With more local airlines offering direct flights to Melbourne, Australia, more and more Filipinos are getting a chance to explore this bustling urban hub, with all its varied attractions.
Melbourne is known for its coffee culture that’s as vibrant as the graffiti on its streets. But there’s a whole lot more in store in the city. To fully experience its cozy, laid-back vibe, online travel agent Agoda highlights some of the must-sees and must-dos in Victoria’s capital.
Experience a whole new world of sporting
Melbourne was also once dubbed the world’s sporting capital, and the Melbourne Cricket Ground stands at its heart. It’s the largest stadium in Australia and the 10th largest stadium in the world. Aside from hosting cricket matches and serving as the home of the Melbourne Cricket Club, it also serves as the stage for Australian football. Just a stone’s throw away is Melbourne Park, where one can witness the Aussie Open live and in the flesh.
Where to stay: Book accommodations at the 381 Cremorne Apartments which is close to all the action. The Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit is just an 11-minute drive away from it as well.
Get lost in the city’s network of laneways
Art spills out of museums in Melbourne what with its sophisticated urban art in the form of graffiti on Hosier Lane, Duckboard Place, Centre Place, and ACDC Lane (named after the legendary Aussie rock band), near Flinders Street station. Tourists can feast their eyes on and take lots of photos of this colorful and dynamic street art as they browse away from shopping on Russell Street.
Where to stay: Collins Hotel is a great location when exploring both street art and the beautiful Carlton Gardens area which houses the Melbourne Museum.
Perk up with and learn how to make a great cuppa or two
Even during downtime, Melbourne provides a certain kind of attraction: people watching while enjoying a cup of joe from hundreds of coffee shops (not the usual big chain brands) scattered throughout the city. The love for coffee is not unique to Melbourne, but the Melburnians’ eagerness and enthusiasm to educate those who are open to learn more about the art of bean roasting is something everyone should experience. Visit the many quaint and cozy cafes around the Brunswick, Collingwood, Carlton, and South Melbourne neighborhoods, to name a few.
Where to stay: Stay at the Turnkey Accommodation in the North Melbourne area so you won’t have to go too far to get your morning caffeine fix served with a little extra love, in true Melbourne fashion.
Bonus: Sample wines and take a hot air balloon ride over the Yarra Valley
The Yarra Valley is technically outside of Melbourne, but at just an hour’s drive away, it would be a shame to pass up the opportunity to check out the views and taste the flavors offered by this sprawling expanse of lush greenery and vineyards.
Where to stay: While there, make a reservation at the Yering Gorge Cottages for the night, and who knows? You might even get to encounter the majestic ’roos of the Land Down Under.
