Stories
Inspiration on unique activities and gifts, mindfulness and more
Support Local with Experience Vouchers This Christmas
By Kellie Maloney
Give back this Christmas with experience gift cards! Delight your loved ones with local workshops that support talented makers, artists, and foodiesGive back this Christmas with experience gift cards! Delight your loved ones with local workshops that support talented makers, artists, and foodies in your community! ...
Last Minute Experience Gifts for Sydneysiders
By ClassBento Team
Spoil your special someone this Christmas with these unforgettable experience gifts in Sydney, from cocktail classes to DIY terrarium workshops andSpoil your special someone this Christmas with these unforgettable experience gifts in Sydney, from cocktail classes to DIY terrarium workshops and much more! ...
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 ...
Creative Guide to Christmas Gifts for Women: 2025 Edition
By Courtenay Turner
Surprise and delight her with our creative collection of Christmas gifts for women – hand-picked to bring more fun and joy into her life.
5 Best Christmas Gifts for Her That She'll Love
By Tiffany Fung
Discover the joy of gifting a unique experience with our Christmas gifts for her. From pottery classes to culinary courses, find the perfect giftDiscover the joy of gifting a unique experience with our Christmas gifts for her. From pottery classes to culinary courses, find the perfect gift she'll love! ...
Why You Should Give Experience Gift Vouchers in 2025
By Tiffany Fung
Discover why experience gift cards are the next best thing in 2023, where you can help them book into their favourite workshop and celebrate theirDiscover why experience gift cards are the next best thing in 2023, where you can help them book into their favourite workshop and celebrate their big day in style. ...
5 Unique Present Ideas for Dad
By Tiffany Fung
From shaking up classic cocktails to getting messy with clay, find the perfect experience gift to get for Dad for his next special occasion.
Go Behind-The-Scenes of ClassBento's Festive Potluck Lunch
By Tiffany Fung
Tried and tested holiday favourite recipes.
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.
How to Keep Your Brain Young
By Courtenay Turner
We unpack the simple lifestyle changes you can make in your 20s, 30s, 40s and beyond to keep your brain sharp and your mind malleable.
Valentines Experience Gifts for Every Type of Girl
By Kellie Maloney
Find a Valentines Day gift for her with our range of experience gifts to suit every type of girl. From arts and crafts to cooking, surprise her inFind a Valentines Day gift for her with our range of experience gifts to suit every type of girl. From arts and crafts to cooking, surprise her in 2025! ...
Best Eco Friendly Candle Making Kits
By Sam Bowden
As we all become more aware of the ethics behind the way we consume, candle making kits have a few question marks over it. Here's some essentialAs we all become more aware of the ethics behind the way we consume, candle making kits have a few question marks over it. Here's some essential info to help you choose. ...
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 2025, from woodworking classes to food and drink tasting experiences.
9 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.
5 Corporate Gift Cards to Boost Employee Wellbeing
By Tiffany Fung
Looking to boost your team’s wellbeing? Discover our five top picks for company gift cards in Australia, to help inspire and uplift your team inLooking to boost your team’s wellbeing? Discover our five top picks for company gift cards in Australia, to help inspire and uplift your team in 2023. ...
Cheerful Xmas Work Party Ideas for Creative Colleagues
By Tiffany Fung
Want to treat your team to unique Christmas party ideas in Australia? Browse these Christmas activities for crafters, cooks and cocktail-makers!
Make Healthy Christmas Cocktails with the Cocktail Camp
By Jane Gauger
The founder of San Francisco’s Cocktail Camp is a health-conscious mixologist helping everyday Americans feel lighter and brighter with just oneThe founder of San Francisco’s Cocktail Camp is a health-conscious mixologist helping everyday Americans feel lighter and brighter with just one drink. ...
Experience Gift Cards in Australia Foodies Will Love
By Katie Milton
Treat the foodies in your life with unforgettable experience gift cards in Australia that will let them go behind the scenes and learn from culinaryTreat the foodies in your life with unforgettable experience gift cards in Australia that will let them go behind the scenes and learn from culinary pros. ...
Best Iso Date Night Ideas for Singles and Couples
By Sam Bowden
Don't scrape the bottom of the barrel thinking of iso date night ideas in Sydney, we've got a couple of good jumping off points for you and yourDon't scrape the bottom of the barrel thinking of iso date night ideas in Sydney, we've got a couple of good jumping off points for you and your special person. ...
Best Calligraphy Craft Kits for Beginners 2025
By Sam Bowden
Here's a quick rundown on the best calligraphy kits for beginners and why this mindful art is so good for you!
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! ...
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.
Why I'm Gifting Mum Quality Time in 2025
By Laine Fullerton
Want to give Mum the ultimate gift this Christmas? Our Australian Head of Content Laine lets you in on her top tip. (Hint: it’s all about makingWant to give Mum the ultimate gift this Christmas? Our Australian Head of Content Laine lets you in on her top tip. (Hint: it’s all about making memories!) ...
Heartfelt Christmas Gifts for Your Wife or Partner
By Courtenay Turner
From wine-tastings to jewellery-making, these Christmas gifts for your wife are guaranteed to spark joy this festive season. Browse the full colFrom wine-tastings to jewellery-making, these Christmas gifts for your wife are guaranteed to spark joy this festive season. Browse the full collection. ...
4 Creative Ways to Deepen Your Understanding of First Nations Culture
By Laine Fullerton
Share and celebrate First Nations culture with these 4 creative experiences—from Dot art classes to bush tucker tastings—led by local IndigenousShare and celebrate First Nations culture with these 4 creative experiences—from Dot art classes to bush tucker tastings—led by local Indigenous makers, artists and guides. ...
Gift Ideas for Her to Suit Every Special Occasion
By Tiffany Fung
Explore unique and thoughtful gift ideas for her. From romantic jewellery classes to relaxing perfumery courses, find the perfect present she'llExplore unique and thoughtful gift ideas for her. From romantic jewellery classes to relaxing perfumery courses, find the perfect present she'll adore. ...
5 Dad-Approved Gifts That Will Ignite His Creativity
By Kellie Maloney
If these real-life Dads loved them, yours will too.
5 Desk Crafts for Return-to-office Anxiety
By Charlotte McKewen
Struggling with office anxiety? Forget the fidget spinner and pick up one of these calming pocket crafts!
Make Chocolate with Z.Cioccolato
By Jane Gauger
It’s hard to resist chocolate – just ask Mike Zwiefelhofer, who’s been making customers happy with his sweets and hands-on virtual classesIt’s hard to resist chocolate – just ask Mike Zwiefelhofer, who’s been making customers happy with his sweets and hands-on virtual classes. ...
Make Calligraphy Christmas Baubles with Vanessa Opazo
By Kellie Maloney
From full-time architect to calligraphy artist, Vanessa Opazo from Bondi Letters shares her inspiring journey into teaching and her mission to empowerFrom full-time architect to calligraphy artist, Vanessa Opazo from Bondi Letters shares her inspiring journey into teaching and her mission to empower students through creativity. ...
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!
Bring Her Pinterest Board to Life with These Crafty Hens Night Ideas
By ClassBento Team
Calling all Pinterest enthusiasts! Uncover our selection of hens party ideas tailored for you and create a celebration that reflects your flair inCalling all Pinterest enthusiasts! Uncover our selection of hens party ideas tailored for you and create a celebration that reflects your flair in 2025! ...
Nourishing Experience Gifts for Women Who Need a Little Me Time
By ClassBento Team
If you have a special lady in your life who’s looking for some TLC, now is the time to treat her to a little “me time” with these experienceIf you have a special lady in your life who’s looking for some TLC, now is the time to treat her to a little “me time” with these experience gifts for women. ...
5 Evening Hens Party Ideas to Wrap Up the Perfect Day
By Annie Symmonds
Spoil the bride-to-be with an unforgettable evening—explore hens' party ideas featuring professional makeup, arty experiences and cocktail shaSpoil the bride-to-be with an unforgettable evening—explore hens' party ideas featuring professional makeup, arty experiences and cocktail shaking! ...
Top Gift Card Ideas for Plant Lovers This Christmas
By Katie Milton
From terrarium workshops to DIY plant propagation, these amazing gifts for plant lovers in Australia will delight this Christmas.
The Best Gift Cards for Every Type of Person
By Tiffany Fung
Not sure what to get for your Mum, best friend or partner? Look no further than our experience gift cards in 2023 to help make their day extra sNot sure what to get for your Mum, best friend or partner? Look no further than our experience gift cards in 2023 to help make their day extra special. ...
The Ultimate Guide to Personalised Gift Ideas for Couples
By Tiffany Fung
Explore our 2025 guide to the most thoughtful and personalised gift ideas for couples. No matter what kind of couple they are, find the perfect presentExplore our 2025 guide to the most thoughtful and personalised gift ideas for couples. No matter what kind of couple they are, find the perfect present here. ...
Why We'll Be Shopping Local This Christmas
By Laine Fullerton
Hint: there’s something in it for you too.
I Learnt About Ngemba Culture Through Art – You Can Too
By Katie Milton
Artist and proud Ngemba woman, Kabushka Ngemba welcomes you to Dot Art Circle, for a warm afternoon filled with painting, storytelling and smileArtist and proud Ngemba woman, Kabushka Ngemba welcomes you to Dot Art Circle, for a warm afternoon filled with painting, storytelling and smiles. ...
Explore Your Inner Artist with Paint and Sip Classes in Australia
By ClassBento Team
Channel your inner Picasso and sample some delicious wine at the same time with paint and sip classes in Australia! You don't need any experienceChannel your inner Picasso and sample some delicious wine at the same time with paint and sip classes in Australia! You don't need any experience to join! ...
Think You're Not Creative? Try Pottery
By Charlotte McKewen
How potter and academic Bettina Stevanovic rediscovered her childhood love of clay and used it to tap into mindfulness and find her balance.
Last Minute Father's Day Gifts in Australia
By Annie Symmonds
It's never too late to find last-minute Father's Day gifts with a meaningful experience gift for dad. Get inspired with gift ideas that are readyIt's never too late to find last-minute Father's Day gifts with a meaningful experience gift for dad. Get inspired with gift ideas that are ready instantly. ...
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.
Fantastic 10 Year Anniversary Gift Ideas in Australia
By Annie Symmonds
Celebrate the 10 year milestone with these anniversary gift ideas! Mark the momentous occasion with experience gifts for couples that honour conCelebrate the 10 year milestone with these anniversary gift ideas! Mark the momentous occasion with experience gifts for couples that honour connection. ...
To Spice or Not to Spice: Can Chilli Improve Your Health
By Susana Aguilera
Find out how to add more chilli to your food and what the benefits of chilli are at a Melbourne cooking class near you with a focus on spicy cuiFind out how to add more chilli to your food and what the benefits of chilli are at a Melbourne cooking class near you with a focus on spicy cuisine. ...
Everything You Need to Know About Macarons
By John Tabari
Learn about the history of macarons at baking classes in Sydney It may surprise you to learn that macarons did not originate in France. WeLearn about the history of macarons at baking classes in Sydney It may surprise you to learn that macarons did not originate in France. We imagine that this quintessentially French patisserie could only be the work of a French pastry chef. But, according to historic records, macarons date back to 8th century AD. With the first recorded instances baked in Venetian monasteries. The macaron came to France with Catherine de Medici, when she married King Henry II in 1533. Her pastry chefs continued to make these meringue-based biscuits for her when she moved over to Paris. According to one controversial Encyclopedia entry, it was two French nuns who invented macarons. The text claims that the dessert gained popularity when two Sisters baked and sold macarons during the French Revolution. They used their venture as a way to fund their housing while they were seeking asylum. Yet, those macarons were not the ganache-filled treat we know today. Those macarons were two meringue cookies atop one another, without any filling. As with the invention of the original macaron, there is a discrepancy about how the modern version was invented as well. Two French chefs claimed to have invented the sweet fillings; Claude Gebert and Pierre Desfontaines of Ladurée. They are both credited with having introduced a third layer to the sweet in the early 20th century. French or Italian Recipe? Although macarons originated in Italy, some 17th century Italian cookbooks include ‘French Macaron’ recipes. In any case, there are two distinct methods to making macarons; the Italian way and the French way. The difference comes from the meringue part of the recipe; specifically when to add sugar. The French recipe calls for egg whites to be whisked into meringue shapes before powdered sugar is folded in. The Italian method includes adding sugar to raw egg whites to make a paste. Today, the accepted method to bake macarons is closest to the French recipe. Ladurée Although macarons didn’t originate in France, we have a French patisserie to thank for their lasting popularity. Ladurée has been around for over 150 years. It was founded in 1862 by writer, Louis-Ernest Ladurée. The original location burned down during a late 19th Century uprising, so a second popped up. It was at the second location that the founder’s second cousin, Pierre Desfontaines, created the ‘Double decker’ macaron. This refers to two traditional macarons on top of one another bound together by a creamy, usually ganache or buttercream, filling. The steady increase of these stores outside France attests to how popular the macaron has become. Ladurée is now present in almost 20 cities in Europe and many countries across four more continents. International Interpretations Keeping with the tradition of adapting the original recipe, may other cultures now produce their own versions of the dessert. In the States, the composition of macarons remains the same, but the flavours are much more experimental. In France, you will find classics such as pistachio, raspberry and chocolate. In the US you can buy peanut butter and jelly, pumpkin, cheesecake and candy corn. In Southeast Asian countries, recipes substitute traditional ingredients for local variations. Almond flour is substituted for peanut flower in Japan. Taiwanese recipes incorporate red beans and South Korean recipes use green tea leaves or powder. Discover the best types of macarons here. Pop Culture In Japan, where food can be cute, the macaron is a popular print for fashion items, stationery and even bedding. Simple and colourful, they decorate clothing and accessories along with other foods such as fruit and sushi. In their attempts to create a more upscale image, McDonalds’ McCafe branches sell macarons in France and Australia. Interestingly, they are produced by a company owned by the same holding company as Ladurée. Yet, they don’t use the same recipe; McDonalds has a more limited flavour menu than Ladurée, offering six classic flavours. Ladurée, whilst not as experimental as some US macaron producers, does offer a wider range of French favourites. These include speculoos, rose and salted caramel. ...
Stop Buying Things and Start Giving Experiences for Gifts
By Jana Lepojevic
Stop buying things and give experiences for gifts! Discover how to make 2025 memorable with thoughtful, fun and eco-friendly experience gift ideStop buying things and give experiences for gifts! Discover how to make 2025 memorable with thoughtful, fun and eco-friendly experience gift ideas. ...
5 Romantic Activities for Couples That Aren't Dinner and a Movie
By Jana Lepojevic
Transform date nights with romantic activities for couples! Try pottery classes, barista courses, cooking adventures and more for a fun and creativeTransform date nights with romantic activities for couples! Try pottery classes, barista courses, cooking adventures and more for a fun and creative experience. ...
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