 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
||
|
||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
||||||||||
■ Population: 3.7 million
■ Currency: Australian dollar (AUD)
■ Country and city code: +61, +3
■ Tourist info: Melbourne Visitor Centre, housed underneath Federation Square, directly opposite Flinders Street station
■ tel: +61 (0)3 9658-9658
■ websites: www.visitvictoria.com.au
FUN FACT
The world’s first feature film was shot in Melbourne. The Story of the Kelly Gang was filmed by the Tai Brothers at a property in Heidelberg, and first shown at Athenaeum Theatre in 1906.
Eureka Skydeck 88 (River Quay, Southbank, tel: +61
(0)3 9693 8888)
The new Eureka Skydeck isn’t for those who are afraid of heights. However, the 88th floor overlooks the city and offers awe-inspiring views. The truly brave can step on the “edge”, a class tube that projects three metres out from the main building, so you get the feeling that you are walking on air. Entrance fee costs AUD16.50 (SGD22) and AUD12 (SGD16) for the “edge”.
Capital City Bicycle Track
Hugging the Yarra River, this popular bicycle track takes in an abundance of local fauna, and a number of great picnic spots along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for the infamously shy platypus. Bicycles can be hired at Federation Square from AUD35 (SGD46) a day.
Collingwood Children’s Farm Market (Helier Street, Abbotsford, tel: +61 (0)3 9417 5806)
Every second Saturday of the month, locals farmers come to this market and sell mostly organic produce such as buffalo, rabbit, cheeses, sauces and cakes – a great source of fascinating foodstuffs. For kids, the market is located inside Collingwood’s children’s farm where pigs, chickens and cows graze nearby. Entrance fee costs AUD2 (SGD2.65).
Bridge Road, Richmond
It seems selfish that arguably Melbourne’s best cafes, restaurants and shopping strip are all on this one street. Spend a day roaming through boutique designer clothing stores or factory outlets, remembering to stop for brunch, dinner and anything in between.
The Commoner (122 Johnson Street, Fitzroy, tel: +61 (0)3 9415 6876)
At this small inner sanctum, those who crave hearty Middle Eastern food at reasonable prices can tuck in at this kitchen table. With friendly service, a great wine list, a dessert menu full of rich puddings and the soon to be cultish Sunday roasted goat, it’s worth making a reservation. $$
The Horn (20 Johnston Street, Collingwood, tel: +61 (0)3 9417 4670)
This African music lounge specialises in Ethiopian cuisine, including dishes like doro wot – free-range chicken cooked in a rich red onion sauce, and kye wot – beef cooked with garlic, ginger, red onion, and tomatoes. Strangely for an African restaurant, they have live jazz music on Thursdays. $
Handsome Steve’s House of Refreshment, Abbotsford Convent (1 St Heliers Street Abbotsford, tel: +61 (0)3 9415 3600)
Located on a convent balcony with river views, this tiny bar is popular with coffee and wine aficionados. Its personality is quirky but adored by regulars.
Red Hummingbird (246 Russell Street, City, tel: +61 (0)3 9654 2266)
Although a newcomer to the Melbourne bar scene, this place is already humming with what many consider the best rooftop deck in town. This hangout with a Balinese theme is perfect for chilling out with friends on a lazy Saturday. How could you not love a place where the cocktails are served in jugs?
Kingsgate (131 King Street) *
This two-star 1920s shared facilities hotel is located on the western side of the CBD, walking distance to the Spencer Street Train Station, Direct Factory Outlet complex, the Telstra Dome and Melbourne Stock Exchange. Rooms are simple but functional, and neatly maintained. Bathroom facilities are on the same floor, or pay extra for a private bathroom. Room rates start from AUD81 (SGD102.30). $
Amora Hotel Riverwalk (649 Bridge Road Richmond)
It is close to the city, but you would not know it, judging by the riverside setting on the banks of the Yarra. Peace and serenity is the theme here, even though you are only a few hundred metres from some of the best design and boutique clothing shops in the state. It’s the perfect place for those who want the convenience with a slice of tranquillity. Room rates start from AUD170 (SGD225). $$
BY CHRIS CANTY
* FOR EXCLUSIVE DEALS, BOOK HOTELS AT www.TIGERAIRWAYS.COM. FOR MORE TRAVEL IDEAS, GO TO www.VISITMELBOURNE.COMwww.TIGERAIRWAYS.COM” target=”_blank”>
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
