The Backpacker:

What you really need

Don't get sucked in by the travel shops - here's a guide to the essential backpacking gear. more

Opinion:

Frequent fly in Qantas ointment

We've had the stockmarket plunge, and we're going to have the frequent flyer plunge, writes Paul Sheehan. more

News:

Jet could fly Australia to Europe in five hours

British engineers unveil plans for a hypersonic jet which could fly from Europe to Australia in less than five hours. more

Sydney:

Dirty weekend goes upmarket

One hotel is adding a touch of class to the dirty weekend. more

Photos:

Brazil's Carnival

Things get steamy as revellers take part in?carnival celebrations?in Rio de Janiero and Sao Paulo, Brazil. more

Plan and save on sexy honeymoons

The sweetest time of marital bliss is all about sexy beaches and sightseeing tours. more

Food and wine:

Advance Australia fare

Your gourmet guide to the year's best food and wine festivals. more

Space tourism:

Space flight experience at a bargain price

If a $260,000 flight into space busts your budget, there is a cheaper option. more

Short Breaks

Palm Beach:

The simpler side of Palmy

The bush and beaches of this exclusive Pittwater enclave are the star attractions, writes Christine Sams. more

Wallington:

Art house

Jane Faulkner kicks back in a working vineyard-cum-artist's retreat. more