Isabelle James

There’s nothing like a fresh pair of eyes to show you a new way of seeing a city. And that’s exactly what Isabelle brought with her when she moved to Sydney from London in 2023. Looking at the city through the lens of both a traveller and a local, Isabelle, a writer on arts and culture for more than three years, knows the best way to spend time in Sydney. Covering everything from hidden ocean pools and vintage markets to gallery openings and the best new bars, Isabelle writes from firsthand experience. Her curated local guides are up to date and thoroughly researched.

Murder mystery meets comedy: a first look at Cluedo The Play

August 27, 2026April 16, 2026 by Isabelle James

The world’s favourite murder mystery board game is coming to life in a new stage play at Theatre Royal, and it’s laugh-out-loud funny.

Where to play Two-Up in Sydney on Anzac Day 2026

April 16, 2026April 15, 2026 by Isabelle James

There is no other day of the year like Anzac Day, where you’ll find Sydney’s best pubs full of life and community as everyone gets the rare chance to play the time-honoured game of two-up.

Your guide to Sydney Comedy Festival 2026: our top picks, dates and tickets

April 24, 2026April 14, 2026 by Isabelle James

Get ready for five weeks of non-stop laughter as the 22nd annual Sydney Comedy Festival takes over the city with a host of international and emerging comedy legends.

Sydney has martini mania, and we’re mad for it

April 14, 2026April 13, 2026 by Isabelle James

Whether you take yours dry or wet, dirty or with a twist, Sydneysiders are downing martinis across the city like they’re going out of style.

These are the best value shows at the Sydney Comedy Festival 2026

April 17, 2026April 10, 2026 by Isabelle James

Sydney Comedy Festival at Tumbalong Park

Check out the best bang-for-your-buck shows at the Sydney Comedy Festival 2026.

We caught up with the cast of Anastasia and heard the biggest songs

April 9, 2026April 9, 2026 by Isabelle James

Anastasia the Musical is set to bring big numbers, decadent costumes and plenty of mystery and romance to Sydney. We dropped by the Lyric for a special preview of the show and a chance to chat with cast members before the excitement of opening night.

This history-making fun run will take over the tarmac of the new Western Sydney Airport

April 8, 2026 by Isabelle James

Lace up your sneakers: Western Sydney Airport’s runway is about to become the city’s most epic fun run, no boarding pass required.

These are the best things to do at the Sydney Royal Easter Show (and they won’t cost you a cent)

April 7, 2026 by Isabelle James

Woodchopping competition Sydney Royal Easter Show

The best things in life are free, and nowhere is this more true than at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

A guide to the Art Gallery of NSW: current exhibitions, tickets, opening times and more

July 21, 2026April 7, 2026 by Isabelle James

Large purple sculpture with visitors nearby

The Art Gallery of NSW welcomes more than two million visitors each year, making it one of Australia’s most significant cultural institutions. Here’s how to make the most out of your visit.

Sydney Royal Easter Show 2026 food prices: splurge or save?

April 7, 2026April 2, 2026 by Isabelle James

The Sydney Royal Easter Show is back at Sydney Showground, serving up all the classics (yes, cheese on a stick is back) alongside a wave of viral treats. To help you snack smart, we’ve taken a look at this year’s food prices, so you know exactly what’s worth the splurge and what you might want to skip.