Latest news with #TheCape
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Quiet town beating the rest of Australia in big national race: 'Saving $6000 annually'
As Australia pushes to cut carbon emissions and reduce household bills, electrification has emerged as a key focus — from the cars we drive to the way we power our homes. But while rooftop solar is booming, the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) and fully electric homes remains modest. Nationally, just 2.7 per cent of vehicles on Australian roads are electric, according to the Electric Vehicle Council. While over 10 per cent of new cars sold are now electric, that figure still trails the UK (17 per cent), Germany (19 per cent) and Norway (over 80 per cent). At the household level, gas is still widely used, and many homes are poorly equipped to make the switch. Advocates argue the future of EVs in Australia looks bright, but in a quiet corner of Victoria's Bass Coast, one community has already quietly surged ahead, offering a glimpse of what a fully electrified future could look like. At The Cape, a purpose-built sustainable estate in Cape Paterson, more than 30 per cent of households now own an electric vehicle. Every home is powered without gas, using rooftop solar and passive solar design principles, and achieves an average eight-star NatHERS energy rating — well above the national average of 6.2 stars for new builds. "More than 30 per cent of households have an EV," Director and resident Brendan Condon told Yahoo News Australia. "Homes are 100 per cent electric with no gas connections, powered by rooftop solar, and designed using passive solar principles. This community-wide commitment to electrification, from the grid to the garage, makes [us] a national front-runner and an insight into the future of a fully electrified Australia." The estate comprises 230 residential lots, with about 140 homes completed and over 250 residents. More than 95 per cent of EV charging is done at home, helping cut costs and reduce strain on the wider grid, particularly in a regional area where public charging infrastructure remains limited. "Even in regional areas, most trips are local or to nearby centres like Wonthaggi and Inverloch, which are well within EV range," Condon said. "A round trip to Melbourne is under 300 kilometres, which is easily achievable by numerous long-range EVs now on the market." The Cape also challenges the notion that electric living is the preserve of wealthy inner-city enclaves. While upfront costs are still a barrier, residents claim long-term savings. Condon says homes that pair solar with energy-efficient design and an EV can save upwards of $6,000 annually. Once fully built, the community is projected to save more than $1 million a year. "These are 'super bill-busting' homes," he said. "That money stays in household budgets and bank accounts, which is significant in the current cost-of-living crisis." Experts agree that electrifying homes and vehicles is essential to meeting emissions targets. The Climate Council estimates that switching to solar and electric could save households $3,000 to $5,000 a year and cut domestic emissions by up to 42 per cent. It also supports energy independence and grid resilience by decentralising power generation. Still, challenges remain. Critics point to the cost of EVs and the difficulty of retrofitting older homes. There are also concerns about supply chains, mineral dependency for batteries, and whether the national grid is ready for widespread electrification without major upgrades. Empty Bunnings shelves sparks major change theory Plea to electric car owners ahead of expected 'hottest summer on record' Driver spots Tesla in shocking highway act: 'Licence revoked' But Condon believes communities like his show what's possible when sustainability is designed from the ground up. With the federal government introducing a New Vehicle Efficiency Standard in 2025 and aiming for net-zero emissions by 2050, more neighbourhoods may follow suit. "[We're] a real-world blueprint," he said. "It shows how communities can decouple from expensive fossil fuels and thrive — creating zero-emissions, climate-resilient neighbourhoods that aren't just imagined, but built." Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week's best stories.
Condé Nast Traveler
18-06-2025
- Condé Nast Traveler
How to Throw a Perfect Bachelorette Party in Cabo
At the southernmost tip of Baja California Sur is Los Cabos, one of the most legendary beach destinations in Mexico—and maybe even the world. Though just a nonstop flight away from major US cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, Dallas, and even New York, Los Cabos feels like a world away. Comprised of two main towns, the party-heavy Cabo San Lucas and the more refined San José del Cabo, its vast desert landscape is framed by the towering Sierra de la Laguna mountain range and studded with massive cacti and palms that lead to rolling dunes lining the Pacific Ocean. While the area has long been an oasis for adventure travelers seeking outdoor thrills (like ATV tours, water sports, and parasailing), the area is equally as beloved as a reveler's paradise. For all of these reasons combined, there's possibly no better destination for a bachelorette party, as Los Cabos offers a rare blend of barefoot luxury and after-dark excess. Here, bachelorette festivities can begin with poolside green juice at luxury hotels like One&Only Palmilla or The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, and end with mezcal cocktails and dancing beneath the stars at desert nightlife venues like Crania. Getty Images Whether your crew is craving pure relaxation or a dance-until-you-forget-your-name kind of weekend (or both—we don't judge!), this corner of Baja delivers. And if you're looking to scope out everything from the best design-forward hotels and day spas with cold plunge rituals to private yacht rentals that'll take you whale watching near the iconic Los Arcos rock formations, welcome. This is your definitive guide to planning a bachelorette in Cabo that's anything but cliché. FAQ: How should my group plan to get around in Cabo? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron The most convenient option for bachelorette groups is to book private transportation or a ride-sharing service. Most hotels can arrange private cars for groups, and numerous car rental companies and ride-sharing services, such as Uber, are readily available. How many days should I stay in Cabo for a bachelorette trip? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron A four-day trip is ideal for most bachelorette groups, providing enough time to enjoy beach activities, nightlife, and relaxation without feeling rushed. This length also keeps costs manageable while allowing for a mix of planned activities and spontaneous fun. What is the best time of year to go to Cabo for a bachelorette trip? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron November through April is typically the best time of year to visit Cabo. This is when you'll find the best weather conditions, with warm, dry days and brisk nights—perfect for groups who want to enjoy the beach and nightlife. I'd also try to avoid hurricane season from June through October, and spring break crowds from March through April. Courtesy Pujol Where to eat Cabo has cemented itself as one of Mexico's most dynamic culinary destinations—and for good reason. The restaurants here are as aesthetically pleasing as they are inventive with dishes. Each outpost is designed to immerse you fully, whether you're sipping cocktails in a palm grove or hand-pressing tortillas on a farm. I recommend beginning at Flora Farms, an open-air restaurant set on 25 lush acres of sprawling desert. The grounds include a working organic farm with a restaurant at its heart, where mango trees frame your table, live music is always drifting through the air, and dishes are plated with herbs freshly snipped from the garden. Brunch here is practically a rite of passage. Nearby is Tamarindos, an outdoor restaurant set within a historic estate outside San José del Cabo. Here, you can harvest ingredients from the fields, then head into an open-air kitchen to learn how to prepare Baja specialties like spicy chile rellenos, citrusy ceviche, and handmade tortillas. For the top fine dining in the area, head to Manta. The flagship restaurant of The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, is helmed by Enrique Olvera, the chef behind Mexico City's top restaurant, Pujol. With stunning sunset views of Los Arcos, you can enjoy a menu that blends Japanese precision with bold Mexican flavors, with dishes including smoked kampachi sashimi and miso-glazed black cod. To recover after a night of imbibing, head to Pez Gallo, a minimalist café in San José's art district where the coffee is strong and the vibe is easy, or post up at Lab Coffee for rooftop cold brew and avocado toast with a Baja twist. And if you happen to sleep through breakfast, grab tacos at La Lupita. They're by far the best in the area. Where to stay In Cabo, where you stay shapes the entire rhythm of your trip. While Airbnbs and private villas (like this seaside respite in San José del Cabo or this luxurious home in Cabo San Lucas) are a popular option for those looking for privacy, full kitchens, and plenty of space, several boutique hotels are also worth looking into for their elevated services and amenities. For an immersive getaway within a lush desert environment, Acre, with its treehouse-style villas, is the perfect respite if your ideal stay includes nesting within a 25-acre palm oasis just outside San José del Cabo. Each stilted suite is crafted from reclaimed wood and surrounded by jungle, blending rustic charm with modern comforts. With a convivial outdoor pool, an award-winning restaurant, and an on-site cocktail bar, you never have to leave the property—but if you do, you'll want to return by sunset for margaritas and live music. Courtesy The Cape/Photo by Thomas Hart Shelby If ocean views and sophisticated suites are what you're after, The Cape, a Thompson Hotel, hits the mark. Every room faces the sea, and some come replete with private terraces and outdoor soaking tubs. The hotel's rooftop offers fabulous pre-dinner cocktails, best enjoyed before a meal at Manta by Chef Enrique Olvera. For peak luxury, One&Only Palmilla offers an exceptional resort experience, with butler service and whitewashed casitas that open to a private beach cove. The hotel spa, one of the largest in Baja Sur, is also well-suited for bachelorettes, hosting typical wellness classes like yoga and Pilates, as well as a curated list of treatments inspired by the ancient healing rituals of Mexico. For groups who want to be in the heart of the action in downtown San José del Cabo, a stay at Drift San José delivers with minimalist design. It's located steps from the area's top galleries, bars, and restaurants, and even has a central courtyard and pool that turns into a relaxing lounge space by evening. Gypsy Soul House Courtesy Gypsy Soul House Where to play There's no better way to explore Los Cabos than by boat. Most private charters leave from the Los Cabos Marina and come equipped with a crew who serve snacks and drinks while you navigate towards the iconic Los Arcos rock formation. Whale watching is almost guaranteed along the way, as is a stop to swim at Lover's Beach, an ideal spot for a champagne toast. Back on land, a cooking class at Tamarindos is ideal for large groups and will allow you to get acquainted with local ingredients. Guided by their team of chefs, you can pick your own herbs and vegetables to make regional dishes like stuffed corn tamales and fish tacos topped with a variety of homemade salsas.
