounds make pilgrimages to the town, where a shrine to the God Skandha lies within a large temple complex. The town also hosts a yearly Kataragama festival, in the Sinhalese Calendar month of Esala (July/August), which is held in honour of the God Skandha.

During the festival, the town becomes filled with dancing crowds and lots of firewalking.

GOING OUT: It’s no surprise that the dining speciality in the beach town of Tangalle (sometimes called Tangalla) is seafood. There are numerous idyllic beach huts selling 64

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a variety of fishy delights of an evening, while the nearby seafront bars are expert at whipping up an excellent afterdinner cocktail (or three).

STAY: For a seafront location, Beach Inns beach-inns.com, near Matara, is a great place to lay your hat, or, for those who can’t bear to leave the national park, a stay at Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort udawalawesafari.com is a real treat. Alternatively, there are other more budget-conscious options in the park.

Far north Sri Lanka’s northernmost regions tend to go unexplored by tourists – thanks largely to several decades of civil war and the resulting travel restrictions in the area, plus the physical remnants of war (some parts are still heavily mined, for example). However, the area is opening up, and provides great rewards for the intrepid traveller.

THINGS TO DO: Simply being in the north of the country is its own experience. Geographically, Jaffna – the northernmost point in Sri Lanka – sits right underneath the southern tip of India, which has led to inevitable comparisons between the town’s cuisine and culture and that of south India. Such an assessment isn’t without its value – one bite of the distinctive northern cuisine is enough to tell that the north is proud of its neighbour’s influence. The pretty town of Jaffna has its own fort as well as temples and noteworthy buildings such as the recently restored library and the archaeology museum.

A stroll around here is a must-do and is the best way to enjoy the different, slightly set-apart vibe of the country’s north.

Plus it is a great opportunity to meet the eternally friendly people (and, as a tourist, you may even find yourself the main attraction). Outside of the town, there are a number of tranquil beach spots on the Jaffna peninsula that certainly warrant a trip. Chatty Beach, on Kayts (one of the many tiny islands off the peninsula), is a particularly nice spot to soak up a few rays. South of Jaffna, near Mannar Island, is the Giant’s Tank Sanctuary, which, despite the name, is not a rescue home for large old tanks but a massive irrigation reservoir that also happens to be a great place for bird watching and possibly spotting the odd elephant or two (but be warned, wild elephants should never be approached). Mannar Island itself is also a pretty little spot to visit – if a little out of

the way. This is one best to be enjoyed with a cold drink and a big book.

GOING OUT: Due to its turbulent history, Jaffna and the nearby areas are largely under-developed in terms of tourism infrastructure – including nightlife. However, there are several nice cafes and restaurants in the area, including Gnanams Café in Vavuniya (a town the majority of people venturing up to the north pass through enroute to Jaffna), and Mangos restaurant in Jaffna, which serves curries and excellent dosas. It is also possible to visit the Hindu Kovil near the Keerimalai springs for a vegetarian lunch.

STAY: If you’re looking to save money, the good ol’ YMCA hostel in Jaffna is an incredibly cheap option. For a few more home comforts (including a swimming pool), the Green Grass Hotel jaffnagreengrass.com is right in the centre of town.

Batticaloa and surrounding area Batticaloa, which is affectionately called ‘Batti’ and known as the land of the ‘singing fish’ thanks to fish under the Lady Manning Bridge which make a noise that sounds like a plucked guitar string, is pretty far from the usual tourist trail.

Despite its beautiful setting of beaches, islands and lagoons, it doesn’t draw in large numbers of holidaymakers – which is all the more relaxing for those who do venture there.

THINGS TO DO: If you don’t feel chilled out on the beaches around Batticaloa, well, you’ll never feel calm anywhere.

Picture perfect, mostly deserted, and dipping into the Indian Ocean, it’s the kind of place you daydream about during a sweaty commute to work. Batticaloa’s three lagoons are also laze-worthy spots, and the birds and fishermen (who you’ll often spot pulling their daily catch from the water) make

it all the prettier. For those who feel the need to get into the sea rather than lie beside it, there are opportunities to go snorkelling, swimming, kayaking and take boat trips in the area (including journeys with local fisherman to see the rumoured ‘singing fish’ the town is famous for), as well as guided dives to the underwater HMS Hermes aircraft carrier, which sunk in 1942 after being attacked by Japanese aircraft off the coast of Sri Lanka. On land, the Old Dutch Fort (yes, there are a lot Sri Lankan elephants of forts in Sri Lanka), which are mighty friendly is more than 350 years old, is a good place to take a stroll around. The fort now houses local government offices, but much of the original structure remains intact, and you’ll also spot the odd canon on site. The town’s other structure of note is the nearby lighthouse, which is well worth a visit – particularly as eager photographers (and those who aren’t afraid of heights) can climb to the top for fantastic views over the town and coastline.

GOING OUT: Batticaloa’s tranquil nature doesn’t allow for a whole lot of evening activity – although there are some great restaurants here, which can be found by having a good old fashioned wander around the town (although walking alone at night is not recommended, so solo travellers should take transport). Kattankudy shopping area, which is around 5km from central Batticaloa, has a variety of bits and bobs to buy, from souvenirs and mobile phones to random hardware, while Central Street in Batticaloa has a dazzlingly colourful variety of clothes on offer.

STAY: Riviera Resort in Batticaloa, riviera-online.com, seems to have won the location lottery. Set right beside one of the lagoons, this eco-friendly hotel is the perfect place from which to watch the sun set and bed down for the night. It also houses a popular restaurant that serves local grub. ❚ TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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YOUR WEEKEND IN NAPLES, ITALY

Cobbled streets: Every day is laundry day

Naples – or the City of Sun as it has fondly been nicknamed – has been the subject of some bad press in recent years, with many people making it out to be one of the dingiest cities of Europe in the grip of Mafia rule. In reality, the streets of Naples brim with character and history, giving a more rustic nod to the classical Italy of old.

Quaint cobbled streets lead inquisitive visitors to quirky bars and markets, all under the watchful eye of the nearby Mount Vesuvius.

DAY ONE

Local cuisine: Authentic Italian pizza

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MORNING Take the first morning to find your bearings in a city which can, at times, seem like an endless maze of little side roads. It’s also a good opportunity to soak up the ornate furnishings of the Royal Palace in Piazza del Plebiscito.

Originally home to the Bourbon kings in the 18th and 19th centuries, today the magnificent grand staircase takes you to rooms crammed with historic bits and pieces, including papyrus scrolls found in nearby Herculaneum after it was hit by the same eruption

that smothered Pompeii. Afterwards, you’ll have your pick of patisserie and coffee shops dotted around the area to give you some much-needed energy for the rest of the day.

AFTERNOON Once you’ve explored the city from above, it’s time to head below ground.

Napoli Sotterranea runs tours through a labyrinth of old aqueduct tunnels 40ft below the street level, which were used as handy air-raid shelters during the Second World War. Multilingual staff guide visitors through narrow passageways – some of which are so small they’re only accessible by walking in single file and using candles to light the way. Definitely not one for the claustrophobes. Returning above ground for a short period to travel on to the Fontanelle Cemetery, you will delve straight back underground for a taste of the city’s Cult of the Dead.

From the outbreak of cholera in the 17th-century to the mid-19th-century, the cemetery was used to discard the bodies of those too poor to afford a proper funeral. Towards the end of the

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19th-century, the site was popular with people who would ‘adopt’ a random skull and pray for the departed soul.

EVENING After an afternoon underground, come up for air for an evening of bustling nightlife. First, it’s an idea to line your stomach, and what better dish than an authentic Neapolitan pizza?

Often revered as the best pizza in the world, you’ll be spoilt for choice with pizzerias sprinkled throughout the city. The three-floor La Trianon da Ciro still uses the same method to create pizza masterpieces as it did when it opened in 1923. Il Pizzaiolo del Presidente is worth a stop-by, even if just for its brush with stardom – it was renamed after Bill Clinton dropped in for a snack. For drinks, start at Enoteca Belledonne which, for its showpiece, has an extensive list of white and red wines. S’move is the place to head to in the evening to throw some shapes and mingle with the locals.

DAY TWO

Words: Emily Ray. Photos: Thinkstock

MORNING Wakey wakey – it’s up early for day two! If you overdid it the night before, you’ll be glad to hear that the morning begins with a gentle stroll along the bay, which stretches on for 3km. After taking in the sea air along the treepeppered Lungomare, there are a number of restaurants lining the coast for a caffeine kick and breakfast. The medieval Castel Nuovo can be found along the coast, where guided tours lead you around the chapels, prison and museum inside. Also along the bay, you will find the 19th-century aquarium which, although small, is a satisfying way to spend an hour or so.

AFTERNOON After coming all this way, it’s worthwhile making the short trip outside of Naples to the ruins of Pompeii. Trains depart regularly from the central Naples station, taking around 30 minutes to get to Pompeii Scavi, where the entrance to the ruins is just a short walk away. Alternatively, Viator.com offers a private half-day excursion out to Pompeii, with both transport and tour included. Taking a guided tour of the city that was destroyed by the volcanic eruption of

48HOURS Religious experience: Sacre Coeur

Pompeii: The Roman town was caught up in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD 79AD brings it to life in a way history books never could. Visitors can see firsthand how the Romans lived, worked and bathed, while taking a wander round one of the many brothels and gazing up at the sexual catalogues painted on the walls (those Romans were a dirty lot). Tours up to the top of Mount Vesuvius also run from the nearby station; if you’re brave enough to scale the only active volcano in mainland Europe, that is.

EVENING For your last night, the city is your metaphorical oyster. The stunning Il Comandante restaurant is located within the five-star Romeo Hotel, where a Michelin-starred chef serves up a creative mix of fish dishes – yet another of Naples’ specialties. If you can draw your eyes away from the panoramic sea view, you’ll be treated to a luxurious fix of contemporary art pieces. Meanwhile, low-key jazz venue, Bourbon Street, brings a dose of New Orleans to the streets of Naples as live bands play most nights on the intimate stage. Dotted around here are a few more underground bars, which are usually packed in the evenings. If you’re feeling up to embracing the cultural spirit on your last night, you might even want to catch an opera at the opulent Teatro San Carlo, ornately decked out in gold and red.

However you decide to wrap up your weekend in Naples, you’ll wonder why this city is so often overlooked on trips to Italy and feel rather smug that you have uncovered it. The Mafia may have ruled here once, but they haven’t got a chance against us travellers.

Coastal walk: Naples’ Lungomare[Caption]

Medieval: Castel Nuovo

Freedom: The view from the Arc Teatro de Triomphe Ornate: San Carlo TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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LAURA LINDSAY FROM LONELY PLANET

I have received conflicting Q information regarding Northern Botswana, including when to visit the salt pans, Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. Is it too ambitious or even permitted to interact with the San people of the Kalahari Desert; cross the border to venture into the Caprivi strip or visit Victoria Falls? Any advice regarding a self-drive trip from Maun including lodge accommodation, safety and survival tips would be much appreciated. Maria, via email

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STAY IN CHARGE Buy a portable charger for your phone.

If you are moving around a lot you are unlikely to have much time to charge your phone up properly, so having a portable one can make sure you have that extra burst of battery when you need to make that emergency call, send a message or take some pictures.

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The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are two of Botswana’s top wildlife watching spots. The best time to visit is the dry season (May-October) when animals congregate around watering holes making them easier to spot. December to April is rainy season: although the parks can be lush and there are fewer tourists around, many tracks can be impassable so going at this time of year is a gamble.

The same applies for Makgadikgadi and Nxai Pans, although during the wet season there is the chance to see the awesome sight of the zebra migration in the eastern pans.

Look for opportunities to interact with the San people in a way that can benefit the local community. In the village of D’kar, just

north of Ghanzi, there is a large community of San people who operate an art gallery, cultural centre and wildlife ranch which are supported by NGOs working towards the empowerment of the indigenous peoples of Southern Africa.

Victoria Falls is a must-see: one of the seven natural wonders of the world, it straddles the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia. From the Zimbabwe side you are further from the falls, although the overall views are better; if you can visit both sides this is well worth doing (although there will be visa costs to consider). In May and June the falls can be hard to see through the mist (which can be seen from 50kms away!), from July to October the mist disappears revealing fantastic views.

The Caprivi Strip is safe to visit but travel during daylight hours, and stick to welltravelled routes.

If you want to visit remote areas you’ll need to do some careful planning. You will need a 4WD vehicle and plenty of supplies.

You should also travel in a convoy of at least two cars and have a breakdown kit.

There isn’t the space here to answer all of your questions; I’d recommend buying a guidebook (or requesting one on Botswana for your prize!) as you will need a thorough knowledge of the destination for a DIY trip.

GET STUFFED You know how all your stuff fits in your backpack the first time round and then as soon as you need to re-pack it’s like it’s expanded and it: Just. Won’t. Fit! Without fail, always pack your bulky stuff at the bottom. Including your wash bag and toiletries. It’s so much easier to tuck smaller items in at the top than trying to manipulate bulky items. You should also pack in one go rather than as you go, so you don’t have a face-palm moment when you realise you left your walking boots out.

Tara, via email

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The runner-up wins a £60 photography course voucher from Nigel Wilson Photography (photographycourses. org.uk).

WINNER WINNER JOGJAKARTA, INDONESIA Wenisilviani Jong, Indonesia TELL US MORE This picture was taken in Jomblang Cave, Wonosari Jogjakarta, Central Java, Indonesia. Sunlight breaking into the mouth of Grubug cave is the main attraction. They call it (rather aptly) the ‘Light of Heaven’.

What I like about it: It is just totally ethereal. Enough said.

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BORACAY, PHILIPPINES Joan, Hong Kong TELL US MORE The past year I’ve spent my holidays exploring most of South East Asia. This shot just sums up the tranquil side of Asia – far from the madding crowds of the cities where the pace of life is slow and rural. Boracay is an island 2km off the coast and is famous for being one of the world’s top destinations for relaxation.

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La Louvre, Paris

DEAL OF THE WEEK OLBIA

Three nights B&B at the 4-star Hotel Jazz in Olbia, Sardinia for £158pp. Located close £158pp to the historical heart of Olbia the Hotel Jazz has a range of facilities and amenities helping guests enjoy their visit to the town. Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing April 27th.

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EXCHANGE RATES* 1.79 Australian dollar New Zealand dollar 1.91 South African rand 17.58 Polish złoty 5.03 Euro 1.21 US dollar 1.66 Canadian dollar 1.83 Hong Kong dollar 12.89 Swedish krona 10.75 Swiss franc 1.47 Singapore dollar 2.10 WHY USE TNTFOREX?

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COPENHAGEN Three nights staying at the 4-star First Copenhagen hotel on a B&B basis from £199.50pp with easyJet Holidays.

A stylish hotel just outside Copenhagen, it has good connections to the city and offers better value and larger rooms than its city centre counterparts. Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing April 24th.

£250 – £500 MESSINA Seven nights 4-star accommodation on a B&B basis in Messina, Sicily from £349pp with Icelolly. With its own private beach, the Hotel San Vincenzo is the perfect destination for anybody looking to unwind in a beautiful setting.

Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing April 19th. icelolly.com

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PARIS Two nights on a room-only basis, staying at the 4-star Mercure Paris La Villette from £165pp. Situated in Paris’s 19th district and close to the Music Museum, City of Music and Grande Halle de la Villette. Includes return flights from London Luton, departs April 29th. lowcostholidays.com MUNICH Three nights bed & breakfast accommodation at the 4-star Am Moosfeld hotel in Munich. Situated to the east of the city, the hotel is in a quiet residential area providing an ideal starting point from which to explore the city, from just £166.50pp.

Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing May 10th. holidays.easyjet.com

TUCEPI Seven nights staying at the 4-star Hotel Laurentum in Tucepi, Scicily on a halfboard basis. A charming boutique hotel with a wonderful seafront position close to the marina. Tucepi is an attractive resort and the hotel itself is set within beautiful landscaped gardens. From just £251pp includes return flights from London Gatwick leaving April 30th. lowcostholidays.com HERSONISSOS Seven nights allinclusive accommodation at the 5-star Hersonissos Palace Hotel in the lively beach resort of Hersonissos in Crete, with plenty of shops & bars within walking distance, from £342.50pp. Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing May 7th. holidays.easyjet.com

> £500 PHUKET Seven nights at the 4-star Chanalai Hillside Resort at Karon beach from £522pp. Located just 5 kilometers from the famous Patong Beach. Chanalai Hillside Resort offers exclusive accommodation in a unique environment. Includes return flights from London Gatwick departing April 22nd. icelolly.com

LIVINGSTONE, ZAMBIA TO CAPE TOWN Twenty-one days travelling through Zambia, Namibia, Botswana & South Africa from £1,199pp with STA Travel. Tour highlights include tracking the Big Five, Victoria Falls, cruising the Chobe River at sunset, camping in the African wilderness, meeting the San bushmen, Cape Town’s culture and optional adrenaline activities along the way. Excludes flights, departs Livingstone April 26th. statravel.co.uk NEW YORK TO WASHINGTON Six days visiting NYC & Washington, DC from £949pp. Spend three nights in New York then hop on an internal flight to Washington.

Includes return flights from London Heathrow and internal flight between cities, departs throughout 2014. virginholidays.co.uk

DAILY TRAVEL DEALS GO TO tntmagazine.com/travel/latedeals for more new travel deals, updated daily. Also sign up for TNT’s weekly travel newsletter, which will be emailed to you every Wednesday with deals, news and destinations. Sign up at tntmagazine. com/travelemail. To book a package tour, see TNT’s Tour Search at tntmagazine.com/travel/tours

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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.

e r e h w u o y g n i k ta . .. e b o t m a e r d u yo tntmagazine.com/toursearch a5 TOURSEARCH.indd 1

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

BASEBALL IS BACK (AND BRIAN’S GOT A BIG BEARD) Baseball was back at the Sydney Cricket Ground for the first time in a century as more than 80,000 fans came out to see the LA Dodgers beat the Arizona Diamondbacks twice in their Major League season opening matches. Dodgers pitcher Brian Wilson’s resemblance to Ned Kelly is a happy coincidence.

Photos: Getty

INSIDE

AUSSIE RULES, OK? /76

ROBBING ROBSON /78

IT’S ALL GOODE /80

AFL returns to London this month with the Pre-Season Cup. TNT got the lowdown from Giants president David Field.

TNT meets the Aussie Middlesex star who could be England’s next opening batsman, Sam Robson

Wasps fly-half Andy Goode’s achieved it all in rugby, but he’s hungry for more. Here he share his ambitions with TNT

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CUP TO KICK OFF 2014 FOOTY IN LONDON AFL

AFL returns to London in style this month with the Pre-Season Cup, hosted

by South East London Giants, on Sunday April 13 at Peckham Rye Common from 11am-4pm. Each of the city’s clubs has entered a team and all are welcome to partake in the bar and barbie on the sidelines. TNT got the lowdown for the tournament and the season ahead from Giants president David Field.

How is the 2014 AFL London season shaping up? It’s set to be one of the biggest years for AFL London with more clubs and teams covering more parts of this city than ever. No matter what part of London you live in, there is a club for you just around the corner.

What’s the appeal of playing AFL in London? There are huge rivalries among the clubs and a strong desire to win the Premiership Division, but all clubs’ main emphasis is on enjoyment.

I’ve also observed a great sense of gratitude, humility and pride when we see our non-Aussie teammates embrace the game with passion and excitement – it gives us great satisfaction as ambassadors for the game.

What proportion of players aren’t Aussies? I think about 40 per cent are made up of non-Aussies, including British, Irish or Rest of World players.

We’ve found so many people around the world have heard of our great game, but the vast majority would never actively choose to take up the sport without the encouragement and support of people over here who have played or are currently playing.

Do you have to have played AFL before to hit up a club for a game?

Absolutely not. At the Giants we have 76

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FLASHBACK... 2013

After his worrying collapse at the New York half marathon, here’s hoping Mo Farah can recover to make his full marathon debut in the stunning landmark-stacked London event on April 13. Visit virginmoneylondonmarathon.com

XXX

some of the worst players on the planet, but that all adds to the fun and banter. It’s awesome to see blokes who thought their playing days were over getting coerced back into tight-fitting shorts a million miles from home.

How will the pre-season Cup work?

It’s a lightning premiership style with games going simultaneously on two fields, with each of the eight clubs playing four games each as they vie for a place in the finals. For the first time, clubs in the lower divisions will also be entering a side to give it an FA Cup kind-of feel. AFL Europe has also kindly secured the entire AIS coaching staff, including legends – Glen Jakovich, Tadgh Kennelly, Brad Johnson and Brad Ottens – to come along on the day.

Also on Saturday, April 12, AFL London All Stars play GB Bulldogs. Visit afllondon.com for further details

BIG MONTH FOR...

In 2013, Australia’s Adam Scott broke his nation’s curse at Augusta, claiming victory in The Masters.

It was the Adelaide pro’s first major and followed his efforts at becoming the next Greg Norman by getting a name for himself as a choker on the big stage. The year prior he’d blown a four-stroke lead to lose to Ernie Els. But last year he survived another blip and won a tense playoff against Angel Cabrera to take the green jacket. The victory made him the first Aussie to win the coveted trophy. Can he defend it April 10-13?

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HIGHLIGHTS THIS MONTH

X-factor: Windies slugger Chris Gayle

Stellar: Chelsea superstar Oscar is in irresistible form

PREVIEW Blues should cruise, Red Devils are screwed CHAMPIONS LEAGUE QUARTER FINALS

Photos: Getty

FOOTBALL The odds appear stacked in Chelsea’s favour after their cruising last-16 tie with Galatasaray was followed by the drawing of Paris Saint-Germain. No mugs by any standard, but certainly one of the less imposing sides left in the Champions League.

Their home and away fixtures are being played April 1-2 and 8-9, with Jose Mourinho’s Londoners expected to advance to the semis later in the month despite the fire power offered by PSG’s

Zlatan Ibrahimovich and Edinson Cavani.

As for David Moyes’ Manchester United, he may be wishing Robin Van Persie didn’t produce a timely hat-trick to win his side’s way past Olympiakos only to draw the defending champions Bayern Munich in the quarters. Nothing to lose, gotta beat ‘em at some stage though...

In the other matches, Lionel Messi’s Barcelona take on La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid while Ronaldo and Gareth Bale’s Real Madrid will be looking to continue their irresistible form against last year’s losing finalists, Borussia Dortmund. Semi finals are April 22-23 and 29-30.

LET’S GET TRIVIAL | The Boat Race upsets Two boats, one river – a pretty simple event you’d expect to run smoothly. But The Boat Race, the rowing battle on the Thames between Oxford and Cambridge from Putney to Mortlake, has had its share of disruptions over its 159 rowings. Of course there’s the 2012 incident in which Australian protester Trenton Oldfield jumped in the water and was sentenced to six months in prison (NOTE: Don’t do that, however much you don’t like posh people, or whatever he was railing against). He delayed the race for 30 minutes but given only world wars have stopped this thing taking place, a skinny Aussie in a wet suit wasn’t going to. Amazingly, given the wind and currents the eights contend with, there’s only been one time when both boats have gone in the drink – 1912. Before that, in 1831, it took a cholera outbreak to stop it happening. So put April 6 in your diary, it’s happening rain, hail or fine. Visit theboatrace.org for where to watch from.

Down Under: Kiwi Sam O’Connor rows for Oxford

3 World Twenty20: semi-final 1 3 RUG CHAL CUP: Sale v Northampton 4 World Twenty20: semi-final 2 4 RUG CHAL CUP: Stade Francais v Quins 5 RUG HEINE CUP QF: Munster v Toulouse; Clermont v Leicester; Ulster v Saracens 5 NRL: Dragons v Rabbitohs 6 RUG HEINE CUP QF: Toulon v Leinster 6 RUG CHAL CUP QF: Bath v Brive; London Wasps v Gloucester 6 World Twenty20: FINAL 6 F1 Bahrain Grand Prix 6 AFL: Essendon v Carlton 10-13 GOLF: The Masters 11 SUPER LEAGUE: Wigan v London Broncos 11 AFL: Richmond v Collingwood 11 NRL: Titans v Broncos 12 FA CUP semi-final: Wigan v Arsenal 13-16 CRICK COUNTY: Middlesex v Notts 13 FA CUP semi-final: Hull v Sheffield Utd 13 EPL FOOT: Liverpool v Man City 13 AFL: St Kilda v Adelaide 15 EPL FOOT: Arsenal v West Ham 17 SUPER LEAGUE: Ldn Broncos v Catalan 18 NRL: Rabbitohs v Bulldogs 19 EPL FOOT: Spurs v Fulham 19 AFL: Sydney v Fremantle 20 F1 China Grand Prix 21 SUPER LEAGUE: Hull FC v Ldn Broncos 21 AFL: Geelong v Hawthorn 21 NRL: Eels v Wests Tigers 25/26/27 Heineken Cup: semis 25/26/27 Amlin Challenge Cup: semis 25 AFL: Collingwood v Essendon 25 NRL: Dragons v Roosters 26 AFL: Gold Coast v GWS Giants 27-30 CRICK COUNTY: M’sex v Yorkshire 27 EPL FOOT: Liverpool v Chelsea 28 EPL FOOT: Arsenal v Newcastle MAY 3 EPL FOOT: Crystal Palace v Liverpool TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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The choosing one TNT meets the Aussie Middlesex star who could be England’s next opening batsman WORDS MICHAEL GADD It didn’t crack the front pages, but England had a win over Australia during their 2013 Ashes embarrassment – his name is Sam Robson. While the Old Enemy’s apparent finest were crumbling to a dismal 5-0 defeat that sent the side spiralling into disarray, the 24-year-old opener was quietly dismantling attacks Down Under.

As Alastair Cook’s men were being terrorised by Mitchell Johnson and friends, Robson was cruising to centuries in his first two outings for the England Performance Programme against Queensland and Western Australia’s second XIs. It was old news by this point that the talented batsman in the mould of Michael Atherton was by most measures an Aussie – born, bred, played for Australia under-19s. But the two distinctions that mattered landed him a place on that tour with England’s second string. The first was a dual passport courtesy of his Nottingham-born mother, while the second was the simple fact he’d made a decision to be there.

“This is a great place to live and a great place to play cricket,” says Robson of England, where he’s in his seventh year playing. Last year his 1,180 runs at an average of 47 for Middlesex was the third highest in the County Championship division one. “I love the cricket over here. Straight away I loved it. I was attracted to the whole set-up.”

After playing his entire professional career in the UK since leaving school in Sydney, the affinity he feels for his adopted country has seen Robson turn his back on Oz. He was behind Phil Hughes, Usman Khawaja and others in the pecking order in NSW, and England – where his father, who runs the SCG training school, also played as a youngster – gave him his shot.

“It’s a bit of a dream. I’m just loving everything about playing cricket here. The biggest thing I noticed when I came here once I’d finished school was how much they played.

I was batting three to four times a week, as opposed to once in Australia; it was outstanding. The more I play cricket the more I love it.”

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All rise: Sam Robson is getting used to raising his bat for milestones for Middlesex

The question of allegiance would have been irrelevant had Robson been rubbish, but his efforts last season saw him come of age, and the stand-out innings in Australia while the first team struggled has seen the door fling wide open for a steady young talent at the top of the England order.

Queries remained, however, about his ability on difficult surfaces and against top-notch spin. Perfect timing for a call-up to the England Lions side to tour Sri Lanka in February

“

If you take your eye off the ball, it can hurt you

”

then… “I’d been to India and Pakistan on training camps before but this was my first serious tour with four-day games,” he says. “The heat and humidity were the things I had to contend with really. I’d obviously played a lot in Australia, where it can be tough, but it was nothing like that.”

A renowned team man by all accounts, it takes another to bring up his three centuries on the tour, the final and finest on a fourth-day wicket against Sri Lanka A that was turning at right-angles and offering variable bounce to the seamers.

After his backfoot nous saw him thrive on the bouncy decks in Oz, he weathered a storm that his teammates struggled with and shone in clear view of England batting coach Graham Gooch to build 147 not out.

“I was pleased with the way it went. It was a good win for us [the Lions won the three unofficial Test series 1-0 with two draws]. I could tell how tough it was going to be so to get a win was great. I just wanted to do well, and getting to face the local spinners was really valuable experience.”

With such numbers racking up next to his name, the

Next in line: The Australian-raised opener is hotly tipped to be picked for England

Late bloomer: Middlesex captain and opening partner Chris Rogers

next step must be seeing SD Robson next to AN Cook when Sri Lanka and India tour England this year. That two of the summer’s Tests are in his backyard at Lord’s can’t hurt.

“I try to not to give it any thought to be honest,” he says.

“I was pleased with the start of the winter, just making it into the performance programme and then the tour to Sri Lanka. Just to be picked in those is a massive honour really.”

It can’t be ignored though. Just like when his Middlesex captain Chris Rogers amassed so many runs that he gave the Australian selectors no choice but to recall him after years in the international wilderness, shambolic England is screaming for a fresh face with no baggage and runs a formality.

“At the moment I’m just trying to take everything on board,” he says, before apologising for the cliché. “I’m getting tough, intense training and good games, so can’t

complain. I’m just trying to do my best and get a few runs.”

He uses the turnaround of the Australian team to beat England having lost three Ashes on the bounce as an example of how quickly fortunes can turn, and why he refuses to look too far ahead. “We were lucky enough to train with England during the Ashes. It was a disappointing result but it just goes to show how quickly things can change.

It was a tough winter but they’ll come back. It just goes to show how fickle this game can be for teams and individuals.

I’ve just got to do well and cash in when I’m in form. When I get in and get a start I need to go on and make big scores.”

And if an ability to use a well-placed cliché is a factor for England selectors, give him a blue cap now. “Things can change fast,” he says metaphorically and literally. “If you take your eye off the ball, it can hurt you.”

LONDON’S SUMMER OF CRICKET 2014

in the revamped T20 Blast competition, with Middlesex taking on both Essex and Sussex in the same day.

Lord’s also hosts two Tests this summer, with England taking on Sri Lanka from June 12 and India from July 17.

Between those clashes, the chance for England to start rebuilding before the next Ashes, Lord’s also celebrates its bicentenary with the starstudded MCC vs Rest of the World match with captains Sachin Tendulkar and Shane Warne.

For fixtures and tickets see lords.org and kiaoval.com

How can London and the UK possibly follow an Ashes year? With a new-look Twenty20 competition, ODIs and Tests against Sri Lanka and India at two of the most iconic grounds in world cricket, that’s how.

The LV County Championship is first cab off the rank, with Sam Robson and Chris Rogers’ Middlesex taking on Nottinghamshire from April 13 and Yorkshire the following week from April 27 at Lord’s in division one.

At the Kia Oval, Surrey will be bidding for a swift return to the top division after their demotion last year with Kevin Pietersen (right) and Graeme Smith leading the way in their first home against Glamorgan on April 6.

On May 17 Lord’s hosts a first-time double-header

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The goode life Wasps fly-half Andy Goode’s achieved it all in rugby, but he’s hungry for more WORDS MICHAEL GADD

“It was the stuff dreams are made of,” laments Andy Goode as we revisit the last time he appeared on the hallowed turf of Twickenham. It was his competitive debut for London Wasps in the Aviva Premiership. He could’ve been his new club’s hero and exacted an upset over Harlequins after a try at the death left him with a sideline conversion. He struck the ball sweetly, but the curl wasn’t kind. It hit the inside of the post, yet still bounced away. His reaction said it all.

“People saw my face, I was gutted,” says Goode, the former England playmaker who, though a divisive figure, has had a career some greats would envy. “It just dipped to the left and didn’t go. It’s the fine margins of sport. That rankled me for a long time, until we got our first win on the board.

The worst was my little girl crying in the stands. It effects you and I was down about it for a few matches.”

Hero one minute and zero the next, that’s the lot of the kicker and lynchpin – the role made for big moments and the one Goode’s made his own. With his pro-career in its 16th year, with four back-to-back Premierships and two Heineken Cups to his name at Leicester, the fact it still feels like the end of the world when he doesn’t deliver proves he’s still got the fire in his belly to compete at the top level.

Goode wears a lot of responsibility on his 33-year-old shoulders at Wasps, having joined the club last season from Worcester Warriors as it looked to continue its recovery from on- and off-field turmoil. He ignored overtures from Bath and his former club Leicester – the Wasps project appealed.

“When I met with [director of rugby] Dai Young he was so honest about where the club was at – coming out of a bit of trouble – and where it’s going and what they wanted to achieve,” Goode says. “There was a place for me in that; being a little bit older [I could] help bring the younger guys through... I thought I could bring value to that.”

Close margins like the 16-15 loss to Quins decided by less than the width of the post have seen Wasps fall short of their top-four ambitions this season, but Goode gets a 80

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Hero or zero: Andy Goode runs the gauntlet when he takes the field

chance at Twickenham redemption when his side leave home ground Adams Park for ‘The Stinger’, a fancy name given to their match against Gloucester on April 19.

A recent four-game losing streak – including an 11-10 loss to, you guessed it, Quins – coincided with injury woes for Goode, but he’s all systems go for the back end of the season.

“I’m back to full fitness, as much as a 33-year-old can be,” he says. “The top four have it all to play for at the end of January, and we could have been challenging for that before that bad run, but now the target is to be in the top six.”

don’t need any of “theI headlines ”

Wasps are also still in the running for Europe’s secondtier cup competition, the Amlin Challenge Cup, with a home quarter final against Gloucester on April 6 at Adams. “There’s still a massive carrot in the Amlin Cup, and it’ll mean a lot for us to get a home semi-final against Bath or Brize,” says Goode.

Goode, in the twilight of his career, is relishing being part of growing something at Wasps, with young players such as England star Joe Launchbury now flourishing.

“There’s a good balance in the Premiership... every team has goals for the season,” he says. “Dai’s goal for us is to qualify for the Heineken Cup, and coming from facing relegation and near extinction not that long ago is pretty impressive. The young players got thrown into the deep end and they’ve delivered and are coming along really well now.

The club’s a great place to be. It’s really building to get back into Europe, and being part of that is something special.”

Goode’s experience and ability to transfer it to younger players can only bolster the youthful Wasps squad. “I’ve

Top of his game: Proud in England colours

Super boot: Goode is the Premiership’s second top point scorer

Winner: More often than not, Goode is celebrating got great memories of the Heineken Cup having played 49 games in it.” And with his eye on adding to that figure, he’s following the final stages of this year’s tournament closely.

“There’s eight great teams still in it. Leicester is still a powerhouse, Clermont and Toulon of France, Ulster and Munster are all getting better year-by-year. That’s the tournament you aspire to when you’re playing in the Premiership, so hopefully the powers that be can find a common ground and give future generations the chance to play in it. It was the greatest thing to win it; to do it two times makes me a very lucky player.”

Despite his achievements, which include 17 caps for England, Goode has his detractors. For reasons right or wrong, he’s in the love him or hate him category.

Close margins: After that kick at Twickenham

He doesn’t like it but lumps it, and has his priorities straight.

“The people you play with and for are really the people I care about most,” he says. “Opinions are like arseholes: everyone’s got one. I’m as honest as a day is long and will be first to put my hand up when I haven’t delivered. At the same time I demand high standards of others as well.

“I’ve copped some abuse in my time, but as long as Dai [and coaches] Brad [Davis] and Steve [Stephen Jones] are happy, I am. I don’t need any of the headlines.”

Dai would have certainly been happy in January when a field goal at the death from Goode saw Wasps beat Exeter 19-16. Goode later said he’d had a shocker of a game and was surprised to have not been substituted early on, but thanked the coaching staff for keeping their faith in him.

Goode’s always danced to his own beat too – he’d be the top scorer in Premiership history without a doubt had he not chosen a 2008 move to French club CA Brive for two years – before it was cool or as lucrative to go there as it is now – followed by a stint in South Africa with the Sharks.

Goode has also never been the ripped picture of athleticism his contemporaries may be. He loves his food and tells us his go-to is posh Japanese joint Nobu and that he has a particular penchant for foie gras on top of a steak.

Regardless, he certainly gets the job done. “You’ve got to train hard and work hard, and at times be strict. But there are times when you’ve got to enjoy yourself.”

After our chat, Wasps broke their four-match losing streak against Goode’s former club Worcester. As if written in a script, it was up to the fly-half to kick a match-winning conversion at the death. It wasn’t from the sideline, but it was 11-11 and the stage was set. It went straight up the middle, but he was in no mood for celebrations, turning down a mate who tried to lift him up. If it was Twickenham though...

London Wasps play Gloucester Rugby in The Stinger at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday April 19. Tickets £10+ (£1 to Sport Relief) from ticketmaster.co.uk/wasps TNTMAGAZINE.COM

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WIN A COUTURE HAIRCUT WITH AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSER LEE STAFFORD Looking for a hair revamp?

Don’t miss out on this amazing one-off opportunity to win a complimentary Couture Haircut with one of Britain’s most successful, multi-award-winning hairdressers, Lee Stafford!

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

GO ON THE GHAN This year marks the 10th anniversary of the inaugural journey across the heart of Australia by The Ghan. Hail a cab that looks like this one and you could win a trip to Australia to travel on board The Ghan. Taxi!

Photos: Getty and supplied

INSIDE

THE MORNING AFTER /86

THE FEST TRACK /88

PHONE HOME /94

Flashbacks, cringing and carbs is basically what our morning after consists of. But now we know how to end our misery. Hoorah!

Dying to go to the festivals but can’t afford the tickets? Offer up your services (no, not those services) and you can go for free!

You’re a long way from your rellies, but nowadays you can easily stay in touch. We find the best (and cheapest) ways to do it...

LIFESTYLESTUFF

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£3.99 £36.00

FOOTPRINT GUIDE TO TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY

WHIMSICAL WALL CLOCK

SINGLE-SLICE VICTORIA SPONGE TIN

Get your holiday snaps coming out how you want them to. amazon.co.uk

A nifty gift for jazzing up all sorts of living spaces. homecandy.com

For those days when you can’t eat it all (yeah, right). scribbler.com

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BISCUITEERS PATISSERIE TIN

QTOS Q-BOPZ MINI BLUETOOTH SPEAKER

TRAVELS WITH MY HAT FOR KINDLE

Tasty biccies dressed up as cupcakes. Double delicious. biscuiteers.com

These colourful speaker sucker on to all kind of surfaces. qdossound.com

Aussie traveller puts her life’s experiences down on e-paper. amazon.co.uk

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SURVIVOR CASE FOR IPHONE 5/5S

CAMPERVAN TOASTER

FISH HIP FLASK

Offers military-standard protection for fragile phones. store.griffintechnology.co.uk/

Add a little retro fun to your brekkie. thegiftoasis.com

It’s funny coz you’ll look like you’re kissing a fish. Haha. thegiftoasis.com

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ay M ot h e r’ s D ) ( It’s o n M

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MOTHER’S DAY? IT’S IN THE BAG

FEELING FLORAL

BE BOLD AND ACCESSORISE

Mums can never have too many bags, and this is oh-so pretty. itsvintagedarling.com

This floaty shirt will bring out mum’s inner hippie. bankfashion.co.uk

It’s big, bulky and blue. Everything we love in neck-wear. lipsy.co.uk

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THERE’S BAGS OF ROOM IN HERE

YOU CAN’T GO WRONG WITH A CLASSIC

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It’s Aztec, colourful and plenty spacious. Win win win. asos.com

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LIFESTYLEHEALTH CLASS OF THE MONTH

PLAY WITH RABBLE Do you remember running around in the playground as a kid? You’d come back to class with muddy clothes, scraped knees and a massive grin on your face. And, even better, you will have burnt off that packet of crisps you ate at lunchtime. Now as an adult, we seem convinced that the best form of exercise is to work out in a gym, but you get no fresh air, and it’s no fun. However, the founders of Rabble are putting a stop to that, encouraging adults to get outside, meet new people and tear around a park like a kid again, with getting fit the by-product of having fun. I recently joined them for a Hunger Games-themed session on Hampstead Heath. After warming up with a few ‘getting to know you’ name games, we quickly made enemies with our new-found friends in a game of dodgeball. ‘Hunger Games’ involved the two teams trying to reach each other’s base camps, while the evil dictators tried to kill them. With space hoppers, a foam bow and arrow, a skipping rope shield and, my favourite, a cloak of invisibility (a bright gold cape), it was as much fun as it sounds, and we retreated with muddy clothes, scraped knees and big grins on our faces. Even better?

We got to go to the pub with our new friends. Sometimes it’s great being an adult. Caroline Garnar £5 during April, £10 thereafter.

Packages available. See site for dates. jointherabble.co.uk

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Rehydrate, people!

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We feel her pain...

Beat the Big G Sick of getting hangover anxiety? Here’s how to beat booze at its own game WORDS VICKY ANSCOMBE My friends and I call it ‘The Big G’ (The Big Guilt), but you probably know it as ‘Beer Fear’ or ‘Party Heart’. It’s the old familiar friend that gets in touch when you wake up after a hectic night out.

What causes the fear?

Feeling anxious after drinking is normal – and natural. You’ve given your body a massive shot of poison and it’s struggling to get rid of it.

“One of the major reasons for postdrinking anxiety is your plummeting blood sugar levels,” says Jacqui Cleaver of New You Boot Camp. “Alcohol and mixers really make your blood sugars peak. After this peak comes the crash, and this is what leads to the lack of energy, terrible anxiety and the shakes the next day.”

Dr Sohere Roked is a GP who has treated plenty of people for alcohol-related anxiety.

“It’s a common reaction, especially as one gets older, as the body is less able to cope with alcohol,” she explains. “When you first drink alcohol, it promotes relaxation and de-stressing. However, the body then has to fight off the sedative effects and is put into a state of hyperactivity to counteract it, which can cause the guilt and terror symptoms.”

Life and work coach Charles Linden

has treated more than 160,000 people for anxiety and has noticed that numbers of young people suffering with alcoholrelated anxiety disorders are increasing. “A large proportion of the anxious people we treat use alcohol medicinally, even when the alcohol may have been the catalyst for their high anxiety,” he explains. “There is definitely a marked increase in the implication of alcohol in the development of anxiety disorders in young people.”

Unsurprisingly, this kind of anxiety can have long-lasting consequences. “For the majority of people, this is a short term problem,” Dr Roked continues. “However, if you already suffer with anxiety or paranoia, it can make it worse, and lead to mental health problems.” Yikes.

Ways to limit the damage Sounds bad, doesn’t it? However, even if you’re reading this thinking, ‘Goodness, how troubling,’ let’s be honest, you’re probably not going to give up the booze.

GP and MD of 3 Monkeys Health + Wellness Dr Martin Godfrey recommends the following if you’re on a mission to obliterate your liver. “The obvious answer is not to drink to the point of losing self-control,” he advises. “Avoiding shots is a good idea,

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LIFESTYLEBEAUTY LIFESTYLEHEALTH More booze won’t help

SWEET TREATS

Oil be there... with almond, rose and orange OilArganic. £24.99 tanorganic.com

you should also avoid alcohol if you’re on medication, and make sure that you have a good meal before drinking, as this will slow the alcohol’s absorption. Drink water throughout the night, and don’t worry too much the next day – remember, most of your friends probably have the fear, too!”

Pictures: Thinkstock & supplied

Kill the hangover queen...

Now, let’s just pretend that, despite having this stellar advice, you’ve gone out on an empty stomach, you’ve avoided water all night, and you’ve just woken up feeling like death. What next?

Let’s start with water. Even if the thought of putting something in your mouth makes you heave, give it a go; try herbal teas if you need a bit of flavour. It’s advisable to try to drink a few pints of water before you go to bed, and although we’ve heard mixed reviews about the Dioralyte trick, it’s always worth a go. Dioralyte is meant to help the body hydrate after diarrhoea, so it should, in effect, keep you from dehydrating overnight.

If you can stand the sweetness, Jacqui recommends a teaspoon of cinnamon before you go out, and one when you come home.

Cinnamon stabilises blood sugar levels and counteracts sugar, helping to prevent the sugar high and deplete the next-day crash.

“People tend to grab foods such as crisps, chocolate and bread as their body craves a higher blood sugar level,” she warns. “This is exactly what they shouldn’t have. A big juicy steak or eggs and bacon would be the best solution – protein is what really helps.”

Dr Roked recommends Vitamin C and advises anyone wrestling with their conscience to go back to bed (obviously this might not work during the week – in which case, tough). “Sleeping is a good option, especially if the anxiety is severe,” she says.

“It’s also a good idea to make some food in advance to have the morning after, as you don’t want to be preparing food with a terrible hangover.”

Charles stresses that eating properly is the key to recovery. “Diet is vital to good health, and during high anxiety, the body becomes depleted much faster. Maintain a healthy blood-sugar level by cutting down on carbohydrates and sugary foods, and stocking up on protein-rich food,” he advises. “Light exercise, such as a slow walk, will increase systemic blood-flow, stretch out tight muscles and help regulate breathing.”

So, there you have it – TNT’s guide to getting rid of that Sunday morning fear.

Weekends will never be the same again.

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Music, booze and mates: just another day at work

Whistle while you work If you love music festivals but can’t make the high price, sign up as a volunteer and get your ticket – plus VIP toilets – for free WORDS RACHAEL GETZELS

Last time you were knee-high in mud and finger-pointing in time to the beat with 10,000 neon ravers, you probably didn’t stop to think about how it all came together (and we don’t blame you). However, it’s worth considering, as it takes a huge crew to pull off a music festival and people who volunteer can enjoy free tickets, major discounts around the site, and some oh-so-clean staff-only toilets. Now that’s an offer worth its weight in gold if you’ve ever been in a festival portaloo before.

Stewarding You may have mistaken their bright yellow vests for standard rave attire, but in fact stewards have a very important job to do. This fluorescent army check wristbands, man entry points, direct 88

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festival goers and pick up rubbish with those long pointy things that look like back scratchers. They also know the lay of the land to answer questions and help with crowd control (don’t worry though, the big dogs are on hand for serious moshes). Oxfam recruits stewards for major festivals like Glastonbury, Bestival, Reading, Leeds and Womad and it also helps staff some great boutique fests. You need to pay a £210 deposit to take part but as long as you show up for your shifts you’ll get it all back. Stewards also get to camp in staff quarters which are often closer to the stages and are cleaner and more secure. Go to oxfam.org.uk/stewarding.

Best part: Free entry and crew perks of course! Plus, at Oxfam you can apply to work with a friend or in a group.

Worst part: You may miss some of the music and you will be required to do at least one night shift.

Bar staff Serving up pints behind a bar is the most party-friendly of jobs you can get at a festival. While casually helping yourself to a medicinal drop here and there you’ll also be watering the masses. Think of it as your good deed for the year. Most festivals recruit their own bar staff with applications online.

Experience is helpful but not essential.

In exchange for pulling pints you’ll get a free ticket – and of course access to luxury loos. This really is as big a deal as we’re making out, people. Most festivals will offer staff camping but you don’t have to take them up on it.

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ON THE JOB Jamie Campbell, 23, brand provocateur at Elmwood London Lives: Hackney From: Yorkshire

How did you get into your line of work? I knew I wanted to work in design because of my artistic streak.

I ended up here by pestering as it was a place I really wanted to work.

What do you do day-to-day? Usually there will be a few creative thrashes, working out innovative ideas or design principles, then storyboarding presentations. A drink in the pub at lunchtime or a game of table football are also good when I have time.

What’s the most challenging part?

Seeing your innovative ideas resonating well with clients, so much so that they leave as excited as you.

If you’ve got lots of experience and fancy making some extra cash as a bar manager apply through event recruiters peppermintbars.co.uk Best part: Most bars are near the stages so you won’t miss a beat. The work is also very sociable.

Worst part: Your bulk of shifts will be during the festival’s busiest times.

Photos: BBK Bilbao Live and supplied. Words: Rachael Getzels

Campsite staff This is a basically a babysitter for big kids who never sleep and are drunk all the time. Or worse. Sounds like a bit of a nightmare? We promise, it’s not.

Checking up on the happy campers at night can actually be quite entertaining as you stumble across all types of outrageous, savagely wasted antics and unusual tent set-ups. You’ll mainly be enforcing the rules (no open fires, try not to piss on your neighbour’s tent etc.) and dealing with lost or stolen property. This job generally falls under stewarding but you can request the role when you apply. Oxfam again is the main recruiter. Some of the more boutique festivals let you apply for this job directly on their websites.

Best part: The crazy scenes you’ll come

across on your travels – and satisfaction gained knowing that staff quarters are not a communal toilet.

Worst part: You will have shifts at night or early in the morning as this is when rules go out the tent flap.

What’s the most challenging?

The hardest thing are the knockbacks. With every win there are two losses – that’s just the game. elmwood.com

Crewing Putting up tents and building stages requires some brawn but the benefit is that you’ll be free during the music.

Tasks involve setting up the site before guests arrive, putting up marquees and hauling stage blocks. Skilled workers like plumbers and electricians will be needed a week or so before or after the festival and will be paid. People who purely volunteer will only be needed a day or two before or after the festival and they will receive free entry.

DCsiteservices.co.uk recruits volunteers.

If you want skilled work, general recruiters such as indeed.co.uk and totaljobs.com begin advertising a few months before the festivals.

Best part: Not missing a second of music – and flashing your biceps on the job.

Worst part: Set-up and take-down days are full-on and will sap all the energy you’re trying to reserve or have left.

HOW TO...BOOK HOLIDAY AT WORK Vacays are the highlight of the year but negotiating dates in the office can be tricky. Here are some tips for smooth sailing.

• Request time off months in advance to avoid any clashes.

• If you’re using sick days for a

break do not post those holiday snaps on Facebook or Twitter.

• Book over bank holiday

weekends to ensure maximum time off and minimum holiday time used up.

• And lastly, don’t brag or

you’ll find those deadlines mysteriously stacking up the week before your trip.

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LIFESTYLEMONEY

HOW YOU SPEND IT NATHAN WREN, 25

GET YOUR GLAM BACK If you’ve just emerged from hibernation after the winter it may be worth investing in the newly launched ‘Fabyouless’ card. The beauty, hair and fitness card offers deals at spas and salons. The onetime price is £29.99 but you’ll make it back in no time with some seriously slamming sales. Beauty does come at price, but it doesn’t have to be high.

JOB Assistant producer FROM Chester LIVES Camden How do you budget?

I put money for rent, transport and bills into my savings so I can’t spend it.

With the rest, I don’t think about it for the first two weeks of the month. Then I run out of money, panic, sulk and call my parents.

fabyoulesscard.com

HOT TICKETS As a special Easter treat, Ticket Master is offering major discounts on entrance to some hot shows. The list is diverse, from buy one get one free for Grease in the West End to 30% off top seats to Cinderella at the Royal Open House. The deals are for a limited time only, so snap them up quickly.

Do you have any tips for saving money in London?

Don’t live in London. If you have to, buy a monthly travel card – it’s much

kabbee.com

What non-essential items do you spend money on?

I often convince myself I need new clothes, spend a fortune and then realise that every single item was a mistake!

Last month at the Oscars, the lucky pizza delivery man who brought piping hot pies to the stars was tipped US$1,000 by Ellen deGeneres. Not bad for a night’s work, plus Brad Pitt helped him with the plates...

Big tipper: Ellen deGeneres and the lucky pizza man

❚ Drew Barrymore has got

❚ Never fuss over Johnny

to be Hollywood’s most consistently generous tipper, known for putting 100% on top of every food bill she pays.

Depp at a restaurant. If you learn to let him be, as waiters at his favourite steakhouse in Chicago do, he’ll tip you 1,000 big ones.

❚ Russell Crowe looks good

❚ Donald Trump quashed a

(most of the time), sings well(ish) and tips like a dream. The Aussie actor once put $600 on top of a $240 bill; all after serenading the staff on guitar.

story that he’d left a $10,000 tip for an $82.27 meal at a restaurant in Santa Monica.

“That was done by the stupid restaurant to get publicity,” he said.

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Your calling card You won’t have any more excuses with this guide to calling home on the cheap. Just watch those drunk-dials to your ex Miss the sound of mum’s voice nagging at you? Secretly can’t wait to hear what Uncle Mick had for dinner? Go on, admit it. Sometimes you do just miss home and there’s nothing you want to hear more than what your Gran accidentally called her dog last week (it was your name by the way). Finding a time when you can speak, however, is not easy given the time difference – and the extortionate prices.

Here is a round-up of some of the cheapest, most convenient ways to stay in touch across hemispheres. Uncle Mick’s digestive problems will never be a mystery again.

Internet

Wooden bird house Get the chicks over to yours.

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Online phone calls are the saviour of longdistance relationships and the friend of nagging mums the world over. There are hundreds of options out there, but not all of them boast crystal-clear connections. Here are some sites worth signing up to if you haven’t already.

Skype: This well-known internet phone service offers free international calls between users. Given that both parties must have an account and be signed on to speak, it never has jibed well with grans. To solve this, though, you can also call mobiles and landlines for a small fee. You can top-up credit online or now you can buy vouchers at PayPoint counters in most local shops.

Viber: This online phone service is similar to Skype, although it does not yet have a system for dialling numbers with credit.

SIMplistic: A cheap and easy way to call home

What it can offer, however, is portability – originally designed as mobile app, it works very smoothly on-the-go, and requires less memory than Skype to make a call which means it won’t eat up your mobile Internet allowance (if you have an iPhone, FaceTime is basically the same thing).

Localphone: A call from your online Localphone account to Australia costs 0.9p per minute, compared to 1.4p a minute as charged by Skype. However, the site is not as streamlined and slick and the connection is not as clear.

Mobile phone Talk of SIM cards may sound outdated, but there’s something to be said for dialling your mate directly to cry ‘I love you sooooo much’ when you’re out on the piss and can’t be dealing with temperamental 3G. We do, however, recommend against this option if you have a penchant for drunk-dialling your ex. Not cool; especially when you’re 10,000 miles away and they’re at work.

Pay-as-you-go: Great for when you first land and you haven’t got a fancy phone yet, you can simply pop these special SIMs in your mobile and call home for a decent rate.

Telecom cards offer good deals on calls to New Zealand and can be purchased online.

NobelCom cards, which can be bought in the UK, offers the same rates as Skype but

LIFESTYLELIVING LONDON TIPS ENJOY LONDON’S PARKS AND GREEN SPACES Feeling glum? Get a spring in your step by spending some time in the city’s parks. As the weather warms up, this option becomes increasingly attractive.

Here are some tips for making the best of the fresh air.

Hide that hangover: Your mum wants to say good morning Apps

Photos: Thinkstock. Words: Rachael Getzels

MAP OUT YOUR MATES We never thought we’d get this excited over some technology, but we actually think this app might change your life. Friend Compass charts where your Facebook friends live all over the world and then calculates the cheapest ways to visit them. You can book your flights (or who knows, maybe a boat) directly from your phone, and be on your merry way to visit long-lost mates.

The app also lets you find friends ‘nationally,’ ‘regionally’ or ‘globally’, which could be a major plus when you’re on the move and you’re looking for somewhere to stay. Can’t quite remember Liza who you met on a train in Germany? Well you’d better wrack your brain because you’re about to be best friends again. momondo.co.uk you can only pick one destination.

Monthly Plan: If you call home often and you have a monthly contract with a UK phone company it may be worth including international calls in your rate. Although it’s slightly pricier than pay-as-you-go, it eliminates the need for top-ups and having to change SIM card and number every time you dial your mum. Ask your contract provider for more information as some have deals on specific destinations.

Swanky apps is where it’s at these days and they do far more than merely call. As well as downloading the standards (Skype and Viber or FaceTime apps to use on the move) you can also send postcards, videos – and even a card with your own handwritten message inside! That will get you brownie points for staying in touch and for being thoughtful. Bonus.

Postagram: Send a postcard directly from your phone with this nifty little app – just upload a photo and a message and have it transformed into a postcard that will be mailed anywhere in the world – for free!

No more will your folks have to strain to read your scribbled-on-the-back-of-a postcard handwriting.

Vsnap: Just hearing your family’s voices not enough? Send a video message instead. This is a great way to really make them feel like part of the action. This app also makes it super easy to send video messages to groups and there’s an option for sharing to Twitter or Facebook, if you think your creation deserves to go viral...

Inkly: This app sends greeting cards to your folks in your own handwriting. Take a snap of your handwritten message with the app, choose which card you want and, for a small fee, they’ll print it out and it send it on. No more post office queues for you.

Where to go: Londoners are spoilt for choice when it comes to green spaces and there are numerous sites you can benefit from everyday.

Try Victoria Park, Regent’s Park, Green Park or St James’s, or there is sure to be even a small park close to your office. Spend at least 15 minutes a day away from your screen and devices to switch-off and relax.

What to do: Make the most of your time in the great outdoors by doing some exercises to unwind. Walk around the green space on your own. Take a few deep breaths and start by naming four things you can see, four things you can hear and four things you can feel (physical sensations like the sun warming your face); then go on to name three of each, then two of each and then one. Try to identify different things for each of the four stages.

This will heighten your experience of nature and help to ground you in the present moment. Give it a go and see how you feel at the end.

Karen Liebenguth from Green Space Life Coaching offers life coaching while walking in London’s parks and green spaces. For a free 30-minute taster session, email karen@ greenspacecoaching.com

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SAY WHAT?!

She’s got one cat called mel gibson and one called danny glover. please don’t ask me why.

The other day i came home to find him playing a board game by himself, weeping.

Accidental overdose: Thank you for stopping me from panicking when I realised that I’d taken four paracetamol instead of two. You were lovely. Maybe we can go out sometime and I won’t behave like an utter dick and start crying on the train? Andrea.

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Nice package: So, I hate to come across as a total nympho, but you were sat across from me on the bus to Wimbledon and I couldn’t

THINGS THE QUEEN SHOULD DO BEFORE SHE DIES

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Get down and dirty at La Tomatina. Red’s always been her colour.

since forever! We love you guys!

Heaps of kisses from Sarah, Alex and the gang xx Looking sharp: I was in the kitchen preparing a fruit-based cocktail and you wandered in looking for a knife (or something sharp, I forget now). I think your name’s Marcy. I’m Ian, the man who later told you he lived in Tooting. Dinner this week?

Gym funny: I am definitely not a stalker, but I often catch your eye when we’re both on the rowing machine and we also catch the same bus home. I once made an unfunny joke to you about sitting on your face and you’ve avoided me ever since. May I have one last shot? Kylie.

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Also, the grey dressing gown is mine! Pudding xx Portobello toad: I was being sexually harassed by an ugly, drunk guy in a brown sports jacket near Ladbroke Grove last Friday and you rescued me so suavely I half-believed I was your wife for a minute. Er, fancy a pint? Soph x Not-so mystery man: Joe, I know it’s you that leaves sweet notes on my desk and bought me those chocolates on Valentine’s Day. I’m really flattered – how about you ask me out face to face?

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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.

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