Melbourne : Something for Everyone

“Think Australia what comes to your mind “ said the voice “MasterChef”, replied I. “Think more” said the voice “Kangarooes, Sydney Opera house, Koalas, boomerang, Great Barrier Reef, Gold Coast“ ” Great! Now think sports,” said the voice “Australian Open, Melbourne Cricket Ground “ “Finally You are on the right track “ said the voice. “What track are you talking of ?“ I asked. “I am talking about the place where Australian open is held and Melbourne Cricket Ground is”   replied the voice. “Oh you are talking about Melbourne” I felt as I answered,I feeling I have just found one piece of the jigsaw puzzle.

“Yes Melbourne! ” said the voice, ” It is not only the most liveable city, but also Australia’s most lovable city. It is the second most populous city in state of Victoria in Australia, located where the Yarra River meets a natural bay called Port Philip. Melbourne is the also perfect travel destination for the traveler looking for an exciting blend of historical ethos and cosmopolitan big city energy. It’s an architecture admirer’s delight. From the waterfront, parks and gardens to boutiques and cafe-filled laneways, the setting is also perfect for romance. Melbourne has something for everyone.”

“Something for Everyone, “I asked “Are you sure. Tell me a little about Melbourne city?” I asked. Melbourne was founded in 1835 by settlers. It was named in 1837, in honour of the British Prime Minister during those time  William Lamb, 2nd Viscount Melbourne. He is best known for his intense and successful mentoring of Queen Victoria of England, at ages 18–21, in the ways of politics. Queen Victoria’s reign, Victorian era,  lasted for around 63 years which is  longer than that of any other British monarch and the longest of any female monarch in history! “That’s impressive”, I said. “The discovery of gold in Victoria in 1851 led to the Victorian gold rush, and Melbourne, which served as the major port and provided most services for the region, experienced rapid growth.”

The voice continued “Melbourne Central Business District (CBD) is laid out in a uniform grid pattern, called Hoddle Grid. Recent extensions to the CBD in Southbank and Docklands is seeing this central area nearly double in size. Many of the city streets are lined with grand old deciduous plane trees, giving the city a European character.  Just Look at the Town Hall, Parliament house, St Patrick’s Cathedral.   You can unwind in the beaches of St Kilda or simply stroll alongside the Yarra River, which weaves through the center of town. On the south bank of the river you will find the stunning Royal Botanical Gardens. These gardens extend over 36 hectares and display more than 50,000 plants and are counted amongst the best in the world. 

Vibrant Melbourne

Federation Square is a central and unifying public space, a landmark and a cultural magnet bringing together exquisite gardens, innovative architecture and engineering.  Flinders Street, one of the world’s busiest railway stations and longest platforms creates a constant flow of traffic in the heart of the city” said the voice.” The city and inner suburbs are best viewed by tram, a unique Melbourne way to travel.  Did you know that the city is home to the world’s second largest tram and light rail network!” “Amazing” said I.

“Wander the city’s broad boulevards and narrow lanes and you’ll discover a wealth of places in which to drink, catch up with friends and dance until dawn. Jazz, punk, rock and pop stream from bars, pubs and stadiums across Melbourne are  part of the city’s vivacious live music scene. For that perfect night out, enjoy gourmet dinner cruising along Yarra River as you watch the sun set over the city of Melbourne . A stunning city background of colours and light in the heart of vibrant river. It’s a must for romantics. You can also enjoy late night tour of the Fosters brewery or Venice on the Yarra on gondolas. ” “City, crowds ..what if one wants to discover the natural beauty?

“Not only Melbourne is full of beauty. You can also discover the natural beauty only a short distance outside of Melbourne. Dramatic cliff tops, crashing waves meet smooth sandy beaches and endless ocean views.With its Penguin Parade, seal colony and Koala Conservation Centre Phillip Island is a popular choice among families and wildlife enthusiasts. The Penguin Parade at Phillip Island Nature Park, in which Little Penguins come ashore in groups, attracts visitors from all over the world. It is a great family holiday! Did you know Phillip Island is visited by 3.5 million people annually!

Relax in Nature

“Penguins Wow!” I said “Is there something else too something which I will not find anywhere else in the world”. Pat came the answer “The Great Ocean Road. Great Ocean Road, 243 kilometres long, Route stretches along the Southeast coast of Australia between Geelong & Warrnambool. It goes through the rich rain forests with the eucalyptus trees and koalas, dramatic flora and fauna, countless wildlife experiences, spectacular views to take in on route,  including the infamous 12 Apostles, there’s something to make you stop and stare at every turn. It is recognised as one of the world’s most scenic routes .”

Great Ocean Road

Bells Beach at Torquay is a favourite for sightseers and surfers, with dramatic cliff faces and a curving reef. Bells Beach acts as a huge natural amphitheatre. Jutting spectacularly out of the Southern Ocean, at an incredible 65 metres high, Twelve Apostles is a natural wonders, a must-see stop.  Its origins is about 10 – 20 million years ago when billions of tiny skeletal fragments created limestone formations & later exposed to violent seas and winds that carved out these remarkable features. Located in the Port Campbell National Park, the Apostles look particularly amazing at sunrise and sunset.  Not far from the Twelve Apostles you’ll find the imposing cliff line of Gibson’s Steps. These enormous cliffs are best seen from the viewing platforms at beach level you can climb down the steps carved into the rock face by local settler Hugh Gibson. Other stunning coastal features include Loch Ard Gorge, and the Bay of Islands. Creeks and the harbour offer excellent fishing opportunity.

Australia’s best rainforest scenery is in the Great Otway National Park. Walk among tall trees and giant tree ferns, discover beautiful waterfalls, or meander secluded beaches along the shore at Cape Otway. .See amazing wildlife in the Great Ocean Road region from whale watching and swimming with dolphins to spotting koalas, emus and the elusive platypus” reeled off the voice.

“Thats impressive. What about something that gives me high?” “Does Wine figure in that list?” “Ofcourse,” I replied .  “Then a visit to Yarra valley is a must” Yarra Valley is host to a thriving wine growing industry. The area’s relatively cool climate makes it particularly suited to the production of high-quality chardonnay, pinot noir and sparkling wine.The Yarra Valley can be navigated in different ways, from flying over it, to using a hot air balloon. If you want to experience the deep parts of the Yarra Valley you can use the oldest train stream in Australia, hike or if you want more dramatic encounter dive into it!To fully experience the food,wine, spa at Yarra Valley, you will need more than one day, however, the Yarra Valley is also a perfect Melbourne Day Trip. “Hey did you get lost think ing about basking with a chilled glass of wine! I was caught red handed dreaming!

Yarra Valley

“But a sports enthusiast will get bored in Melbourne. “ said I. “ Have your forgotten that Melbourne  hosts Australian Open and  has MCG ground . Melbourne has also  hosted 1956 Summer Olympics games, along with the 2006 Commonwealth Games. Australian rules football and cricket are the most popular sports in Melbourne The city is home to three major annual international sporting events: the Australian Open ,the Melbourne Cup (horse racing), and the Australian Grand Prix(Formula One). The city is home to the National Sports Museum” replied the voice “Melbourne often has been proclaimed the World’s Ultimate Sports City!”

Sports and Melbourne

“Okay what about Shopping?” Anything you ever thought of, you will get it in Melbourne. The problem that shopaholic’s face in Melbourne is not what to buy, but what not to buy. From mega shopping arcades such as Melbourne central to little hidden alleys to old arcades where you can find unusual classic pieces. From the cutting edge to classic, boutique to big time, Melbourne’s vibrant retail scene is alive with alluring labels, products and shopping experiences – some home grown, some world-renowned. Melbourne is a great place to buy clothes, accessories like leather and fashion bags, art, music records, farm produce, books and more!

Shop till you drop

“Melbourne is an eclectic mix of vibrant city life and laid-back relaxation. Whether it’s coastal views or well-kept gardens, historic architecture or panoramic mountain views, there’s plenty to satisfy even the most avid sightseer in and around Melbourne” said the voice. I agreed there was something for everyone.  “But who are you? I asked. “I am the spirit of Victoria,”Voice continued “I hope you’ve enjoyed our talk-tour of this beautiful city, a true jewel for the tourist. It’s time to start planning your visit in person. It’s your time to visit Melbourne NOW! Believe meYou’ll love every place of Victoria”

www.visitmelbourne.com/in has more information about the places.

This is entry for the  contest it’s your time to visit Melbourne Now at indiblogger.