Stories
Inspiration on unique activities and gifts, mindfulness and more
Tune Into Something New
By Charlotte McKewen
Switch up your routine and engage in sensory experiences that will inspire and invigorate you.
Make Bath Bombs with Craft + Light
By Jane Gauger
Long Beach craft teacher, Shelley Williams, believes that everyone needs a space to cultivate their creativity, so she opened a place to welcome everyone.
Holiday Favourites: Jane Gauger, Content Writer
By ClassBento Team
Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!
4 Feel-good Ways to Save Money on Groceries
By Laine Fullerton
From buying with your eyes to channelling the calm of cooking, our teacher community of foodies share four feel-good ways to save money on groceries in 2022.
Check Out Australia's Most Popular Cooking Lessons
By ClassBento Team
From spicy Thai curries to rainbow-coloured macarons, we’ve got the lowdown on the best cooking classes in Australia.
Why Plants Are Your Best Friend If You WFH
By Charlotte McKewen
Discover how adding plants to your workspace can brighten up your mood and your day!
Top Beginner Pottery Classes Around Australia
By ClassBento Team
Meet like-minded people and get your hands dirty with pottery classes in Australia.
Discover Australia's Top Painting Classes for Adults
By ClassBento Team
Unwind as you learn painting and dive into a world of colour at some of our best painting classes in Australia.
Why It's Best to Learn Painting from a Pro
By ClassBento Team
If you've always wanted to learn how to paint, there's no better way to learn than by enlisting the help of a professional at painting classes in Australia.
Australia's Biggest Terrarium
By ClassBento Team
Epic. Incredible. The title says it all! A glorious living garden in an absolutely huge fishbowl glass. A terrarium created by the one and onlyEpic. Incredible. The title says it all! A glorious living garden in an absolutely huge fishbowl glass. A terrarium created by the one and only Chris Saban from Merchant and Green with his student, as part of a special workshop. Here it is in all its glory: Inspired? Check out Merchant & Green's succulent terrarium class or closed greenhouse terrarium workshop, or for a special occasion, book their private class for two. If you're looking for something more epic than the standard sized terrariums, just get in touch with Merchant & Green and see where your imagination leads you. Learn more about terrarium plants here. ...
Top Barista Class Types
By ClassBento Team
Explore the different types of coffee classes you can take in Sydney. From how to make an espresso at barista classes to learning to appreciate and taste coffee.
Dragon Boat Racing Origins
By ClassBento Team
Imagine the perfect morning on the bank of a tranquil river. The water is slow-moving and glassy. The only sounds are birds chirping and a gentleImagine the perfect morning on the bank of a tranquil river. The water is slow-moving and glassy. The only sounds are birds chirping and a gentle breeze whispering through the grass. You are relaxed. Now, imagine you begin to hear some distant sounds of movement coming from up river. Maybe you hear splashing, maybe faint yelling, as if a group of people is chanting. You can hear them only shortly before their figures start to become visible in the distance. Before you can believe it, they are upon your stretch of tranquility. The first thing you notice in detail is the giant carved head of a dragon, painted in vibrant colors, its lips peeled back in an intimidating smile. Sitting directly behind the beast’s white horns, a man straddling a giant drum is facing a crew of what looks like two dozen rowers sitting side by side in the narrow hull of the boat. Each is paddling in time with the drum, each blade slicing into the water at exactly the same time. You cannot believe how quickly and technical their movements are. At the back of the boat sits a woman, shouting orders and counting along with the drum. Directly behind her, the graceful tail of the dragon sweeps up out of the water, leaving a sizable wake behind the boat. Then, they are gone. In just a few seconds, the boat traversed a space you would previously have thought impossible. The water is still churning behind their frenzied motion. In the sudden silence, your heart is beating. Your adrenaline is pumping. You don’t want your tranquil setting back; you want to get onboard. The best place to start is to join a dragon boat racing introductory class. Luckily, Naga Spirit Dragon boating in Pyrmont, Sydney offers a beginner’s course that is the perfect way to ease into the complex sport. Before you begin, you may want to review the historical context of dragon boat racing, so that you can impress your new teammates and gain an appreciation for the sport. Let’s start with the most important aspect of dragon boat racing, the boat. According to Chinese tradition (1), the ornate design of the boat is very specific: an ox-like head, deer’s antlers, a stallion’s mane, reptilian scales, and the tail of a fish. The paddles in between are reminiscent of the animal’s many claws, moving in time while the dragon flies through clouds. The boats are thought to have ancient religious origins, with some believing their role to be appeasement of the rain god. The Dragon Boat Festival, recorded over 2,000 years ago, boasts of several origin stories, varying by region. A popular one (2) tells the story of Qu Yuan, a beloved advisor to the king turned exiled poet whose suicide by drowning in the river sparked widespread grief. In looking for the deceased hero, his followers rowed into the river and threw rice into the water to distract the fish. Subsequently, the festival has become a large cultural tradition, and people from all over the world have adopted the invigorating sport. In accordance with racing rules, there is always a drummer (sitting at the front) and a steer (at the rear.) Traditional festivals can boast of crews of up to 50 rowers, but standard rules allow for 18 to 20 in the large boats, and 8 to 10 in the smaller versions. So, now that you’re equipped with a foundational knowledge of the sport’s cultural roots, what does an introductory class look like? Well, you’ll probably spend a lot of a time on land. As a technical sport with some risks, there are a few things to learn before getting into the water, like safety procedures, basic paddle technique, and how to get in and out of the boat (it may sound silly, but that is one squirrely vessel when you’re stepping onto it from dry land.) This class is also good time to go over the rhythm and timing that are so crucial to a cohesive crew. Speaking of the crew, the initial class, while informative, is a great opportunity for the crew to start bonding. As an inherently social sport, the integration of individual members into a team is an incredibly important element to successful dragon boat racing. In other words, don’t be shy! Get to know your team! Each subsequent class will incorporate more water time, but be prepared to start most sessions with dry land training. After all, dragon boat racing is an athletically demanding sport, so be prepared to put in that physical training! During your first few sessions, you will probably experience some of the obvious joys of dragon boat racing. The teamwork. The beautiful setting. The sense of accomplishment that comes from hard work. Yet, there are a few hidden benefits to dragon boat racing that you may not even realize. For instance, did you know that dragon boat racing can positively affect your mental state and have long-term effects on your physical health? It’s true: dragon boat racing is shown (3) to decrease stress levels, improve self-esteem and increase energy levels while creating an overall sense of accomplishment and confidence in rowers of all ages. Many agree (4) that that teamwork can have a positive effect on mental health, as well. Without a doubt, the physical advantages of dragon boat racing are also well worth the effort. Rowing requires the toning of several muscle groups in the body: neck, shoulders, back, chest, abdominals, obliques, hips, and thighs, to name a few. Within a few weeks of intense training, you’ll start to notice the results (try not to break too many fragile objects with your new strength in the process.) Your practices will increase your overall cardiovascular health as well as heighten your coordination as a result of working so closely with your fellow rowers. Of course, we all know the vast benefits of being physically fit, from reduced risk of heart disease to improved stamina. So, if you’re looking for adventure, community, and fun, dragon boat racing might just be the sport for you. Look into classes in your area to get training today! References: 1.idbf.org 2.chinahighlights.com 3.dragonboatco.com 4.journals.lww.com ...
How to Get the Perfect Gift for Your Father
By Tiffany Fung
When it comes to getting the perfect gift for Dad, we’ve got you covered. Take a squiz at our beginner guide to know exactly what to get for Dad in 2026.
Want to Learn to Cook Like a Pro? Discover Australia's Top Culinary Schools
By ClassBento Team
Learn to cook and discover a world of delicious new flavours with the help of Australia’s finest culinary schools!
Drool-worthy Sour Cocktail Recipe
By Katie Milton
How the founder of Drool found love (and gin) in Melbourne lockdown.
Make Italian Meals with Cook with Luca
By ClassBento Team
Make mouthwatering, rich and flavourful Italian meals at Cook with Luca's fun classes.
Holiday Favourites: Gina Mason, Growth Partner
By ClassBento Team
Get to know the faces behind ClassBento and discover which workshops have made it to their top of their Christmas wish list!
Best Self Isolation Activities to Try This Month
By Sam Bowden
6 Week lockdown in Melbourne doesn't have to be all Netflix and tedium! Here are a few helpful self isolation activities to avoid the boredom.
Terrarium Making Ideas
By ClassBento Team
Terrariums are a great outlet for your creativity - there are just so many different ways you can put them together. Here are some of our favouriteTerrariums are a great outlet for your creativity - there are just so many different ways you can put them together. Here are some of our favourite designs. Wall-mounted terrariums Use magnetic metal containers, and stick your terrariums to your walls. Free up your desk space and build your vertical gardens. Pair your terrariums with some funky wall hangings or other home decor. Terrariums in light bulbs How's that for a light bulb moment? (Sorry, that was too easy!). Instead of throwing your burnt out light bulbs, why not give them a new life? Food-inspired terrariums A perfect way to add some chic earthiness to your table. Beyond tea cups and cake stands, you can easily extend on this concept by doing terrariums in glass water jugs, cookie jars, soft drink bottles, spice containers, glass teapots, old coffee plungers - sky's the limit. Recycle those beautiful old containers and don't let them go to waste! Hanging terrariums Perfect for your veranda or balcony, or even as a room's centrepiece, as a modern version of a chandelier. Coastal terrariums There are lots of themes you can explore with terrariums, but a classic is the coastal theme. Succulents are the star, and you can add seaside pebbles, sand and little shells to complete the look. If you you're a bit far from the coast, this is a great way to bring a taste of the ocean to your home or workplace. Feminine terrariums Terrariums are great no matter your gender, age or background, but certainly if you want to amp up the femininity, try adding some flowers and perhaps some marble. Focus your plant selection for an amber-pink hue, and you'll have a pretty terrarium any lady would be proud of. That's it for now! Join a terrarium class Excited? If you're in Sydney, you're in luck. Jump into our beginner's terrarium workshop, or if you're already comfortable with the basics, try a more advanced terrarium class. Want a customised terrarium workshop to try one of the designs we've mentioned? Just contact our terrarium master Chris Saban and you'll be on your way. Know of any other interesting terrarium designs that you want to see on this list? Let us know! Happy terrarium making! ...
How to Make a Terrarium DIY
By Julia Carr-Catzel
Succulents are the ideal household plant, and terrariums are a great home for them. Try out Sydney's most highly rated succulent terrariumSucculents are the ideal household plant, and terrariums are a great home for them. Try out Sydney's most highly rated succulent terrarium class and make one yourself. Succulent plants are a popular choice for modern Australian homes and gardens, due to their high-tolerance of various weather conditions, including life indoors. Teeming with water which is stored in leaves, roots and stems, these low-maintenance plants thrive almost everywhere, making them the ideal décor to spruce up a basic veranda or courtyard during the steamy summer months. Alternatively, owners can place succulents indoors, near windows to shower them with natural light. Pry through a gallery of frilled, spined and flower embellished succulents to liven up the indoors; opt for pincushion cactei dotted in beautiful hues of pink or perhaps a variegated zebra plant to match household décor. The number of succulent garden compositions are unlimited, choose from colours, shapes and sizes to adorn a bookend, hanging wall frame, wreath, pot, birdcage or terrarium. Not to mention the health benefits of indoor plants, such as the aloe vera plant, which produces cleaner air, lowers the risk of illness, boosts one’s mood and has potential to enhance concentration and memory. Despite their low-maintenance reputation, succulents thrive under a balanced upkeep. Refrain from over-watering when attending to your succulent garden, a common mistake among owners who overcompensate with a plant able to tolerate prolonged drought. Instead, make sure to check the soil moisture level with your fingers and water only when dry. Water or mist succulents at least once per week. Position them wisely with for time in shade each day, as succulents can burn when exposed to too much sunlight. Use a gentle formula once per month to fertilise. Do not combine succulents with non-desert dwelling plants Making your own succulent garden is therapeutic and rewarding activity to fill a morning or afternoon and doesn’t require any prior expertise. Adorning your home with a succulent garden can have aesthetically pleasing benefits for the inside of your home, as well as health benefits. The terrarium making experience can be shared with others and doesn’t have to be a solo mission. Encourage family and friends to take part in a terrarium workshop with Christoper Saban, Creative Director of ‘Merchant and Green’ who conducts beginner workshops in Sydney, catering for plant-lovers looking to design and create their very own succulent garden. Christopher, who has over fifteen years’ experience as a floral decorator and stylist provides all plants and equipment, and caters to all skill levels. Equip yourself with a pyramid or quad glass container, choose from a wide variety of mini succulents, toy with vase river stones, dirty your hands with moss and soil and create the perfect environment for your plants to thrive. Make a terrarium today. ...
Create a DIY Project at These Cool Art Classes
By ClassBento Team
If you’ve always wanted to try painting, learn how to draw, kickstart a new hobby or explore your creativity, head to these top art classes in Australia!
How Paint Pouring Helped Me Embrace My Individuality
By Kellie Maloney
Beyond mesmerising swirls and splashes of colour, I discovered that there’s a lot more to paint pouring than making pretty pictures.
Make Chocolate Truffles with R&M Fine Chocolate
By ClassBento Team
Meet head chocolatier, Raanan Malkin, founder of R&M Fine Chocolates!
6 Reasons Why Flower Arranging Classes Make the Best Gift Experiences for Mum
By Annie Symmonds
Discover why flower arranging classes make the best gift experiences for Mums this Christmas.
Best Rainy Day Activities for Kids
By Sam Bowden
In need of rainy day activities for kids? Keeping kids busy when the weather conflicts with your plans is no easy task. So ClassBento has compiledIn need of rainy day activities for kids? Keeping kids busy when the weather conflicts with your plans is no easy task. So ClassBento has compiled a list of workshops perfect for little ones! ...
25 Fun Things to Do for Mother's Day in Australia in 2026
By ClassBento Team
When it comes to fun things to do for Mother’s Day in Australia, we’ve got gift experiences guaranteed to make Mum’s day even more special.
9 Wholesome Gift Ideas and Mother's Day Activities for Adults
By Courtenay Turner
From pottery workshops to cocktail making classes, discover the best Mother’s Day activities for adults around Australia.
Top 10 Mother's Day Gift Ideas in Australia
By Jana Lepojevic
Looking for the perfect gift? Check out these top 10 Mother’s Day gift ideas in Australia. From pottery to cocktails, these fun experiences will make Mum’s day!
Heartwarming Mother's Day Ideas You Can Do Together
By Jana Lepojevic
Looking for meaningful Mother’s Day plans? Explore our list of unforgettable Mother's Day gift ideas you can do together and create lasting memories with Mum!
Top Mothers Day Gifts for Grandma 2026
By Sam Bowden
Don't forget Grandma this Mother's Day! These experience gifts for grandma will give her what she really wants—time with her grandkids doing something fun.
Mother's Day Gifts for Mums Who Don't Want Anything
By Annie Symmonds
Discover one-of-a-kind Mother’s Day gifts for Mums who don’t want anything and treat her to a true surprise in 2026!
6 Meaningful Things to Do for Mother's Day with Mum
By Tiffany Fung
Searching for meaningful Mother’s Day gifts? Read our guide to the best things to do for Mother’s Day in 2026, from gardening classes to tasting experiences.
Thoughtful (and Affordable) Mother's Day Gifts Under $100
By Courtenay Turner
These affordable Mother's Day gifts won't break the bank. From pottery to paint and sip, discover inexpensive experience gifts to suit your budget.
Our 8 Best Picks for Last Minute Mother's Day Gifts in Australia
By Tiffany Fung
Looking for last minute Mother’s Day gifts in Australia? Treat Mum to the gift she’ll really want on her special day, from skincare classes to flower workshops.
Best Australia Mother's Day Quotes to Personalise Your Gifts
By Annie Symmonds
Find inspiration for gifts for Mum with meaningful quotes and beautiful Mother's Day gift ideas to match!
The Ultimate Mother's Day Gifts Guide in 2026
By Jana Lepojevic
The ultimate Mother’s Day gifts guide in 2026—explore foodie experiences, personalised keepsakes and more to find the perfect gift to surprise Mum this year!
20 of the Best Christmas Gift Voucher Ideas in 2026
By Courtenay Turner
Want to treat someone special? Browse the best Christmas gift voucher ideas of 2026. Shop gift cards for pottery classes, whisky tastings and more.
6 First Father's Day Gifts in Australia for New Dads
By Annie Symmonds
Discover thoughtful first Father’s Day gifts in Australia for new dads and spoil him with gift experiences he'll remember for years to come.
9 Ways to Spend Valentine's Day with Friends
By Jana Lepojevic
Celebrate friendship this Valentine’s Day with friends! Fun activities, creative workshops, and tasty treats make it a day to remember.
The Do's and Don'ts of Valentine's Day Gifts for Him
By Laine Fullerton
Find the perfect Valentine's Day experience gifts for him in 2026 with our gift guide! Learn the do's and dont's of Valentine's gift giving to create romance.
Trending Ideas for Mother's Day in 2026
By Tiffany Fung
Discover the top trending Mother’s Day gifts for 2026. Think pottery, perfume making, paint and sip and more creative experiences to enjoy together.
11 Romantic Things to Do on Valentine's Day
By Jana Lepojevic
Looking for things to do on Valentine’s Day? Discover romantic, creative experiences you can enjoy together and turn the day into something unforgettable.
Top Gift Voucher Ideas for Your Family This Christmas
By Jana Lepojevic
Discover the perfect Christmas gifts for your family with our top gift voucher ideas. You can help create memorable moments with these unique experiences!
Best Gift Vouchers to Get If You Forgot Mother's Day
By Tiffany Fung
Wondering what to do if you forgot Mother’s Day? No stress! Discover the perfect guide to helping you pick the best Mother's Day gift for your mum this year.
5 DIY Valentine's Ideas for Him He'll Love
By Jana Lepojevic
From love coupons to memory scrapbooks, try these DIY Valentine’s ideas for him that feel personal, fun and meaningful.
How to Celebrate Mother's Day with Wife and Kids
By Jana Lepojevic
Looking for meaningful ways to celebrate Mother’s Day with your wife and kids? Discover fun, family-friendly experiences that turn quality time into the perfect gift.
The Best Last Minute Valentine's Day Gifts That Still Feel Thoughtful
By Jana Lepojevic
Forget the stress! These last-minute Valentine’s Day gifts offer date night activities and memorable experiences you can book in minutes.
Best Mother's Day Australia Wellness Experiences
By Annie Symmonds
From yoga in the park to mindful pottery classes, pick the best gift experiences for Mum and spoil her this Mother's Day.
Spice Up Your Office Holiday Party with Alternative Work Christmas Party Ideas
By Tiffany Fung
Discover alternative work Christmas party ideas in Australia to help you shake things up and create unforgettable memories with your team this holiday season.
Need Thoughtful Gift Suggestions for Mother's Day? Take Our Quiz
By Courtenay Turner
Need personalised gift suggestions for Mother's Day? Take our two-minute quiz to discover the perfect present. Show Mum how much she means this May.
The Top 20 Valentine's Day Gifts for Him That He'll Actually Want
By Tiffany Fung
Take a look at the top Valentine’s day gifts for him that he’ll want in 2026, from woodworking classes to food and drink tasting experiences.
9 DIY Christmas Decoration Ideas for 2026
By Sarah Hinds-Friedl
Celebrate the holidays with these DIY Christmas activities in Sydney. From wreath-making to bauble decorating, create festive, handmade decorations that last.
Unique Mother's Day Gift Ideas No One Would Expect
By Tiffany Fung
Explore unique Mother's Day gift ideas to surprise and delight your mum this Mother's Day. Reject ordinary with gift experiences for Mum.
21+ Coolest Christmas Presents for Her in Australia
By Courtenay Turner
From cheese-making classes to pottery and wine nights, find the coolest Christmas presents for her right here. Unforgettable experience gifts await!
The Best Mother's Day Presents for New Mums
By Tiffany Fung
Find the best Mother’s Day presents for new Mums with beautifully unique gift experiences they'll love, from natural skincare making to cooking delicious dishes.
Break Tradition with 10 Unique Ideas for Christmas Parties
By Annie Symmonds
Think outside the box in 2026 with these unique Christmas party ideas to help your team bond and reconnect.
A Guide to the Best Valentine's Gift for Your Wife Based on Her Interests
By Jana Lepojevic
Struggling to find the right Valentine’s gift for your wife? Check out our gift guide for unique experiences you can do together.
7 Experience Gifts for Grandparents This Christmas 2026
By Annie Symmonds
Spoil your grandparents this Christmas 2026 with experience gift cards! From flower arranging to pottery classes, they're guaranteed to feel the love this year.
11 Christmas Ideas for Family That Everyone Will Love
By Jana Lepojevic
Make this holiday magical with fun Christmas ideas for family, including crafts, baking, ornaments, and workshops for kids, adults, and grandparents alike.
15 Fun Things to Do for Father's Day in Australia in 2026
By Jana Lepojevic
Explore the best things to do for Father’s Day in Australia, from cooking classes and pottery to cocktail workshops and hands-on experiences.
Your Cute Itinerary for Valentine's Day Activities
By Tiffany Fung
Discover cute, creative Valentine’s Day activities in 2026—from pottery and cooking to cocktails—that turn your date into a memorable experience you’ll love.
10 Foolproof Christmas Presents for Couples Who Have It All
By Courtenay Turner
From pottery workshops to cooking classes, discover one-of-a-kind Christmas presents for couples who have everything. Gift cards available.
Christmas Gifts for Dads Who Have Everything
By Annie Symmonds
Ignite his creativity with the best Christmas gifts for Dad in Australia—perfect if he says he wants nothing this year!
11 Perfect First Valentine's Day Gifts for Your Boyfriend
By Laine Fullerton
Need Valentine's gift ideas for your first Valentine's Day together? Try these thoughtful Valentines experience gifts for him that he's guaranteed to love.
7 Floral Experience Gift Cards for Christmas 2026
By Kellie Maloney
Gift one of these floral experience gift cards for Christmas in 2026 and allow your recipient to play with blooms and boost their wellbeing this holiday season.
15 DIY Ideas for Mother's Day
By Jana Lepojevic
Skip the store-bought gifts this year! Discover 15 DIY ideas for Mother’s Day that are thoughtful, creative and easy to make at a workshop.
Your Guide to Good Valentine's Gifts for Everyone in 2026
By Tiffany Fung
Want to give good Valentine’s gifts for everyone on your list but not sure how? Discover our ultimate guide to making Valentine’s Day extra special in 2026.
5 Gifts for Mum More Exciting Than Mother's Day Flowers
By ClassBento Team
Ditch the traditional flowers and opt for memorable Mother's Day gifts. Discover green-fingered gift ideas for her and make Mum's day special!
Forget Mother's Day Flowers and Book a Flower Arranging Class Together Instead
By Annie Symmonds
Ditch the bouquet this year and make mum's day special with a flower arranging class! It's the best Mother's Day gift idea and a chance to spend time together.
How to Give Dad What He Really Wants This Father's Day
By Laine Fullerton
Searching for meaningful gifts for Dad this Father's Day? The answer is simpler than you think.
Christmas Gifts for Women Who Don't Have a Wishlist
By Jana Lepojevic
Break free from the holiday gift dilemma! Discover unforgettable and creative Christmas gifts for women—gift experiences that go well beyond material treasures.
Impress with 6 Mother's Day Gifts for Your Mother-in-law
By Tiffany Fung
Find the best Mother’s Day gifts for your mother-in-law with experiences she’ll love, from pottery and flower arranging to coffee and skincare classes.
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