The Official Blues Bros Revue

It seems like yesterday that brothers, Jake and Elwood Blues, played by John Belushi and Dan Ackroyd, invited the world to join them on a ‘mission from God’.

The hit movie The Blues Brothers was a loveable tale of redemption about the pair of paroled convicts, who set out to save the Catholic orphanage in which they grew up, from the taxation department. As the story goes, they re-formed their rhythm and blues band, The Blues Brothers, and organised a concert to raise $5,000 to pay off the debt and save the day. But things never went according to plan for Jake and Elwood, and their story evolved into a rollicking journey of misadventure, and one of best loved movies of all time.

Now, forty years on, the Blues Brothers’ live on in the Offcial Blues Brothers Revue, and Australian Blues Brothers fans are set to get a nostalgic musical fx when the pair arrives from America to begin a tour Downunder.

Starring Wayne Catania as Jake and Kieron Lafferty as Elwood, the Blues Brothers Revue is the only Blues Brothers show to be offcially sanctioned by Dan Ackroyd and wife of the late John Belushi, Judith Belushi.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Saturday 23rd Nov @8pm

• Where: Twin Towns, Tweed Heads

• Price: $49

James Reyne- Crawl File Tour pt 2

Aussie music icon James Reyne, bringing is Crawl File Tour to Hotel Brunswick, Friday 22nd November for a night of non stop hits.

James Reyne is dipping back into the Crawl File, hitting the road to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Australian Crawl’s frst greatest hits collection. To coincide with the tour, Crawl File is being reissued on vinyl by

Universal Music.

Crawl File plays like a classic gig, opening with the band’s debut single, ‘Beautiful People’, and closing with their most popular live song, ‘The Boys Light Up’. In between are some of the mostloved Australian songs of all time, including ‘Reckless’, ‘Errol’, ‘Oh No Not You Again’, ‘Lakeside’, ‘Downhearted’ and ‘Things Don’t Seem’.

EVENT DETAILS:

• When: Friday 22nd Nov @6pm

• Where: Hotel Brunswick

• Price: $65 towering pyramids, ancient plazas, and crumbling temples.

Nestled in the heart of Central America, Guatemala is quickly emerging as a must-visit destination for travellers. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and long history, this country offers a wide variety of experiences for every kind of explorer.

A Land of Ancient History

One of the primary draws of Guatemala is its profound connection to the ancient Maya civilization, one of the most advanced societies of the pre-Columbian Americas. Travellers fock to the country’s famous archaeological sites, with Tikal being the crown jewel. Situated deep in the northern rainforest, Tikal is one of the largest and most spectacular Mayan ruins, offering visitors the chance to explore

Dating back as early as 400 BC, this UNESCO World Heritage site provides a window into the grandeur of Maya culture, which continues to infuence Guatemala today. But Tikal is only the beginning of Guatemala’s rich historical offerings.

Other Mayan sites, like Yaxha and El Mirador, offer equally fascinating glimpses into this ancient world, and many remain shrouded in the jungle, providing an off-thebeaten-path experience for adventurous travellers.

Volcanoes, Lakes, and Scenic Wonders

Beyond its historical signifcance, Guatemala is a nature lover’s paradise. The country’s diverse landscapes range from cloud forests to volcanic highlands, offering breathtaking views at every turn. For those seeking adventure, the towering volcanoes are a major draw. Guatemala is home to 37 volcanoes, three of which—Pacaya, Fuego, and Santiaguito—are active.

Pacaya, the most popular for visitors, offers the unique opportunity to hike up an active volcano and witness small eruptions and fowing lava. The climb is challenging, but those who make it to the summit are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, Fuego regularly puts on a dazzling show, with plumes of smoke and the occasional glow from its fery core visible from Antigua, one of Guatemala’s most charming colonial cities. For a more serene experience, travellers can visit Lake Atitlán, often described as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

Surrounded by volcanic peaks and traditional Mayan villages, the lake offers an idyllic escape for relaxation, water activities, or exploration of the vibrant local cultures. Visitors can take boat rides between the various lakeside villages, each with its own distinct character and attractions. Whether you’re learning about traditional weaving techniques in San Juan La Laguna or enjoying the lively markets in Panajachel, Lake Atitlán offers a peaceful yet enriching experience.

Cultural Immersion in Antigua Guatemala’s culture is an intoxicating blend of indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial infuences, and nowhere is this more evident than in Antigua. Once the capital of Guatemala, Antigua is a beautifully preserved colonial city known for its pastel- coloured buildings, cobblestone streets, and stunning Baroque architecture.

A visit to Antigua feels like stepping back in time, as the city’s historic centre remains remarkably well-preserved. Visitors can stroll through the Plaza Mayor, visit the striking ruins of churches damaged by past earthquakes, and take in the beauty of landmarks like the Santa Catalina Arch, one of the city’s most photographed spots. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular base for tourists looking to explore nearby volcanoes or participate in cultural workshops, such as chocolate-making classes or traditional Guatemalan cooking lessons.

Antigua also offers an excellent food scene, with its abundance of cozy cafés, upscale restaurants, and street food stalls offering everything from tamales to pepián, a traditional Guatemalan stew. The city’s lively artisan markets and boutique shops also give visitors the chance to pick up unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re drawn to Guatemala for its historical treasures, natural beauty, or vibrant culture, the country offers an unforgettable experience. Its warm and welcoming people, combined with the sheer diversity of things to see and do, make Guatemala a destination that belongs on every traveller’s bucket list. From ancient Mayan cities and colonial charm to breathtaking volcanoes and serene lakes, Guatemala is a place where history and nature come together in a way that promises adventure and inspiration for all.