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TAT stages Amazing MuayThai Festival 2026 to elevate sports tourism through Thai heritage

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TAT stages Amazing MuayThai Festival 2026 to elevate sports tourism through Thai heritage

Four-day global celebration in Hua Hin highlights National Muay Thai Day and large-scale cultural performances

BANGKOK, Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) will stage the Amazing MuayThai Festival 2026 from 4–7 February at Rajabhakti Park in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, reinforcing Thailand’s sports tourism positioning through Muay Thai while marking National Muay Thai Day with traditional rites, ceremonies, and cultural performances.

Officials and Muay Thai practitioners pose during the launch of Amazing MuayThai Festival 2026, marking the upcoming four-day celebration from 4–7 February 2026 at Rajabhakti Park, Hua Hin, which highlights National Muay Thai Day and reinforces Thailand’s position as the world’s home of Muay Thai.
Officials and Muay Thai practitioners pose during the launch of Amazing MuayThai Festival 2026, marking the upcoming four-day celebration from 4–7 February 2026 at Rajabhakti Park, Hua Hin, which highlights National Muay Thai Day and reinforces Thailand’s position as the world’s home of Muay Thai.

Held under the concept “Ultimate Muay Thai Experience”, the festival pays tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, in recognition of her immeasurable contributions to the Thai people, while presenting Muay Thai as Thailand’s national martial art and a distinctive cultural attraction for international visitors. Delivered in collaboration with Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, the Royal Thai Army, the Sports Authority of Thailand, the Ministry of Culture, the Public Relations Department, Chom Bueng Rajabhat University, the World Boxing Council Muay Thai, and public and private sector partners, the festival supports sports tourism development by strengthening international standards for Muay Thai as a recognised expression of Thai cultural heritage and a driver of travel demand.

Mr. Nat Kruthasoot, TAT Deputy Governor for Tourism Products and Business, said, “Amazing MuayThai Festival 2026 reflects Thailand’s commitment to safeguarding and presenting Muay Thai as a living cultural heritage with international appeal. The festival invites visitors from around the world to experience Muay Thai in its authentic setting, connecting physical training with tradition, ceremony, and community, while supporting sports tourism development and local economies.”

The Amazing MuayThai Festival 2026 will deliver a comprehensive four-day programme combining sport, culture, and hands-on engagement, with activities taking place daily from 16.00 to 22.00 at Rajabhakti Park. Across all four days, visitors can experience professional Muay Thai demonstrations, exhibitions explaining ceremonial traditions and fighter rankings, and training sessions rooted in the four classical styles of Muay Thai Boran — Muay Chaiya of the Southern region, Muay Korat of the Northeastern region, Muay Tha Sao of the Northern region, and Muay Lop Buri of the Central region — conducted at the Ancient Muay Thai Camp between 16.00 and 19.00. Stage programmes commence from 16.05, featuring self-defence demonstrations, traditional Thai folk games related to boxing such as Muay Tap Chak and Muay Thale, and cultural or contemporary performances in the early evening.

A major highlight takes place on 6 February, officially designated as National Muay Thai Day, commemorating King Sanphet VIII, more widely known as the Tiger King (Phra Chao Suea) and revered as the Father of Muay Thai. The principal ceremonial programme runs from 17.30 to 20.00, featuring rituals honouring seven former Thai monarchs and Phra Chao Suea, the offering of royal tributes, a Brahman blessing ceremony, and the Wai Kru ceremony led by master Muay Thai teachers. The evening culminates in a grand cultural performance presented in four acts by more than 1,500 performers, enhanced by light, sound, and fireworks.

Complementing the main programme, visitors can also participate in a wide range of hands-on cultural activities, including traditional strength-testing practices such as banana tree kicking and lime punching, as well as demonstrations of Thai craftsmanship associated with Muay Thai culture, including sacred tattooing and yantra inscription. Additional highlights include interactive skill-based games, retail zones offering Muay Thai equipment and training courses, local food and signature products from Prachuap Khiri Khan, live music performances from 20.00, and nightly mini-concerts by well-known artists from 21.00, before activities conclude at 22.00 each evening.

Thailand currently has more than 5,000 Muay Thai camps and gyms nationwide, demonstrating a strong capacity to welcome international visitors. This is supported by government measures such as the Non-Immigrant ED Muay Thai visa, which allows foreign visitors to stay in Thailand for up to 90 days to train at certified camps, with the option to extend up to one year, strengthening Thailand’s position as a leading destination for Muay Thai-focused sports tourism and long-stay travel.

TAT expects the Amazing MuayThai Festival 2026 to attract approximately 18,000 visitors, generating an estimated economic value of around 214 million Baht, while stimulating travel among Muay Thai enthusiasts and culturally motivated visitors during the event period and reinforcing Thailand’s position as the world’s leading destination for Muay Thai learning and authentic engagement.

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The one coffee machine Australians are buying instead of daily café runs (and it pays for itself faster than you think)

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The one coffee machine Australians are buying instead of daily café runs (and it pays for itself faster than you think)

Café coffee has become one of Australia’s most expensive daily habits.

Between rising prices, long queues and the ritual of rushing out the door with a half-finished flat white, home coffee machines are having a serious moment.

But not all machines are created equal, and pod systems can feel like a compromise when it comes to taste and freshness.

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Say hello to the Philips Series 5500 Automatic Espresso Machine, priced at $1,399 from Harvey Norman.

It is designed to turn your kitchen into a mini café, with freshly ground beans, one-touch drinks and a sleek touchscreen that makes customising your brew feel surprisingly fun.

This is not just another coffee gadget. It is a full bean-to-cup system that promises barista-quality drinks without the learning curve or mess.

It’s a gamechanger for coffee drinkers.
It’s a gamechanger for coffee drinkers. Credit: Philips

Café favourites, one touch away

The standout feature is the range of drinks. The Philips Series 5500 offers 20 hot and iced coffee recipes, including flat whites, lattes, cappuccinos and iced coffee.

That means you can recreate your local café order without leaving the house, whether you want a strong morning espresso or a milky afternoon treat.

The intuitive touchscreen lets you customise strength, temperature and milk levels, then save those preferences for up to four user profiles.

Everyone in the household can have their “perfect coffee” saved and ready, which is ideal for busy mornings when no one wants to negotiate brew settings.

The Philips machine can deliver 20 delicious coffee recipes at the touch of a button.
The Philips machine can deliver 20 delicious coffee recipes at the touch of a button. Credit: Philips

Fresh beans, real flavour

Unlike pod machines, this model grinds whole beans for every cup.

A ceramic grinder ensures consistent flavour and long-lasting performance, while the transparent bean hopper gives you that satisfying café-style visual of fresh beans waiting to be brewed.

Freshly ground coffee makes a noticeable difference to aroma and taste, and the Philips Series 5500 delivers a rich, café-standard flavour that rivals your local coffee spot.

You can also use your favourite beans, so your home coffee actually reflects your personal taste.

Freshly ground beans and a ceramic grinder deliver rich, aromatic coffee every time.
Freshly ground beans and a ceramic grinder deliver rich, aromatic coffee every time. Credit: Philips

The milk system that actually makes sense

Milk frothing is often the messiest part of home coffee making, but Philips’ LatteGo system changes that.

It uses cyclonic milk frothing technology to create smooth, creamy froth and is designed to clean in just 10 seconds under the tap or in the dishwasher. No fiddly tubes, no soaking parts overnight.

This alone makes it feel like a realistic everyday machine rather than a weekend-only luxury.

Quiet, fast and surprisingly efficient

The Philips Series 5500 includes SilentBrew technology, which makes brewing 40 per cent quieter than traditional machines.

If you live with light sleepers or early risers, this detail matters more than you think.

The QuickStart function means you can turn it on and brew straight away, skipping the long warm-up times that often derail busy mornings.

There are also Eco Settings to help save on water and energy usage, making it a more conscious choice for daily use.

The AquaClean feature reduces the need for descaling and can handle up to 5000 cups before maintenance, which is ideal if you plan to use it frequently.

A fully automated espresso machine, the Philips LatteGo 5500 can deliver 20 delicious coffee recipes at the touch of a button.
A fully automated espresso machine, the Philips LatteGo 5500 can deliver 20 delicious coffee recipes at the touch of a button. Credit: Philips

A practical luxury gift idea

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, this machine doubles as a standout gift for coffee lovers.

It feels indulgent, but it is also deeply practical.

For couples who bond over morning coffees or anyone who works from home, it is a gift that gets used every single day.

It also solves a very modern problem: wanting café-quality coffee without the time, cost or effort of daily café runs.

Over time, it can pay for itself compared to buying takeaway coffees, especially for households with multiple coffee drinkers.

The Philips Series 5500 Automatic Espresso Machine brings café-quality coffee, custom profiles and effortless milk frothing into your kitchen.
The Philips Series 5500 Automatic Espresso Machine brings café-quality coffee, custom profiles and effortless milk frothing into your kitchen. Credit: Philips

Why it stands out in a crowded market

Home coffee machines are everywhere right now, but many fall into two camps: expensive professional machines that require skill, or pod systems that sacrifice taste.

The Philips Series 5500 sits in the sweet spot, offering bean-to-cup freshness with automated simplicity.

From iced coffees to classic flat whites, it covers Australia’s favourite café drinks with minimal effort.

Add in the sleek design and customisable profiles, and it feels like a small lifestyle upgrade rather than just another kitchen appliance.

For anyone serious about their morning coffee, this is the kind of purchase that changes your routine for the better.

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SBC Medical-Supported Medical Corporation Nasukai Forms Strategic Alliance with Daibi Medical Aesthetics

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SBC Medical-Supported Medical Corporation Nasukai Forms Strategic Alliance with Daibi Medical Aesthetics

Alliance to Enhance Shonan Beauty Clinic Brand Recognition in China and Support Growth in Inbound Medical Demand to Japan

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated (Nasdaq: SBC) (“SBC Medical” or the “Company”), a global provider of comprehensive consulting and management services to medical corporations and their clinics, today announced that Medical Corporation Nasukai, a Japan-based medical corporation supported by SBC Medical and the operator of Shonan Beauty Clinic, has entered into a strategic business alliance with Daibi Medical Aesthetics, a medical aesthetic clinic based in Shanghai, China. The alliance aims to enhance the quality of services at Daibi Medical Aesthetics by sharing Nasukai’s clinical expertise, operational know-how, and customer-centered practices cultivated by its long-standing experience in aesthetic medicine. The collaboration also seeks to strengthen recognition in China of the Shonan Beauty Clinic brand’s safety standards and advanced medical technologies.

These efforts aim to deepen SBC Medical’s understanding of China’s medical environment and customer needs, while supporting increased inbound customer visits to Shonan Beauty Clinic in Japan and exploring long-term revenue opportunities associated with growing cross-border medical demand.

Commemorative photo following the signing ceremony held at Daibi Medical Aesthetics
Commemorative photo following the signing ceremony held at Daibi Medical Aesthetics

Established in 2021, Daibi Medical Aesthetics subsequently opened its clinic in 2022 in Shanghai’s North Bund area. The clinic operates approximately 2,200 square meters of floor space and provides community-based medical aesthetic services. Under the alliance, physicians affiliated with Nasukai will work within Daibi Medical Aesthetics’ clinical framework to share knowledge and expertise related to medical safety, clinic operations, and consultation practices. The two parties will also explore opportunities to promote mutual understanding and professional exchange in the field of aesthetic medicine between Japan and China, with specific initiatives being considered in phases.

The alliance comes amid growing global interest in medical tourism, defined as international travel for the purpose of receiving medical services. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global medical tourism market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.0% from 2024 to 2032, reaching approximately USD 62.18 billion by 2032.

As global interest in medical tourism continues to rise, Japanese aesthetic medicine has gained strong recognition, particularly across Asia, for its advanced medical technologies, safety standards, and attentive consultation practices. Reflecting this trend, inbound customer visits to Shonan Beauty Clinic have increased steadily, nearly tripling from approximately 600 customers in early 2024 to around 1,700 customers by the end of 2025.To support this growing demand, Shonan Beauty Clinic has enhanced its inbound medical infrastructure through initiatives such as the development of Chinese-language translation tools and the renewal of its Chinese and English language official websites, providing overseas customers with clear and reliable medical information and a supportive care environment.

Shonan Beauty Clinic (Chinese): https://cn.sbc-beauty.com/
Shonan Beauty Clinic (English): https://en.sbc-beauty.com/

This alliance is expected to further support these efforts by enabling deeper insight into medical practices and customer expectations in China, contributing to a more seamless and consistent customer experience from pre-visit information to post-treatment follow-up, while also supporting improvements in the quality and reliability of aesthetic medical services at the local level.

Through its consulting and management support for medical institutions including Shonan Beauty Clinic, SBC Medical remains committed to building constructive partnerships with local stakeholders, fostering sustainable international medical exchange through medical tourism, and delivering customer-centered medical care that transcends national and regional boundaries.

About Daibi Medical Aesthetics
Location: Room 3301, No. 1158 Dongdaming Road, Hongkou District, Shanghai, China
CEO: Haibo Yu
Business: Provision of medical aesthetic services

About Nasukai
Location: 2F Maruito Ginza Building, 1-3-9 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Chairman: Keisuke Takeda
Business: Comprehensive medical services spanning specialized medicine, aesthetic medicine, insured medical care, and elective treatments

About SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated
SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated is a comprehensive medical group operating a wide range of franchise businesses across diverse medical fields, including advanced aesthetic medicine, dermatology, orthopedics, fertility treatment, dentistry, AGA (hair restoration), and ophthalmology. The Company manages a diverse portfolio of clinic brands and is actively expanding its global presence, particularly in the United States and Asia, through both direct operations and medical tourism initiatives. In September 2024, the Company was listed on Nasdaq, and in June 2025, it was selected for inclusion in the Russell 3000® Index, a broad benchmark of the U.S. equity market. Guided by its Group Purpose “Contributing to the well-being of people around the world through medical innovation,” SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated continues to provide safe, trusted, and high-quality medical services while further strengthening its international reputation for quality and trust in medical care.

For more information, visit https://sbc-holdings.com/
For more insights and updates from SBC Holdings, follow us on LinkedIn

Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not historical facts or statements of current conditions, but instead represent only the Company’s beliefs regarding future events and performance, many of which, by their nature, are inherently uncertain and outside of the Company’s control. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current views with respect to, among other things, the Company’s product launch plans and strategies; growth in revenue and earnings; and business prospects. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “may,” “should,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “contemplates,” “estimates,” “believes,” “plans,” “projected,” “predicts,” “potential,” “targets” or “hopes” or the negative of these or similar terms. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which are current only as of the date of this release and are subject to various risks, uncertainties, assumptions, or changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict or quantify. The forward-looking statements are based on management’s current expectations and are not guarantees of future performance. The Company does not undertake or accept any obligation to release publicly any updates or revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect any change in its expectations or any change in events, conditions, or circumstances on which any such statement is based, except as required by law. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them; such factors include, among other things, changes in global, regional, or local economic, business, competitive, market and regulatory conditions, and those listed under the heading “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), which are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

Contacts
SBC Medical Group Holdings Incorporated
Hikaru Fukui / Head of IR Department E-mail: ir@sbc-holdings.com
Akiko Wakiyama / Head of Public Relations: E-mail: pr@sbc.or.jp

ICR LLC (US Time)
Bill Zima / Managing Partner E-mail: bill.zima@icrinc.com

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Man travels 14,000 miles to share a final beer with dying longtime friend

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Man travels 14,000 miles to share a final beer with dying longtime friend

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A longtime friendship led one man to make a one-day, 14,000-mile journey to say goodbye to his dying pal.

Bob Walker traveled from Jakarta, Indonesia, to Arbroath, Scotland, and back again, just to spend a few hours with his friend Peter Gould, 82, who was diagnosed with terminal cancer in December, news agency SWNS reported.

The two men have been friends for more than four decades, first meeting while working as aircraft engineers in Papua New Guinea in the 1980s.

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Despite living in different countries for much of their lives, they stayed in close contact over the years.

The two later crossed paths again in the U.K., where they both worked at Manchester Airport, and their families grew close.

Bob Walker and Peter Gould sitting on the couch together and drinking a beer.

Peter Gould and Bob Walker pictured together, drinking a beer for the final time after Walker traveled to see Gould following his cancer diagnosis. (SWNS)

Walker, 67, said he booked the trip as soon as he heard the news, he told SWNS.

“There’s not many opportunities where you can actually say goodbye to people, so I really wanted to [make] the journey,” Walker said.

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On Jan. 16, the friends sat together in Gould’s hometown, sharing cans of their favorite beer and reminiscing about their years working, traveling and raising families.

Gould said he was deeply moved by the gesture.

Bob Walker when he was younger sitting in a pink chair.

Walker, pictured when he was younger, traveled 14,000 miles to see his longtime friend and drink a beer together. (SWNS)

“I’m very grateful for what Bob did,” he said. “He didn’t have to do it.”

Walker said he made a special effort to bring along South Pacific Lager, a beer the pair used to drink together years ago while working overseas.

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He reached out to a contact who happened to have a few cans left, SWNS said.

The person was moved by the story and offered to donate the beers.

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“The lager took us right back to 40 years ago when I went down there to work,” Walker said.

Peter Gould, when he was younger, smiling and wearing a white shirt.

Gould as a younger man. He said he was deeply moved by Walker’s visit. (SWNS)

Gould’s daughter, Amanda, said the visit came as a surprise, adding that she hadn’t been sure the trip would actually happen given the distance and logistics involved.

She said seeing her father reunited with his longtime friend brought comfort to the family and gave them a moment they will always remember.

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Walker returned to Indonesia the following day. He said the distance and travel time were insignificant compared to the chance to be there in person.

“He’s great company — a straight shooter,” Walker said. “His friendship is very important.”

Kelly McGreal is a production assistant with the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. 

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LiberNovo Introduces Enduring Support as a Modern Expression of Love

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LiberNovo Introduces Enduring Support as a Modern Expression of Love

HONG KONG, Feb. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — This Valentine’s Day, LiberNovo is offering an alternative to gifting chocolates and flowers. Instead of fleeting gestures, LiberNovo is spotlighting something designed to last: enduring support and better comfort, delivered through an innovative Dynamic Ergonomic design.

The LiberNovo Omni, LiberNovo’s wildly popular ergonomic chair, is now available in a new Moss Green color palette. The launch aligns with Valentine’s Day across the US, Canada, and Europe, positioning comfort, care, and long-term well-being as a more modern expression of love.

Real Support Doesn’t Ghost You After V-Day

The LiberNovo Omni doesn’t just hold you—it understands you. While traditional chairs force you to fight with levers and knobs to find a moment of relief, the LiberNovo Omni’s dynamic design acts as your postures better half. Every part of the chair adjusts in sync as you alternate positions, keeping your comfort and support right where you expect them to be. No ghosting.

Enduring Comfort & Support

Valentine‘s gifts often feel meaningful at first, then fade. LiberNovo’s idea of care is simpler. Real support shows up every day.

The LiberNovo Omni is designed for long-term stability, not short-lived romance. Built for adaptability and durability, it delivers consistent comfort across work, rest, and everything in between.

The Bionic FlexFit Backrest follows the natural shape of the spine through an intricate system of 16 articulated joints and 8 pressure-relief panels. These allow the chair to maintain continuous contact as your posture changes, shifting with you rather than against you. Instead of forcing you to fit its expectations, the LiberNovo Omni is designed to support every curve—just as it is.

Moss Green: Bringing Calm into the Workspace

The introduction of the Moss Green LiberNovo Omni adds a new visual dimension to the product line. Inspired by natural environments, Moss Green reflects LiberNovo’s growing focus on natural design principles.

The color is intended to soften the visual tone of workspaces, bringing a sense of calm and balance into home offices and shared living areas. Subtle and understated, Moss Green integrates easily into modern interiors while reinforcing the idea that ergonomic furniture can feel warm rather than clinical.

Designed for Shared Spaces

One of the defining characteristics of the LiberNovo Omni is its ability to adapt between people. It responds in real-time to different body types and sitting styles, making it perfect for shared home offices.

Instead of wrestling with complex presets, finding your fit is intuitive. When a new person sits down, it takes less than a minute to recalibrate. A quick adjustment of the integrated lumbar controls on the armrest, the 4D armrest height and width, and the seat elevation is all it takes to find your fit. It’s professional-grade support that doesn’t require a manual to share.

“No Strings Attached”: A Risk-Free Commitment

A commitment to your physical health shouldn’t be a leap of faith. LiberNovo is introducing a “No Strings Attached” 30-day free trial (including return shipping) across the US, Canada, and Europe. If you don’t fall in love with your LiberNovo Omni within a month—no hard feelings.

Valentine’s Global Launch Offers (Feb 01–Feb 14)

LiberNovo is framing this launch as an open invitation to rethink daily comfort. It’s less about a closing window and more about opening a door to a workspace that works with you—like a partner who actually listens.

  • United States: Moss Green Omni for $829 (was $1,099). First 1,000 orders over $800 get a “Comfort Gift Set” (silk mask, tote, StepSync mat). 0% APR via Klarna.
  • Canada: CA$1,258 (was CA$1,814). First 500 orders over CA$1,200 receive the gift set. 0% APR via Afterpay.
  • Share the Love: Share your referral link for a 2% cash rebate for both you and a friend.

About LiberNovo

LiberNovo is a design-driven ergonomics brand focused on creating products that support the body through movement rather than restriction. Founded by a multidisciplinary team of engineers and designers, the company challenges traditional assumptions about sitting by prioritizing adaptability, balance, and long-term comfort.

The LiberNovo Omni is the brand’s flagship product, representing its vision of Dynamic Ergonomics applied to real workspaces.

This Valentine’s Day, LiberNovo invites people to choose a gift that endures, one that supports focus, comfort, and well-being every single day.

Learn more at: libernovo.com

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Australian Open men’s final tickets selling for staggering price

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Australian Open men’s final tickets selling for staggering price

Tickets to watch genuine tennis history unfold at the Australian Open remain available — but they will set punters back an eye-watering amount.

Coming off one of the finest wins of his legendary career, Novak Djokovic will hold an unprecedented 25th major trophy aloft if he defeats young superstar Carlos Alcaraz in Sunday night’s men’s final.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Alcaraz and Djokovic set for epic Australian Open final.

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No matter the result, it will be a momentous climax to the tournament, with Alcaraz vying to become the youngest man to achieve a career grand slam.

After winning two titles each at the French Open, US Open and Wimbledon, Alcaraz won through to his first Melbourne Park decider when he toppled German Alexander Zverev in an unforgettable semi-final on Friday.

The battle of the legendary, ageless Djokovic against a young warrior, 16 years his junior, is the most eagerly anticipated men’s final in Australia since great rivals Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal faced off in a major decider one last time back in 2017.

After Djokovic booked his spot in the championship match with a monumental five-set triumph over dual defending champion Jannik Sinner in the early hours of Saturday morning, attention turned to securing the hottest ticket in world sport.

On Saturday afternoon, the cheapest tickets to the Djokovic-Alcaraz showdown were $1899.

When those were quickly snapped up, some re-sale tickets went online for a staggering $6598.

Other individual tickets ranged between $5718 and $5999.

Already clear as the most prolific men’s champion of all time, Djokovic will overtake Margaret Court’s long-standing record of 24 grand slam singles titles if he can claim an 11th Australian Open crown.

The Serbian superstar has won all 10 of the previous finals he has contested at Melbourne Park, beating Nadal, Andy Murray, Dominic Thiem, Daniil Medvedev, Stefanos Tsitsipas and Jo-Wifried Tsonga on his Rod Laver Arena fortress.

Alcaraz and Djokovic have previously faced off twice in a major final, with the 22-year-old Spaniard winning both times at Wimbledon in 2023 and 2024.

“He (Alcaraz) also had a big match, but he has 15, 16 years on me,” a weary Djokovic said about 3am on Saturday morning.

“It’s going to be a bit easier for him to recover.

“I play tennis competitively mainly to be able to reach the finals of grand slams.

“I’ll think about finals later (on Saturday and Sunday), but for me, this is a win (over Sinner) that almost equals winning a grand slam (trophy).”

Arguably Djokovic’s greatest rival and Alcaraz’s biggest mentor and idol, Nadal will be in the stands watching on Sunday night.

Thanks to the Australian Open’s major sponsor Kia, Nadal is back in Melbourne for the first time since he finished his legendary career at the end of 2024.

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Flights grounded and events canceled as dangerous deep freeze grips unexpected parts of US

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Flights grounded and events canceled as dangerous deep freeze grips unexpected parts of US

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Snow cancellations and delays may be nothing new for the Northeast, but this weekend, South Carolina, Georgia and Florida were among the states that have seen big events canceled or postponed due to frigid temperatures.

From the coastal Carolinas through the Northeast and New England, winter weather was forecast and was expected to cause travel headaches Saturday and Sunday as Fox Weather has been reporting.

Airlines canceled scores of flights for Saturday and beyond in anticipation of the extreme weather. 

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By roughly 3 p.m. EST Saturday, more than 12,000 U.S. flights were either delayed or canceled by the nor’easter off the Southeast coast, according to FlightAware. 

That number included total disruptions from Friday through Monday. 

Cars travel along an icy road during a winter storm in Carrollton, Texas.

Drivers navigate icy road conditions Jan. 26 in Carrollton, Texas, as a winter storm moved through the region. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

The surprising twist was the slew of cancellations in — among other places — South Carolina, Georgia and Florida. 

“The dangerously cold wind chills as low as 8 above zero could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes,” the National Weather Service said in a warning for many parts of Florida. 

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“Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. … Young children, the elderly and the homeless are especially vulnerable to the cold,” the NWS also said. 

Throughout the Southeast, children’s activities were affected. Even Disney and Universal closed their water parks.

A lone pedestrian walks along a snow-covered residential street during a winter storm.

A person walks down a residential street as snow falls in Brooklyn, N.Y., in January.  (Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images)

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park, located in Lake Buena Vista, was closed due to arctic temperatures. Universal’s Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando Resort was shuttered Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 due to extreme weather, Fox Business reported. 

Zoo Miami was to remain open, but some animals have been no-shows. 

“They’re being kept back just for the warmth that they need,” said Ron Magill, the zoo’s communication director, as WSVN reported. 

“Sunday’s forecast for Miami at 36 would tie the low mark set in 1909,” according to The Miami Herald.

Miami, Florida

Sunday’s forecast for Miami, Fla., could tie the low mark set in 1909, officials said.  (Giogrio Viera/AFP via Getty Images)

Georgia shuttered numerous attractions, too. The Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Botanical Garden, Zoo Atlanta, Center for Puppetry Arts and Michael C. Carlos Museum were all reported to be closed on Saturday.

In North Carolina, the Ringling Bros. & Barnum and Bailey circus performances scheduled for Saturday and Sunday at the First Horizon Coliseum in Greensboro were canceled due to a state of emergency and snow emergency declared by local officials, according to the venue’s website. 

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Here is a sampling of a few other highly anticipated events or activities that have been canceled or postponed, according to the latest information available Saturday afternoon. 

1. Polar Plunge, Myrtle Beach, S.C.

Due to the deep freeze, the annual Polar Plunge in Myrtle Beach in which people run into the frigid Atlantic Ocean to raise money for the local Special Olympics was taken off the schedule. 

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Organizers cited forecasts of “significant snowfall, dangerously cold temperatures and hazardous travel conditions throughout the weekend.” Those interested can still donate to the effort. 

Winter snowy street

Snow-covered cars line the streets in winter in New York City.  (Selcuk Acar/Anadolu via Getty Images)

“We strongly encourage everyone to stay home, stay warm and stay safe while this storm moves through our area,” the event’s website noted. 

2. Braves Fest, Atlanta, Ga.

Sports fans looking forward to Braves Fest at Truist Park found themselves making other plans for the weekend. 

The Braves Fest event sponsored by Delta Air Lines was canceled due to weather. 

Organizers cited forecasts of “significant snowfall, dangerously cold temperatures and hazardous travel conditions throughout the weekend.”

“We were very excited to celebrate with the more than 76,000 fans who had claimed tickets for the event,” a statement on the Atlanta Braves’ website said.

“However, given the anticipated impact throughout our region, we want to ensure the safety of our fans who were planning to travel from near and far for the event.” 

3. Aqueduct Racetrack weekend racing, Queens, N.Y.

The New York Racing Association (NYRA) canceled live racing this weekend at Aqueduct Racetrack.

Horse racing at Aqueduct

The New York Racing Association canceled live racing Saturday and Sunday at Aqueduct Racetrack. (Victor J. Blue/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

NYRA had previously canceled racing Wednesday through Friday, so there was no live racing all week.

Aqueduct Racetrack said it would be open for simulcasting, betting on races that run elsewhere.

4. Penguin Plunge, West Hartford, Conn.

On Saturday, Connecticut was enduring glacial temperatures in the teens. 

The organizers of the Penguin Plunge fundraiser postponed their Sunday, Feb. 1 event, which would have been the first-ever in the town.

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Organized by the police department to support Special Olympics Connecticut, the event is to feature officers jumping into a mobile plunge pool at West Hartford Town Hall to raise money and awareness for the cause.

Anyone can still donate as they wish. The fundraising event is being pushed back to an as-yet unannounced date in March, according to reports.

Jessica Mekles is an editor on the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital. 

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Flying without a Real ID? You may owe $45 — or more — starting Feb. 1

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Flying without a Real ID? You may owe $45 — or more — starting Feb. 1

Travelers wait in a long security line at John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana, California, May 7, 2025.

Allen J. Schaben | Los Angeles Times | Getty Images

Travelers, be warned: Starting Feb. 1, you may need to pay a fee of $45 or more for going through airport security checkpoints without a Real ID or another acceptable travel document.

“That’s not nothing,” John Breyault, vice president of public policy, telecommunications and fraud at the National Consumers League, a consumer advocacy group, said of the fee. “If you ever needed a reason to get a Real ID-compliant ID, now’s the time.”

The Real ID card is an upgraded driver’s license or state identification card that officials say carries more stringent security and helps prevent fraudulent identification. It is state-issued and marked with a star.

The federal government began requiring travelers to have a Real ID — or another document like a U.S. passport or passport card — to board a domestic flight, or enter certain federal facilities or nuclear power plants as of May 7, 2025.

However, Feb. 1 marks the first time the Transportation Security Administration will impose a fee to enforce the rule.

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Travelers ages 18 and older without an acceptable travel document will need to pay $45 to use an optional alternative identity verification system — called TSA ConfirmID — to fly.

Roughly 6% of travelers don’t have a REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification, the TSA said in December when it announced the fee.

“This is really an enforcement mechanism,” said Sally French, a travel expert at NerdWallet. “It’s a real penalty for travelers who arrive unprepared.”

More fees for longer trips

Tanaonte | Istock | Getty Images

Verification in the ConfirmID system is valid for a 10-day travel period, according to the TSA.

Passing through a TSA checkpoint outside that 10-day period would require paying the TSA ConfirmID fee again, an agency spokesperson said in an email. In that scenario, a traveler on a longer trip could pay $90 total.

“If you go to Honolulu for two weeks, you may have to pay on the way back, too,” Breyault said. “If it wasn’t bad enough to be nickel-and-dimed by the airlines, now you’re getting nickel-and-dimed by the TSA.”

Travelers may face delays, missed flights

Travelers without an acceptable ID can complete the ConfirmID process before arriving at the airport.

They can visit tsa.gov/ConfirmID, and then show their pay.gov receipt — a printout or screenshot — and any government-issued ID to the airport TSA officer, the agency said.

The Points Guy's Brian Kelly on 2026 travel outlook: Consumers want more value

Travelers can also pay the fee on-site. But TSA recommends that travelers pay the fee online before travel. Failure to do so may result in delays and missed flights, the TSA said.

“It is important that airline travelers plan ahead to ensure they have an acceptable form of ID to avoid these additional delays, as the process can take up to 30 minutes,” according to the TSA.

Low-income travelers, families face largest burden

A Real ID sign at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York, May 7, 2025.

Kylie Cooper | Reuters

Congress passed the Real ID Act in 2005. The law set minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

Breyault said he understands why the government would choose to impose a fee: It’s a good way to motivate people to comply with the Real ID requirement, he said.

However, the burden will fall hardest on low- to moderate-income travelers and families with older children, he said. A family of four, for example, might pay more than $200 to fly, assuming the children are at least 18 years old and the trip is longer, Breyault said.

TSA doesn’t require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the U.S., even if they are traveling alone, the agency said. Each airline sets its own ID requirements, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

Breyault’s advice to consumers: “Well in advance of your trip, make sure to get a Real ID-compliant ID from your [department of motor vehicles], and if you don’t have it, make sure you have one of the other acceptable forms of ID.”

Real ID costs vary by state. In New Jersey, it costs $35 to get a Real ID, for example.

TSA estimates travelers will use the ConfirmID program about 10.6 million times over the next five years.

The $45 fee will generate about $476 million in revenue, meant to offset administrative costs during that time, the agency said in a report issued Dec. 2.

Adam Stahl, a senior official performing the duties of deputy TSA administrator, said in recent press release that the fee would ensure “non-compliant travelers, not taxpayers, cover the cost of processing travelers without acceptable IDs.”

In a Nov. 13 report, the TSA initially estimated travelers would need to pay an $18 fee — less than half the final rate — to cover administrative expenses.

Asked for comment on the fees, a TSA spokesperson didn’t specify why the estimate changed in a matter of weeks.

The TSA plans to reevaluate its fee structure every two years “to account for evolving conditions and rates of compliance,” the spokesperson said in an e-mail.

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SJM Welcomes the Year of the Horse with Prosperity and Good Fortune

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SJM Welcomes the Year of the Horse with Prosperity and Good Fortune

 Celebrating a new year filled with endless fun

MACAO, Jan. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As the Year of the Horse approaches, the city is alive with the vibrant energy of the season. To celebrate Chinese New Year, SJM Resorts, S.A. (“SJM”) presents an exciting, and joy-filled festive journey across its hotels, resort, and food hall from 2 February to 8 March. Throughout the season, Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau (“Grand Lisboa Palace”) will delight guests with an array of vibrant celebrations and exclusive privileges, including shopping rewards, lucky draws, and fun-filled family workshops. Guests can also gather with loved ones to savour exquisite reunion feasts at the MICHELIN-starred restaurants, or rejuvenate with revitalising treatments at the spa—embracing a prosperous and healthy start to the New Year.

Restaurants at Grand Lisboa Palace and Grand Lisboa will present exclusive set menus and festive à la carte dishes.
Restaurants at Grand Lisboa Palace and Grand Lisboa will present exclusive set menus and festive à la carte dishes.

The festivities extend citywide, as Grand Lisboa Macau (“Grand Lisboa”), JAI ALAI Oceanus, L’Arc Macau, and Kam Pek Market are dressed in their holiday best. Adorned with dazzling décor, these destinations are ready to welcome guests from near and far, lighting up Macau with the year’s brightest blessings and jubilant energy.

Stop 1: Festive Photo Spots & Blessings from the God of Fortune

Upon arriving at Grand Lisboa Palace, guests are instantly surrounded by a joyful and celebratory atmosphere, while the Jardim Secreto features six lively festive installations of SJM’s mascot, Sam the Rooster—offering the perfect photo opportunity for families to capture cherished New Year memories.

Meanwhile, the God of Fortune will make appearances at Grand Lisboa Palace, Grand Lisboa, JAI ALAI Oceanus, and L’Arc Macau, showering guests with auspicious goodies, dining, and shopping vouchers.[1] From 17 to 22 February, diners at Grand Lisboa Palace may have the chance to meet the God of Fortune and enter a lucky draw to win dining privileges. Guests at Grand Lisboa and JAI ALAI Oceanus can also redeem festive Fai Chun to bring the season’s blessings home.[2]

[1] The God of Fortune will appear and distribute red packets as follows:
1st to 6th day of Chinese New Year (17–22 February) at Grand Lisboa Palace; 1st to 5th day (17–21 February) at Grand Lisboa and JAI ALAI Oceanus; 1st to 4th day (17–19 February) at L’Arc Macau.

[2] With valid spending receipts, guests may redeem lucky Fai Chun as follows:
27th day of the 12th lunar month to 1st day of Chinese New Year (14–17 February) at JAI ALAI Oceanus. 29th day of the 12th lunar month to 6th day of Chinese New Year (16–22 February) at Grand Lisboa.  

 

Stop 2: Spend & Win this Chinese New Year

From 7 February to 8 March, guests who spend MOP100 or more at designated retail, dining, and spa outlets across Grand Lisboa Palace, Grand Lisboa, JAI ALAI Oceanus, or Kam Pek Market can enjoy access to Sam’s Bouncy Castle and Sportopia. Those spending MOP300 or more can get on the Samtastic Express, symbolising a prosperous start to the New Year. Guests can also experience the Sam’s Photo Booth, and take part in “the Year of the Horse Grand Lucky Draw” or “Grab & Win” Claw Machine with chances to win exclusive resort experiences, limited-edition souvenirs, and value of MOP16,888 Gold & Jewellery Voucher!

Stop 3: Time-Honoured Traditions & Family Bonding

The New Year roars to life with majestic lion dance performances, bringing good fortune to Grand Lisboa and Kam Pek Market on 21 February—as the troupe winds its way from Kam Pek Market to the Hong Kung Temple, spreading auspicious energy throughout the route. Performances continue with joyful flair on 22 February at Grand Lisboa Palace and on 23 February at JAI ALAI Oceanus and L’Arc Macau, welcoming the Year of the Horse with waves of prosperity and luck. The celebration extends citywide as the spectacular SJM Float joins the Macao Government Tourism Office’s Chinese New Year Parade on the evenings of 19 and 28 February. Meanwhile, families can bond over creativity at the GLP Arte workshops on weekends from now to 28 February to craft personalised red packets, fuzzy wire potted plants, or lucky pinwheels.

Stop 4: A Culinary Odyssey of Auspicious Flavours

SJM’s culinary masters will craft premium Chinese New Year delicacies starting from 1 February, featuring everything from opulent set menus and curated à la carte specialties to exquisite dim sum—an invitation to gather, feast, and savour the essence of the season.

Palace Garden at Grand Lisboa Palace
Palace Garden at Grand Lisboa Palace

At Grand Lisboa Palace, the celebration is plated to perfection. Signature restaurants including Palace Garden, Chalou, and Hua Ting are launching limited-time set menus and auspicious à la carte dishes—ideal for sharing prosperity with family and friends. From 17 to 19 February, The Grand Buffet will host festive food stations and the traditional “Lo Hei” prosperity toss, symbolising rising fortunes and new beginnings. For a sweet interlude, La Scala del Palazzo, The Book Lounge, and Vivienne Westwood Café will serve elegant afternoon teas and festive pastries. Guests can also select from an array of rice pudding, Poon Choi, and premium hampers, to bring the flavour of happiness home.

Hua Ting at Grand Lisboa Palace
Hua Ting at Grand Lisboa Palace

Robuchon au Dôme at Grand Lisboa will launch a special Chinese New Year set menu. On the evening of 19 February, guests can savour three-MICHELIN-starred French cuisine from one of the city’s most spectacular vantage points, gazing upon the brilliant fireworks display during an unforgettable feast for both the eyes and the palate. The two-MICHELIN-starred The Eight will present its the Year of the Horse set menu, à la carte and dim sum selections. L’Arc Chinese Restaurant at L’Arc Macau will offer spring dinner menus for festive corporate or family gatherings, while JAI ALAI Oceanus joins the celebration with seasonal delicacies across Treasury Restaurant, Jai Alai Buffet Restaurant, CASA DE MASSA, and Treasure House.

Chalou at Grand Lisboa Palace
Chalou at Grand Lisboa Palace

 

The Grand Buffet will host festive food stations and the traditional “Lo Hei” prosperity toss.
The Grand Buffet will host festive food stations and the traditional “Lo Hei” prosperity toss.

 

Vivienne Westwood Café will serve elegant afternoon teas and festive pastries.
Vivienne Westwood Café will serve elegant afternoon teas and festive pastries.

Stop 5: Revitalise Your Glow for the New Year

Greet the Year of the Horse with rejuvenated spirit and glowing vitality. From now until 31 March, SJM’s world-class spas present exclusive treatments to reveal a radiant new you.

The Spa at THE KARL LAGERFELD introduces the “Diamond Revival.” Powered by the luxurious London skincare house 111SKIN, this treatment harnesses potent black diamond particles to firm and illuminate. Combining a lifting facial, body contouring, and restorative foot care, it ensures guests step into the Year of the Horse with glowing confidence.

For a more holistic approach, The SPA at Palazzo Versace Macau presents the “Spring Rejuvenation with Traditional Chinese Therapy” from now until 28 February. Rooted in traditional wisdom, this therapy blends acupoint massage with warm moxibustion to dispel dampness and detoxify the body. Complemented by a complimentary back “Gua Sha” session, it melts away deep-seated stress and recharges the body with vital energy.

The SPA at Palazzo Versace Macau presents the Spring Rejuvenation with Traditional Chinese Therapy throughout the Chinese New Year.
The SPA at Palazzo Versace Macau presents the Spring Rejuvenation with Traditional Chinese Therapy throughout the Chinese New Year.

Finally, The Spa at Grand Lisboa Palace offers the “Luminous New Year Indulgence”. With qualifying retail purchases, guests can enjoy a complimentary 30-minute extension on their facial or body massage—an invitation to prioritise self-care and start the year with vitality.

Unlock the complete journey of festive wonders, explore exclusive offers and surprises now at: https://www.sjmresorts.com/en/happenings/celebrate-the-year-of-the-horse-at-sjm

– End –

Source: SJM Resorts, S.A.

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The $5,000 ‘flex room’ upgrade adding $20k to your home’s value

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The $5,000 ‘flex room’ upgrade adding $20k to your home’s value

If you’ve been considering a home gym, it’s time to look at the numbers. According to property experts, a well-designed garage to gym conversion can add $15,000 to $25,000 to a home’s value, with an average upgrade costing around $5,000. That’s an impressive four times return on investment, but only if you get it right.

The garage dilemma: Asset or liability?

Garages are often the most popular spot for home gyms, but they’re also a high-stakes real estate gamble. Convert the space poorly, and you could lose $30,000 to $60,000 in buyer appeal. In dense inner-city suburbs like Sydney’s Inner West or Melbourne’s Richmond, a secure car park is worth its weight in gold. Lose the car space, and your “wellness upgrade” might look more like a liability.

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On the flip side, a high-end gym signals a high-performance lifestyle, particularly in post-COVID Australia, where convenience is a currency. Buyers with busy careers are often willing to pay a premium for a turnkey workout space that saves them commuting hours each week.

The pros: Why the ‘wellness suite’ wins

Not Supplied
Not Supplied Credit: View

Flexibility is key. Unlike a permanent home cinema, a gym can remain a “soft” conversion. Modular flooring and freestanding equipment make it a flex room, adaptable to future trends and appealing to buyers looking for versatility. For homes with deep garages or underutilised spaces, converting the back half into a gym increases the habitable feel without the cost of a full-scale extension. According to property valuers, this can translate into a value bump of up to $20,000, depending on the quality of the upgrade and the suburb.

Alex Loven, CEO at Net World Sports, says: “A home gym makes it much easier for people to stay active because it eliminates barriers like commuting to a commercial gym, waiting for equipment, or fitting workouts into a busy schedule. Having a dedicated workout space at home encourages consistency and makes exercise feel more achievable.”

Even a modest space can be highly effective. “With a few essentials, dumbbells, resistance bands, a cardio option, and a mat for stretching or yoga, a home gym can support a wide range of workouts and make staying fit more convenient,” Loven adds.

The cons: When the workout weakens the sale

If your gym prevents a car from being parked inside a garage, you could be shaving $30,000 to $60,000 off your potential buyer pool.

There are other pitfalls to be aware of. Poor ventilation can lead to moisture, mildew, and rusted barbells, instantly turning your value-add into a buyers’ ‘ick. Low-effort gyms with cheap mats and mismatched weights can also clutter the space, discouraging potential buyers.

The key is to avoid the DIY trap. A professionally styled gym with quality flooring, bright lighting, mirrors, and neat storage ensures that the room feels inviting rather than chaotic.The most successful gym conversions follow the 24-Hour Rule. The space must be capable of returning to its original purpose, usually a garage, within a day. This approach preserves both lifestyle appeal and resale potential.

When done right, a $5,000 garage-to-gym upgrade can add up to $20,000 in value, transforming underused space into a luxury wellness retreat that attracts motivated buyers.

“Even a modest space can be highly effective with a few essentials,” Loven says.

“It helps maintain consistency, makes exercise enjoyable, and turns workouts into part of your daily routine.”

So before you bolt in a power rack, think carefully, but with the right design, your flex room could be the biggest ROI upgrade in your home this year, without losing your car in the process.

Not Supplied
Not Supplied Credit: View

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