Our experts

EFFIE ZAHOS

Money editor Effie says: “Being there for my daughter at 9am on Friday December 14 to remind her that no matter what ATAR she gets on this day, no number should ever define you. Exploring the ‘Pearl of the Andaman’ one of Thailand’s most iconic islands with my family and taking cooking lessons with a local in their own home.”

ANN LOVEDAY

Money’s art director Ann says: “Summer at Casa Loveday ... it’s the season for entertaining, cooking new things and devouring summer reads. The warm days will sail by with no engagements more important than grabbing a towel and strolling down to Clovelly beach for a high-tide dip. Marvellous.”

MARIA BEKIARIS

Maria, Money’s deputy editor, says: “Day trips to explore some of the fabulous beaches up and down the NSW coast, visits to the local pools with the kids and their friends, watching them enjoy their downtime after a busy year at school. And just getting to enjoy quality time with family and friends.”

BOB CHRISTENSEN

Bob, Money’s senior sub-editor, says: “Both my kids have reached milestones: my daughter has finished high school and my son has finished uni. Over summer they’ll move onto the next stage in their lives. It’s exciting – and scary – for all of us. The best bit: no more school lunches to worry about!”

SUSAN HELY

Susan, a senior writer at Money for more than 10 years, says: “I’ve rented a simple cottage on a little-known bay north of Sydney with a reserve in front where kangaroo families laze around. That’s where the family will spend Christmas before heading to the awesome Woodford Folk Festival for six days with 1200 events.”

SHARYN MCCOWEN

Sharyn is Money’s online content producer. She says: “A cheeky, snubnosed, stumpy-tailed blue puppy under the Christmas tree. She’s not a present or anything, she is just busy guarding her new collection of shiny tennis balls (Christmas baubles) that she thinks we’ve been hiding from her till now.”