This is my home town, and is very dear to me. I would recommend it to anyone coming down under who is after a hit of culture and entertainment. It’s located in the south eastern state of Victoria, it is Australia’s second largest city after Sydney with a growing population of over 4 million.
Known as the sporting capital of Australia; Melbourne offers a range of major sporting events all year round, from the Australian Open Grand slam tournament (tennis) in January, to the Australian formula one Grand Prix. Melbourne has also hosted the Olympics (1956) and more recently the Commonwealth Games (2006). Melbourne’s and indeed Australia’s greatest sporting ground – The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) and the other stadiums scattered around the city each year play host to millions of spectators at things like the Boxing Day Test and the AFL Grand Final. Melbourne is the home and birthplace of Australian Rules football; this particular sport is one of the beating hearts of this city, it is a thriving passion of the residents and an essential part of the culture. So is the spring racing carnival, which includes one of the world’s largest horse races – The Melbourne Cup.
Melbourne Cup
Melbourne is also known for its arts and music culture with countless live shows and exhibitions throughout the city. It’s known for amazing food, and great coffee, as well as fantastic shopping for all people’s tastes. The city is scattered with hidden treasures such as cool little cafes and shops that can be found in cool laneways and basements. There are great bars and restaurants throughout and a thriving nightlife for those looking for a great night out.
(http://www.goway.com.au/images/citybreaks/melbourne-cafes350.jpg)
(http://images.smh.com.au/2010/02/12/1115805/Melbourne-laneway-420x0.jpg)
For those after some sight seeing, Melbourne is home to the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere – the Eureka Tower – and there is currently a ferris wheel under construction to rival that of London and Singapore. Melbourne only an hour’s drive from the beginning of the great ocean road and is driving distance from Philip Island – another beautiful location. With plenty of places to stay throughout the city from 5 star hotels to back-packers lodges, Melbourne is a must visit for anyone looking for a great experience.
By Sam Shumack
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