The Mezzanine

My criteria for travel: (1) GOOD FOOD, (2) old stuff - ruins are A+ but really old intact buildings are okay, too, (3) something really cool you can't find in the US, and/or (4) natural beauty.

1) Definitely. Melbourne is rather renowned for its cuisine. (Huge Italian/Greek population, mixed with huge Chinese population, mixed with huge Anglo population...)

2) Not much, but we've got a fair few things from a couple of hundred years ago. If you're interested in convict-era stuff, or gold rush stuff, we've got plenty.

3) Kangaroos? Coral reefs? Rainforests? Cute penguins? Huge rocks in the desert? Vegemite?

4) Lots and LOTS. We are, in all modesty, a gorgeous country. We've got spectacular beaches, the outback, beautiful coastal regions, lovely valleys, nice mountains, and fun ski slopes.

Plus, I live here. What could be better? :)