Ben Groundwater
Travel writer
Ben Groundwater is a Sydney-based travel writer, columnist and author with more than 20 years' experience. He specialises in food and wine – writing about it, as well as consuming it. Follow him on Instagram @bengroundwater
Opinion
Air travel
I tried the ‘world’s best neck pillow’ and I still didn’t sleep
One reviewer declared this pillow “makes the middle seat feel like first class”, which seems like hyperbole to me. So I tried it for myself.
- by Ben Groundwater
Seven wonders within… The Baths of Caracalla, Rome
Here’s an archaeological site with all the beauty, history and scale of Rome’s most famous attractions, yet with a tiny fraction of the crowds.
- by Ben Groundwater
The seven wonders you must see at Machu Picchu
The ancient ruins of the now too-well-loved Incan settlement have provoked wonder and awe over generations.
- by Ben Groundwater
Opinion
Adelaide
Adelaide no longer wants to be nicknamed ‘Radelaide’? Too bad
You get the name you’re given in Australia. And if you want to change it, whatever you do, don’t say so.
- by Ben Groundwater
This country’s national dish is fascinating … and challenging
It’s deeply cherished, and the source of much pride. Diss it at your peril (I learnt the hard way).
- by Ben Groundwater
The world’s 10 coolest city neighbourhoods you should visit
First time visiting a city, you’re probably going to stay in the centre of town. But on your next visit, one of these up-and-coming places will give you a real feel for the place.
- by Ben Groundwater
Opinion
Tips & advice
Are tourists ruining Japan? Cracks form in world’s most polite nation
I’m not sure if you’ve ever seen a sushi chef have an existential crisis in real time, but I have, and it’s not pretty.
- by Ben Groundwater
From humble beginnings to Victoria’s most-loved regional hotel
Visitors to award-winning Lake House, now celebrating its 40th year, used to navigate there with a hand-drawn map mailed in the post.
- by Ben Groundwater
The Italian dish Australians love but get completely wrong
In Italy, there is no spaghetti bolognese. Instead, this dish is beloved by everyone from toddlers being tricked into eating vegetables to full-grown foodie adults.
- by Ben Groundwater
The greatest shows on Earth: 16 events worth crossing the globe for
Events-based tourism is booming. Here’s our line-up of shows and gatherings that are worth travelling for.
- by Ben Groundwater