Oprah Winfrey’s Australian speaking tour has been making waves, and details about her requirements and activities while Down Under have emerged. The talk show icon, known for her influence and success, is reportedly travelling with a substantial entourage and enjoying luxurious accommodations.
One insider has revealed some of the specific demands associated with Oprah’s visit. These include a dedicated ‘glam team’ consisting of hair and make-up artists, a masseuse available at all times, and a personal driver on 24-hour call. These arrangements ensure that Oprah is always prepared and comfortable during her tour.
Adding to the lavishness of her stay, Oprah is reportedly residing in the opulent two-level penthouse suite at Sydney’s Crown Towers. This exclusive accommodation, priced at approximately $46,000 per night, has previously hosted other high-profile celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Drake during their own tours. Situated on the 89th floor of the skyscraper, the penthouse offers unparalleled views of Sydney Harbour.
According to the source, the costs associated with Oprah’s requests, including travel expenses, are being covered by the tour promoters. Oprah travels exclusively by private jet, and she recently acquired a new $115 million Gulfstream G700. While owning a private jet might seem like a way to save on first-class airfares, the insider pointed out that the tour organisers are responsible for covering the fuel costs, which can be substantial.
The overall organisation of the tour and the level of detail involved have been compared to a ‘presidential visit’. Oprah’s large team works behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly, including a full-time limousine service and around-the-clock security.
Restaurant choices are also carefully managed. Assistants research the best restaurants in each city on the tour and make reservations at multiple venues. This allows Oprah to decide where she wants to eat at the last minute, potentially helping her avoid unwanted attention from paparazzi.
A stylist is also part of Oprah’s team, assisting her in selecting outfits from local designers in each city she visits. This adds a touch of local flavour to her appearances and supports the Australian fashion industry.
During her time in Sydney, Oprah made an unexpected visit to Gertrude & Alice, a popular bookstore in Bondi Beach.
The TV personality, who had dined at Bills restaurant in Bondi for the second time in two days, crossed Hall Street on December 3rd to visit the bookstore after receiving two Australian books from the owner, Jane Turner.
Jane Turner recounted her experience. She was delighted to see Oprah again near her store and decided to introduce her to some Australian authors. She selected two of the shop’s best-selling local books: “Lonely Mouth” by Jacqueline Maley and “Chosen Family” by Madeleine Gray, believing Oprah would appreciate them.
After handing the books to Oprah’s team, Jane returned to her shop, unaware that she was being followed. Oprah’s team politely asked to come inside and have a look, but Jane did not realise they were actually assessing the store for Oprah’s visit.
“The next minute, Oprah was walking over and entered the store to say hello and peruse the books,” Jane said.
Customers inside the bookstore were surprised as Oprah spent about 10 minutes chatting, laughing, and browsing the bookshelves.
Oprah’s “Oprah in Conversation” speaking tour is scheduled to conclude with appearances in Brisbane and Melbourne.
* Brisbane: Tuesday, December 8th
* Melbourne: Thursday, December 11th
