Indians celebrate festivals, Australia benefits

0 Comments read Business and Trade, Diaspora

By Neena Bhandari,

Sydney, 21.01.2016 (Business Standard, India): Come October and with the ripening of mangoes, the Indian community in Australia gears up for festivities that not only provide business opportunities for the Diaspora, but also make a substantial contribution to the local economy.

Diwali has been added to Australia’s multicultural calendar as one of the largest festivals. Organised by the Hindu Council of Australia (HCA) in Sydney and Celebrate India Inc. in Melbourne, the festival provides a platform for corporations and small businesses to showcase their wares. From banks and telecom companies, apparel and cuisine, henna and jewellery to media and entertainment, the festival has also found sponsors in the local and state government organisations.

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Unwind in style – Australia’s luxury ecolodges

0 Comments read Travel
Silky Oaks Lodge located on the banks of the Mossman River in Far North Queensland. Photo Credit: © Neena Bhandari

By Neena Bhandari

Australia is known for its ‘rough around the edges’ vibe, often evoking images of rugged landscapes and a host of unique—almost prehistoric—creatures and creepy-crawlies. But tucked amidst unique landscapes—from the World Heritage-listed rainforests and reefs to pristine coastal destinations and the vast, wild outback—are some of the world’s premier eco-lodges that allow you to enjoy the country’s natural wonders without having to rough it out.

Though equipped with plenty of bells and whistles, these luxury eco-lodges adhere to the highest sustainable standards, allowing you to indulge guilt-free. The limit imposed on the number of guests they are willing to accommodate at a time allows one visual and acoustic privacy and a chance to peacefully interact with nature.

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South Australia undercover, Adelaide’s Mr Cuisine Cheong Liew and his top eateries

0 Comments read Arts, Entertainment & Lifestyle, Travel

By Neena Bhandari

Have you ever wondered where Cheong Liew dines? South Australia’s most celebrated chef picks restaurants that immerse the diner in the experience of eating out.

The funky and fun Africola restaurant in East Terrace is one of his favourites. Close to his home, he says, “It is a no fuss, simple restaurant. I really like their Charcoal beetroot salad. The beet has a nice cured nutty sweet texture which goes well with smoky chard beetroots, my favourite way of eating beetroot”.

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