When the weather gets cold, I always find myself fantasizing about travel - but then I look at the costs of international flights! World travel is an amazing thing if you can swing it, but for the rest of us, there are ways to experience cultures from around the world without having to long-haul it across the ocean. There are a surprising number of international getaways in New Jersey without ever having to leave the Garden State. You can find unique restaurants that offer a taste of Europe along with unique (and in one case, truly authentic) decor, a one-of-a-kind spa that immerses you in a culture of relaxation, and even some small towns that wear their old-time heritage on every corner. Read on to discover five international getaways in New Jersey that you won't want to miss.
1. Long Valley German District
Long Valley is a small town in Washington Township that used to be known as German Valley. The name was changed, but the architecture of the original, heavily German immigrant population remains.
The heart of the town is Restaurant Village, a thriving dining and shopping center.
Of course, it wouldn't be a German town without a top brewpub, and the Long Valley Pub and Brewery is the perfect place to tuck into a flight of beer, along with pretzels and schnitzel.
2. The Auld Shebeen
Irish pubs are pretty common in New Jersey - but how about one that was actually brought here from Ireland?
Located in a popular Whippany hotel, this authentic Irish pub was actually taken apart and shipped here from the old sod before being reassembled here.
The Auld Shebeen serves up a hearty menu of Irish classics like short ribs and mash, along with a massive beer selection.
3. Island Spa & Sauna
Located in the busy Festival Plaza shopping center, Island Spa & Sauna is a unique Korean day spa offering dozens of treatments.
The specialty here is saunas, and this bathhouse offers some amazing opportunities to relax and feel the stress pour off you.
From there, head to the massive food court where you'll be able to tuck into a healthy but hearty menu of Asian cuisine at Island Spa & Sauna.
4. The British Chip Shop
Located in Haddonfield's busy shopping district, this authentic British fish-and-chips spot is a beloved spot for expats.
British pride comes off every inch of this place, including in the food - the fish and chips here are the best in the state.
But that's just the beginning of the menu. You'll find all the classics at The British Chip Shop - Scotch eggs, sticky toffee pudding, and even a full English breakfast.
5. Wallingford
Wallingford is a small town with one big distinction - it's home to the largest percentage of Polish immigrants in the state.
The town is packed with grocery stores, provision stores, and restaurants dedicated to the food of Poland.
Our favorite is definitely Tatra Haus, an old-school European family restaurant serving up hearty plates of pierogis, sausage, and roasted meats in a traditional and raucous environment.
What are your favorite international getaways in New Jersey? Let us know in the comments section! For more tastes of other cultures - including some you can bring home - check out Only In Your State's list of the best supermarkets in New Jersey. And if you'd like to show your New Jersey pride wherever you go, make sure to check out the Garden State collection from Wear Your Roots.
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