Set back towards the city end of King Street in Newtown is the funky and colourful Calle Rey. Touting itself as a plant based Mexican eatery with non vegetarian options, it is one of those places that manages to be both relaxed and exciting at the same time. We really enjoyed our meal here.
The star of the show for me? The jackfruit nachos. I will absolutely be back for those alone. Smoky, rich and deeply satisfying, they genuinely taste like pulled pork but without the heaviness that usually follows. You get all the flavour and comfort, minus the food coma. Pair that with their happy hour margaritas and you have a very good reason to settle in for a while.
Between us we tried a mix of tacos, including mushroom and chicken, and of course we could not leave without sampling dessert. This was gluten and dairy free! The kids couldn’t believe it.
The tacos are vibrant, generously filled and full of bold Mexican flavours, while still feeling fresh and light. It is the kind of food that makes you feel nourished rather than weighed down.
One of the big wins here is that most of the menu is gluten free and dairy free. For anyone who eats this way by choice or necessity, that is an absolute gift. You can relax, order freely and just enjoy the experience without overthinking every ingredient.
The décor is delightfully funky and instantly took me back to the 1990s when I used to visit vegetarian restaurants around Newtown during my own vego phase. Back when BYO was the norm, the chairs did not match and the focus was on flavour, community and good vibes. Calle Rey captures that old school charm beautifully, but with a modern polish. Quirky details, colour, warmth and a sense that everyone is welcome.
Add in excellent value for money and genuinely flavour packed food and you have a little Newtown gem.
The Tasmanian Peninsula (AKA Tasman Peninisula) offers a wonderful array of sites, beauty and tourist activities.
I would suggest staying over night as you will want to suck in the
ambiance of a world almost left behind. A world in close connection with our
convict roots and one where Tasmanian wild life thrives.
You actually officially arrive on the peninsular just as you pass through Eaglehawk Neck. As the name suggests it is a narrow part of land that is the only sections that connects the tail end with the main island. Only approximately 30 metres in diameter this section serves as the only way on and off the peninnsular making the place a perfect place to house convicts. The only way they could “escape” was through the neck (which was heavily guarded with snapping man traps, and savage dogs) or by taking your chances in the freezing cold oceans waters which have many sharks. Needless to say not many people escaped and made it alive from Port Arthur, the penial settlement.
Here are 5 things I would recommend doing down the Penninsular,
baring in mind this is not exhaustive!
McHenry’s Distillery
Established as a gin distillery in 2011, this craft distillery now
makes some awesome gins as well as whisky.
The tastings cost $10 for 3 tastes and unfortunately unlike most
wineries you still pay the $10 where you buy a bottle or not.
We were fortunate on our visiting day as Mark, the very informative,
ex wine-maker took us up to the sheds to trial the newly cracked barrel of
whisky. It was dam fine!
It’s not a place to hang out – no meals are served but you can head up the top of the property for some pretty special views and can take some of your own nibbles to indulge on up the top. You can find them here.
Port Arthur
Port Arthur is the convict goal that has the added history of being
the site of Australia’s biggest mass murder in 1997.
It is worthy of a few hours wandering around in the beautiful bay
opening up to the memories of a bygone time when people were sentanced from the
UK for stealing nothing more than a loaf of bread.
The conditions were ruthless and the men were used as slave labour
to produce many of the buildings and roads around Australia.
The solitary confinement part of the goal was the area that captured my imagination most. Here men would be sentenced to 20+ days in pure darkness with one blanket and one bowl of soup a day for minimal crimes. It is truly powerful and hard to comprehend how harsh one human can treat another human. More on planning your trip here.
Remarkable Cave and Crescent Bay
Coming back out from Port Arthur and taking the next left along
Safety Beach you will find your way to Remarkable Cave. Just before you can
take a turn off (best to google this one on maps) and climb some sand dunes and
find yourself in a magic bay, not accessible by car, called Crescent Bay.
Both of these breath-taking areas give wonderful insights to the
ruggedness and spectacular beauty found along the coast line down south. The
coves and bays are gentle and soft but the cliff faces wild and strong.
The Tassie Devil Nonzoo
Set up as a Tasmania Devil rehab and research centre this (non zoo)
is worth a visit. Last time I went the entry was step but if you view it as an
opportunity to help save a threatened iconic Australian species then the trip
is well worth it. 20 years ago these little growling hostile bears contracted a
rare form of facial cancer and since the species has been diminishing. Now they
survival is dependent on centres like this where the healthy devils are
quarantened from the sick ones. They have a breeding program to ensure survival
of the species who are then returned to the wild when old enough.
Blow Hole, Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen
Just near Eaglehawk Neck is a turn off to the Tasman Arch, Devils
Kitchen and Blow Hole. On the way to these beautiful natural formations you
pass through “Doo Town”. As kids we loved the fact that every house had a “doo”
name. Check it out and see how many you can spot.
On the north side of Eaglehawk Neck is the Tessalated Pavements –
also worthy of a stop and wander, especially if you are a photographer.
There are many many more sites to see, vineyards to visit, oysters to eat and short bushwalks. These are just five. I recommend walking along the beaches and at Fortesque Bay if you should make it there, walk in the water at night. It will illuminate with the sparkles of the stars.
Tassie is special and a hire car is the best way to explore.
Sydney does festivals, concerts and sporting events! When the city opens its heart to wine, it becomes an extraordinary experience ; a feast for the senses, where the Harbour sparkles, the Opera House glows, and some of the best of Australian vineyards pour their stories by the glass.
Welcome to the Sydney Cellar Door; a FUN & vibrant gathering along The Rocks, where heritage and innovation meet along side the water of Circular Quay.
Where Wine Meets the Water
There’s something intoxicating about sipping fine wine by the sea. At the Sydney Wineries Festival, the harbour breeze carries the perfume of summer, the clink of crystal (actually plastic) glasses blends with the rhythm of buskers in The Rocks, and the skyline creates a stage that even Bordeaux or Tuscany would envy.
The event sprawls infront of the Museum of Contemporary Art, transforming the foreshore into a sensory playground. Cellar doors pop up along the grass, each offering a taste of NSW wines: Orange, Mudgee, Port Macquarie, the Hunter and more. It is some of Australia’s BEST for sure!
This isn’t just a tasting. It’s a journey through the terroirs of NSW, without ever leaving the Quay.
A Showcase of Australia’s Finest
From the crisp mineral whites of De Beaurepaire to the refined méthode traditionnelle sparklings of Cassegrain, and the robust, soulful reds of Glandore, the festival highlights the incredible breadth of Australian winemaking.
You’ll find:
Cool-climate Chardonnay from Orange and Tumbarumba
Elegant Pinot Noir from De Beaurepaire
Earthy, complex Shiraz from the Hunter wineries
Vibrant Tempranillo, Fiano, and Nebbiolo from the new-wave innovators redefining Australian wine! Giddy UP
Each stall tells a story. One of the things I love most about a wine festival is getting to “know” the wine maker!
Each pour holds a philosophy about land, the patience and the passion. The conversations are as rich as the vintages.
The Rocks: Where Heritage Meets the Modern Palate
Wandering The Rocks during festival weekend feels like walking through a living gallery. The mix of old-world charm and new-world creativity mirrors the evolution of Australian wine itself.
This is wine culture at its most joyful, inclusive and alive.
The Art of the pour
What sets the Sydney Wineries Festival apart isn’t just the setting , it’s the curation. The festival celebrates wine as art ; every varietal, a palette; every vineyard, a brushstroke. Winemakers aren’t just pouring drinks; they’re sharing their craft, their failures, their triumphs. You leave not just with your palate expanded, but your heart warmed.
Some I have never heard of and kudos to Cassegrain for exploring (and nailing) incredible blends. Please explore their incredible blends as they are smooth and eclectic.
It’s also a moment to reflect on sustainability. the quiet revolution taking place in vineyards across Australia. Many of the participating winemakers practise low-intervention, organic, or regenerative viticulture, proof that excellence and ethics can coexist beautifully. Many of the vineyards commited to low intervention such as Tractorless Winery with Melania and partner with their winery in the Southern Highlands.
A Toast to the City that Never Stops Creating
Sydney’s energy is contagious. One moment, you’re sampling a sparkling Semillon under the sails of the Opera House; the next, you’re dancing barefoot on the grass at First Fleet Park, holding a glass of Hunter Shiraz as the ferries glide past.
The festival caters for collectors, casual sippers, or just someone who loves being outdoors with good company, it’s impossible not to be swept up in the moment.
Raise Your Glass
Sydney’s Wineries Festival isn’t just an event. It’s a celebration of everything Australia does best; creativity, craftsmanship and conversations! All poured into one unforgettable weekend.
So next time it rolls around, mark the date, gather your people, and make your way to the Rocks in Sydney. Sam xx
PS: please support the above mentioned wineries. They are all local wineries meeting face to face with their customers.
Da Emilia alla Curtiglia found on the western side of Isle of Capri has some of the best food, drinks and sunsets on the island.
Run by classic Capri family from mum/dad, brothers, kids, cousins the place is warm and inviting. They were happy to pick me up from Villa San Michele and drop me back! I felt like royalty and was the service at the restaurant was similar.
Being gluten free can be hit and miss but their GF bruschetta was to die for!
Painting the sunset, drinking a delightful gin cocktail and eating the delicious olives and bruschetta will be some of my fondest memories of Isle of Capri this trip.
There is something wholesome and encompassing about eating fresh local produce that hasn’t been mass produced but lovingly grown by Nonno. Most of the smaller regions still (and staunchly) opt for traditional farming methods so the produce can be grown mostly pesticide and weedicide free. The depth of flavours embarrasses your average super market produce.
Equally the main dishes don’t disappoint. Lashes of local olive oil, fresh seafood and vibrant garnishes. If I didn’t have a trillion other reasons to go back to Capri, I would certainly go back for the Vognole from this restaurant and sunset. GF, delicious and home made with love.
Below one of the chefs and the very big kitchen able to cater for weddings, parties anything.
Click here to book. I would make this the destination and Isle of Capri the incidental.
Having flown a lot overseas I am becoming selective with add ons and what I know contributes to a “great flight”.
For many years I traveled economy, then upgraded to “premium economy” but now only travel business for flights over 3 hours.
The reasons the highest being flight toll on the body. Having the ability to lie down and sleep on long hauls is a game changer. You wake up at your destination ready to go rather than needing 2-4 days to get over body aches and sleeplessness.
The priority boarding, the special attention, the travel amenities bag, the flat pack bed, the chauffeur on arrival, the bar in the middle of the sky, the pyjamas… you can see why I love travelling business.
I have flown first class as well but the difference isn’t necessarily that much of an upgrade so if you have the opportunity to go business leap at it.
The seats are large, fully recline (ie they turn into a full length single bed. You are given an underlay which ads to the comfort.
A warm blanket, slippers, soft eye mask and pyjamas on night time flights is also offered. The slippers, eye mask and pyjamas are yours to keep as a souvenir and will have lots of use back home.
The foods is great – and being a gluten free fan they serve a separate meal and can batter to all sorts of requirements (dairy free, halal, vegetarian etc). When you book your flight add your preferences then.
I particularly love the Airbus 330 (type of plane) as it has a bar at the back. I’ve had many midnight conversations with people and being international flights, you always learn something new about the world.
On the ground the lounges are a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the airport. Particularly in Dubai. If you have a longer lay over you can source these beds. Showers are available and Costas and various buffets. The wines are from around the world – but very often top class French wines.
Enjoy your travels and I look forward to having you on one of my retreats. Check out www.sambeaupatrick.com for upcoming retreats.
Are you needing time out? Time to replenish?Maybe time to readjust and recalibrate…
No matter where you stand in life’s journey, our seven-day retreat in the lush surrounds of Ubud will lift your soul and heart.
From 28th July – 3rd August 2024, join us in a sanctuary of self-care, empowerment, and holistic health.
Venture to the Island of the Gods, Bali, to nourish your soul, release past hurts and recalibrate your compass.
This is a time to reconnect with yourself and nature with the support and guidance of Sam.
This transformational retreat includes an array of value-packed experiences, 6 nights accommodation, life transforming sessions, a relaxing massage, organic and tasty meals, workshop materials, a gift, and much more.
Incredible dining experiences in Ubud with some of the best chefs in the world! This retreat is about rewarding and nourishing yourself
For more information and to book now click here. Places are limited
This coming February, join me on an amazing honour to self. A seven day detox!
Start your day with the morning sunlight filtering through the canopy of trees as you indulge in a carefully curated selection of organic juices and soups. Crafted from locally sourced, fresh ingredients, our nourishing concoctions are designed to revitalize your body from the inside out, flushing toxins and replenishing vital nutrients
Soothing Massages & Body Treatments
Allow the expert hands of our therapists to guide you into realms of profound relaxation and healing. Our range of massages and body treatments, incorporating ancient Balinese healing traditions, work harmoniously to detoxify, rejuvenate, and soothe your body, preparing you for a deeper connection with your inner self
Transformative Detox Retreat Awaits
At our Ubud retreat, we invite you to shed the old and embrace the new. Engage in a transformative experience that promises not just a detox but a chance to rediscover the beauty of living in harmony with yourself and nature.
Join us for an unforgettable detox retreat in Ubud, Bali – where healing meets health in a harmonious dance of rejuvenation and bliss.
Embark on this journey of renewal with me by your side, and emerge with a rejuvenated spirit, ready to embrace life with newfound vitality and joy.
Or maybe about your knowledge on a specialist topic…
Or maybe your book will be used as a marketing tool for your business?
Whatever your reason for writing a book can be one of the most powerful process you will experience.
Writing helps you clarify your message, show your expertise, enable people to day dream through your story telling or capture a time in your life.
Interestingly, writing a book, like public speaking, is perceived to be daunting and overwhelming, so many don’t take up the opportunity.
This will lead to lost sales, lost timing to bring out your message or an opportunity to leave your children a wonderful legacy.
Instead of worrying about what might be, understand that you are not alone in feeling apprehensive.
I would like to take the fear out if the process and invite you to my Book Writing Blueprint Retreat so you can create your book with passion and joy.
Once your creative juices are warmed up and you are given the blueprint, you will be surprised how much of an author you are.
This process is best done away from “the every day distractions” so I invite you to my five day Book Writing Retreat in tropical Port Douglas this October.
This is the outline for the upcoming Port Douglas retreat.
We start on Tuesday 25th October 2022 in the afternoon.
As long as you arrive mid afternoon you will be fine.
The retreat includes a call with me before hand to answer any questions you may have and a guide I have put together on what to expect.
This is the outline of the retreat program and is a guide only as some things may change when we are there.
Monday 17th October
Let the Creative Juices Flow
Port Douglas is an hours drive from Cairns.
Most hotels will offer a shuttle or your travel agent can assist with transport from Cairns airport to Port Douglas.
Once you have settled into your hotel, we will catch up at the the villa I have hand selected for our retreat (AKA the Creative Hub), on the magnificent property, Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas.
This is a small focused group so no need to arrive hours beforehand for an early registration & to secure a front seat but I do appreciate everyone arriving by 2pm.
I will be focused on each individual and my intention is for each person to achieve their book blueprintover the five days.
This afternoon, after a mind blowing introduction to what is possible with your own book, we dive into letting go of the rational side of our brain and permit our creative side to flourish.
The suppressed innovation, ideas, opportunities that lie within one’s own mind is surprising and is waiting for the invitation to surface.
We shall spend the afternoon in that process, in a relaxed safe, creative space, using art therapy techniques to unleash your deeper desires.
After time for a swim or pool cocktail, we head off to dinner at a local restaurant that serves amazing tropical and local foods.
Wednesday 26th Discovery Day + Book Writing
Today is a big day of letting the creative juices flow into ideas.
Today you will discover why writing a book is the key to sending your message to the world and an insight the power book writing offers.
We will help you define your “why” and clarify your message.
You can explore what format to write, first person, observational or fictitious. We will discuss the pros and cons of an ebook or book intended to be published, or even a brochure. (Many find this day hugely beneficial for their business aswell).
Once you can see your avatar and audience I will show you how to write specifically to them.
Then it’s pens down and off to the magic Daintree and Mossman Gorge.
The afternoon is spent immersing yourself in nature, allowing the newly creative neuropaths ways to connect and settle. There is a time for a swim in the lush, warm waters of the Mossman Gorge and admire our first nations land, then head up to the Daintree River.
On the Daintree River we embark on a ecofriendly barge that explores the river and grooves of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed river. Crocodiles, birds, fish and plant life are abundant in this part of the world. Have your camera ready.
After a relaxing trip home, we arrive back at the creative hub and you are free to relax and experience Port Douglas. Maybe try a paddle at Hemingsways Brewery?
Thursday 27th Book Blueprint Revealed
Today is the powerhouse day where I show you how to write your book with ease and enjoyment!
That’s correct, the process of writing should and can be enjoyable.
I will show you the blueprint that has enabled me to write nine published books, with two best sellers.
We will discuss how to construct a book, logical chapters, brainstorm titles and even play with some covers.
This is a fun day and will leave you feeling inspired.
Join the group for a mocktail or cocktail by the pool before enjoying the night off to enjoy for your own leisure and exploring.
Friday 28th October Leveraging Your Book
Today we have a late start so you can further explore the region. Maybe organise a helicopter ride over the Great Barrier Reef, snorkel the Lowe Islands, or do a local fishing experience.
We start at 1pm today and launch straight into the power behind book writing.
I will introduce you to the potential once you become a book writer… that’s right, once you are a published author and the avenues it can take you on.
We hook up with a highly successful special guest who discusses how he has used his book to leverage a podcast series, run 5 day challenges and raise money for charity and higher purpose.
Join in the fun tonight as we dine at a local restaurant to celebrate our new connections and learnings.
Saturday 29th Media Activation Day
If it’s one thing I know really well that is how to get your message out to the world.
Having featured on all the main TV stations, leading newspapers, radios and key interviews in magazines I can show you how to take your book to the next level.
You see, once you publish your book, you are an expert.
I will show you how this can be used to create speaking opportunities, media gigs, inspire your audience and more.
Today is our last day and is incredibly mind opening for the entrepreneur or person who wants to leave a legacy.
The day finishes at lunch.
This will give you time to catch your plane or stay a little longer and really immerse yourself into what is going to be a ground breaking retreat for many.
The retreat is limited to seven people only.
Reserve your place NOW with a non refundable deposit.
Set away from the main stretch of wines through Coal River, Tasmania but only thirty minutes from the heart of Hobart, is Pressing Matters.
A small vineyard set on the dry mountain side of Tea Tree.
The winery was established in 1986 and is one of the original in the area. With 54 gold medals and 37 trophies, these are some serious wines!
Wine judge and wine lovers, Greg and his wife Michelle have had the property for many years and wine tasting is by appointment only. Call the property here.
We are met by Michelle for our tasting and try all of their wines. They have three rieslings (which are particularly good in Tassie). They are names according to their residual content and unashamedly I like the 69 the best!
The 2018 Riesling R69 is a full yet delicate wine. It reminds me of the Jim Barry Riesling in so much that they both pull off the sweet factor as it is balanced with a depthy wine. It’s almost too nice though and one can forget it is alcoholic but I guess that can be said for all wines!
The Morningside range have been blended with their neighbouring vineyard to produce some very nice wines. The Morningside Pinot Noir doesn’t bounce my socks off as much as their own pure Pinot Noir but is definitely quaffable. The Cabernet is also a lovely drop with some earthern over tones but note as bold and grandiose as the Barossa Cabs we have come used to. I also like this one alot.
Definitely worth calling ahead to arrange a tasting especially if you like and know your wines. Michelle is very welcoming and feels more like a lost friend.
They have a wine club which looks pretty special too.
Situated right in town but feeling like an oasis set under the rainforest canopy is Watergate.
My friend had recommended it as one of her favourite restaurants in Port Douglas and it didn’t disappoint. The staff are awesome – David met us and was very amiable and informative then handed over to Jill.
The Watergate menu is great – not too much but enough to have a wide selection without boggling you down and making you go around in circles.
Offering an interesting selection of Australian fare with Asian influences we settle on the Crocodile Karaage, Lamb Ribs in Korean sauce, Tuna Tataki and Watergate salad.
