Lifestyle can be briefly described as the way we chose to live our life. It is just not about living, it is about how we live. It is just not about eating fruits and vegetables, but also about ensuring that what we chose to eat, adds value to our health and life. It is all about living a life that is healthy, active and happy. It is about spending quality time with our family, friends and loved ones that adds to the overall well-being.
Every year in the month of February, Lifestyle Awareness Day is observed as an awareness initiative to educate and create awareness on the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Through this day it is communicated to the people on the elements of good nutrition, physical activity, tobacco control, awareness against alcohol and drug abuse and the importance of safe sexual behaviour. Through this day the people get the opportunity of know and tackle lifestyle diseases like obesity, hypertension, depression, inactivity and unhealthy diets.
Living a healthy lifestyle is not at all difficult as we might think of. Just like anything else, it starts with a simple step. Whether it is quitting the habit of smoking or alcohol, or choosing to eat healthy and engaging in some sort of physical activity.
Noted below are some lifestyle changes that is recommended on this lifestyle awareness day for all for a better and healthier tomorrow:
Choose to reduce your salt intake: High salt intakes are responsible for issues related to blood pressure and in the long run towards heart diseases and strokes. Reduce the use of salt to minimum along with processed and fast foods.
Increase calcium intake: It is a vital mineral for bone and tooth health. It is also important for other body functions like the contractions of muscles.
Adopt to eating a balanced diet: Diet with the right ratio of essential elements like minerals, fats, proteins and carbohydrates are necessary for the proper functioning of all organs in the body and its development.
Quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake: Both these elements are of no good to us. Smoking damages our lungs and alcohol our kidneys and other vital organs of the body. The benefits are none, whereas, the damages are countless.
Exercise regularly and stay hydrated: Drink atleast 8 to 10 glasses of water throughout the day to keep hydrated. Water is the best medicine that we could have to stay healthy and cleansed. Exercising regularly keeps us fit and active and keeps our muscles toned and relaxed.
The world changes even before we could realize the benefits of a healthy lifestyle. Take the first step forward and start living a happy and healthier life.
Source: Ms. Sheela Seharwat, Dietitian. She is one of the youngest successful entrepreneur of India, and founder and head mentor of Diet Clinic Health Care Pvt. Ltd.
If you want to genuinely lose fat, you must make some lifestyle changes as well as a total commitment. You may ask what if you are too busy? Healthy eating habits are essential for leading a disease free life. However, this is something that people with busy professionals and lives can achieve. A busy social life and juggling a career is not easy and just getting some time to eat healthy can be difficult. More often, you eat whatever foods come into your hand, something easy and quick hack you could just pop in the microwave or oven or get a takeaway. Even if you out to a restaurant for lunch or dinner, you might as well eat smart, like ordering for fresh fruit juice instead of chocolate shake.
So how could busy professionals eat healthy meals and still carry on their daily activities? Well, healthy eating is essential to lead a healthy life. The secret is planning! Plan your diet and eat healthy foods, this will really help you even if you have a busy lifestyle.
Schedule a block of time – Each week, (the day may change each week) take inventory of what you currently have, create a meal plan or have Inspiring Health prepare one for you. Make your shopping list and go shopping. When you return from the store, clean, cut and prepare single servings of fruit or veggies. Make one or two items in the oven and place in separate containers to freeze and / or put in the refrigerator. This may seem like a lot, but it can be done in about 3-4 hours at a time. This will save you lots of time during the week, where you will be just heating up your food and not having to prepare everything during the week.
Eat Real Foods- Even if you are busy, try to plan your meal timings accordingly and eat fresh fruits, vegetables and eat easy to cook food. This will surely help you to offer a good diet and make you feel energetic whole day.
Protein shakes- keep fresh fruit juice, protein shakes handy, and this will truly help you with your diet. This will give you nutritional value and health benefits.
Change your habits- by eating healthy foods, you can change your taste for foods. Avoid craving for junk foods, instead of it change your eating habits, and eat healthy meals. The more you healthy, the more your body tells you that it wants healthy foods. Instead of that sugary milk tea, have green tea instead.
Drink more water and make sure to drink fresh juices and fresh fruits. Healthy Eating Habits have the potential to alter a person’s body and overall personality for the better. Regular consumption of a nutritious and healthy diet has always proven to have a positive impact on a person’s lifestyle and physical appearance. By consulting a professional dietitian, you could plan your diet and get the best suggestion of healthy eating, in your busy schedule as well. There are different types of diet plans available for busy professionals and this will give you the exclusive health benefits. Plan your diet today and stay yourself healthy, even if you are a busy professional!
Source: Ms. Sheela Seharwat, Dietitian. She is one of the youngest successful entrepreneur of India, and founder and head mentor of Diet Clinic Health Care Pvt. Ltd.
Foods to avoid in summers in order to prevent weight gain
Healthy eating is the most common approach we all should adopt to at all times. But, at the same time there are some foods which are meant for particular time or season only and should be carefully considered while we include them in our daily diets. And there are some food which are always bad and do more harm than good and should always be omitted from our diet. Here in this article we would be looking at certain foods that we should seriously avoid in order to prevent weight gain in summers.
Summers are the months of rising temperatures and outdoor activities. It is also the holiday season and nature also blesses us with its bounty of delicious and fresh produces, but at the same time there are a lot of high-calorie foods available in this season that make us gain considerable amount of weight. Beverages that are refreshing and cold salads are some foods that we enjoy a lot in the hot weather but these foods have surprisingly high amount of calories and fats.
Let’s look at what we should avoid eating during the summer months so that we do not put on the extra weight on to ourselves.
Frozen Yoghurt
Don’t get fooled this summer with this summer delight. It is a common misconception that yoghurt is yoghurt, and is meant to be healthy. Yes, it is true, but not the frozen ones. They are loaded with added sugars and calories, even higher than what you generally find in an ice cream. Though yoghurt has some bit of protein in it, the probiotic factors are missing as it is there in natural and active yoghurts. Avoid them strictly.
Packaged Fruit Juices
During the summers we tend to pick up everything that is a fluid and with the easy availability, attractive packaging and tastefully enticing packaged fruit juices, we all tend to pick them the first. Almost all packaged fruit juices are loaded with added sugar in the form of sugary sodas – the main culprit to a host of health issues including weight gain. Next time you want to stay hydrated and keep away from thirst, make a wiser choice with whole fruits or freshly squeezed juices out of them.
Summer Salads
Salads are great foods for the summers, perhaps for all the year around – low in calories and super healthy. But there are the ones like the creamy pasta salads and the sweetened fruit salads could be equally dangerous and harmful. Refined flour, calorie rich creamy dressings, sugary syrups, whipped cream and what all – you have all the ingredients at one place to make you fat and unhealthy. Dressings in particular are pure fat.
Lemonades and flavored sweetened teas
Water doesn’t seem to be appealing always, whereas a chilled glass of lemonade or a flavored cold ice tea seems to be the perfect solution. You are not alone, we all are with you. But these drinks are super high in calories and sweets – a perfect combination to make you fat and fatter.
Bar-be-cue meats and burgers
This is one thing that we all wait for the entire year and come summers we love to have evening bar-be-cue parties very often. Research say that meats cooked over open flame and at unregulated temperatures causes the protein of the meat to break down into a compound that is not at all good for health and causes unprecedented fat gain.
Opt for lean meats with thinner cuts and cook over the grill to ensure that the meats stay healthy, yet delicious. Moreover, adding cheese and creamy topping on them add up to the portion of unsaturated fats along with higher levels of sodium and calories. Use herb and olive oil marinades to make them super healthy.
Being cautious about what you eat in any season is in your hands and so is your health. Make smarter choices and watch what you eat. You will be safe form weight gain in summers.
Source: Dietitian Ashu Gupta is the founder of Ashu Gupta’s Diet Clinic and an acclaimed dietician and nutritionist.
5 best food to eat these winters in Australia for a flat belly
Combat belly fat now and look beautiful. Specially, winter is the time when people tend to gain, more weight due to lack of exercise and eating habits. Every one wish to get a slimmer appearance. However, for a flat belly you should change your food habits and get the shape. With some super foods, you can easily get a flatten belly and reduce weight. Let’s discuss what the best food is; you should eat during winter for a flat belly.
Banana
Banana is the perfect food, you can choose in your diet. This fruit is rich in carbohydrate, starch and other nutritional value. This will boost your metabolism and you will not put weight easily. Banana will help to prevent water retention in your body and maximize the risk of bloating.
Fennel
Fennel is the best herbs that will improve your digestion and it can be taken raw or cooked. Fennel seeds have ideal slimming properties, which will surely help to flatten your belly relevantly.
Papaya
This brightly colored tropical food plays a vital role in our body and combat belly bloat and inflammation. Papaya is rich in vitamin A, C and E. In addition, including papaya in your diet plan, you will surely shed extra flabs and look fresh and younger.
Whole grains
Whole grain is the gluten free diet and this will improve your metabolism and energy. This will control the blood sugar level. By choosing quinoa and brown rice will surely boost your health. Whole grain regulates insulin level and blood sugar level.
Asparagus
Asparagus contains full of anti-oxidant properties and this will help to slim your belly. This will facilitate the water level in the stomach and prevent bloating. This will help to decrease waste and minimize the discomfort.
Even though its winter, your body requires water. Thus, its always a right choice to drink plenty of water and stay fit. The super healthy foods will work as an energy booster and give health and wellness. Changing the food habits, you can able to reduce fat from your belly and improve your look. Get a flat belly and look younger and healthy. Change your food habits today and witness the miracle of the dynamic foods. Let the super foods work for you and make you feel confident and energetic.
Source: Ms. Sheela Seharwat, Dietitian. She is one of the youngest successful entrepreneur of India, and founder and head mentor of Diet Clinic Health Care Pvt. Ltd.
Nuts are considered very healthy and a great source of plant based proteins. High in protein, fiber and fats, have numerous and impressive health benefits if consumed daily as a part of a balanced diet. Research shows that raw and unsalted nuts are one of the best known food that can be added to our daily diet as they contain unsaturated fatty acids and other vital nutrients. They also make for a great snack food – inexpensive, easy to store and easy to carry on the go.
Some nutty fast facts:
Nuts are known to reduce factors that cause cancer.
Nuts are enriched with anti-viral properties.
It is helpful in controlling blood pressure and maintain elasticity of the arteries.
Are highly beneficial for overall health, particularly for our heart.
Are rich in calories and fats.
There are variety of nuts and each has its own resource of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients, and it is thereby important to get to know what, which and how much to incorporate these nuts in our diets.
Health Benefits of having nuts daily
Good for heart: Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats in nuts are responsible for lowering LDL cholesterol levels. LDL are considered as bad cholesterol that develops as plaque on the artery walls, narrowing the arteries and blood vessels and thus resulting in high blood pressure. Nuts also are rich in fibers which lowers cholesterol and thereby, the risks of high blood pressure, heart diseases and stroke.
Helpful against diabetes: Diabetics have higher triglyceride levels, and nuts naturally help in lowering these levels, thereby reducing the risk of developing diabetes. Nuts also are fruitful in stabilizing blood sugar levels due to the hormone adiponectin. This hormone is responsible for absorbing excess sugar from the bloodstream so that it can never get too high.
Aids in weight loss: Nuts are a great food that keeps us fuller for a longer time frame and reduces food cravings. When substitute for meat and milk being high in protein and calcium controls those extra kilos that meat and milk adds due their high amounts of saturated fats. The high dietary fiber contents of nuts keeps our digestive track clean and boosts energy for more work out.
Improves memory: The anti-oxidants found in nuts helps remove the toxins and heavy metals that clog our brain and improves memory and concentration.
Fights cancer: Due to presence of toxins in our body the cells starts dividing unnaturally causing cancer. The anti-oxidant properties of nuts helps to get rid of body toxins and let the cells remain healthy, hereby, reduce the risks of cancer development.
Source: Ms. Sheela Seharwat, Dietitian. She is one of the youngest successful entrepreneur of India, and founder and head mentor of Diet Clinic Health Care Pvt. Ltd.
Foods you should avoid and start eating in summer season
Summers are here and we all are bound to feel thirsty and tired. What do we do? We all like to eat and drink when we are tired and thirsty. Grabbing a piece of burger and a chilled cola is the first thing that most of us resort to. But, wait a minute – are the ones we feel that is going to quench our thirst and provide us with all the energy we need to put us back on track are the right choices we have made. It could be that our choices are going to do more harm than good.
Summers, apart from being hot, humid and reasonably troublesome, are also the months to relish some of nature’s bounty. It is also the time to entertain and get entertained. The evenings are long and what could be a perfect set up for a bar-be-cue parties. But, we need to careful as certain foods in summers are dangerous and can make us sick and especially in summers when we need to be extra cautious with what we eat and drink.
Do you actually know that summers are the months when we tend to gain weight faster than other seasons? Summers have lot of temptations – bar-be-cues, poolside food vendors and a lot more. Here are certain foods that you must avoid in summers and also listed are the foods that you must start having during the hot weather.
Must Avoid:
Bar-be-cue charred meat, poultry and fish
Bar-be-cued animal protein cooked over raw fire and at higher temperatures produces certain chemicals in the food that could be detrimental to human health and can even cause cancers if taken regularly. Having them regularly is in no way doing good for your health.
Deep fried dough and other fried stuffs
Battered and fried foods are amongst the worst sources of food filled with unhealthy trans fats. The same is with unhealthy fried dough products. These might taste good, but have unhealthy cholesterol and increases body inflammation.
Hot Dogs and Meat Burgers
Again it’s the processed and salty option to be blamed. Salami and ham are another bad options that should be strictly avoided.
Ice cones
These might help cool down for the moment, but are nothing apart from syrups made up of high fructose corn syrups and sweetened with sugar. Moreover, you never know the quality of water been used to make the ice.
Corn Cobs
These are not only bad for your gums, but are also high on carbs and calories. These have no vitamins, irons or other vital minerals and nutrients.
Watermelon with seeds
Watermelon is must to have food in summer, but not with its seeds. There is nothing to worry as the seeds of watermelon are not toxic or dangerous, but still it can cause discomfort or bloating.
Must Eat:
Bottle Gourd or Lauki
This super vegetable is loaded with goddesses of vitamins, folate, magnesium and calcium. It is great for weight loss and acts a super blood purifier.
All melons
One fruit variety that you can enjoy whole heartedly are the melons. Eat as much as you like. A good for stomach, helps in weight loss, keeps cool and the list is endless.
Lemon water with mint
It is natural cleanser. Just a few drops of lemon juice in minted water and you are light and summer ready as ever.
Cucumbers
This one fruit is must for summers. Eat them the way you like – as juice, in salads and even peeled and raw. It is loaded with fibers and will never let you have problems with constipation.
Curd
It is one food that can be converted to as many varieties as you can imagine – smoothies, butter milk, shakes, lassi, raita and even plain. The cooling effects are just what the body needs in summers.
Green Leafy Veggies
These are one food that stands good all year around. They are rich in water content and is a must for summers. Make sure that you don’t overcook them to retain the water contents.
Onions
Yes, you read it right. Onions too have immense cooling effects on the body. It is a great aid in protecting from sun-strokes during summers. Add them to salads or vegetables or just have them raw, enjoy it the way you like.
The most important things to consider in summer is to protect yourself and your family from food poisoning, getting dehydrated and getting hit by sun stroke. The list above mentions certain food groups that you must avoid and the ones that you must have to keep safe and enjoy your summers.
Source: Ms. Sheela Seharwat, Dietitian. She is one of the youngest successful entrepreneur of India, and founder and head mentor of Diet Clinic Health Care Pvt. Ltd.
If you’re on the lookout for an extraordinary dining experience that celebrates the rich flavors of India with a modern twist, The Kari Indian Restaurant in Brisbane is your ultimate destination. A part of the award-winning restaurants group led by Geeta Singh and renowned Chef Mahesh K. Thapa, which includes the iconic Paddington Curry House and New Farm Curry House, The Kari offers a tantalizing journey through mouthwatering curries, sizzling street food and unforgettable desserts. With its bold, vibrant dishes and cozy ambiance, The Kari is a place where every meal feels like a celebration of Indian culture and culinary artistry.
A Taste of India with a Modern Touch
From the moment you step inside The Kari, you’re welcomed into an environment that radiates warmth, color and authenticity. The cozy yet vibrant vibe is the perfect backdrop for indulging in bold, flavorful dishes. The restaurant’s décor reflects the lively spirit of India, with a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. It’s an inviting space where every corner is filled with energy and charm.
The authenticity of The Kari’s menu shines through in every bite, offering dishes that stay true to their Indian roots while infusing modern creativity. Whether you’re craving something classic or daring, you’ll find a wide array of options that cater to all tastes and preferences.
Must-Try Dishes That Will Leave You Craving More
1. Mango Lassi 🍹 A refreshing, creamy drink that’s both soothing and sweet, this Mango Lassi is the perfect way to begin your culinary journey at The Kari. It’s the ideal balance of tangy and sweet, offering a burst of tropical flavor that complements the rich and spicy dishes to come.
2. Bombay Crunch (Aloo Tikki Chaat) 🥟 If you’re a fan of Indian street food, you can’t miss the Bombay Crunch. This Aloo Tikki Chaat is packed with crispy potato patties, topped with a variety of flavorful chutneys, yogurt and fresh coriander, perfect for those who love a combination of textures and tangy, spicy flavors.
3. Chicken 65 🍗 A delectable flavorful favorite, Chicken 65 is a dish that packs a punch. Marinated in a blend of spices and deep-fried to perfection, each bite bursts with savory heat and an irresistible crunch.
4. Lamb Rogan Josh with Garlic Butter Naan 🥘 For a truly indulgent main, you can’t go wrong with the Lamb Rogan Josh. This rich and aromatic curry, made with tender lamb and a perfectly balanced blend of spices, pairs beautifully with the fluffy, garlicky naan. The combination will transport you straight to the heart of India.
5. Mango Kulfi 🍨 End your meal on a sweet note with Mango Kulfi: a creamy, frozen treat bursting with the sweet, tropical flavors of ripe mangoes. It’s the perfect way to cool down after the explosion of flavors in your meal.
Affordable Yet Authentic
One of the standout features of The Kari is the exceptional value for money. Despite offering a fine dining experience with authentic Indian flavors, the prices are incredibly reasonable. Whether you’re visiting for a casual lunch or a special dinner, you’ll find that you’re getting a premium experience without breaking the bank. It’s a great option for those who want to indulge in high-quality Indian cuisine without the hefty price tag.
What truly makes The Kari stand out is its commitment to authenticity. Every dish is prepared using traditional methods, with ingredients sourced both locally and from India to maintain the real taste of the subcontinent. Chef Mahesh K. Thapa’s dedication to preserving the true essence of Indian flavours is evident in every dish, from the rich, creamy curries to the zesty chaats. The fusion of authentic recipes with modern presentation elevates the entire dining experience, offering something fresh for those familiar with Indian cuisine, while still staying true to its roots.
The Kari Experience: Cozy, Vibrant and Flavorful
What truly sets The Kari apart is the incredible ambiance that complements the exceptional food. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience! The vibrant colors, the intoxicating aromas and the cozy atmosphere make you feel right at home while indulging in authentic Indian cuisine.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality and authenticity shines through, especially in its selection of chaats, those irresistible, street food-inspired snacks that are loved by all. From crispy samosas to refreshing Bombay Crunch, the chaat selection at The Kari is sure to delight anyone craving the bold, tangy and sweet flavors of Indian street food.
Another delightful feature of the menu are the edible micro plants and flowers, which add an artistic touch to the dishes. These fresh garnishes not only elevate the visual appeal of your meal but also enhance the flavors with their delicate tastes, making every bite even more memorable.
The Awards and Recognition Chef Mahesh K. Thapa and restaurateur Geeta Singh have also gained recognition through their award-winning restaurants such as Paddington Curry House and New Farm Curry House. These beloved venues have long been favorites for Brisbane locals, offering guests the perfect blend of traditional Indian flavors and modern touches. Each restaurant captures the essence of Indian culinary traditions while delivering a fresh dining experience.
Visit The Kari Today Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delicious and authentic Indian meal, The Kari Indian Restaurant promises an unforgettable dining experience. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore their menu full of bold flavors, contemporary flair and authentic Indian ingredients, all at reasonable prices.
To learn more about their full menu, events and special offerings, visit The Kari Indian Restaurant’s website or follow them on social media for all the latest updates and mouthwatering food photos. Trust us, you won’t want to miss the chance to indulge in this amazing culinary experience in the heart of Brisbane! 🌍🍴
Location: The Kari Indian Restaurant Camp Hill, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
A dining experience at The Kari is more than just food; it’s a celebration of Indian culture, flavors and hospitality. Be sure to make a reservation soon and prepare to be wowed with every bite, all at prices that make it an accessible luxury!
It’s hard to believe, but today marks 8 years since I first started my blog! Looking back, it hasn’t always been easy. Consistency can be a challenge, but what’s kept me going is the passion I have for sharing my travel and food experiences with all of you. From discovering hidden gems in far-flung corners of the world to tasting local delicacies, my blog has been a space where I can truly express my love for exploration and cuisine.
A Special Insight for Fellow Instagrammers & PRs One thing I’ve noticed lately is a bit of confusion around the term “blogging.” Many people refer to Instagram posts as blogging, but here’s the truth: Posting pictures on Instagram is not the same as blogging.
A blog is typically a website that features regularly updated content, often in the form of blog posts. These posts provide in-depth experiences, insights and stories. Blogs are written pieces that allow for deeper exploration of topics, something that goes beyond the brief nature of social media posts.
Why This Matters:
For those just starting out or looking to collaborate, it’s essential to understand the distinction:
Bloggers are individuals who create long-form, detailed content on their own websites.
Instagrammers (or social media influencers) share snapshots, stories, and visuals primarily on social platforms.
So, let’s clear this up—don’t call Instagrammers bloggers. They may create great content, but it’s a different medium entirely. And for us bloggers, let’s continue pushing for rich, authentic storytelling that offers value and insight beyond a quick snapshot.
A Big Thank You! 🙏
To all the readers, fellow bloggers and PRs who’ve supported me over the years, Thank you! Here’s to many more years of sharing, exploring and growing together. 🌍🍴
Nestled in the heart of Canberra, the capital of Australia, Parliament House is not just the political hub of the nation, it’s a stunning architectural masterpiece and a treasure trove of history, culture and art. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast or simply someone looking to explore the heart of Australian democracy, a visit to Parliament House is an essential stop on your Australian travel journey.
Here’s everything you need to know about making the most of your visit to Parliament House in Canberra!
Why Visit Parliament House?
Parliament House is where the Australian government’s most important decisions are made, but beyond its political significance, it is a symbol of Australia’s rich democratic history. The building itself is an architectural marvel, blending modern design with Australian cultural references. Visitors can witness firsthand how Australia’s democracy works, explore the iconic building and gain insights into the nation’s governance and political landscape.
But don’t be fooled, this is not your typical government building. Parliament House is open to the public, offering free tours, a chance to sit in on debates (when Parliament is in session) and an opportunity to learn about the workings of the Australian political system.
What to Expect During Your Visit
1. The Architecture
The design of Parliament House is a striking combination of modern architecture and national symbolism. Built in 1988, the building sits atop Capitol Hill, symbolizing the connection between the Australian people and their government. One of the most distinctive features is the expansive grassed roof, which is open to the public. Visitors can stroll across the roof, enjoying spectacular views of Canberra’s landmarks, including the Old Parliament House, the National War Memorial and Lake Burley Griffin.
Inside, Parliament House boasts spacious, light-filled interiors, with large marble floors, elegant staircases and intricate artworks that reflect Australia’s diverse culture and history. The building was designed to encourage transparency and accessibility, which is reflected in its open design and numerous public areas.
2. The Great Hall
Upon entering Parliament House, one of the first places you’ll want to visit is the Great Hall. This is the most impressive and largest space in the building, with an expansive 2,000 square-meter floor covered in Australian-made wool carpet. The Great Hall is where important events and ceremonies take place, including the swearing-in of new Australian Prime Ministers.
The ceiling of the Great Hall is adorned with a stunning tapestry by Australian artist Arthur Boyd, depicting themes of Australian life and history. Be sure to spend some time appreciating the artwork and taking in the grandeur of the space.
3. The Senate and House of Representatives Chambers
The Senate and House of Representatives are the two chambers of the Australian Parliament and both are open to the public. While the chambers are often in use during parliamentary sittings, you can sit in the public galleries and watch the action unfold. It’s fascinating to see Australian politicians debate and discuss important issues plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to witness Australian democracy in action. You’ll notice that both chambers are richly decorated, with the Senate chamber painted in deep red and the House of Representatives in green, a nod to the tradition of parliamentary design. It’s worth visiting when Parliament is sitting, as the energy in the air is palpable.
4. Free Guided Tours
One of the best ways to explore Parliament House is by taking a free guided tour. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the building’s history, architecture and functions. You’ll learn about the roles of the Prime Minister, the Governor-General and other key figures in the Australian political system. Tours cover everything from the history of Australian democracy to the building’s innovative design. You’ll also have the chance to explore areas of the building that are typically restricted, like the Prime Minister’s Office and the Cabinet Room.
5. Discover the Artwork
Parliament House is also home to a fascinating collection of Australian art. The building features works by renowned Australian artists such as Margaret Preston, Grace Crowley and Russell Drysdale. Many of the paintings, sculptures, and murals reflect Australia’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Take time to wander through the art collection, located throughout Parliament House and be sure to visit the Art Gallery on the lower ground floor, where temporary exhibitions are often held.
Tips for Visiting Parliament House
* Check for Sitting Dates: If you want to sit in on a live debate, check Parliament’s sitting schedule ahead of time. Parliament sessions are usually held on sitting days, but they can vary depending on the time of year.
* Dress Code: While Parliament House is open to the public, it is still an official government building. It’s a good idea to dress neatly. If you plan to sit in on a debate, casual attire is acceptable but avoid overly casual wear like shorts or flip-flops.
* Visit the Roof: The roof is a public area and offers amazing views of Canberra. Take the time to walk around and snap a few photos!
* Interactive Exhibits: Check out the Australian Democracy Gallery for interactive exhibits about the Australian political system. It’s a great educational experience for visitors of all ages.
* Public Transport: Parliament House is accessible via public transport or a short drive from the city center. There’s also plenty of parking available for those who prefer to drive.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in Canberra, there’s plenty more to see and do in the surrounding area:
* Old Parliament House: Just a short walk from Parliament House, this historic building is now home to the Museum of Australian Democracy.
* National War Memorial: A short drive away, this is one of the most iconic sites in Canberra, paying tribute to Australia’s fallen soldiers.
* Lake Burley Griffin: This picturesque lake is perfect for a stroll or a relaxing picnic. You can rent bikes or take a boat ride to fully enjoy the scenery.
Conclusion: A Rich Cultural Experience Awaits
A visit to Parliament House in Canberra is much more than just a tour of a government building, it’s an opportunity to explore the very heart of Australian democracy. From its stunning architecture and historical significance to its art collections and interactive exhibits, Parliament House is a must-see attraction for any traveler visiting Canberra.
Whether you’re fascinated by politics, art or architecture, you’ll find something to love at Australia’s iconic Parliament House. So, put this landmark on your travel itinerary and immerse yourself in the stories, sights and sounds of Australia’s political heritage.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to take a moment to pause and reflect on the sweeping views from the roof, where you can enjoy some of the best panoramic vistas of the city. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your visit!
