My (Not So) Secret Love Affair with Melbourne
It’s not that much of a secret, but despite living in the world’s best small country, I do have a tiny love affair with another place far, far away. It’s a world capital in its own right and one of the globe’s most cosmopolitan confines. Where, you ask, is this paradise on earth? Melbourne, Australia. Let me tell you about some of the best things to do in Melbourne…
Melbourne, my dear Melbourne, how I miss thee….
Where It All Started…
I went to Melbourne during an all out Austrlian-New Zealand tour back in 2006/2007. God, it seems like it was just yesterday. I was coming from Sydney, a place that wasn’t necessarily my favourite, and was curious to see what Melbourne would offer — I have quite a few close friends who just love it, so it came well recommended, and my list of the best things to do in Melbourne was awfully long.
Landing in the airport, it was off to an interesting start. There was nothing for miles around — just the horizon across the reddish hues of the Aussie bush (or outback, depending on the affectionate diminutive of choice). That all changed halfway through the bus ride into the city, as through the wavy haze of the summer heat, there was the glistening city in the distance. It’s not the world’s most gorgeous skyline, nor the most expansive, but it has its place. Well porportioned, nothing ostentatious, but making a statement nonetheless.
The Great Outdoors
One of the best things to do in Melbourne is just being outside – with some fantastic weather (albeit HOT), there are so many great places to go and enjoy it.
Federation Square, a hub of activity day and night
They say that the city has the world’s largest population of European Elm Trees – more than here in Europe! Some of my favourite parks include:
- Royal Botanic Gardens – not as vibrant in colour due to the water restrictions, but still some interesting displays and often fun events like outdoor films and plays.
- Fitzroy Gardens – massive trees and don’t miss the wonderful conservatory
- Alexandra Gardens – gorgeous views guaranteed as this is right on the banks of the Yarra.
If you’re looking at Melbourne as a [temporary] home for your location independent lifestyle, you can go and sit outside with your laptop in Federation Square (pictured above) – there is Free Wifi everywhere! How cool is that? Don’t forget that iced latte.
A Gastronomic Capital
Starters, anyone?
Not many realise, but Melbourne is a formidable force to be reckoned with when it comes to the world’s foodie scene – yes, one of the best things to do in Melbourne is to sit around and eat. YUM. So much fantastic stuff, and it all has this gorgeous European and Asian influences mixing together. Some of the cuisines that are really a must-try include:
- Chinese (Sunday brunch in Melborune means going for dim sum)
- Indonesian (there are several famous ones, so I’m relucant to choose just one!)
- Italian (just go to Lygon Street, the home of Melbournian cafe culture)
That is just a sample. In the CBD (commercial business district – e.g. the city centre) you’ll find countless other types of great restaurants. If you have a hard time finding a place, that’s a good sign; anything hidden away down an alley or small street is bound to be good.
Gorgeous People with Gorgeous Attitudes
Disclaimer: I don’t know if these people are Mebournian or not. Nor am I saying they are gorgeous. They’re having what looks to be a perfectly enjoyable afternoon in Melbourne, which was the whole idea of the picture. 
Never say never, but you won’t find me writing a list ordering the most attractive countries in terms of their population anytime soon. However, I do know who would be at the top of the list: Melbournians. Fit and good looking folk who always seem to have a smile on their face and wearing the top sunglasses fashions. Speaking of which – another one of the best things to do in Melbourne is shopping. My favourite shopping stop? Target. Yes! It has different stuff than other ones I’ve been to, and of course, it’s cheap. Just go and have a look. It’s fun.
So When are you Going?
Yes, paradise..I mean, Melbourne has a beach too: St Kilda
I hope to be back in Melbourne early next year in combination with another trip. There’s just something about it that keeps drawing me back – who knows, someday I might just live there. But for now, I’ll be happy to fantasise about its golden beaches and turquoise ocean, shimming skyscrapers, blindingly white smiles and the smells of yummy foods. Some of the best things to do in Melbourne are just being there, walking around, and seeing what find. It is a great place for serendipity travel.
Photo Credits: reinn (Skyline), melork (Federation Square), avlxyz (Food & Beach), timparkinson (People)
Andy Hayes is the managing editor of Sharing Travel Experiences. Featured in Newsweek, the Wall Street Journal, National Geographic Traveler, and other major publications, he travels for up to seven weeks at a time and spends the other seven right here with you. Follow him on Twitter, @andrewghayes.
Want to experience the charm and the best things to do in Melbourne for yourself?
What are you waiting for? Travel more with our special travel deals, such as:
Or, get hands-on travel help from Donna, our travel concierge.
August 2nd, 2009 at 12:21 pm
I’m with you – much prefer Melbourne to Sydney. Somehow seems to be much more to it & feels way more cosmopolitan – reminds me more of an Asian city like HK or Singapore too.
And free wi-fi in Federation Square…wowser, when can I go back
August 2nd, 2009 at 4:56 pm
Great to read this article. I’m moving to Melbs in October to start LIP-ing from there – especially love the free wi-fi in Federation Square action!
August 3rd, 2009 at 3:37 pm
I have a Melbourne friend who I met when she was living in Toronto for a year. The way she described her city made me *really* want to go.
It’s on my Someday travel list, near the top.
August 3rd, 2009 at 5:34 pm
WOW! I know where I need to get to, quick fast and in a hurry. Thank you for sharig your experience.
August 3rd, 2009 at 9:57 pm
Looks like there is about to be a run on rental apartments in Melbourne shortly!
August 5th, 2009 at 5:06 pm
I agree about your love for Melbourne over Sydney – I call Melb the red-headed step child of Oz – Sydney is so blatantly pretty and showy, Melb has that alternative feel. Loved it while I was there and now I want to go back again after reading this!
August 7th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
[...] working in fantastic places continues today to another sunny, fabulous local not too far from the paradise known as Melbourne. The destination? Queensland, [...]
August 16th, 2009 at 12:10 pm
Melbourne is a great city, and you describe it so well. Summer is great, but if you come in winter, don’t expect to hear anything in the news except for the footy.
well done on this blog, you made me proud to be a Melbournian.
August 16th, 2009 at 2:38 pm
@Simon – Thanks for confirming I got it right.
I can handle footy, especially if it’s news live from the beach!
November 7th, 2009 at 10:36 pm
[...] working in fantastic places continues today to another sunny, fabulous local not too far from the paradise known as Melbourne. The destination? Queensland, [...]
November 16th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
[...] Australia: My love and lust for Melbourne does not affect this chocolatey recommendation! Melbourne has a very strong food and drink scene [...]
January 3rd, 2010 at 4:02 pm
[...] Note: Brian, if you go to Australia, don’t miss Melbourne, one of my favourites! And as they say, you haven’t seen India until you travel India by [...]
January 6th, 2010 at 3:03 pm
[...] types of places” – you know the ones – that people either love or hate. Melbourne might be one. Tijuana too. But the one city in the world that is move take-it-or-leave-it than [...]