Both dynamic and cosmopolitan, the city of melbourne is regarded as the cultural hub of Australia. It is the home of fine victorian-era architecture, extensive shopping districts, galleries, theaters, street art, park and lovely gardens. Here visitors are welcomed to experience the brighter side of city life just the way melbournians are.
There are many reasons to visit and re-visit Melbourne. The second most populated city in Australia is in fact a fine place to live. Melbourne has been selected this year yet again as the ‘most livable city in the world’. This is now the fifth time in a row that the city has been so selected. Citizen of Melbourne— call themselves Melbournians in this multi cultural and ethnicaly diverse city. They are avid sports fans and gladly share their passion with tourists and newcomers alike.
Melbourne is best enjoyed the way locals enjoy their lifestyle. Those who revisit the city tend to find so much more to explore and enjoy. This was my second visit to Melbourne and it was on this trip that I made a point of exploring coastal suburbs, shorelines and nearby islands from one of the world’s most prominent living environments.
I took a ride to Phillip Island, located less than two hours drive from Melbourne on a well-maintained highway and bridge. Phillip Island is a popular weekend tourist destination, especially during the summer. One of the island’s main-attractions is known as the ‘Penguin Parade’, where visitors can witness the island’s small penguins walk up from the sea to their nesting grounds. During my visit I decided to take a walk on Cape Woolamai, exploring the well signposted walking tracks of various lengths from the beach.
The second stop on this trip was St Kilda, a vibrant inner city suburb of Melbourne that is widely known for its beach life. Acland and Fitzroy Streets are especially known for their dining outlets and feature cool cafes, elegant restaurants and a good selection of attractive and trendy bars to visit. I enjoyed myself walking along the sandy shore of St Kilda beach and witnessed a stunning sunset from the end of the St Kilda Pier.
One of the best and recommended places to stay in Melboune is the Crown Metropol located within the Crown Towers, an entertainment complex – a city hub. Housed here are a world-class casino, a luxury retail area, Melbourne’s famous event spaces, theaters and performance venues, cinemas, high-end spa and numerous dining options serving a variety of international cuisines. Crown Metropol features 658 rooms, making it the largest hotel in Australia.
For gastronomic enthusiasts, a visit to Nobu should not be missed. Also situated in Crown Towers, this worldwide famous brand of Japanese restaurant offers a wide range of delicious innovative Japanese cuisine with a stunning view of the river.
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