Author

possandruby

I’m Danielle AKA Poss and my trusty 4 wheel steed is Ruby, together we love to explore and discover. Based in Melbourne, Australia our spare time is spent out and about, both locally and abroad or in the kitchen making dishes to share.

Road trip to Benalla, Victoria

by possandruby November 17, 2020

written by possandruby

A country town with a city edge, Benalla is leading the charge for regional street art in Victoria. An easy drive north on the Hume Freeway just 2 hours from Melbourne will land you in the heart of this creative town.

Laneways and shop walls are adorned with renowned local and international public artists work. The artworks were installed en-masse as part of the annual Wall to Wall festival. The event began in 2015 fuelled by the initiative and passion of the local community. From small thought provoking pieces to large scale wall murals the styles and themes vary from corner to corner. Walking tours of the artworks are available and must be booked in advance through the Wall to Wall website.

As you wander the streets taking in the murals stop in for refreshments in the local cafes and bakeries or enjoy a picnic on Lake Benalla.

WHERE TO EAT

Rustik Cafe & Foodstore

This locally owned, mother and daughter business focuses on healthy alternatives while not sacrificing flavour. The menu is loaded with vegan and vegetarian dishes alongside some traditional favourites with a super food twist, like the kombucha battered fish and chips. It’s difficult to go past the all day breakfast menu featuring local produce and free range eggs. Staff are super friendly and extremely helpful. Chilled background beats fill the spacious dining space and the beer garden is ideal for outdoor dining, grab yourself an afternoon tipple from the selection of local wines and beers and enjoy the sunshine. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, dinner Friday and Saturday nights. Take away options available.

Incorporated into the cafe is the well-stocked foodstore with a huge range of giftware, kitchenware, condiments, tea, spices and more. Take home a taste of the region or gifts for family and friends.

Rustik Café & Foodstore 28 Bridge Street, Benalla

WHAT TO SEE

Benalla Botanical Gardens

Established in the early 1880s the manicured gardens are a great place to stop for a picnic and to enjoy the expansive rose gardens. In full bloom from late October to early November and feature the red ‘City of Benalla’ rose and some heritage perfumed varieties from the 1830s. The gardens were listed on the Register of National Estate in 1995 and are home to many trees of national significance.

Benalla Botanic Gardens, Bridge Street, Benalla

Benalla Art Gallery

Situated on the edge of the Botanic Gardens overlooking Lake Benalla the gallery has been in operation since the 1960s. The collection here features mostly Australian art with a small collection of European works. Exhibitions are regularly scheduled and the cafe is a lovely place to reflect on your visit and enjoy refreshments on the outdoor deck. Temporarily closed due to COVID-19 the gallery looks forward to welcoming visitors as restrictions ease.

Benalla Art Gallery, 97 Bridge Street, Benalla

Benalla Lake Walk

Wander the 4.25 kilometre trail around the lake situated at the gateway to the town centre. The walk is an easy grade and fully accessible. Along the way you will see a diverse range of flora and fauna the trail borders the Botanical Gardens and winds through stands of River Red Gums. You will also see Moreton Bay Figs and exotic Bunya Bunya Pines on Jaycee Island. There are plenty of shady picnic spots dotted along the walk. Birdlife is abundant here with cockatoos, kookaburra, galahs, ducks and pelicans regularly taking advantage of the waterfront. Platypus and the native water rat are occasionally seen at dawn and dusk.

Benalla Lake Walk, Bridge Street, Benalla

GETTING TO BENALLA

Located 191km from the Melbourne CBD get to Benalla by car by simply following the Hume Freeway north for 2 hours. The town is also accessible by public transport with a V/Line train/coach service to Benalla departing daily daily on the north east line. The Benalla Station is just a short walk to the town centre.

Have you been to Benalla? Share you photos and tips in the comments below of on our social media @possandruby

November 17, 2020 0 comment

Australia Destinations Road Trips

Road trip to Port Albert, Victoria

by possandruby November 8, 2020

written by possandruby

Just under 3 hours from Melbourne at the end of a meandering coast road in East Gippsland, lies the sleepy hamlet of Port Albert. This tiny secluded fishing village is the perfect escape for a weekend of serenity. With fresh sea air, local walking tracks, sunsets over the bay and cosy accommodation you will find it easy to unwind here read on for things to see and do during your visit.

Things to see and do in Port Albert

Gippsland Regional Port Albert Maritime Museum

Bursting with information this museum (opened in 1976) is housed in the old Bank of Victoria building. There is a selection of themed rooms plus an outdoor space with large exhibits including boats, anchors and lighthouse beacons. The shipwreck history is fascinating and many relics from the wrecks are on display. In the first 57 years of Port Albert being named there were 29 shipwrecks plus numerous vessels that ran aground that were salvaged and re-floated.

Displays in the museum offer plenty of information to learn all about the area so allocate an hour or so for your visit. The collection of artefacts, objects and memorabilia on display is extensive too. A visit to the museum is great value, admission charges are minimal with a price for adults, concession and children.

Port Albert Maritime Museum, 78 Tarraville Road, Port Albert

Castim by the Jetty Boat Hire and Kiosk

As the name implies the kiosk is situated right on the jetty and is a welcoming place to chat about all things boating, weather and a top spot enjoy some home-made fare. The menu features gummy (shark) burgers, roast lamb rolls and fresh scones plus coffee and milkshakes. Here you can hire a kayak, canoe or paddle boat for half or a full day. You can also grab bait here for fishing and get advice on the what’s biting and where. Order a delicious grazing box to take on your high seas adventure complete with crackers, cheese, cold meats, dips, fruit, and nuts. The boxes must be booked in advance.

Castim by the Jetty, Slip Jetty Wharf Street, Port Albert

Serenity for the Soul Massage

Completely immerse yourself in relaxation mode with a pampering massage with Melissa, owner of Serenity for the Soul. Visit the cosy little studio alternatively you can arrange to have your massage in your accommodation. The treatment is highly professional and indulgent and allows you de-stress in complete comfort. Massages are available by appointment only so contact Melissa to secure a booking.

Serenity for the Soul, 15 Spring Street, Port Albert

Tom’s Cap Vineyard

On the way to of from Port Albert, follow the winding rides to discover the discreetly located Tom’s Cap Vineyard. Nestled among native bush land in Willung South the vineyard is an oasis of manicured gardens and sounded by grape vines. The restaurant is a hidden gem with a menu that showcases local produce and matches local wines to perfection.

There is also accommodation on site so you can indulge a little in the wide selection of local wines available and safely walk to your accommodation.

Toms Cap Vineyard, 322 Lays Road, Willung South

Where to stay in Port Albert

Port Albert Waterview Retreat is a fully self-contained, 3-bedroom house situated on the waterfront. Attentive hosts Charla and Chris have kitted out the home with everything to ensure an enjoyable stay from free wi-fi to board games, complimentary tea and coffee, quality toiletries and plenty of interesting reading material. The central bathroom has a beautiful deep bath ideal for a relaxing bubble bath.

Six people can be comfortably accommodated in two double rooms and a twin room. The retreat is fitted with air conditioning and heating plus a wood heater perfect for those cosy winter escapes. The back patio features a BBQ and outdoor seating whilst the front patio deck chairs look out over the bay ideal for relaxing and taking in the sunset. Guests can park on site with space for multiple vehicles. The house is situated alongside the Christopher Robin Walking trail making it easy to walk directly into the heart of village.

Port Albert Waterview Retreat, 20 Wellington Street, Port Albert

Getting to Port Albert

Port Albert is located 2 ½ hours, approximately 235km from Melbourne’s CBD. If travelling from northern Victoria, head towards Melbourne and pick up the Princes Highway heading south east. The nearest V/Line coach service stops at Yarram departing from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station with 3 coach services daily however pick up can be pre-arranged with Butterfly Passenger Services to take guests to Port Albert.

November 8, 2020 1 comment

Food Recipes

Oat and currant shortbreads

by possandruby November 7, 2020

written by possandruby

Sometimes it’s the simple things that can bring the most joy! This recipe for oat and currant shortbreads, is an easy combination of pantry staples that you can whip up in a flash. Ten minutes preparing and ten minutes baking and ta-dah they are ready for eating! You will be the envy of all. Like most of our recipes there are always opportunities to make variations to suit your taste. Add some coconut or chopped nuts or alternatively for the kids maybe throw in some sprinkles or choc chips. In fact, this recipe is so simple you could get the kids to make them for you! They could use cookie cutters to create their own shapes. We also recommend you double the recipe if you have hungry hordes to feed, as they won’t last long.

SIMPLE OAT AND CURRANT SHORTBREADS
INGREDIENTS

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup plain flour
125g butter
1 teaspoon bi-carb soda
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup currrants
100g chocolate melts (to decorate)

METHOD
Pre-heat the oven at 180°. Mix oats, flour, bi-carb soda and cream of tartar in a large bowl. Slightly melt the butter until just soft (approx. 20 seconds in the microwave) and mix with the dry ingredients. Add the currants and a dash of warm water to allow all ingredients to combine into a stiff dough.

Roll out the mixture onto baking paper and cut into rectangle sticks, roughly 2cm x 10cm. Place on a baking tray and into in the oven at 180°. Bake for 10-12 minutes and cool on a wire baking rack.

Once cooled, melt the chocolate using a double boiler. A double boiler is a saucepan or bowl set over another saucepan containing a small amount of boiling water on the stovetop. It is important to note that the top bowl or saucepan should never touch the water or the chocolate won’t melt. Drizzle melted chocolate over the biscuits and allow to set.

Makes approximately 12 sticks. Store in an airtight container for 2 weeks.

VARIATIONS

Add one tablespoon of desiccated coconut to the mixture for a crunchy texture.
Add chopped pecans instead of currants.
Replace currants with choc chips.

If you love making quick and easy snacks take a look at some of our other recipes.

We’d love to see and hear how you went with making these oat and currant shortbreads, so feel free to comment below. Share on social media and don’t forget to tag your pics #possandruby

November 7, 2020 0 comment

Destinations India

Memorable Mumbai – a city guide for foodies

by possandruby November 7, 2020

written by possandruby

Mumbai, India is considered the commercial and entertainment capital of India. Traffic chokes the sprawling city of more than 20 million people from all walks of life. The city lies on the west coast of India and peers out through the smog to the Arabian Sea. It is considered one of India’s most modern cities and is the home of the Bollywood cinema industry. Don’t be surprised if you are approached to be an extra in a Bollywood movie – yes it really happens!

In the late 17th century the city was named Bombay under English rule and after gaining independence in 1947 finally changed the Government of India renamed it Mumbai in 1995 to reflect the local people and discard the British legacy. The city is a blend of traditions of the past and technology of the future, stylish young professionals dress modestly alongside sari clad mothers walking their children to school – it is a city of diversity in many ways. Visitors can see the communal laundries still commonly used today and visit the market places where you get a personal shopper to carry your purchases on their head and shoulders. Potentially Mumbai is a stopover city on your way to other regions of India but it is certainly worth at least a few days in your itinerary.

There are so many foodie finds in Mumbai and in one visit you can barely scratch the surface we have shared some places that demonstrate the diversity of the city. Street food is also a major aspect of the cities culinary offering and well worth a try.

PLACES TO VISIT

The Gateway of India

An imposing tourist attraction and meeting place for many Mumbaikar’s (Mumbai locals) the basalt arch was built to commemorate King George V’s visit to India in 1911. The gateway overlooks the Mumbai Harbour and the departure points for ferries to the UNESCO listed Elephanta Island. A fantastic spot to take in sunrise and sunset but don’t think it will be romantic or peaceful as you will enjoy it with thousands of others and the resident pigeon colony cooing in the background.

Dhobi Ghat

This communal laundry has been operating for more than 140 years and is completely operated by human power. Clothes are scrubbed, beaten, rinsed and wrung out before being hung on one of the hundreds of washing lines. There are 1026 open air troughs and people can be seen not only washing their clothes but also themselves. This is a fascinating place to visit and have a chat with the locals.

Crawford Market

This is one of the largest markets in Mumbai and has been selling food and vegetables since 1869. You can buy almost anything here from fruits and vegetables, spices and nuts to household goods and clothing. It is a busy place with very narrow alleys to explore. You can explore here for hours as the alleys wind this way and that. There are street food vendors throughout the market to try.

Church Gate Station Dabbawala’s

Each day at noon 11am outside the station you will witness the amazing work of the Dabbawala which literally translates to ‘box person’. These men carefully deliver thousands of lunch boxes to workers across the city each day. The lunch box is lovingly prepared in the workers home and is collected by a dabbawala and delivered to their workplace. Fresh and piping hot! They take the train, walk, ride bicycles and buses to deliver the meals on time. For an insight into this work take a look at the movie ‘The Lunchbox’.

WHERE TO EAT

The Bombay Canteen

This is a hot spot on the culinary trail for India’s modern foodies. The menu takes traditional dishes and brings them into the 21st century with stylish plating and unique accompaniments. The bar is a great place to sit and chat and the cocktails are reasonably prices and exceptionally delicious again with a twist of tradition and local flavours. Plates are perfect for sharing ensuring that your tastebuds are treated to as many flavours and textures as possible. The location a little hard to find as it appears to be set back in a semi industrial area. The space interior is warm and welcoming, with traditional patterned tiles and low walls. Seating arrangements vary from cocktail tables by the bar perfect for drinks and snacks to large share tables and booths where you can settle in and work your way through the delicious menu. Staff are super friendly and passionate about what they do giving lots of tips and explaining menu items in detail. Don’t miss the Sunday brunch menu and matching cocktail list!

The Bombay Canteen, Unit-1, Process House, S.B. Road, Kamala Mills, (Opposite Radio Mirchi Office) Lower Parel, Mumbai

Britannia and Co.

This run down looking historic building serves an extensive Parsi menu for lunch 12pm-4pm daily, Saturday night dinner only and closed Sunday. Parsi is a community in India who are descended from Persian Zoroastrians who emigrated to India to avoid religious persecution by Muslims.

Food is reasonably priced and serves are very generous. Two main dishes, a serving of bread and a little dessert will fuel you up.
The cuisine is very flavoursome and you must try Bombay Duck (actually fish) deep fried fish lightly battered fish with mild spices. Vegetable berry Pulao absolutely delicious rice dish with a vegetable curry filling and topped with berries.

Part of the charm of this restaurant is the history having been in operation since 1923 and dedication to the British influence in India. Don’t forget it’s cash only!

Britannia & Co. 16 Wakefield House Sprott Road Wakefield House (Opposite New Custom House) Fort, Mumbai

The Taj Palace Hotel – Afternoon Tea

This luxury heritage hotel is situated opposite the Gateway to India and have with over 200 five star rooms and a fascinating history. Establish in 1903 due to its proximity to the busy harbour during World War I, the hotel was converted into a military hospital with 600 beds. In 2008 the hotel was one of the sites in the tragic Mumbai terrorist attacks.

Despite it’s colourful past it is a beautiful hotel and a worth a visit even just to look around. In the Sea Lounge you can enjoy traditional afternoon high tea harking back to the British Raj. There are 3 options to choose from the Maharaja High Tea with a full Indian menu, the Sea Lounge High Tea Buffet and the Victorian Afternoon Tea which is an individual serving. I opted for the Victorian High Tea which is served to the table on the traditional petite four tower and is plentiful. Traditional Victorian treats include sandwiches, macarons, quiches and cakes. A word of warning make sure you request this if this is the version that you would like as staff will try and encourage you to the buffet which is the same price but you don’t get the same traditional service.

Afternoon tea is available from 3.30pm – 6.30pm daily. Reservations are not required but if you are limited on time at a busy tourist season it may be worth a reservation.

The Taj Palace Hotel, B K Boman Behram Marg, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai

Colaba Social
This is a contemporary bar serving fusion bar foods tables are crowded by young people on mobile phones laughing loudly and taking selfies and Snapchatting their unique dishes. The décor is industrial with polished concrete floors, low lighting and cool tunes. The menu fuses traditional dishes and creatively present them – currys in tin cans, grilled chilli-cheese sandwiches are stabbed on metal stakes and salads are served up in military style tin dishes. Cricket is always splashed across the big screen as the country’s chosen sport. There are numerous staff meandering around service is steady but not speedy.
A full bar is available except on dry days which are dictated by special holidays there are approximately 3 per month – who knew!

Colaba Social,24, Ground Floor, Glen Rose Building, (Behind Taj Mahal Palace), Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai

Delhi Darbar Restaurant
This restaurant is an uber local, quality cheap eat. There is a line out the door so surely that is an indication of its quality and reputation. The family have been serving traditional signature dishes for decades. Whilst all the classics Mughal dishes are on the menu, the restaurant prides itself on its biryani. A rice dish that features different meats and spices. Staff wear little red hats and pin stripe shirts and they are not is short supply, help seems to be everywhere. Service is fast and efficient and your waiter carefully repeats back your order to ensure everything is correct. Servings are very generous and you will be able to take a doggy bag home with you for the following day. The signature restaurant is located on Colaba Causeway.

Delhi Darbar, Colaba Causeway, SBS Road (Near Regal Cinema), Colaba, Mumbai

Have you visited Mumbai? What did you do? Where did you eat? We would love to hear form you in the comments below or tag us on social media @possandruby

November 7, 2020 0 comment

Destinations Russia

Exploring Moscow

by possandruby November 1, 2020

written by possandruby

Moscow is a city built on a history of powerful tsars and leaders marred with mystery and hardship. Despite this the city has grown to be home to more than 12 million muscovites (locals). Many of us are familiar with the icons, UNESCO listed Red Square the Kremlin, the Bolshoi Ballet and St Basils Cathedral but there are also some lesser known highlights that make it a fascinating destination to visit. Getting around is easy with an extensive metro system and quite a walkable tract between key attractions.

What brought me here was the fact that it was the end point of the Trans-Siberian Railway or the beginning if you are travelling west to east. The train services from Moscow are extensive and can take you not only into the interior of Russia but also to St Petersburg and beyond into Scandinavia and Eastern Europe.

The best place to start is to take a Free Walking Tour of the city there are plenty of free walking tours available in Moscow. These tours are generally based on a tip to the guide at the end where you are encouraged to pay what you feel the tour was worth. The half day walking tour we joined takes you through Red Square and the surrounding area. The guide shared the history of the city and pointed out the iconic buildings and sites of the area. These tours are a great opportunity to ask questions about other locations to visit from a locals perspective too.

PLACES TO VISIT

Red Square

Once a merchant market place the square is a vast expanse of historic cobbled stones and is used as an event space and meeting place for visitors and locals alike. The famous colourful onion shaped turrets of St Basil’s Cathedral are the highlight of a visit to Red Square. You can go inside the cathedral for a small fee. The square is bordered by the Kremlin, the imposing GUM Shopping Mall, the Lenin Mausoleum and the State History Museum.

The GUM

One of the most spectacular shopping malls in the world the building began as covered market streets in the late 1800’s. The completely enclosed 3 level building now boasts some of the worlds most renowned brand retail stores. Over 2000 employees provide excellent service to thousands of customers daily. The GUM is known for a signature ice cream only available here. Served in a short cone the ice cream comes in many flavours is said that the recipe is a very well-kept secret and the ice cram is still made by hand as it was when it was created. Open daily from 10am -10pm by night the building is beautifully lit with thousands of sparkling lights.

The Kremlin Museums

Moscow’s Kremlin and the Red Square are UNESCO Heritage Listed for architectural, historical and cultural significance. There are a series of churches and galleries in the grounds of the Kremlin Museum complex to visit. Climb over 140 stairs of the Ivan the Great bell tower for a fantastic view over the city and the Moscow River. Various tickets are available granting access to certain buildings and additional experiences. The museum is open every day 10am – 5pm except Thursday. The presidential and parliamentary buildings that are still in use are off limits to the public.

Russian Ballet

Moscow is celebrated for ballet and has long been generating exceptional performers the likes of Anna Pavlova, Rudolf Nureyev and Mikhail Baryshnikov. Catch a performance at the Kremlin Palace Theatre or the Bolshoi Theatre, but be sure to book in advance to secure a seat.

Moscow Metro Stations

The metro stations of Moscow are famous and you can even take an organised tour of some of the most spectacular ones. Locals don’t seem to notice the impressive bronze sculptures or spectacular ceilings of the underground stations.

Gorky Park

Most of us know of Gorky Park from the Scorpions song Winds of Change and the song runs through your head as you enter the imposing main entrance gates. The park is open 24/7 and is free to visit. Home to the various galleries and museums, sporting fields, play grounds, sculptures, fountains and look outs you can escape the bustle of the city in the expansive green space.

Ismailovsky Market

Take a ride on the metro to visit this strange place, its façade has a theme park feel and odd museums and shops inside. In the car park there is a large market with rows of stalls selling items such as Matryoshka dolls, scarves, faberge eggs and hand painted Christmas decorations. Goods are well priced and many stall holders are keen to bargain with visitors for the best price of the day

WHERE TO STAY

For a visit to Moscow a central location makes it easy to access the key locations. Arbat House is close the metro station of Arbatskya and walking distance from Red Square and the Kremlin Museums. Standard rooms are spacious, comfortable and clean. The onsite café served an excellent buffet breakfast which was included in the room price.

November 1, 2020 0 comment

Destinations New Zealand Road Trips

Road trip on the Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

by possandruby October 24, 2020

written by possandruby

A trip to New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula is summed up perfectly in the region’s promotional tag line ‘Good for your soul’. From the towering Kauri trees and hidden waterfalls to the pristine white sand beaches, ‘the Coromandel’ as it is affectionately known is brimming with some of mother nature’s finest work.

Situated on the eastern side of New Zealand’s North Island the peninsula reaches out toward the Pacific Ocean. It is easily accessible by road, a comfortable 90-minute drive from Auckland on State Highway 25. There is also a regular passenger ferry between Coromandel Town and Auckland.

In a few days you can easily explore some of the Coromandel’s star attractions. As our visit was in summer, the weather was stunning so most of our time was spent enjoying some of the beautiful beaches.

Cathedral-Cove- Coromandel Peninsula NZNZ

PLACES TO VISIT

309 Kauri Grove and Square Kauri Walk

Driving north along the west side of the Coromandel Peninsula the the lush landscape is home to spectacular native Kauri trees. Take a 20 minute walk to visit the Square Kauri estimated to be over 1200 years old. The walking track is short but steep so wear suitable footwear and take some water with you. When you visit the 309 Kauri Grove there are multiple trees growing together. The walkways are well built and signed and local cicadas provide a natural soundtrack. These towering beauties are threatened by disease and are protected and there are stations in place to clean your shoes to reduce to opportunity for disease to be spread. Please make sure you treat these areas with respect.

Find out more about the Kauri Heritage and locations here

Waiau Falls

On the way to the 309 Kauri grove stop in at the beautiful Waiau Falls. Enjoy a cooling stop here among the shady trees perfect for a picnic and if the weather is warm you can cool off with a swim here.

The Lost Spring

Centrally positioned in Whitianga just a stones throw from Mercury Bay is a hidden oasis where you can relax in geo-thermal pools. Open daily from 9.30am you can choose from a selection of pools that range in temperature and size. The pools are fed from water coming from more than 667 metres below the earths surface. It is believed that the waters are more than 16,000 years old. The lush tropical gardens line the pools and walkways. An onsite day spa offers a range of body treatments and massages. Be sure to book ahead to avoid missing out on these indulgent experiences as they are extremely popular.

The Lost Spring,121 A Cook Drive, Whitianga

BEACHES

There are dozens of beaches on the Coromandel Peninsula that are worth a visit. With pristine clear water and golden sand many of these beaches you will find few people to allow you to truly soak in the idyllic atmosphere.

New Chums Beach – This isolated beach has been voted as one of the world’s top 10 beaches. Check tides before walking in this walk requires a bit of rambling over rocks and logs and is not for the faint hearted but the spectacular sight at the end if worth it.

Cathedral Cove – Depending on where you park the walk to the cove can be around 90 minutes. The walk takes you is up and down hill and whilst the paths are mostly tarred, I recommend sturdy footwear not flip flops. It is certainly worth the walk. There is a shuttle bus from the car parks which is handy and cuts some time off the walk especially in the hat of the day.

Hot Water Beach – Just a short drive down the road and is named for the geo thermal waters beneath the sand. You can rent or BYO spade and dig down to find the warm water and lay back and relax as you watch the waves roll in.

Sailors Cove – The lesser known yet stunning beach of Sailors Cove is particularly peaceful with not a soul in sight. The ocean itself is pretty wild so take care when swimming here as there is no life guards on duty and the next stop if you get caught in a rip is Antarctica.

PLACES TO EAT

Wharf Road Cafe

This stylish space invites visitors to dine on a contemporary seasonal menu of featuring fresh mouthwatering dishes. Open for breakfast and lunch 7 days a week the cafe offer indoor and outdoor dining. The coffee machine hums quietly as townsfolk swing by for their regular order. There is an indulgent selection of sweet treats that can complete a meal or be taken away for a later date. The cafe is also licensed and has a great selection of local beer and wine.

24 Wharf Road, Coromandel Town

Stoked Restaurant and Bar

Perfectly positioned on the Esplanade opposite Mercury Bay Stoked Restaurant and bar is open for lunch and dinner. Friendly staff serve a locally sourced menu of seafood and grills and delicious cooked-to-order wood fired pizzas. The outdoor deck is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal on a balmy night or there is plenty of indoor seating too.

Stoked Restaurant and Bar, 19 Esplanade, Whitianga

Manaia

A welcoming bistro style bar with a series of generous menus for all times of the day. There is a great outdoor dining space or you can dine inside in air-conditioned comfort. The fish and chips here was fresh and delicious and there are specials every day of the week. Open 7 days a week from 9am drop in for a casual meal and a local glass of wine or beer.

Manaia Kitchen & Bar, 228 Main Road, Tairua, Waikato

PLACES TO STAY

Grafton Cottage and Chalets

A collection of self contained cottages with stunning views over the Firth of Thames. There is a perfectly positioned hot tub on site that looks out to the sunset a great way to unwind at the end of the day. The open plan cottages are spacious and the kitchenette has everything required to self cater if you choose. The cottages boast a seperate compact bathroom with quality hot water and shower pressure.

The Boat Shed @ Whitianga

This self-contained space is complete with enclosed entertaining area complete with BBQ facilities. There is a large queen size bed and bunk beds as as well. The kitchenette has everything you need and super host Dianne, leaves a few goodies in the fridge for you. Walking distance to the restaurants of the esplanade and the beach and The Lost Spring the boat shed is perfectly positioned for a great stay.

Have you visited the Coromandel Peninsula? What did you discover there? We would love to hear your comments and hear about your adventures so leave you comments below or tag us on social media @possandruby

October 24, 2020 0 comment

Australia Destinations Road Trips

Road trip to Kyneton, Victoria

by possandruby October 23, 2020

written by possandruby

Hit the road and discover the quintessential country town of Kyneton. This historic beauty was built on the wealth of the 1850’s Victorian gold rush and has continued to prosper ever since. Just over an hour from Melbourne, Kyneton is perfectly situated for a weekend getaway or a mid-week escape. The region is known for its quality produce, outstanding wine makers and small food growers. This quality produce is featured on local menus and in local food stores. Kyneton is a fantastic foodie escape with accompanied by interesting things to see and do. Take some time out and escape to the country.

PLACES TO VISIT

Kyneton Museum

Gain an understanding of the town’s history at the local museum housed in the historic bluestone bank building. The museum is open Friday to Sunday 11am–4pm.

Kyneton Museum, 67 Piper Street, Kyneton

Historic Piper Street

Treat yourself to some retail therapy in Piper Street. Shop yourself silly in the clothing boutiques, makers collectives, second-hand bookshops, antique and produce stores.

Piper Street, Kyneton

Kyneton Farmers Market

On the second Saturday of each month from 8am to 1pm Kyneton Farmers Market takes place. Set among the tall shady trees of St Pauls Park stalls are laden with homegrown vegetables, herbs, flowers, fruit and more. Stock up on produce for your pantry or picnic basket.

Kyneton Farmers Market, St Pauls Park, Piper Street, Kyneton

Kyneton Botanic Gardens

Established in 1858 the gardens are a peaceful place to enjoy a picnic or a stroll in the park. The expansive gardens are home to numerous historic trees some of which are registered by the National Trust.

Kyneton Botanic Gardens, Mollison Street , Kyneton (next to the Train Station)

PLACES TO EAT

There are so many options in Kyneton and the offering is ever changing.

The Parkland

Situated on St Pauls Park, The Parkland is open nightly for dinner and lunch Friday – Sunday. The spacious deck is perfect for afternoon drinks – maybe a local glass of wine, accompanied by the delicious range of tasting boards. Inside attentive service and a succinct menu make for a relaxed dining experience. Reservations are recommended.

The Parkland, 37c Piper Street, Kyneton

Animus Distillery

At the bottom end of Piper Street this light filled lounge bar is a great place to sample some of the boutique gins made on the premises. There are 3 ways to sample the gins – a guided tasting, a flight accompanied by small tasting plate or choose from a series of well paired gin and tonics. There is also an extensive classic cocktail list in addition to a range of predominantly local beers and wines. Small snacks are also available.

Animus Distillery, 1/89A Piper Street, Kyneton

The Town Roaster

This café is light and airy with comfortable lounge chairs and cushioned banquettes along the large windows. The menu is keto inspired and the cabinet is full of treats that look dangerously decadent but are actually good for you. The kitchen is lectin free which means no sugar, hydrogenated oils, gluten or peanuts.

The Town Roaster, 8 Market Street, Kyneton

PLACES TO STAY

Treat yourself and stay at Isabella at Kyneton an award-winning bed and breakfast located within walking distance to the town’s attractions. An 1890’s cottage which sleeps up to 6 people and is fully fitted out with everything you need.

The breakfast provisions are plentiful and included in the rate. Enjoy fresh locally baked bread, bacon and eggs, DIY pancakes, muesli, cereal, yoghurt and fruit. The kitchen is well equipped including dishwasher, microwave, coffee plunger and even extra wine available for purchase if you happen to run out.

Professional and attentive host Dianne, sends through a comprehensive visitor information pack prior to arrival and there is an in-house iPad with all the local restaurants preloaded so you can see their menus. It also has links to other local attractions. Free Wi-Fi is available.

The lush back garden is perfect for relaxing complete with an outdoor setting, umbrella and BBQ. Grab some local produce and a bootle of wine (or gin) and enjoy afternoon drinks.

Isabella at Kyneton, 10 Bowen Street, Kyneton

Getting to Kyneton

To get to Kyneton drive north west on the Calder Freeway approximately 90km from the Melbourne CBD. If you are visiting from the north of Victoria, follow the signs to Bendigo and pick up the Calder Freeway heading south.

The town is also accessible by train using the V/Line service. The journey takes approximately an hour from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station. There are multiple departures daily. Train services are also available from other regional train stations across the state. Conveniently, your train ticket is valid on the local bus that connects the station to the town centre or it is a short 15-minute walk to the town centre.

Have you visited Kyneton? Tell us about your visit in the comments below or share with us on social media @possandruby

If you are looking for other destinations for a road trip see some of our favourites here

October 23, 2020 0 comment

Recipes

Cheeky Chocolate Brownie

by possandruby September 30, 2020

written by possandruby

Chocolate brownie is a classic all-time indulgent treat perfect for sharing at celebrations with friends and family. Chocolate is always a crowd pleaser and this brownie recipe while super simple is a great addition to any event. You can make it into small bite sized pieces for inclusion on a dessert platter or larger pieces to be served as individual desserts. The ingredients in this recipe are basic and general store cupboard items which you would likely have. The bonus is you can add twists such as choc pieces or nuts to suit your occasion and taste.

This will be ready is a few minutes but it might be wise to double the recipe as you may find it won’t all make the event or gift you are baking it for!

CHEEKY CHOCOLATE BROWNIE

INGREDIENTS

150g butter
3/4 cup of cocoa
11/4 cup caster sugar
3 eggs
1 tablespoon of vanilla essence
1/2 cup of plain flour
1/2 cup choc pieces (optional)
3/4 cup walnuts (optional)

METHOD

Melt butter, sugar and cocoa in a saucepan over a mid to low heat. Place in a bowl and allow to cool slightly. Add vanilla and mix thoroughly, add eggs one at a time mixing quickly and thoroughly between each addition. Once all ingredients are added, mix until smooth. Add walnuts and choc pieces and gently mix through. Pour mixture into square cake tin or small baking tray lined with baking paper. Place in the oven and bake at 160°C for 30 minutes until just cooked. Cool in the tray. To serve dust with icing sugar or cocoa and slice into pieces.

Variations

Top the brownie with chocolate ganache – combine 40ml cream and 125g dark chocolate melted in a double boiler, cool and pour over cooled brownie.
Add white and dark chocolate pieces to make a triple choc brownie (remove walnuts)
Exchange walnuts for macadamia nuts for an extravagant crunch

Check out another quick and easy chocolate recipe Ruby’s Rocky Road

Share your comments and variations below and on our social channels @possandruby, we’d love to hear your thoughts.

September 30, 2020 0 comment

Australia Destinations Road Trips

Practical travel guides for exploring regional Victoria, Australia

by possandruby September 29, 2020

written by possandruby

Planning a road trip? Maybe some regional travel in Victoria? We have created some travel guides to help you explore the amazing towns and villages across one of Australia’s most diverse states. These travel guides highlight some of the fantastic visitor experiences on offer. The state of Victoria may be small in size but it punches above its weight with a plethora of visitor attractions, breathtaking scenery and sensational dining experiences.

Every village and town has an interesting tale to tell. From the historic past to the current day many of our regional areas are experiencing a resurgence. There is definitely a growth in arts and culture from sculpture trails to mural art. You can experience some of the finest food and drink with boutique distilleries and wineries. The natural attractions are always a draw card from the sweeping sandy beaches to the rainforest, or the impressive rock formations and towering eucalypts. You can visit for a day, a weekend, a week or more and discover the best of Victoria.

This collection of travel guides provides you with a selection of things to do, places to eat and suggestions for places stay.

Travel guide to Seymour, Victoria

Travel guide to Heathcote, Victoria

Travel guide to Kyneton, Victoria

Travel guide to Port Fairy, Victoria

Travel guide to Woodend, Victoria

To read about some of our other adventures look here. If you have some towns or villages in Victoria that you would like to suggest for a travel guide please list them in the comments below. We are always interested in hearing about new places to explore.

September 29, 2020 0 comment

Destinations Slovenia

Exploring Eastern Europe – Solvenia

by possandruby August 10, 2020

written by possandruby

Slovenia, a country we don’t often hear much about much but it’s popularity as a destination is rapidly growing due to breathtaking scenery, friendly locals, delicious food and a swathe of adventure activities. Tucked neatly between Italy, Croatia, Hungary and Austria – Slovenia is easy to access by by plane, bus or train. Read on for some highlights of this amazing country.

Bled and surrounds

Bled is one of the most stunning places to visit, just under an hour from the country’s capital. The beautiful Lake Bled is surrounded by a meandering walking trail and offers a selection of boating options from kayak and row boat rental to the famous Pletna boat experience where a skilled oarsmen will row you across the lake and wait while you explore the central island. The small island in the centre of the lake has a traditional church, gallery, gift shop and cafe.

Walk around the lake and stop in to try the famous signature dish the Bled Cream Cake not dissimilar to a vanilla custard slice. For a generous serve of delicious cake and a stunning view across the lake I highly recommend Cafe Belvedere. Sit on the balcony and take in the expansive, beautiful view.

Whilst Lake Bled is the centre piece of a visit to Bled you should take some time to explore the nearby Triglav National Park. Mountains and streams, lakes and canyons can be explored independently or join a tour. Conveniently, you can access key locations using the local bus for just a few euro each way. You can walk and explore and return on the bus later.

Ljubljana

The country’s capital is home to just 280,000 people and has a historic centre with a bustling, cosmopolitan feel. Cobbled streets are inviting and lined with boutique stores, cafes, restaurants and bars. Ljubljana Castle has been an icon of the city for more than five centuries. There are a range of ways to experience the castle there is independent access or a series of ticketed options. We chose the Time Machine ticket which includes a funicular ride up castle hill and a performance and tour from a series of guides dressed up as characters from various eras in the castles history. This was an excellent way to bring history to life.

There are more than 34 bridges that cross the river that runs through the city and the best way to see them is on a boat tour. There are many vendors selling tickets along the waterfront. For ten euros we enjoy a 45 minute cruise and a complimentary glass of wine.

One of the highlights for food lovers is Open Kitchen. In a square off the river local food producers set up little stalls and sell tastings of their food. Salami, wine, gourmet hotdogs, cream cakes, curry, mussels …the options are endless luckily the market is open from 10am – 9pm so you have plenty of time to taste everything.

Once you have had your fill of delicious food visit the City Museum of Ljubljana to gain insight into the city’s past. The museum is housed in a former palace and is brimming with information both new and old. There is a great shop and cafe attached to the museum.

Have you visited Slovenia? We would love to hear about your adventures leave a comment below or share on social media @possandruby Read more about exploring Eastern Europe here.

August 10, 2020 0 comment

Travel tips

How to retain your wanderlust during travel restrictions?

by possandruby May 10, 2020

written by possandruby

Who would have predicted 2020 would start out like this? Unbelievable travel restrictions – international and domestic travel halted, airlines grounded, borders closed and tourism businesses shutting their doors. As we are all well aware, the World Health Organisation declared a pandemic – a global outbreak of coronavirus on 12 March, 2020. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus which is readily transmitted between humans in close contact. As a result of the pandemic significant travel restrictions are in place across the globe.

For those of us who love to travel (almost everyone!) this is devastating news but we all must stop travelling and adhere to the lock down and stay home to get the world healthy again. To ensure our wanderlust won’t fade whilst travel is restricted there are lots of things you can do from the comfort of your own home. Here are some suggestions of activities that will keep your travel spirit alive while grounded.

1. Sort out your photos

In the digital age we often return from trips with hundreds of images on an SD memory card or mobile phone… and there they stay. The current travel restrictions give you plenty of time to actually do something with your images so get sorting! Cataloging and labelling is really important as it is easy to forget where you were and what the name of the place was when you took that amazing shot. Consider creating a photo book or ordering some online prints to re-live your memories and display them around your home.

2. Watch inspiring travel movies

There are so many movies that give you a visual and cultural insight into potential destinations or tell a historical story that brings a destination to life. So curl up on the couch and immerse yourself in a travel movie marathon. Try foreign films too, it may take a little while to get used to reading the subtitles but be patient it is a skill you won’t be sorry your pursued.

3. Read travel books

Lose yourself in travel stories and let the writer take you to far corners of world – visit exotic destinations or take a step back in time with a historic tale. There are many titles both fiction and non-fiction that will feed your wanderlust and have you planning your next adventure locally or abroad. See our recent feature article for a few recommendations.

4. Research future adventures

Whilst the travel restrictions are in place with an unknown end date it doesn’t mean that you can’t plan trips for the future. Use this time to learn about the destinations you intend to visit, look into accommodation options, find out which airlines or driving routes you might take, investigate activities, natural attractions and cultural sites. Look into the local cuisines and maybe even try making a traditional dish at home. Consider review sites like Tripadvisor or other travel blogs like our friend, The Little Wandering Wren.

5. Listen to travel podcasts

There are some excellent travel podcasts that you can provide first hand insight to destinations and travel experiences. Maybe listen while taking your regular walk to stay fit during isolation. Here are our top 5:

6. Plan your future travels

Map out your dream destinations and use our template to write down your bucket list. Take into consideration seasonality, key events, location, cost and even consider physical requirements of a trip. You don’t want to put the hike to Everest base camp too far down the list – none of us are getting any younger!

7. Refine your travel kit

Take stock of your travel gear. What works? What doesn’t? Are there some items missing? Now is a good time to take an inventory and do some research online to fill those gaps. There are lots of buy, swap and sell sites as people are cleaning up during their time at home. To refine your kit use our basic packing list to help stay on track.

8. Create a travel budget

During the travel restrictions it is likely that you are saving some money so why not create a travel budget so you can put those savings to good use?

Establish a specific travel savings account where you can deposit savings directly.
Make a savings jar or money box themed around your trip so you can drop in any loose change at the end of each day.
Create a simple spreadsheet that can record costs for future trips. Take a look at th is example to help you with you budget.

We would love you hear how you are keeping the wanderlust alive while travel is restricted. Comment below or share with us on social media @possandruby on Facebook and Instagram.

May 10, 2020 0 comment

Solo Travel Travel tips

My Travel CV

by possandruby May 4, 2020

written by possandruby

Visiting more than 56 countries and destinations over many years, I have accumulated a collection of interesting travel stories. I have been lucky enough to share some of these stories with the Herald Sun newspaper in a feature called ‘My Travel CV’ .

The article includes tales from the early years of my travels to destinations near and far. No recount of my travel stories would be complete without recounting my infamous monkey incident in Myanmar.

Read the digital article here or click the links below to download the pages.

My Travel CV Page 1

My Travel CV Page 2

We have shared our adventures in an interview with Emma Lovell host of the Lovelly Travels Podcast where we chatted about life as a travel blogger listen to our episode here.

We have also featured on The Masked Podcasters talking all things travel movies check out the Summer Movies episode or the Travel inspiration movie episode

You can continue to follow our adventures and hear travel tips through our articles and via all our social media channels @possandruby

May 4, 2020 0 comment

Travel tips

How to deal with culture shock in 5 easy steps

by possandruby March 25, 2020

written by possandruby

Most travellers have experienced culture shock at one time or another. Culture shock can be described as the unsettling feelings experienced by a person when they are suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture, way of life, or set of attitudes. As travellers we find ourselves in new destinations experiencing new cultures which bring different situations than what we are used to at home in our daily lives. Sometimes these situations can be confronting and or simply nuances to daily routines. The situations are the exact things that make the world such an incredible place to explore, but sometimes these differences can take a little understanding and getting used to.

Use the following steps as a guide to help to reduce the negative impact of culture shock and ensure that you are practically prepared for experiencing new and different cultures.

1. Research

Understanding the destination and culture that you are visiting will make your planning and preparing much easier. Learning about a country’s past may give an insight to the behaviours and cultures. Read up on what is acceptable behaviour and how you can be respectful of cultural practices in the country you are visiting. For Australian travellers the governments Smartraveller website is very useful and also most countries have their own tourism websites that include useful information for visitors.

2. Be prepared

Like a boy scout you will be in the best position if you follow the long-standing motto ‘Be prepared’. Having items with your that can ensure that you can follow local practices will make it easier to adapt to a new culture. For example, a scarf or shawl may be required to cover your head and shoulders especially when visiting religious sites in many countries and having one in your day pack will make it easier to comply. Another tool which is really useful is a translation app on your phone or having a phrase book if you want to go old school it may assist you to understand instructions, menus or signs.

Every country has different food which for most travellers is part of the attraction but for some with dietary requirements or just fussy eaters it is not always that easy. Having your own supply of snacks may make it a little easier small ziplock bags or snack packs of snacks will keep you going if food you can eat is hard to find.

3. Take time to ease yourself into the new culture and surroundings

When things are different it is important to give yourself time to acclimatise and learn the new ways of doing things. Simple customs can take a little getting used to. For example, lining up in an orderly manner to board the metro in Japan, wearing modest clothing with shoulders and knees covered to visit temples in Thailand or covering your hair when visiting the mosques in Turkey. Adjustments to lifestyle can take a little getting used to so don’t try to do and learn everything at once.

4. Speak to those in the know

Be guided by local experts their expertise can be invaluable. This can be started pre-arrival by reaching out to your accommodation if you have pre-booked and asking questions in advance. There are numerous online forums which you can get specific information and ask questions. Flight attendants can be a useful source of knowledge as they visit destinations regularly and often are aware of current situations of changes in cultural practices. Taxi drivers can provide useful information particularly around distances and ways to get around. Hotel staff can provide useful on local tips not just around restaurants and sights to see but also on safety and customs.

5. Meet the locals

One of the best ways to learn and understand a culture is to talk to the locals – the people that live it every day. You may start this by taking a tour hosted by a local to give you some insight. Many destinations offer free or low-cost walking tours that are often led by local guides often students, teachers, historians and actors who are more than willing to share their insight into the local culture. Another way to meet people is through food at restaurants or markets you will often have the opportunity to engage with the staff as they serve people and you can ask questions and get some inside information on local culture. Just keep in mind to be respectful in asking questions.

What other tips to you have for dealing with cultures shock? We would love to hear from you. Please leave your tips in the comments or share them via our social media channels @possandruby

March 25, 2020 0 comment

Travel tips

5 top tips to be a green traveller

by possandruby March 2, 2020

written by possandruby

Travel is a wonderful opportunity to discover, explore and experience destinations all over the world and learn about its diverse cultures. Sadly, travel is having an effect on the environment and some of our most amazing destinations are suffering. Waste, air and water pollution, litter and mass visitation are just some of the impacts. We can all do out little bit to help the environment it’s not hard to become a green traveller.

There are some big choices we can make such as choosing environmentally accredited accommodation, tour operators, food producers and modes of transport. There are also some really simple small things we can do on every trip even locally, to reduce our impact. Here are five little things to incorporate into your travels to become a green traveller.

1. Take a re-usable drink bottle

Taking your own drink bottle is a great way to reduce the number of plastic bottles used. We have all seen them floating in the ocean, scattered on beaches and clogging up gutters. There are some great products available that are really easy to pack. I really like the flat pack pouches that come complete with a clip that can attach to your day pack or handbag.

If taking it in your carry on it is important to remember your drink bottle needs to be empty to go through security. Once through you are able to fill it in most airports from the water fountain in the waiting lounge. Having your water bottle with you will help keep you hydrated especially on a long haul flight.

2. Carbon offset your flights

Many airlines now offer the opportunity to offset your flights carbon emissions by paying a small charge. The airline then channels those funds to projects that remove or reduce emissions from the atmosphere, such as renewable energy, energy efficiency and reforestation programs. As a green traveller this is a simple action you can take when booking flights, the option is often provided when adding extras such as baggage, insurance and extra leg room.

3. Carry a re-usable shopping bag

Businesses across the world are starting to phase out the use of plastic bags and while this is changing our habits at home we should continue this into your travel. Take a small fold up carry bag (or two) in your day pack or handbag they take up very little room and come in handy for shopping. Make sure you choose a bag with long shoulder straps to make it easy to carry around all day. There are many types of bags fold up small and are made from light weight water resistant material.

4. Always carry a re-usable cup

Most people use a re-usable cup at home so why not take one on your travels. Consider the size, weight for easy packing and a liquid tight sealing lid to avoid spillage. Fill it with snacks and/or tea bags in your carry on and use it on the plane. Start your green travel from take off!

5. Walk a little more

Reduce carbon emissions and other nasties going into the environment is a significant step to becoming a green traveller and you can do this by reducing the use of aeroplanes (tricky for antipodeans), cars and taxi’s. Pull on your walking shoes (or thongs for relaxed meandering) and take time to explore on foot. It might take a little longer to get from A-B but you will get a more personal view of the local neighbourhoods and you may even stumble upon hidden secrets. For longer distances try taking public transport, most cities have a metro or bus system or even car share options such as UberPool.

We would love to hear more simple travel tips to help us all be green travellers, share yours in the comments below.

BIG TRIPS

March 2, 2020 2 comments

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