WHERE I’D RATHER BE . . .
SHORT HAUL
In the NSW Central Ranges for the Orange Wine Festival, 10-days of celebrations featuring tastings, masterclasses, workshops, exhibitions and live music. October 12-21. orangewinefestival.com.au
Eating: At acclaimed Italian restaurant Lolli Redini, regarded as a local institution since its launch more than 15 years ago. lolliredini.com.au
Drinking: At Ferment, The Orange Wine Centre, the official cellar door for more than 20 local wineries, in the heart of this historic township. orangewinecentre.com.au
Staying: In Landsowne House, a beautifully maintained historic threebedroom home, available to rent as part of boutique hotel De Russie. derussiehotels.com.au
MID HAUL
In California’s Orange County, otherwise known as The OC, experiencing its amazing beach towns, world-class shopping and fun-filled attractions like Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm and Great Wolf Lodge. visitcalifornia.com/ region/discover-orange-county
Eating: At LSXO, a 28-seater Vietnameseinspired eatery; a hidden gem tucked inside restaurant Bluegold. dinebluegold.com/lsxo
Drinking: Stylish cocktails at speakeasy bar Blind Rabbit, where you exit through the bookcase. theblindrabbit.com
Staying: At the Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, set atop a 45m cliff-top with on-site restaurants, spa, eco-adventure centre, and awe-inspiring Pacific Ocean views. ritzcarlton.com
LONG HAUL
In Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia, a port town in the south-east of the country, famous for its culture, dining and oranges. visitvalencia.com/en
Eating: Paella Valenciana, the local version of Spain’s classic dish, which includes chicken or rabbit, a mixture of different types of beans and — for the brave — sometimes snails.
Drinking: A glass of Agua de Valencia — cava, orange juice, gin and vodka — on Calle Caballeros, a street of mansions, restaurants and bars.
Staying: At Hotel Balandret, a stylish ocean-front, family-friendly hotel, facing Las Arenas Beach. balandret.com/en