This was such a fun and unique experience! Puffing Billy is a classic looking red and black steam…read moretrain that travels through the Dandenong Ranges. The special and cool aspect about this train is that you can choose to sit along the side with your legs dangling out. This way, you have an even better view of the stunning Dandenong mountain Ranges, full of ash trees and lush green foliage. We went from Belgrave to Emerald Lake Park, where there was a charming lake, little museum, cafe, and gift shop. I'm glad I had a chance to experience this!

This is one of those things that I have always wanted to do since I was a kid, and did eventually…read moremanage to go for a ride of it years afterwards. The great thing about this railway is that it is quite accessible, being located right next to the Belgrave railway station. Mind you, it is a steam train, and a rather small one as well, but the route that it takes is certainly quite impressive. However, I have noticed that it is pretty expensive, so it certainly isn't something for a budget traveller. However, it you have the cash, it is definitely a fun day out for the kids.

I stared at the Dandenong Ranges Information Centre for years before I actually went in. I used to…read morestand at Upper Gully train station waiting for the 732 Box Hill bus to arrive to take me home and the Info Centre would always be sitting right there in front of me. It never occurred to me to walk in and kill some time. The day I did go in I met some friendly people who all got involved in a conversation about things to do and places to see in the Dandenongs. I left filled with ideas about Olinda and Sassafras and considering taking a ride on Puffing Billy. I also left with a lot of brochures and a card with the centre's number on it should I have any more questions while on the road. It's safe to say that they were extremely helpful. The centre is open every single day from 9 to 5 and caters not just for tourists but for locals. I found out about a lot of things that I had no idea existed despite living in the area my entire life. Check them out to make some groovy weekend plans that you will remember for a long, long time.

Friendly helpful people who know the area. Lots of eye catching brochures so you can remember the…read moreplaces you have just been told about. Helps plan the trip. Looking forward to making the most of this great country this summer by not missing any of the special events that are on in the Dandenongs. The local maps are great so you can see how far or should I say hoe close everything is. It makes it easier to fit the maximum into each day without feeling rushed. To get out of the city into the lush green tall trees and tree ferns automatically makes you feel more relaxed. I love wandering the gardens, so many to choose from and the markets with local produce. I can go home with something to remind me of the lovely day I have spent in the country without spending a fortune. A mini holiday every weekend.

I believe I can safely say that William Ricketts Sanctuary was one of the most peaceful places that…read moreI have ever visited. Just walking through the forest and seeing all those artworks that were made not by harming but by trying to be in synch with nature was an amazing experience. Of course, I was lucky enough to visit this place with my favourite person in the world and she was my guide in everything as well as taking me to this wonderful place. She and her mother love travelling and were nice enough to take me places that I would not be able to go and discover on my own. You should visit this place, full of many works of art, if you are interested in the aboriginal culture and history, it is another perspective into the culture. Also, the artworks are situated in such a way that takes you away and the peace and quiet just lets you fall into the depths of your inner self. You will be amazed.

Really cool park to check out which features the work of William Ricketts, an Australian sculptor…read more The sanctuary is filled with trees and ferns so it's a very nice shaded walk. The walk itself is not long, will definitely take less than an hour. Free admission and free parking. No food or drinks allowed in the park.

It was the gang at Escape Travel in Knox City that helped my little lady and I plan our Honeymoon…read more Both of them. We first dropped in on a recommendation from a friend, and spoke to Steph, who was fantastic. She organized our trip away, sorting everything we needed, making it a really easy Honeymoon. Which, really, is what you want. From insurance, to passes and plane tickets, she made it happen really quickly and smoothly. We went back when we booked our European trip, and again, our trip was organized and planned perfectly. Steph even sorted our railway passes to use throughout Europe, and although we booked our own accommodation, she again sorted itinerary and flights, saving us heaps of time trawling through websites trying to get the best deal. I'd always thought planning your own trip wouldn't be hard, and that travel agents weren't necessary until I had one working for me. They know how to cut the corners and find the best deals, making your holiday planning less stressful.

From the owner: Let Escape Travel help plan your perfect holiday escape.read more