Destination dupes
BY NINA CLARKE
Holiday time is coming up , so we have compiled a list of some of our favourite ‘ destination dupes ’ right here in our own backyard .
While some of these places may have some similarities to exotic lands far away , we all know we ' re lucky to live in the most beautiful part of the world , with each destination having its own unique flair .
GREEK ISLANDS > ROTTNEST ISLAND , WA
" Rotto is the closest thing to a Greek island in Australia . The best activities include a swim in one of the countless bays , snorkelling off the back of any size boat , grabbing an electric hire bike and riding around the island or a picnic at a secluded bay . Enjoy a beer at the Rotto Hotel and just soak up the sunshine and the amazing views , wherever you are on the island . You can ’ t forget to take a quokka selfie !"
Deborah Brady , Ray White Cottesloe | Mosman Park , WA
BERLIN , GERMANY > MELBOURNE , VIC
" Head to the famous Pellegrini ' s pasta bar at the ‘ Paris end ’ of Bourke Street . Stop in for a quick bowl of pasta with busy stock brokers and lawyers at a bar that appears to have not been updated since the 60s . This is a true Melbourne institution that proudly doesn ' t change . Make sure you request to sit in the kitchen to talk to the chefs as they are cooking . Be sure to finish off with refreshing granita ."
Andrew Salvo , Ray White Southbank | Melbourne City , VIC
MIAMI , FLORIDA > GOLD COAST , QLD
" Few things compare to spending a beautiful day on the Gold Coast out on a boat on the Broadwater or relaxing on the beach , followed by a visit to Shuck Restaurant at Main Beach . With perfect weather year-round , it ’ s the ideal beachside destination - where else would you want to be ?"
Robbie Graham , Ray White Prestige Gold Coast , QLD
ENGLISH COUNTRYSIDE > MALENY , QLD
" As someone who ' s lived and breathed Maleny , I can say there ' s nowhere quite like it to capture the charm of the English countryside with an Aussie twist . A must-do is the rolling pastures and forested views from Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve - it ’ s pure magic . For an evening meal , whether you ’ re after something refined at The Tamarind or some hearty pub fare at the historic Maleny Hotel , you ’ ll find plenty to satisfy . The cafe scene is sensational as well . Maleny is where natural beauty meets warm , country hospitality ."
Allister Millican , Ray White Maleny , QLD