Put away the passport and explore these six Victorian locations with an international feel
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18.11.2020

Put away the passport and explore these six Victorian locations with an international feel

Japanese Mountain Retreat.
Words by Benjamin Lamb

Remember those days of duty-free shopping, in-flight entertainment and turbulence?

With international travel still massively off the cards, and with Uncle Dan announcing a massive travel package to encourage people to holiday at home, today we thought we’d dive into some of the most ‘international-feeling’ spots across our state.

There’s parks, cafés, bars and restaurants, all of which will give you unforgettable experiences.

So if you’re a traveller that is itching to get back out there, or you’re living here and waiting to get back home, below are some of the best examples of foreign landmarks on your doorstep.

Dine at ‘Meigas’ in Ballarat

If a trip to Madrid is what you’re missing, head to the uber-popular ‘Meigas’ in Ballarat. Here, you’ll get a never-ending experience of the appetizing Spanish cuisine. With an average 4.7 star rating, you can be sure that this restaurant will give you a taste of Spain unlike any other.

With an extensive menu of mouth-watering tapas, there’s definitely something for everyone at ‘Meigas’

 

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Stay at the ‘Japanese Mountain Retreat’ in Montrose

If a trip to Asia is more in your alley, make the pilgrimage up to Montrose and visit the relaxing ‘Japanese Mountain Retreat’, nestled amongst the lush scenery of the Dandenong Ranges. With spas, saunas and ornate Japanese gardens, you wouldn’t be mistaken if you thought you were in a Tokyo hotel.

For a comforting and romantic experience, head to the Japanese Mountain Retreat.

Experience High Tea at ‘Wombat Hill House Café’ in Daylesford

For those who love all things British, a trip to Daylesford’s Wombat Hill House Café will cure your travel bug. Quite similar to the quintessential British country café, Wombat Hill is nestled in a beautiful garden. Here you will get to experience a high tea unlike any other, with all the ingredients sourced from their own garden, or from local providers.

For a day full of Scones, Tea, and Cakes, spend an afternoon at the Wombat Hill House Café.

Have a Drink at the Imperial on Bourke St

For a taste of the city that never sleeps, head up to the roof of Bourke St’s Imperial Hotel for a cocktail. With views across our beautiful city, you will feel like you are visiting the younger sibling of New York. This rooftop is popular among travellers and citizens alike, you can even book it for your next party.

Grab a pizza and a beer and look out across our beautiful city. Visit the website for all the deets.

Visit the ‘Tianjin Gardens’ in the City

Nestled in the heart of the city in Chinatown is the wonderous Tianjin Gardens. Filled with beautiful Chinese statues, Tianjin attempts to imitate the plethora of stunning gardens and parks across China, and it does so successfully.

While you’re here, head to some of the super popular café’s and food vendors in Chinatown, for a traditional Chinese culinary experience.

Dine at Fonzie’s Diner in Kilsyth

If you’re missing America, a trip to Kilsyth’s Fonzie’s Diner will answer your prayers. With a menu chock a block full with some of the best burgers in Australia, you will assuredly feel like you are in the deep south of the U.S. With an aesthetic straight out of Happy Days, stepping in here is like stepping into another decade.

Chow down on a Chicken Burger and wash it down with a Miller for an unforgettable American experience. Check it out here.