Thread: What is there to do in Melbourne, Australia

While Sydney-siders may dispute it, Melbourne has laid claim to being the sporting and cultural capital of Australia by hosting the Australian Open, Australian Rules Grand Final, St Kilda Festival, Melbourne Cup, Melbourne Food & Wine Festival and Formula 1 & Melbourne International Comedy Festival.


The quaint but efficient tram service is an easy way to make your way around the city's sights including St Kilda Beach, Federation Square, Little Italy, China Town, Crown Casino, Yarra River, Melbourne Aquarium and for shopaholics, Chapel or Brunswick St. With narrow backstreets you may think you are in Europe with laneways full of restaurants, small bars, unique boutiques and knick knacks. Or for a gourmet twist head to the Queen Victoria Markets with precincts dedicated to deli products, meats, fruit and vegetables or the memorable Food Court.


If you prefer to be away from the bustle, there are over 90 vineyards in the famous Yarra valley not to mention local cheeses, berries, salmon, ice cream, hazelnuts, pastas and preserves. The Yarra is also the home of the Healesville Animal Sanctuary where you can experience close encounters with Australian animals including the Birds of Prey demonstration and the Australian Wildlife Health Centre


Nature and scenery lovers will be hard pressed to choose between the options available. The beautiful eucalyptus forests of the Dandenong ranges; Mornington Pennisula, equally beautiful and fascinating for its wildlife, wineries and the attractions of Port Nepean and Arthur's Seat Chairlift.


For those with a longer day in port there is an opportunity to hit the road and travel the Victorian coast to see the Twelve Apostles rock formations along the Great Ocean Road or the delightful penguins at Phillip Island.


DID YOU KNOW?

• Melbourne is the only city in the world that has five international standard sporting facilities on the fringe of the CBD
• The world's first feature film, "The Story of the Ned Kelly Gang" was made in Melbourne