Melbourne... an exquisite city.

Trip Start Dec 26, 2005
1
259
285
Trip End Jan 25, 2009


Loading Map
Map your own trip!
Map Options
Show trip route
Hide lines
shadow
Where I stayed
(Sydney hotels)

Flag of Australia  ,
Monday, December 18, 2006

I've been to Melbourne about 6 times now and can honestly say that I walk away each time saying how much I can see myself calling this city home... this time being no different.  On every occasion, I've met friendly locals, some of whom have become close friends... this being the greatest criterion of whether or not I enjoy a place.  Now that I have travelled the world and seen many, many cities (thus clarifying my preferences), my desire to move here has been intensified.  It is simply one of the best cities in the world (I think it was rated as being the most livable city in the world at one stage), fits my personality, and gives me everything that I love.  I would be interested to hear of other travellers' views on this.   

In a nutshell, Melbourne offers world-class multi-ethnic cuisine, exquisite fashion, Australia's best sporting events (Australian Tennis Open, AFL, C'wlth Games in 2006, formula 1 etc.), a bewildering array of outdoor pursuits, relaxed and modern cafes/bars/restaurants, mostly good weather (summer being excellent), Bohemian suburbs such as St Kilda, satisfactory coastline, the best shopping (including budget Factory Outlets), outstanding out of city excursions (i.e. Great Ocean World... The Apostles) and friendly locals. 

On the last point, I have noticed a real positive difference between here and Sydney in the 'small' encounters such as going into your local deli, seeking local information and the use of simple things such as please and thank you. In one guide, I read that Melbourne is a cluster of small villages.  South Yarra and Prahran have such a different feel to that of St Kilda.  I simply love this city and depending on how things go in WA over the next few years, I will plan to move here.  Having developed a small friendship base, along with having a portable career will make the transition easier.

I've since transferred to Base Hostel in St Kilda and it seems friendly enough and modern.  I will see how things go here before considering moving back to South Yarra.  I have since accessed extra money to comfortably see me through the last week of my trip round the world so I do not need to stay in budget accommodation... maybe I should just stay in a hostel for history's sake!

I'm hoping to meet up with Dean tonight who has recently opened up his own business in Camberwell.  Will try to get a photo or two put on here:)  I do have photos of Sydney, I'm just being slack!
Print this entry