If Premium Economy Is A Waste Of Money; Emirates Can Gladly Have Mine
If Premium Economy Is A Waste Of Money; Emirates Can Gladly Have Mine

Premium economy has a bad rap. The neglected middle child, it’s often forgotten amid cattle class armrest battles and hedonistic new business class trends.Many people write it off, saying they’d rather save up their points (or money) until they have enough to fly flat in business, rather than waste their accruements in ‘faux business’ or a ‘marginally more spacious economy.’Emirates premium economy, however, recently made us reconsider our prejudices.The airline took to Instagram earlier this month to announce: “We will be receiving three more A380 aircraft from Airbus this year, with our last A380 on order scheduled to join our fleet in November.”

“All three new A380s will be fitted out with our popular Premium Economy cabin along with our latest A380 cabin interiors.”

“These deliveries will bring our A380 fleet to 118 units in November, and we’re committed to being the largest operator of this spacious and modern aircraft for the next two decades.”The announcement was accompanied by the following photo series, which show off the premium economy section.

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Emirates is set to receive its final A380 in November, bringing forward the original delivery timeline from June 2022.All three new A380s will be fitted with Emirates’ Premium Economy cabin as well as its latest A380 cabin interiors and signature features including private suites and Shower Spas in First Class, the popular Onboard Lounge, fully flat seats in Business Class, and the industry’s largest seatback screens for customers in all cabins to enjoy the airline’s extensive selection of entertainment content on ice.These deliveries will bring Emirates’ total fleet of A380s to 118 in November, including six aircraft equipped with Premium Economy seats in a 4-class configuration.Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates, said of the delivery: “We’ve come to an agreement with Airbus to bring forward the delivery of our remaining A380 orders and have secured financing for these units. These new aircraft will also add more highly sought-after Premium Economy seats into our inventory, as we prepare to fully launch this cabin product in the coming months.”He added: “Emirates will continue to be the largest operator of this spacious and modern aircraft for the next two decades, and we’re committed to ensuring that the Emirates A380 experience remains a customer favourite with ongoing investments to enhance our product and services.”As travel restrictions ease with the global roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines, come October, Emirates will have reinstated its A380 operations on over a dozen popular routes between Dubai and: Amman, Cairo, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Guangzhou, London Heathrow, Los Angeles, Manchester, Mauritius, Moscow, Munich, New York JFK, Paris, Toronto, Vienna, Washington DC, and Zurich, the airline shared earlier in September.

“Emirates’ 4-class A380s are currently operating on its London Heathrow and Paris Charles De Gaulle routes. The comfortable and luxurious cream leather-covered Emirates Premium Economy seats with generous leg room, are currently offered as spot upgrades for valued customers on a discretionary basis,” the airline announced.As for whether you should be tempted into trying premium economy yourself, here are the typical benefits for your perusing pleasure.Per Skyscanner, “There is quite a big difference between economy and premium economy, primarily in terms of space. Generally speaking, airlines give you roughly 12-18cm (5-7in) extra legroom space, 3-5cm (1-2in) extra seat-width space, and 5-7cm (2-3in) extra seat reclining space in premium economy seats.”

“If you like to stretch out your legs (or are just tall) and hate fighting for elbow space, you’ll find upgrading will afford you more comfort in-flight.”

Other benefits include better meals and snacks, as well as (depending on the airline) lounge access and free drinks.

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Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Revives One Of Rolex’s Most Underrated Watches
Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson Revives One Of Rolex’s Most Underrated Watches

Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson is devoid of much of the bullshit that comes with fame. He might be an ultra-successful actor, wrestler and entrepreneur – and sure, you don’t get to his level without some sort of ego – but he’s genuinely a really nice dude. There’s a reason he’s been called ‘the most likeable person in the world’.

On top of being a stand-up guy and potentially one of the most vascular humans alive, The Rock’s also stylish. His impeccable sartorial taste also extends to his watches: Johnson is an avid watch collector and has been spotted wearing brands as diverse as Panerai, IWC Schaffhausen, Hamilton, Oris and Breitling. The Rock’s taste tends to err on the bigger side (I mean, he’s a big guy, so it makes sense), but he’s easily got one of the most mature and complex watch collections in Hollywood.

Perhaps it’s no surprise, then, that his latest watch is one of the most underrated Rolexes ever – in our estimation, at least. Jumping on Instagram to plug his new energy drink brand, Zoa, The Rock also subtly showed off a new horological pickup: a Rolex GMT-Master II ‘Root Beer’.

Images: @therock / Rolex (The Rock)

You may have heard of the GMT-Master ‘Pepsi’ or the GMT-Master II ‘Coke’ – they’re two of the most coveted watches of all time. The ‘Root Beer’ is a little less prominent, but a highly desirable piece nonetheless. The nickname is both a reference to the watch’s brown bezel (and the creaminess of gold, perhaps?) as well as a reference to the ‘Pepsi’ and ‘Coke’ GMT-Master monikers as well.

RELATED: ‘Counterintuitive’ Rolex Aftermarket Trend Renews Age-Old American Rivalry

The original ‘Root Beer’, the GMT-Master ref. 1675/3, came out in the 70s and was the first two-tone version of the GMT-Master. It was made famous as Clint Eastwood’s watch of choice, the legendary actor often donning it in his films. Rolex re-released the Root Beer in 2018, swapping from yellow gold to rose gold among other changes, and it’s this version of the Root Beer that The Rock is, well, rocking.

Two-tone watches – that is, watches that are partially made from steel and partially made from gold – are somewhat of an acquired taste. They were pretty popular in the 80s and 90s, but aren’t quite as popular these days, which is why the Root Beer often gets overlooked compared to other GMT-Masters or other Rolexes.

It’s a shame, really. Compared to a fully gold piece, a two-tone watch is more durable and more practical (whilst still having a touch of bling), and are actually remarkably versatile from a style perspective: able to be both dressed up and down with ease. Clearly The Rock knows a good thing when he sees it… Bring two-tones in out from the cold, we say.

Check out some of The Rock’s other interesting watches

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Melbourne’s Best Jeans Stores For Denim Devotees to visit in 2022
Melbourne’s Best Jeans Stores For Denim Devotees to visit in 2022

Think menswear essentials and you’ll likely imagine such pieces as a pair of sneakers, a well-fitting suit, a generous selection of t-shirts, some shorts, and a jacket of varying description. But if there’s one menswear essential that will never go out of fashion, it’s a pair of jeans.

A quality pair of denim jeans should feature in the wardrobe of every single guy on the planet. With so many washes and fits to choose from, and with different designers implementing their own unique touches, a pair of jeans not only helps you look good, but they help to show off your personality too.

Melbourne has an incredibly stylish menswear scene, with an abundance of menswear shops, sneaker stores and tailors where you can pick some impeccable pieces that will prove you really do know how to put together a great looking outfit. When it comes to jeans, Melburnians once again are not exactly left wanting, with a number of stores dedicated to denim just waiting to be discovered.

At least, they would be, had we not done the hard work for you and told you which jeans stores you need to be visiting and where you can find them.

Thank us later.

Acne Studios

Acne Studios stands for Scandinavian minimalism at its finest and Melbourne is one city lucky enough to see two stores. The brand was originally conceived as a denim label by Jonny Johansson in 1996 but today it has expanded into myriad fashion-forward collections which are inspired with hints of contemporary art and photography. For those looking pure Scandinavian design in premium quality garments, Acne Studios is the place to hit up.

Address: Shop 22/The Strand, 250 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne, 3000
Phone: 03 9650 0201
Brands: Acne

A.P.C

French clothing brand A.P.C doesn’t have a huge presence in Australia and it’s only dedicated store can be found in Melbourne. If you want to pick up some A.P.C gear elsewhere, you’ll have to thank Incu store founders Brian and Vincent Wu for bringing it to our shores.

A.P.C stocks the most contemporary in men’s fashion including a fine selection of high-quality denim as seen on celebrities around the world. Be prepared to drop a serious wad of cash at this place if you’re a modern purveyor in the streetwear game.

Address: ACL13 Albert Coates Lane, Melbourne, 3000
Phone: 03 9639 1877
Brands: A.P.C

Nobody Denim

For those who are patriotic about their threads, you really can’t get any more Melbourne than Nobody Denim. Founded by brothers Nick and John Condilis, the brand stocks a cool selection of jeans that are designed and manufactured right here in Australia with pride.

But wait, there’s more. The brothers have listened to what the local market wants when it comes to denim and duly delivered, designing their own unique tools and techniques for the hand customisation of every pair they produce. Optimum fitment appears to be the goal here with men able to choose between skinny or slim straight cuts in both indigo and black wash.

Address: 396-398 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, 3065
Phone: 03 9419 3700
Brands: Nobody Denim

Nudie Jeans

Impeccable Swedish design paired with Italian craftsmanship is always welcome on local shores and one such label has been delivering this for just over a decade now. The beauty of Nudie Jeans is the fact that all their denim products are made with a transparent manufacturing process so you know which region your hard-earned cash is going to.

Their cotton twill is also 100% organic if that’s your kind of thing. More importantly, though Nudies are designed to look sleek, modern and fit you like a glove until the next ice age (ok, maybe not). They are sturdy quality jeans though and the staff (at any of Melbourne’s three stores) will advise you not to wash them for six months whilst they break-in. Grown men shouldn’t wear dirty jeans so here’s our solution to get around that.

Address: 190 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, 3000
Phone: 03 9650 0373
Brands: Nudie

Dejour Jeans

While the store doesn’t look like much on the outside, Dejour Jeans is a goldmine for hardcore denim enthusiasts. The tiny space has floor-to-ceiling shelves stocked with every style of denim you could possibly think of. Each one is made using wholesale denim from Bradmill, an Australian textile mill that’s been around since 1927.

But the real trump card this store has is the on-site alteration service, making it your one-stop-shop for finding the perfect pair of jeans. At approximately $60 a pair (including alteration), this store is a real steal for quality denim that doesn’t break the bank.

Address: 542 Sydney Road, Brunswick, 3056
Phone: 03 9939 0667
Brands: Dejour Jeans

Up There

If you’re a big fan of streetwear and urban style, be sure to check this store out. Established in 2010, Up There prides itself on stocking only the most unique fashion labels, placing special emphasis on new labels that give a contemporary twist to menswear classics such as jeans. It’s also a great place to pick up some fresh sneakers while you’re at it. 

Address: 15 McKillop Street, Melbourne, 3000
Phone: 03 9670 6225
Brands: OrSlow

Harrolds

Harrolds was founded in Melbourne in 1985 (and has since expanded to other Australian cities) and has always placed an emphasis on offering only the finest and most premium designer clothing to its customers. Whether it be Tom Ford, Burberry or Balmain, if it’s high-end, Harrolds will most likely stock it. 

Of course, with high-end comes a high price tag, so make sure your wallet is full before stepping through the doors. But once you do, you’ll only be walking out with some of the most exclusive names in the business.

Address: 101 Collins Street, Melbourne, 3000
Phone: 03 8660 7888
Brands: Amiri, Tom Ford, DSquared2, Valentino

Calibre

Australian menswear label Calibre also has a talent for keeping one eye on the fashion-forward and the other on local tastes. This has allowed them to flourish in the home market with an array of menswear which also extends into denim with a modern fit and finish that won’t eat up your entire month’s pay. Their biker style range of denim is especially a winner so keep an eye out when their new season designs pop up regularly.

Address: Melbourne Central/222-300 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, 3000

Brands: Calibre

Universal Store

For the younger crowd looking for their indigo fix, there’s no place for denim, like Universal Store. These guys supply some of the most in-demand brands of denim from labels with proper streetwear roots, and each Melbourne store (there are five) will have a generous selection instore. If for whatever reason you don’t find something you like, there are over 100 brands stocked online just waiting to be discovered.

Address: Shop L02 205 Melbourne Central, 211 LaTrobe Street, Melbourne, 3000
Phone: 03 9654 4220
Brands: Abrand, Tommy Jeans, Wrangler, Lee, Thrills, Levi’s, Assembly

General Pants

You’ll be hard pushed to not come across a General Pants store when you’re out and about in Melbourne. With 10 locations sprawling across the CBD, down to Dandenong and west towards Werribee, this store, stocking a wide range of denim brands is a must-visit if you’re in the market for a fresh pair of jeans.

With every cut and wash catered for, including loose jeans, skinny jeans, black and white jeans, you’re highly likely to find at least one pair that suits you down to the ground.

Address: G004/211 LaTrobe Street, Melbourne, 3000
Phone: 03 8398 9144
Brands: Ksubi, Lee, Levi’s, Rolla’s, Nudie Jeans Co, Wrangler, Dr Denim, Neuw

Service Denim

When three masterminds of denim get together to open a concept store, it’s time to take a closer look. Service Denim is the brainchild of three labels: Rolla’s, Neuw and Abrand, the concept space allows for customers to peruse through the fine selection of jeans in a cool textiles factory space.

Alterations? You got it. The guys have a dedicated in-house seamstress manning the machines on weekends to offer up free alterations for your purchase.

Address: 397 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, 3065
Phone: 03 9416 4307
Brands: Rolla’s, Neuw, Abrand

Dolce & Gabbana

High-end luxury label Dolce & Gabbana isn’t just known for the dressy stuff. The designer label also makes a mean pair of denim and is conveniently located in the heart of Melbourne on the Paris end of Collins Street.

Boasting pure Italian sartorial flair, men can step into the immaculately designed store to pick out their threads which come in a select range of cuts and washes. Be warned though, it’s all about indulgence at this establishment so be prepared to spend if you’re after a quality piece of menswear.

Address: Corner of Mayfair Building, 171 Collins Street, Melbourne, 3000
Phone: 03 9662 4732
Brands: Dolce & Gabbana

LEVI’s

The trailblazers in men’s fashion, Levi’s has been pioneering the industry since 1873. Known for being the world’s largest maker of pants, Levi’s jeans are among the comfiest and aesthetically pleasing, made to feel relaxed and stylish.

This store is located on level 2 in Melbourne Central and supplies a diverse range of jeans, whether you’re after a tapered leg, slim-fit pants, relaxed-fit jeans or bootcut fit jeans. Not to mention, Levi’s is committed to sustainability and plan for their entire collection to be sustainably sourced cotton by 2025.

Address: L02-204/211 La Trobe St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Phone: 03 9663 0818
Brands: Levi’s

Rollas

If you’re looking for some vintage-inspired pieces, make sure to stop by this iconic store the next time you’re on Chapel Street. Rollas is primarily known for its clean lines, simple yet timeless pieces that are sure to elevate your casual wear wardrobe.

From slim-fit jeans, Stinger skinny jeans to Relaxo jeans, this store has a wide selection you’re sure to love. Also, pick up a few shirts and tee while you’re at it.

Address: 207 Chapel St, Prahran VIC 3181
Phone: 03 9416 4307
Brands: Rollas

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The 10 Best Melbourne Airbnbs That Will Blow Your Mind
The 10 Best Melbourne Airbnbs That Will Blow Your Mind

Sydney may grab headlines and attract millions of tourists due to its world-famous landmarks, but for art, culture and nightlife, Melbourne is the place to go.

Australia’s cultural capital is an exciting place to visit no matter the time of year, as you can always find something relating to style, sport or art happening in its various communal spaces or down hidden laneways. And with it being home to a high number of cool restaurants, bars and pubs, there’s plenty to keep you occupied.

Stately Gold Rush architecture blends seamlessly with edgy street art and hip art galleries. Trendy coffee shops and independent bookstores mix with iconic music venues and boutique menswear stores.

There are gardens for the outdoorsy – including a number of walking routes both in the Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) and further afield – races and stadiums for the sports-mad, and more laneway eateries than a foodie could ever hope to feast at.

Every traveller knows that the best way to experience a city is to do as the locals do, so skip the hotel – although if you must stay in one, Melbourne is home to some amazingly cool boutique hotels – on your next trip and book of the best Melbourne Airbnbs.

Warehouse-Style Apartment | CBD

This CBD one-bedroom apartment could not be more centrally located if it tried. Just off Little Collins Street and accessed via a laneway, this open-plan warehouse-style spacious apartment oozes character with exposed beams and heaps of wooden furniture. It’s capable of catering for up to six guests, with a king bed on a mezzaine floor, a sofa bed and a floor mattress included. It might not be everyone’s idea of luxury, then, but with a tough-to-beat location and an incredibly cool living space, we don’t really care. Plus, you’ll have an entire rental unit all to yourself.

Book @ Airbnb

The Spaceship Penthouse | CBD

The owner of this apartment describes it as a spaceship and, to be honest, we can’t think of a better word ourselves. Serving up 270-degree views of Melbourne, looking over the Yarra River and out to the Rialto Towers, Melbourne Cricket Ground and the Docklands by way of a cockpit-style window array, you’ll be hard pushed to find a better view. In summer, the terrace offers a perfect place for al fresco dining and with access to the building’s gym included, it’s the perfect stay for couples or solo travellers.

Book @ Airbnb

Birdcage Penthouse | CBD

This could be the best-looking studio apartment in Melbourne, at least, in our opinion. Decked out in black with subtle pops of colour and strategically-placed lighting, this penthouse apartment at the top of the Birdcage North building scream bachelor’s paradise.

It’s huge, being able to sleep up to 9 guests in 4 bedrooms and caters for kids, with a separate playroom and a dedicated cinema room. Even though the best Melbourne has to offer is several floors down, you’ll probably find yourself struggling to leave.

Book @ Airbnb

Architectural Retreat | Hawthorn

If you don’t fancy staying so central, this Hawthorn home could be right up your alley. An architectural paradise if ever there was one, the home is dominated by walls of glass and steel that allow plenty of natural light to flood in. It provides plenty of space for you and up to seven additional guests, and if you head outside, you’ll not only be treated to a swimming pool but also a garden teeming with all manner of edibles, whether it be veggies, herbs or fruits.

Book @ Airbnb

Toorak Luxury | Toorak

A far cry from the Toorak apartment we recently saw listed for sale, this Toorak home is opulence defined. Everything you could ever want or need from a home is included in the nightly fee (apart from maybe a butler) with grandeur around every corner and in every room. Premium appliances and every gadget you could dream of (there’s Sonos throughout) coupled with comfortable beds and a generous outdoors dining area. Also, it’s within walking distance to the train station, making it incredibly easy for you to get to the city. If you’re in Melbourne for some considerable time, this is where you’ll want to stay.

Book @ Airbnb

New York Style Apartment | Southbank

Similar to the opening modern apartment with its lofty, warehouse vibes, this Southbank pad is oh so cool and one of the best vacation rentals around. Perfectly located for the abundance of entertainment on offer in Melbourne, this apartment has ample room for four people. Modern furnishings are paired with stripped-back brickwork and the upstairs area, accessed via a stunning staircase, leads you to comfortable bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. This two-bedroom apartment also provides you with access to the gym, heated pool and sauna included for a spot of pampering.

Book @ Airbnb

Converted Church | Brunswick

This Fitzroy home is pretty special, as not many other Melbourne Airbnbs can say they’re in converted churches. Impeccably finished inside with all the modern amenities you could want, all while retaining its cathedral ceilings, exposed brickwork and wooden beams. The home is split over three floors, so there is plenty to explore and a private outdoors area will provide space to continue an evening spent in the city drinking with friends.

Book @ Airbnb

Melbourne Castle | Kew

If it’s genuine uniqueness you’re after from your Melbourne Airbnb, look no further than this seven-storey home situtated inside what used to be Kew Asylum. No psychiatric patients roam the halls any longer, but instead you’ll find space for 12 guests and views over Melbourne’s leafy suburbs and across to the CBD. Your tenure includes access to tennis courts, swimming pool and bowling green, but with so many floors to explore inside, you may end up getting lost. It’s hard to describe this home in words, you’ll just have to book it and see for yourself.

Book @ Airbnb

Beachside Oasis | St Kilda

If you want to stay near Melbourne’s best-known beach, then we reckon you’ll be more than comfortable staying in this three-bed home. Architecturally designed, with each room flowing into the next. A separate, private studio can be used to store your annoying kids. Exposed copper pipework provides an interesting and refreshing change to usual house décor, but teamed with concrete, it’s the perfect touch. We imagine you’ll be spending most of your time at either of the two outdoor BBQ terraces, though, as they offer scintillating views across Melbourne.

Book @ Airbnb

Melbourne Penthouse/Parkville

If you’re looking to stay in an exceptionally luxurious place overlooking Melbourne’s Parkville area, then make sure to book this snappy apartment. This expansive apartment is laid over the top two floors of the Arcadia Building and can hold up to four guests. With impressive views and a private balcony, this apartment is covered with chic artwork and sculptures. Designed by Fender Katsalidis Architects, the curved building has a contemporary look, balanced with the luxe aesthetic with an open-concept living room with all the finishing touches.

Book @ Airbnb

Como Park House/South Yarra

Get ready because this luxury Como house ticks just about every box when it comes to the perfect Melbourne Airbnb. This beautifully designed house is sleek, modern, has an infinity plunge pool and a built-in trampoline – the ideal place to let loose. However, the vibrant and playful nature of the house is also balanced with its refined aesthetic of tree-shaded decks and spacious courtyard that can host up to six people, a great place to entertain. Guests will also be able to make the most of the wine cooler, fireplace and sound system on the colder winter evenings.

This rental has three bedrooms with queen beds, two ensuite bathrooms, a master bedroom, and one that shares a bathroom with the fourth bedroom, which has two beds.

Book @ Airbnb

Design House/St Kilda

This designer house has a highly contemporary, sleek interior paired period details, including an Edwardian terrace – made from handmade tiles, antique marble fireplaces, mid-century furniture, and an exclusive art collection. If you’re looking to stay somewhere that has great charm, then this house is for you, as it comes to an incredibly homey feel with some eccentric finishing touches. This house also includes a full kitchen, three bedrooms, laundry and backyard, making it incredibly convenient.

Book @ Airbnb

The Best Suit Shops In Melbourne

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Will Cryptocurrency Really Dominate ‘Traditional Finance’ By The End Of The Decade?
Will Cryptocurrency Really Dominate ‘Traditional Finance’ By The End Of The Decade?

Popularity in crypto has risen quicker than your nan’s soufflé, and, while it can most definitely be deemed a volatile market, a lot of people are jumping in without reading the safety signs.But whether you personally believe there is much real value beneath the hype, or whether you are a firm sceptic, some experts in the crypto space believe it could one day become our default method of payment, allowing us to say adios to cash and potentially even debit and credit cards.A crypto expert speaking to news.com.au recently claimed Australia alone has amassed around $7bn worth of crypto assets, and said that crypto could “surpass traditional finance in Australia as early as 2029.”Citing a report by Finder.com.authe article also reveals that crypto is proving particularly popular with young people, with 31 per cent of Gen Z (anyone born after 1997) owning some form of crypto asset. It’s this figure that is causing some experts (emphasis on some) to predict crypto will become a default method of payment within the next 10 years.Part of crypto’s appeal to a younger audience could well be down to the fact it’s new and (somewhat) uncontrollable, so, without wanting to sound ageist, younger people are more likely to have the capacity (and inclination) to understand how it all works. If you’ve tried dabbling in the minefield that is crypto to no avail, you can check out a recent DMARGE article reflecting on the ‘safest’ way to invest in crypto (or the disastrous time we invested $1,000 in speculative shit coins and got spanked).Moving on from spanking… to find out if there is any genuine claim to crypto ever dominating traditional finance, DMARGE spoke exclusively with eToro market analyst Josh Gilbert.Josh says anything is possible: “it could mean both [becoming more popular than other trading methods, or becoming the dominant form of payment], but we are starting to see further adoption of crypto assets as a form of payment, especially from high profile businesses.”

“Key players such as Goldman Sachs and Banco Santander have shown positive sentiments towards blockchain and crypto on multiple occasions, indicating a general trends towards open standards in corporate banking.”

“This week (this article was published on the w/c 6th September), payments provider Worldline announced it has made crypto payments accessible to 85,000 merchants in Switzerland.”“The partnership will allow some 85,000 Swiss merchants to accept payments in bitcoin or ether at the point of sale. We can expect to see more providers enable crypto in the coming months, leading to further adoption.”

“Despite its sell-off in March 2021, as an asset class, crypto is still the best performing asset year-to-date. This is why investors are continuing to see the benefits of investing in crypto, despite the volatility and high risk level.”

“It’s anticipated that crypto will have a much more significant role to play in the future. For example, in the last 12 months, the European Central Bank (ECB) issued a 100 million Euro bond on the Ethereum blockchain.”As for whether Josh believes crypto could genuinely become one of our main methods of payment, he said: “The global pandemic further highlighted the need for digital currency.”

“People and businesses need access to money fast. Digital wallets could allow for far easier distribution of financial aid or unemployment benefits – not just for individuals, but affected small businesses as well.”

“Governments around the world are exploring ways of rolling out digital currencies with most central banks discussing Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) or stable currencies. Most are still in the early stages of development, but El Salvador is the first country in the world to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender, with the asset being accepted in McDonalds, Starbucks, and local stores across the country.”Josh adds that he’s not quite sure how payment is being accepted in countries such as El Salvador, but we asked him if we could potentially buy products or services for less. If something cost $100, for example, and you’d invested $20 into Bitcoin which saw it’s price rise to $100, could it be possible to sell this, make a profit and then buy that product with your profit.“I’m unsure of how things are being priced there. If things are priced in USD, then yes this works, but if assets are being priced in BTC then no. It’s likely that places accepting Bitcoin will price assets in Bitcoin to avoid the mismatch between the two. But the idea is right, if you buy $100 worth of BTC and tomorrow it’s worth $120, you have more purchasing power.”The reverse is also true. Which, as the market crash which followed El Salvador’s switch showed, hurts.“The continued adoption of crypto assets is certainly expected to see a global rollout in the not too distant future,” Josh said. “However, trust is still an important factor as many consumers are still now aware of the benefits of crypto assets.”

“Increased regulation will help to facilitate greater use of technology that can deliver real benefits to the financial services sector, as well as facilitate greater financial inclusion globally. eToro fully supports regularly measures designed to protect and educate investors.”

Josh says that in 2021 we’ve seen a higher number of investors adopting crypto as an asset class, and that the rise of crypto can be “put down to adoption.”

“Although adoption is a word used a lot, it’s a focal point of building trust and seeing crypto assets used on a broader scale.”

“The technology and innovation of crypto assets is the primary driver of price. Blockchain technology has the potential to change our financial system and make it accessible to the whole word, even in essentially unbanked regions.”“The benefits of crypto assets such as smart contracts, that allow financial applications to be created and the sheer speed of tractions, are becoming more prevalent than ever, and the more we use the technology in crypto assets, prices will continue to rise.”Not everyone is convinced crypto could one day replace the dollar, however, with this pcmag.com article citing Dr. Kenneth Geers, External Communications Analyst for Very Good Security, as saying, “There are risks specific to cryptocurrency, such as lost hardware, lost passwords, hacking, scamming, and extortion.”“Central banks protect investors and citizens, Bitcoin exchanges may not. Governments will be hesitant to let go of the dollar, of their authority.”He also noted how crypto can sometimes fall foul to not being quick enough, adding, “Visa can process over 70,000 transactions per second, while Bitcoin would manage just a handful.”

“There is no doubt that cryptocurrency is a game changer. But in the near term, it will not replace the US dollar. In the long term anything is possible, but expect government resistance.”

Others refute this, pointing out criminal activity, scams, and hacking occurs all the time with the US dollar, and that there is a growing industry of crypto coins, which process transactions significantly faster than Bitcoin, like Cardano, Bitcoin Cash, Polkadot, Stellar, Chainlink, BNB, Tether, Monero and more.

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Build Yourself Huge Biceps With This Simple At-Home Workout
Build Yourself Huge Biceps With This Simple At-Home Workout

Having biceps so big you’re forced to go up a t-shirt size is something many men aspire to. And while it’s certainly true you need to eat the right foods in order to fuel your body and promote muscle growth, the biceps exercises you perform are equally as important.

Fortunately, you don’t need a fancy gym membership to obtain bicep peaks like Everest, as a simple set of dumbbells, combined with a range of movements, will do more than their fair share and see your arms grow in no time at all. But what movements should you be performing exactly? Allow us to introduce you to Lorenzo Roca, a fitness enthusiast who uses the TikTok platform to provide informative workout tips and tricks to wannabe workout warriors.

One of Lorenzo’s latest videos provides a complete bicep workout using just a pair of dumbbells, with a variety of exercises included to work all three parts of the muscle: short head; long head and brachialis. Breaking down which part of the bicep each movement is working, Lorenzo’s video could well be the only one you need to get yourself incredibly strong.

Check out Lorenzo Roca’s bicep building workout in the video below.

The movements included in his biceps workout are:

  • Waiter Curl, targets the long head – 3 sets with 10 – 15 reps per set: Hold one dumbbell in the palm of both hands at one end. Keep the upper arms close to the body and curl the dumbbell at the elbow, extending from slightly greater than a 90-degree angle and curling so that the dumbbell meets your chin.
  • Wide Curls, targets the short head – 3 sets with 10 – 15 reps per set: Hold a dumbbell in each hand and start with them down by your side with palms facing inwards. Curling at the elbow joint, lift the dumbbells out to your side and rotate your wrist so that your palms face forward.
  • Hammer Curls with slow eccentric, targets the brachialis – 3 sets with 8 – 12 reps per set: Hold a dumbbell in each hand with palms facing inwards, and start with your arms down by your side. Keeping the palms facing inward, curl the dumbbells up from the elbow joint, until your forearms are at a 90-degree angle to the upper arms.
  • Bicep Curls, targets all areas of the biceps muscle – 3 sets with reps to failure per set: Hold a dumbbell in each hand with palms facing up. Alternate curling each arm at the elbow joint until the dumbbell meets your upper arm. Keep your upper arms static during the movement, and try to avoid swinging your body for momentum.

Huge biceps await.

The post Build Yourself Huge Biceps With This Simple At-Home Workout appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

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10 Best Coupe Cars To Buy In Australia In 2022
10 Best Coupe Cars To Buy In Australia In 2022

If you’re in the market for a car that is sleek and sexy, with some decent performance to boot, but don’t have supercar kind of money, a coupe is the next best option. Most commonly arriving with two doors and a sloping roofline (4-door versions are popping up all the time, however), coupes have the potential to offer everything you’re looking for in a car, if you don’t need the extra size afforded by an SUV.Car manufacturers are cottoning onto the popularity and desire for coupes, with new models being released, old models being updated, and traditional sedans being substituted for sleeker versions. They offer a great combination of practicality and performance, and there are options available to suit all budgets. So which coupes should warrant your attention? We’ve compiled this list of what we consider to be the 10 best coupes currently available in Australia, covering all price brackets: from the more wallet-friendly options such as the Toyota 86, all the way through to supercars such as the Lamborghini Huracan (we know we said earlier coupes are great if you don’t have supercar money, but for those that do, the options are jaw-droppingly fantastic).

Porsche 911 (992)

Fuel Economy: 94.L/100kmPrice: From $261,572 Drive AwayThe epitome of the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” mantra, Porsche’s 911 has exhibited pretty much the same silhouette ever since it was introduced way back in 1964. Having gone through various iterations and model designations during its tenure, it remains one of the absolute best coupes available. The 911 certainly sits within supercar territory, but its ease of use, practicality and ability to be a genuine daily driver make it far more approachable than some of the more outlandish options out there.While it may be a great car, we do sometimes feel there is perhaps too much choice on offer, with no less that 21 models falling under the 911 umbrella. Some of these are cabriolets, admittedly, and they also include the bonkers and more track-focused GT3, but with Carrera, Carrera 4, Carrera 4S, Targa and Turbo monikers to choose from – and various engine and trim options within these – finding the best Porsche 911 for you is no easy task.But, what we can say, no matter which model you eventually decide upon, you’re going to receive a sublime driving experience. Your personal preferences when it comes to interior finishes may dictate which model you choose, as the base Carrera only comes with partial leather seats as standard, for example. They can be upgraded, of course, but expect to part with a hefty chunk of cash. However, there are almost too many good things to say about the 911, so we fully recommend heading to your local dealer to try them out.Discover more at PORSCHE.COM

Toyota 86 (ZN6)

Fuel Economy: 8.4L/100kmPrice: From $32,180 Drive AwayThe Toyota 86 is the Japanese brand’s best-selling sports coupe since we said farewell to the Celica, and it’s pretty easy to understand why. Not only is it incredibly affordable, with prices starting just over $30,000, it offers a scintillating drive and performance that will have you grinning from ear to ear. It’s cousin, the Subaru BRZ offers much of the same experience, so if you’re a more loyal Subie fan, we wholeheartedly recommend that model too. A successor, the Toyota GR 86 (ZN8) due for release in 2022, which will bring more power and more fun, and could be worth waiting for – its incoming arrival also means stock for the GT is limited.But, if you need a new coupe now, the 86 GT and GTS offer incredible value for money. The only major differences between the GT and GTS are interior features, as both share the same 2.0-litre 4-cylinder boxer engine, kindly donated by Subaru. This means power for the two are the same, at 152kW for the manual transmission (the auto drops to 147kW), and couple this with Toyota’s rather excellent chassis and ride handling, means you’re given a car that is a real pleasure to drive, if you want something to throw around corners or even take to a track.What you don’t get is a suite of driver aids, such as lane departure warning or emergency collision warning, features you’d expect from other modern cars, and even those costing similar money. But then, the 86 GT is a pure driver’s car, and exists solely to be an exhilarating drive, appealing to wannabe racers.Discover more at TOYOTA.COM.AU

BMW M4 (G82)

Fuel Economy: 10.1L/100kmPrice: From $161,855 Drive AwayAs with its M3 sibling, the BMW M4 is often regarded as setting the benchmark for the performance coupe sector. While the latest generation may divide customers more than previous generations because of the newly-designed front grille, the German manufacturer has made other changes underneath that make the M4 better than ever.While most sites will want to point your attention towards the M4 Competition – a far more track-focused variant – the standard M4 offers plenty of power and performance to keep most customers satisfied. Under the hood is a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged straight-six beast, delivering 353kW of tarmac-munching power, mated to an automatic transmission (it’s auto only, sorry manual fans).As is the case for all BMW M cars, it’s the way it delivers that power that encourages customers to part with their money. Put your foot down and you’ll be rewarded with incredible levels of grip from the rear, giving you confidence to keep going and even take corners with a bit of extra speed than you might initially feel inclined to. And, as an everyday car it’s perfectly suitable. At cruising speeds and around town it’s perfectly adept, with the steering become lighter to make driving through smaller streets a doddle. There’s plenty of space in the back for passengers too, although naturally, being a coupe with a sloping roofline, headroom can be a pain for taller passengers, but this is the same for all coupes, not just BMW.Discover more at BMW.COM

Alpine A110

Fuel Economy: 6.2L/100kmPrice: From $100,372 Drive AwayThe Alpine A110 is sort of something of a revolution. While it may be based on the car of the same name from the ’60s, this modern iteration is a completely different kettle of fish, and is perhaps one of the finest examples of a true drivers car there is. A compact two-seater that could be easily compared to something like the Porsche 718 Cayman. Where it differs however – and what makes it extraordinary to drive – is in the weight department. A featherweight in the truest sense of the word, the Alpine A110 is unfathomably light, which equates to it being stupendous fun to drive.Available in three variants: Pure, Légende and the A110S, there is plenty to get excited about no matter which you choose. All three share the same 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but while the first two have 185kW, the A110S eeks out a bit more power, sitting pretty at 215kW. While those numbers may not seem particularly high for what is meant to be a performance-focused coupe, it’s lighting fast, and it’s all thanks to the fact it weighs next to nothing. It’ll get to 100km/h in 4.5-seconds, for example, quicker than a Porsche Cayman.The drive is where it’s at, though, with pinpoint precision from the steering and a confidence in handling being instilled into you that you’ll never really get yourself into any danger. Where it suffers compared to rivals, is inside. Don’t expect luxuries such as leather upholstery or a fancy infotainment system. Alpine doesn’t care for that sort of stuff, although you’re not exactly left wanting either. Sure, Porsche, Jaguar and Audi provide you with a much more pleasant interior, but you also have to pay more. The A110 is all about the performance on the road, and for that, nothing comes close.Discover more at ALPINECARS.COM.AU

Lamborghini Huracán Evo

Fuel Economy: 13.7L/100kmPrice: From $384,187 Drive AwayWe’re no longer left wanting when it comes to buying a supercar, but despite all their 0-100km/h times, driving dynamics or even design, there still isn’t much that comes close to a Lamborghini. The Italian company’s styling to this day remains bedroom poster worthy, with designs that continue to turn heads whenever one drives past. Right now, there are just three Lamborghini models to choose from: the simply obscene Aventador, the rather excellent Urus SUV and this, the Huracán. It’s the far more accessible model, when compared to the Aventador, thanks to a drop in power, but make no mistake, it’s no slouch.Power comes from a mid-mounted 5.2-litre V10, producing 470kW of power, allowing it to storm towards 100km/h in 2.9-seconds and a top speed of 325km/h. A rear-wheel drive variant is available too, which can encourage you to have a bit more fun, but the ‘standard’ Huarcán Evo is all-wheel drive, making it a far easier beast to tame should your right foot be made of lead. Lamborghini has been sure to include a variety of driving aids to prevent you from spinning out of control, however, giving you more freedom to push it to its limit.Inside it’s just as bonkers as out, with a huge choice of colour combinations available to make your car genuinely unique. Fighter-jet style buttons and switches adorn much of the dash and floating centre console, with little room left for any sort of storage. If you use the Lambo as your daily, you best only be prepared to travel with your wallet, keys and phone. Of course, this is only a 2-seater, making it a great option if you’re wanting to get away from the kids for a bit, and while it can comfortably be used as a daily driver, you’ll want to make sure you can foot the fuel bill.But if you’re buying a supercar such as this, you’ll be able to afford the fuel and maintenance that comes with it. It’s a glorious beast of a car that can be enjoyed around town or out on the open road.Discover more at LAMBORGHINI.COM

Ford Mustang

Fuel Economy: 13L/100kmPrice: From $51,690 Drive AwayThe Ford Mustang has been a champion seller for Ford; a true muscle car for not a great deal of money is a tempting proposition for many, after all. The latest 2021 iteration has seen a fair few changes over its predecessors to make it even more enticing. There are a few models to choose from: GT Fastback; High Performance Fastback (both available with automatic or manual transmission); GT Convertible and High Performance Convertible. For those who want an even more performance-orientated variant of the Mustang, the Mach 1 is on hand to oblige.The GT and High Performance models get a 5.0-litre V8 under the hood, delivering 339kW of power, which as expected, delivers an incredibly pleasant noise when the gas pedal is depressed, the High Performance meanwhile makes do with a more economical 2.3-litre 4-cylinder delivering 236kW of power. And, perhaps unexpected from what is essentially a muscle car, the ride is pretty damn good. Power is delivered well, getting you up to speed in no time (the manual is probably the better gearbox to go for) and at cruising speeds, you’ll find yourself feeling very comfortable. While Ford does say it can seat 4, the rear passengers will need to either be short, or have no legs. It’s tight, to say the least.Standard equipment is relatively generous, with a good selection of driver assistance packages included throughout the range, and you’re also given a good infotainment system, complete with 12-speaker B&O Play sound system. If you’re looking for a car that has some serious grunt, and can be comfortably used as a daily, the Mustang is a no brainer.Discover more at FORD.COM.AU

Nissan GT-R

Fuel Economy: 12L/100kmPrice: From $193,800 Drive AwayWhen the Nissan GT-R exploded onto the scene nearly 15 years ago, it was met with critical acclaim. Supercar-rivalling specs from a car with seating for four, and one that didn’t break the bank – at least, not compared to ‘genuine’ supercars – it was a special thing indeed. The latest version is no different, and Nissan has only improved the GT-R during its tenure, even producing the quite frankly ridiculous Nismo edition. That model sure is expensive, but for those who love speed, it’s worth every cent.For the most part, buyers are going to choose between the GT-R Premium, or GT-R Premium with luxury interior, which essentially just adds some leather to proceedings. What makes the GT-R so special is the science and engineering that have done into developing it, with every minute detail being tweaked and adjusted inch-perfectly to deliver the best possible performance. Under the hood of every GT-R (except the Nismo) lies a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged engine, delivering 419kW of power, catapulting it to 100km/h in 2.7-seconds. We can’t think of many buyers who will want it to go quicker, to be honest.Inside it’s a comfortable affair too, with bucket seats that keep you pinned in position (handy, given the power available) and while it might not worry the Porsches or the Audis of the world in terms of outright luxury and finish, it’s not exactly a bad place to be. It’s also from the driver’s seat that you’re able to make a huge number of changes to the way the car is setup, allowing you to find the perfect driving style whether you’re out for a daily drive, or hooning it around a track. It’s an exceptional coupe, and may often get overlooked, but for speed and practicality, it’s up there with the best.Unfortunately, Nissan has now discontinued the GT-R in Australia (the same day this article was published). So while you won’t be able to order a brand new one, there should still be some used stock floating around.Discover more at NISSAN.COM.AU

Jaguar F-Type

Fuel Economy: 7.2L/100kmPrice: From $140,603 Drive AwayThe Jaguar F-Type is one handsome beast, and boasts all the necessary credentials to warrant a space on your driveway. Jaguar has made some changes to the lineup available in Australia, predominately to do with the engine, as there is now only one V8 option available: the F-Type R. But, should your budget not be able to extend to grab that one, there are 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder and 3.0-litre V6 options on offer too, making the F-Type more accessible than ever.These latter two are offered in rear-wheel drive, while the hot and fiery F-Type R is all-wheel drive. You can also get convertible versions of the 2.0- and 3.0-litre cars, but for our money, the coupe is where it’s at. Whichever engine option you choose, you’ll be rewarding with a responsive driving experience and one that you can truly enjoy. Inside is also exceptional, with the quality of finishes up there with the very best, although some may bemoan the lack of any real storage options. But this means you’re left to focus solely on the drive, and that’s something you’re going to want to do on a regular basis.You also don’t get a particularly generous of amount of equipment as standard, but Jaguar has an options list featuring a vast majority of features you’ll probably want to add. This does increase the cost, of course, but also improves the driving experience. The ‘stock’ version of the car is still exhilarating, however, so it’s definitely one to test drive.Discover more at JAGUAR.COM.AU

Aston Martin Vantage

Fuel Economy: 10.3L/100kmPrice: From $223,744 Drive AwayAston Martin, understandably, has a more gentleman’s tourer image to it, brought on thanks to its longstanding association with James Bond. And in many respects, it is just that. However, the Vantage, the ‘baby’ in Aston Martin’s lineup when compared to the DB11 and DBS, is anything but. This is the more fiery, sportier model in the Aston catalogue, and a very fine car it is indeed.Its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 is borrowed from the Mercedes-AMG GT, giving it 503hp and sending it to 100km/h in 3.6-seconds, and on to a top speed of 314km/h. Impressive numbers, we think you’ll agree. And make no mistake, it’s no widow-maker, as Aston Martin has tinkered away to give drivers of all abilities a car that is exceptional to drive. You only get the option of an eight-speed automatic transmission (in Australia, at least), and while it might not as quick to shift up or down as rivals for similar money, what you get instead is the Aston experience, and it’s an absolute dream.The interior is one of outright quality. with impeccable finishing throughout and an array of buttons and dials to play with. Some necessary, some perhaps not so much. There’s also a distinct lack of driver assistance technologies, but you probably won’t even care, as Aston Martin has setup this car to be as responsive as possible, and making the overall driving experience the star of the show.Discover more at ASTONMARTIN.COM

Ferrari Roma (Type F169)

Fuel Economy: 11.2L/100kmPrice: From $409,888The Ferrari Roma is the Italian icon’s legitimate rival to the Porsche 911. A 2+2 mid-front engined coupe, it shares much of the same DNA as the Ferrari Portofino, although to give the manufacturer some credit, an awful lot of the Roma is all-new. As with pretty much all other Ferraris, the Roma is jaw-droppingly good looking, with clean lines all around, and barely an air intake in sight. But what you really want to know about, is what powers the thing.Under the hood you’ll find a 3.9-litre twin-turbo V8 mated to a six-speed dual-clutch auto box that will get you to 100km/h in 3.9-seconds, and despite those figures, the Roma is surprisingly simple to control. This is a car designed to appeal to the masses, not just the Michael Schumacher wannabes, or the guys with shedloads of cash who simply want the most expensive, fastest car to come from Maranello.Inside things have been given an overhaul, with a huge 16-inch digital instrument display and an 8.4-inch touchscreen display on the centre console, Some traditionally analogue controls have made the jump to digital touch-sensitive, which some may find cumbersome, but ultimately it’s a quality place to find yourself sat. The main bugbear with the Roma (and other Ferrari vehicles) is the list of options and their individual costs, many of which you’re going to want to add, which naturally causes the price to simply skyrocket, and it ain’t cheap to begin with. If you’ve got the cash to spend, go nuts, but many will be out-priced. Fortunately, the other 9 cars on this list are worthy alternatives.Discover more at FERRARI.COM

The post 10 Best Coupe Cars To Buy In Australia In 2022 appeared first on DMARGE Australia.

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Mad New York Architects Reveal The Most Ridiculous Super Yacht You’ve Ever Seen
Mad New York Architects Reveal The Most Ridiculous Super Yacht You’ve Ever Seen

The world of super yachts never ceases to amaze. The toys of choice for the world's most rich and elite continue to defy what we think possible from a luxury floating mansion. But, while our usual clarification for what constitutes the best possible super yacht tends to rely on size and length, one new concept design has taken a rather different approach.

Called the SEE concept, the 65-metre yacht design – which, if size is anything to go by, pales in comparison to the 551ft/155m Dilbar – provides a whole new meaning to the phrase 'luxury living'.

According to CNN Travel, the SEE concept has been designed by New York studio Gill Schmid Design, in collaboration with Lateral Naval Architects, and offers its owner and guests no less than five swimming pools, open air cinema, full spa facilities, "mushroom lab and sushi counter."

Whatever floats your boat...

[caption id="attachment_301509" align="alignnone" width="920"] Image: Gill Schmid Design[/caption]

A vast majority of the yacht's exterior is covered in glass, predominantly for the swimming pools – which includes a glass-bottomed infinity pool – meaning hanky panky in the tub could be off the cards, unless it's that kind of group onboard.

While the cost of the SEE concept is currently unknown, it's not insurmountable to think its eventual owner and guests will expect a certain level of ease when it comes to relaxing onboard, and as a result, CNN says "the design team describes the interior, which consists of huge open plan areas and convertible spaces that offer those on board freedom and flexibility, as 'transformers in an architectural context.'"

With enough space for 14 guests in addition to 17 crew members, it's by no means a floating bungalow, and with other amenities including a yoga studio, beach club and a "tender garage full of toys," we imagine those who find themselves onboard will want to stay floating around the world for some time.

[caption id="attachment_301510" align="alignnone" width="920"] Image: Gill Schmid Design[/caption]

It's not just the interior design that's been given the state-of-the-art treatment either, as the propulsion system is decidedly eco-friendly. Described as being "groundbreaking," the SEE sources the majority of its power from batteries, while some diesel engines have been fitted specifically to recharge them. Top speed is a leisurely 16 knots, but with a range of 3,750 nautical miles, enough power to last six to eight hours while moored, and the option of three hours of silent cruising, the SEE represents the very latest in super yacht technology.

Unsurprisingly, SEE's designers have already received a great level of interest from both shipyards and buyers, and with a three-year build time, it might not be long before one is seen taking anchor in the likes of Monaco or Cannes.

Oh, how the other half live.

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How To Toughen Up When You’re A Sensitive Man
How To Toughen Up When You’re A Sensitive Man

Times have changed since Heath Franklin dressed up like Chopper Reid and went around telling Australians to toughen the f*ck up.

To be fair, some of the points he made are well and truly valid today, but we’re not in the business of shaping hardened modern-day bushrangers. We’re not here to tell you how to wield a hunting knife, nor are we here to tell you how to survive in the Melbourne underworld.

What we can do though, is give you a few tips on becoming the classic hard-ass that most men want to be on a primal, tribal level. After all, who doesn’t want a little Eastwood flowing through their veins?

Learn A Form Of Self-Defence (Or How to Take a Hit)

Learn how to get up and stay up

Many of us grew up sheltered from the reality of what it’s like to be tackled, punched, kicked or grappled in anger or competition, and this is something we think is a vital rite of passage for just about any bloke.

After all, nothing puts you, your strengths and your weakness into perspective quite like being punched in the face or lit up on the sports field. As such, whether you take up boxing, dabble in a contact sport or teach yourself a couple of simple self-defence techniques, knowing you can hold your own should a situation turn violent will do wonders for your confidence.

Of course, never go looking for trouble. You’re still a gentleman.

Learn To Finesse Your Drinking

Learn to stop buying two drinks instead of one

Finding the balance when it comes to a night on the lash is a process of great trial and tribulation. It will end in many early nights: either where you’ve gone too hard, too early, or where you’ve held off too much and been left in the dust by your companions.

There’s nothing wrong with getting drunk once in a while, but being able to hold your liquor and do it with class is something that takes training and strategy.

It’s about learning when to stop buying two drinks instead of one, learning when to sneak off for a glass of water in between rounds, and learning when to savour a good drink instead of pounding it back like fruity lexia.

Stay Informed With Your Surroundings

Let the conversation flow

Not all confrontation is necessarily hostile, yet some guys are abysmal at handling any kind of altercation, period. Nothing makes you look soft like getting your arse handed to you in a spirited debate, and nothing is going to make such an occurrence likely more than sheer ignorance on your part.

The most effective communicators in our world are rarely wimps, because they know how to argue any point. Do so yourself, and the confidence will flow through you whenever any kind of verbal confrontation arises.

You might even find it seeps into how you carry yourself day-to-day.

RELATED: How To Deal With The Fact That Your Mates Are All Flogs

Be Confident In Your Look

Always dress to impress

As hesitant as almost any guy is to admit it, most men are, to an extent, self-conscious about their looks.

It doesn’t matter if this stems from simply not liking their physical appearance or lacking confidence in how they style themselves, but those insecurities shine through and present a much softer bloke when it comes to trying to impress a girl or win over an influential person.

Get a haircut you feel confident with, dress timelessly and wear clothes that fit you well. Can’t go wrong.

Stick To The Basics

A hard bloke is ultimately a well-rounded bloke

There are hundreds of life hack websites out there that will show you how to do all of the things a manly man should know how to do, but such is the way of this day and age, inevitably hasn’t learned.

Teach yourself how to pour and drink a beer, how to smoke a cigar, how to tie a bow-tie and a decent Windsor knot. Learn a go-to meal that will make you look like Gordon Ramsay. Read some all-time literature and challenge your view on the world. Think about where you stand on matters of religion and politics, and stand by those views.

Most importantly, learn to admit when you’re wrong, and learn when to fight if you know you’re in the right. None of these sound like the classic definition of hardening up, but a hard bloke is ultimately a well-rounded bloke.

So there you have it, a quick guide on how to toughen up.

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