, Destination Guide

Overview of Victoria Victoria is Australia's second smallest state, covering an area roughly the size of Britain. It hugs the tip of Australia's east coast and has a decidedly clement climate. Packed into this relatively compact area is a wealth of diverse natural attractions, from national parks and forests teeming with wildlife to wineries, lakes and mountains offering skiing, climbing and hiking. Best of all, many of Victoria's unique and varied landscapes are easily accessible as day trips from the state capital of . In fact, weekend getaways and outdoor adventures are cornerstones of Victorian culture, giving the state a fun, touristy feel year-round courtesy of the adventurous locals. There is also lots of cultural excitement to be had, with art galleries, museums and unique architectural landmarks to enjoy. Victoria has a very full events calendar, with lots of music concerts, a diverse range of festivals, and lots of opportunities to enjoy the high-quality performing arts of Australia. Between the well-signposted tourist routes, the proliferation of characterful country towns, the wealth of outdoor activities and adventures, and the impressive variety of attractions in Melbourne alone, visitors to Victoria are sure to be swamped by exciting opportunities.

Key Facts

Language: English is the official language of Australia. Passport/Visa: A valid passport and a visa or ETA is required for travel to Australia. An ETA is an electronically issued and verified visa, not visible in a passport. ETAs are issued to passengers travelling for touristic or business purposes. Tourist ETAs are usually valid for three months. ETAs are obtainable online at: www.eta.immi.gov.au or through most travel agents. It is highly recommended that passports are valid six months after departure from a holiday destination. Currency: The unit of currency is Dollar (AUD), which is divided into 100 cents. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are freely available throughout the country. Banks and bureaux de change exchange most foreign currencies. Banking hours are generally 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday, and 9.30am to 5pm on Friday, but some banks offer extended hours and some are open on Saturday mornings. Electricity: Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Three-pin flat blade plugs are used but are different to those in most other countries, so an adapter is normally required.

Travel guide by wordtravels.com © Globe Media Ltd. By its very nature much of the information in this travel guide is subject to change at short notice and travellers are urged to verify information on which they're relying with the relevant authorities. Travmarket cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above. Event details can change. Please check with the organizers that an event is happening before making travel arrangements. We cannot accept any responsibility for any loss or inconvenience to any person as a result of information contained above.

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Travel to Victoria Climate for Victoria Most of the state of Victoria is in the warm and temperate band of the southeast corner of Australia, with warm and dry summers and cool, wet winters; however, temperatures can vary widely within the state. The Australian Alps in the northeast have snow from June to September, while the eastern highlands, and the Otway Ranges to the west receive the heaviest rainfall. Melbourne has a moderate oceanic climate which is famously variable and well known for its four-seasons-in-a-day weather patterns, but generally June and July are the coldest months, January and February are the hottest, and October is the wettest time of year. In summer, between December and February, temperatures in Melbourne average between 55°F (12°C) and 78°F (25°C); and in winter, between June and August, temperatures in the city average between 42°F (6°C) and 59°F (15°C). Health Notes when travelling to Australia A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by travellers over one year of age arriving within six days of having stayed overnight or longer in an infected country. No other special immunisations or medications are required for most trips to Australia; however, insect repellents are strongly advised because of the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses. Another health risk is sunburn, and visitors are advised to take precautions. Medical services are excellent, but can be expensive so travellers should ensure that they have adequate insurance. Australia has a reciprocal health agreement with the United Kingdom providing for free hospital emergency medical treatment; proof of UK residence is required. Safety Notes when travelling to Australia The crime rate in Australia is low; however, travellers should be aware that tourists could be targeted by petty criminals. Visitors should be vigilant about personal possessions and travel documents, particularly in popular tourist destinations such as along the Gold Coast. Tropical cyclones normally occur between November and April in some parts of Australia, particularly in Western Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory. There is a serious risk of bush fires in summer (November to March), especially in Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales and ACT. Also during the summer months, the shallow coastal waters of northern Australia and Queensland become infested with marine stingers, commonly known as box jellyfish, whose sting is highly dangerous and can be deadly. Visitors should pay attention to signs on beaches and follow the instructions of local lifeguards to avoid injury. Customs in Australia Generally an informal attitude, in dress and behaviour, prevails in most social and business situations. Sport, particularly rugby and cricket, is almost a religion in Australia. Duty Free in Australia Travellers to Australia over 18 years do not have to pay customs duty on 2.25 litres of alcohol; and 50 cigarettes or 25g of cigars or tobacco products (note that all tobacco products in your baggage are included in this category, regardless of where they were purchased). Gifts are included in the A$900 duty-free allowance. Fresh produce and animal/plant products are prohibited.

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Doing Business in Australia Those doing business in Australia are sure to find that the friendly yet professional corporate atmosphere of the country will provide them with an exciting opportunity to develop their careers. The business culture of Australia is a bit of a hybrid breed, incorporating the trappings of British formality and conservatism, the egalitarian ethos of Scandinavian countries, and the dynamic, innovative approach to business that is generally thought of as American in origin - rounded out, of course, with typical Australian warmth and humour. The approach to management in Australia is consultative, pragmatic, and strictly non-hierarchical. Those in positions of relative power are accorded respect by virtue of their personal qualities, not simply because they happen to be the boss. Business etiquette in Australia further reflects this egalitarian ethos. Business people should use titles initially, though they will almost certainly be told to dispense with them - at which point, they should refer to their colleagues by their first names. They should maintain eye contact when speaking to their associates, as this is regarded as a sign of forthrightness and trustworthiness - qualities that Australian business people tend to favour over showiness, self-aggrandisement or empty promises. Business meetings in Australia should be scheduled about a week in advance, and then confirmed a few days before they are due to take place. Colleagues should be punctual, as lateness can be seen as a symptom of flakiness or indifference. Business meetings in Australia do not generally proceed from a set agenda. Rather, they are viewed as open forums, in which ideas are to be debated and discussed. In fact, over-preparing for a meeting can make participants seem pushy - as though they wish to bully others into adopting their opinions on the issue at hand. The dress code for business in Australia remains surprisingly traditional: dark suits and ties are the norm for men; for women, business suits, worn either with pants or a skirt. As a general rule, business people should avoid loud jewellery and accessories as to Australian eyes they might make them seem arrogant. The official language of business in Australia is English, and business hours are generally from 8.30am (or 9am) to 5pm (or 5.30pm), Monday to Friday. Communication in Australia The international dialling code for Australia is +61. Hotels, cafes and restaurants offering free wifi are widely available. As international roaming costs can be quite high, purchasing a local prepaid SIM card can be a cheaper option. Tipping in Australia Most service providers in Sydney don't expect a tip, so travellers shouldn't feel pressured into giving one, though a tip of 10 percent is standard in restaurants. Passengers usually round up to the nearest dollar or more in taxis. Passport/Visa Note A valid passport and a visa or ETA is required for travel to Australia. An ETA is an electronically issued and verified visa, not visible in a passport. ETAs are issued to passengers travelling for touristic or business purposes. Tourist ETAs are usually valid for three months. ETAs are obtainable online at: www.eta.immi.gov.au or through most travel agents. It is highly recommended that passports are valid six months after departure from a holiday destination.

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Airports in Victoria Melbourne Airport (MEL) Melbourne-Tullamarine Airport www.melbourneairport.com.au Location: Melbourne The airport is located 16 miles (25km) north of Melbourne's city centre. Time: GMT +10 (GMT +11 from first Sunday in October to first Sunday in April). Contacts: Tel: +61 (0)3 9297 1600. Transfer between terminals: The terminals are all within walking distance. Getting to the city: Numerous public bus routes access the airport, but the most convenient transport option is the SkyBus, an express bus service between the airport and the city centre, operating 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and departing the airport every 10 minutes. Taxis, airport shuttles and rental cars are also available. Car rental: Car rental companies include Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, Enterprise and Thrifty. Airport Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport, and taxi ranks can be found outside Terminal 1, and between Terminals 2 and Terminal 3. Taxis can also be found on the ground floor of the transport hub outside Terminal 4. Facilities: The airport has excellent facilities, with ATMs, currency exchanges, and a variety of bars, restaurants and shops in all terminals. Other facilities include showers, baby change facilities, public telephones and a medical centre. Shopping includes duty-free. Facilities for the disabled are good. Parking: The airport has a vast range of parking options and each parking lot has different rates. Substantial discounts are available for online bookings. A courtesy bus service operates between the long-term parking and the terminal buildings.

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Melbourne Australia's second-largest city, Melbourne, capital of Victoria, is the most European in style, with trams rattling through streets past historic buildings, parks and outdoor cafes. The city centre is laid out in a simple grid pattern, with wide north-south streets gently sloping down to the , crossed by a mix of narrow lanes, and the main shopping streets such as Bourke and Collins Streets. The Central Business District is easily navigable by foot, and if a rest is needed after a session of sightseeing or shopping there are numerous pretty parks to rest in, such as the Royal Botanical Gardens, and . The burgundy-coloured is free, and taking a ride is a good way to get your bearings upon arrival as well as explore the inner city. Melbourne's population of over three million is made up of a variety of cultures, including Chinese, Italian, Vietnamese, Lebanese and Greek communities, which have all added their flavour to this thriving city. A fierce rivalry exists between the cities of Melbourne and Sydney, but local residents bask in the satisfying knowledge that Melbourne beats Sydney hands-down on the cultural front, noted for its wide variety of high standard performing arts, as well as its sport. The city plays host to world-renowned sporting events like the Melbourne Cup, Australian Open Tennis and Qantas Australia Grand Prix. Beyond the city, within an hour's drive, there are numerous places worth visiting, including the Macedon Ranges, which is Australia's spa capital and boasts world-renowned mineral springs. The spectacular Great Ocean Road winds along the coast, passing stunning rock formations such as the Twelve Apostles. One of the most popular self-drive routes for tourists to follow is the circular Great Southern Touring Route, which includes spectacular scenery and takes in some of Victoria's most beautiful, scenic and cultural attractions.

Getting around in Melbourne

Melbourne's efficient public transport system is an integrated service utilising trams, trains and buses, with standard fares. The best way to see the city and central suburbs is by tram; a fast, cheap and convenient system that is one of the largest and oldest in the world. The Free Tram Zone was established in 2015 and provides free transportation around the CDB. In addition to this, the City Circle tram route loops around the CBD's perimeter. It provides a commentary and the trams are a very convenient way to tour the city centre, providing a service that passes many of the city's main attractions. The suburban train network is extensive and is the fastest way to reach outlying suburbs, and also has an underground . Buses cover the areas that trams and trains don't reach, as well as those they do, but are little used by visitors; on weekends there is a limited night bus service. Taxis, highly visible in bright yellow, are numerous but expensive. Car hire companies are available throughout the city.

Nightlife in Melbourne

Melbourne has a vibrant nightlife encompassing cocktail lounges, pubs, underground dance clubs and international theatre productions. There is no one distinct party area; instead, various entertainment pockets can be found in Melbourne. Melbourne's Central Business District was once very quiet after dark but the last few years have heralded a resurgence of nightlife in the CBD which is now home to plenty of bars and nightclubs. Hotspots in the CBD include King Street and Swanston Street. The most famous nightlife districts are the Collingwood and Fitzroy neighbourhoods in northeastern Melbourne, where night-time entertainment venues centre on streets including Brunswick, Johnson, Smith and Fitzroy. The LGBT nightlife hub is Commercial Street. The charming St Kilda neighbourhood is also a good bet after dark as the crowds of beachgoers tend to move into the pubs and bars as the sun goes down.

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Dining in Melbourne

One of Australia's most cosmopolitan cities, Melbourne has a diverse and exciting dining scene and eating out in this vibrant city can be anything you want it to be. With just about all types of cuisine on offer, the variety of restaurants in Melbourne is astonishing and will see visitors coming back for more. Although originally based on traditional British food, Australian cuisine has been strongly influenced by its Southeast Asian neighbours and elements of this can be seen in many Australian dishes. Travellers can enjoy sampling some of the most innovative and exciting fusion food in the world as Melbourne offers many of Australia's top-class restaurants. Korean, Japanese and Thai eateries abound in the city. William Street is the place to go for authentic Indian fare. Chinatown, in Little Bourke Street, is the best for authentic Chinese food. Brunswick Street in Fitzroy boasts an eclectic mix of eateries where visitors will have a hard time choosing where to start. Downtown Melbourne is where the more low-key restaurants can be found, and the chic St Kilda and Chapel Streets are the trendiest restaurant districts for those wanting to sample Melbourne's latest nouveau cuisine. Punch Lane — $$$ International A long standing favourite in the Melbourne dining scene, Punch Lane has a warm brasserie atmosphere, with red leather seats, dark wooden tables and black boards scribbled with lists of wine available by the glass and daily specials. Loved for it's hefty selection of wines and charcuterie bar where a variety of different cured meats and cheeses can be chosen, Punch Lane is a great after work wind-down or pre-theatre rendezvous. With unpretentious food and an intimate atmosphere, this wine bar combines all the necessary elements to ensure a relaxing evening with quality food and wine in Melbourne's bustling theatre district. Open daily for lunch and dinner, except lunch on Saturdays and Sundays. 43 Little Bourke Street Melbourne, Australia www.punchlane.com.au Syracuse — $$$$ Mediterranean Something of a Melbourne institution, Syracuse is a restaurant not to be missed. The simple décor, unadorned white walls, classy dark antique tables and chairs, and lofty ceilings and arches, all combine to give this establishment a sophisticated look that is both colonial and Mediterranean. Start with fresh oysters or a crisp salad that is carefully put together, try out the thinly sliced tuna steak accompanied with a salad of lentils, tomato, carrot, shallot, herbs and olive oil, or sample the renowned myriad of tapas, all accompanied with a glass of wine from Syracruse's impressive selection. Open Monday to Friday for breakfast, lunch and dinner and dinner only on Saturday. 23 Bank Place Melbourne, Australia www.syracuserestaurant.com.au II Bacaro — $$$ Italian With ten years experience under its belt, the highly respected and loved Il Baraco restaurant enjoys a continuous influx of loyal customers who appreciate the carefully prepared traditional Italian food, the palatable selection of wines and sincere service. A quality Italian restaurant, situated in the heart of the business district, Il Baraco attracts both executives and lovers with an intimate ambiance, achieved with a classic combination of crisp white linen tablecloths, dark wooden chairs and soft lighting. Some highlights on the menu include the Yarra Valley quail roasted and served with pecorino ice cream and pomegranate salad starter and the Western Plains suckling pork marinated in grappa, served with black cabbage and vin cotto. Open Monday to Saturday for lunch and dinner. 168-170 Little Collins Street Melbourne, Australia www.ilbacaro.com.au

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Kenzan — $$$ Japanese For sushi lovers looking for a fix, Kenzan is a great place to take a group of friends or go on a romantic date. With unmistakable retro charm, patrons can dine at the sushi bar and watch their dinner being prepared or resign themselves to a traditional tatami room, where all the customs of an authentic Japanese evening can be enjoyed. Conducting business for over 25 years, Kenzan is recognised for its attention to detail and quality food. Choose from a wide selection of sushi or opt for a meal off the a la carte menu. For lunch a Bento Box is the best bet, comprising of sashimi, prawn dumplings, small appetizers and rice, all presented in a traditional Japanese box and served with miso soup. A good starter is the refreshing sugaki (fresh oysters with citrus flavoured ponzu vinegar) and a sake teriyaki (grilled salmon) as a main. Open for lunch Monday to Friday and dinner Monday to Saturday. , 45 Collins Street (56 Flinders Lane) Melbourne, Australia www.kenzan.com.au The Prince — $$$$ International Circa is a sophisticated restaurant with a fashionable pink and white interior, lit by woven basket lights, and a lovely courtyard shaded by olive trees. The varied menu offers an array of dishes accompanied by fresh, home-grown vegetables; the tuna with red mullet and eggplant caviare, on toasted sourdough, followed by pheasant with rhubarb and ginger, is delicious! Open for breakfast daily, dinner Monday to Saturday and lunch on Sunday. Reservations essential. 2 Acland Street, St Kilda Melbourne, Australia theprince.com.au/prince-dining-room/ The Press Club — $$$$$ Modern Eclectic Evoking images of a smoky bistro, where journalists and the like would discuss the days events, literature and politics, the dark walls, industrial windows and black leather of the renowned Press Club create a chic atmosphere with starched white tablecloths where patrons await the inventive products of master chef George Calombaris. Situated in the centre of Melbourne's metropolis, the Greek dishes served at The Press Club are by no means traditional. Expect to savour meals that are as of yet unheard of, a fusion of the old with the very new. With fresh ingredients that are creatively put together and beautifully presented, a visit to The Press Club is a gastronomic experience. Open for lunch and dinner Monday to Friday and dinner Saturday and Sunday. Bookings recommended. 72 Flinders Street Melbourne, Australia www.thepressclub.com.au

Shopping in Melbourne

Shopping in Melbourne is fun and varied as the city offers both enormous malls and department stores and small quirky side-street boutiques and speciality shops. From various shopping precincts, malls and markets, there are purchases available to suit all tastes, budgets and needs. Most stores are open all week from 10am; many stay open till 9pm on Fridays. The main shopping strip is on Bourke Street with Bourke Street Mall at its heart, while the east end of the street has mainly fashion boutiques and bookshops. There are bargains galore to be found at , while Melbourne Central is the place to find leading Australian and international labels. There are laneways and arcades throughout the city offering everything from magic spells and antique books to eclectic fashions and household goods. Chinatown, encompassing Little Bourke Street and the neighbouring lanes, offers Asian grocery stores, Chinese medicine, music and jewellery. The Sunday's Market at the Art Centre is good for unique jewellery, ceramics and glassware. A goods and services tax refund is available to tourists so it is a good idea to keep receipts from large purchases - to qualify for the tax refund at the airport travellers need to have spent A$300 or more.

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Climate in Melbourne

Melbourne has a moderate oceanic climate and the city's weather is notoriously changeable. In the hottest months of summer, January and February, temperatures average between 58°F (14°C) and 78°F (25°C), though it can get substantially hotter. In the spring and summer months cold fronts can cause severe weather including thunderstorms, hail, heavy rain and gales. In the winter months, between June and August, temperatures average between 42°F (6°C) and 59°F (15°C). Melbourne experiences some frost and fog in winter, but snow is rare. Melbourne is best visited between November and March, when it is warmer and less rainy, but some rain can be expected throughout the year.

Sightseeing in Melbourne

The second largest city in Australia, Melbourne is brimming with a wide variety of attractions to enthral just about every kind of traveller. Whatever your taste or interest, there is bound to be something in Melbourne for you. Art lovers will enjoy the National Gallery of Victoria; history buffs will relish touring the ; and culture vultures will love exploring the Chinese and Melbourne Museums. Those with a fear of heights should steer clear of the Eureka Tower, but thrill-seekers will be in heaven on the 88th floor of Melbourne's tallest building, which offers breath-taking panoramic views of the city. Children of all ages will love the which boasts more than 350 different species of animals, and a day in the Royal Botanical Gardens is not to be missed. Visitors keen on sightseeing will do well to purchase one of the iVenture Cards specific to Melbourne, all of which can lead to huge discounts on attractions and tours when used extensively enough. The cards come in several different categories and can be purchased online.

Kids Attractions in Melbourne

With miles of coastline, fascinating and unique attractions and fabulous weather, Melbourne is a children's playground - literally. With everything from exciting museums and gardens to beaches and trails, Melbourne has a lot to offer in culture and its outdoors. Pack a picnic and head to the Royal Botanic Gardens or enjoy a leisurely stroll with the kids if they need to be tired out! Older kids will love walking the Bay Trail from St Kilda to the seaside town of Brighton which encompasses all kinds of scenery past parks, cafes, yachts in the bay and marinas. A trip to the Children's Animal Farm is a must for little ones where a picnic can be enjoyed while the children pet the animals, while the Melbourne Aquarium showcases animals of a different nature. Children looking for a bit of excitement should visit Luna Park to enjoy exhilarating rides and games. The Fox Classic Car Collection Museum makes a great outing for dads and their sons, as does the Geelong Naval and Maritime Museum, while a trip aboard the Puffing Billy Steam Train through the Dandenong Ranges makes an ideal excursion for the day and a great way to see Melbourne's surrounding areas. Melbourne Attractions

Cooks' Cottage

Opening time: Open daily from 9am to 5pm (last visitor admitted at 4.45pm) Admission: A$6.20 (adults), A$3.20 (children aged 5 - 15). Concessions are available. This cottage was originally built in the village of Great Ayton in Yorkshire, England, in 1755, by James and Grace Cook, the parents of Captain James Cook. When the cottage was offered for sale in 1933 it was bought by a prominent Melbourne businessman, Sir Russell Grimwade. He arranged for it to be taken apart brick by brick and transported via ship and train to Melbourne. In early 1934 the cottage was rebuilt on its present site in Fitzroy Gardens, East Melbourne. Even the ivy that adorns the cottage was cut from the original plants in England. Today it provides visitors with the opportunity to glimpse what life was like in 18th-century England, a slightly surreal experience in modern Australia. The historic building also provides audio-visual exhibitions about Captain Cook's life and adventures. Getting there: Tram 48 or 75 from Flinders Street or Swanson Street to stop 9 on Wellington Parade; or City Circle Tram to Spring Street Address: Fitzroy Gardens, Wellington Parade Street

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Yarra River

A visit to Melbourne would not be complete without a good look at its main river system, the Yarra River. Often the subject of jokes due to its brownish colour, it is actually not dirty, just muddy. The Yarra has become the focus of much development in the central business district, with many new buildings, walks and parks having been created along its banks in recent years, including the relatively new Riverside Park. For the best view of the Yarra River walk to Princes Bridge, St Kilda Road, or take a cruise along the river from Princes Walk (below Princes Bridge). Otherwise, simply enjoy a stroll or a picnic on the riverbank in one of the public parks. Website: www.yarrariver.info

Old Melbourne Gaol

Opening time: Open daily, from 9.30am to 5pm. Closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day. Admission: A$25 (adults), A$13.50 (children aged 5 - 15). Concessions are available. Victoria's oldest surviving remand prison gives visitors a chilling insight into prison life in a model 19th-century gaol. Behind the thick and forbidding walls Ned Kelly, the infamous bushranger, was one of 135 men and women who were hanged on the gaol's scaffold. Visitors can view the Hangman's Box, the Particulars of Execution book, and other exhibits relating to this grim period of Victoria's history, as well as the death masks used in the study of phrenology to predict criminal behaviour. The Women in Prison exhibition reveals the fascinating stories of the crimes committed by the female inmates. There are free performances every Saturday of The Real Ned Kelly Story - Such is Life, and night performances on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday with hangman 'Michael Gately' as he recounts stories of the gaol by candlelight (not for the faint hearted or children under 12 years of age). Getting there: City Circle Tram No. 24, Stop No. 7 or train to Melbourne Central Station (2 min walk) Address: Russell Street (between Victoria and La Trobe Street) Telephone: (0)3 8663 7228 Website: www.oldmelbournegaol.com.au

Dandenong Ranges National Park

The famous lyre bird, which has the ability to mimic any other bird, is the most important inhabitant of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, just 25 miles (40km) from Melbourne via Burwood Highway or Canterbury Road. The park, covering 3,215 hectares, plays an important role in protecting the famous birds. Visitors enjoy walking, cycling and picnicking in the park at venues with enchanting names like Ferntree Gully, One Tree Hill or Sherbrooke Forest. The park is rich in wildlife and spectacular mountain ash forests and fern gullies are to be seen. The historic Puffing Billy steam train runs from Belgrave to Lakeside close to the park, and there are numerous craft shops, antique shops, gardens and restaurants in the area. Dandenong Ranges National Park allows visitors to escape from the bustle of Melbourne for a taste of the Australian wilderness just beyond the city. Address: Monbulk Road Website: www.parkweb.vic.gov.au

Ballarat

This historic town of great elegance and charm is the gateway to the goldfields. The name is an Aboriginal word meaning 'resting place', which is well suited because a tranquil lake and botanical gardens are the focal point of the city. The main Avenue of Honour is lined with 4,000 trees as a memorial to citizens who served in World War I. The city is steeped in the history of the Gold Rush era. Visitors enjoy the Eureka Trail, a two-mile (3km) walk that retraces the route taken by the police and soldiers during the Australian rebellion of the Eureka stockade in 1854, and it is possible to undertake a self-guided Heritage Walk through the inner city's streets. Ballarat is also celebrated for its fresh produce, sold at farmer's markets which occur almost every weekend somewhere in the city. Website: www.visitballarat.com.au

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Great Ocean Road

From Melbourne one of the most popular self-drive routes for tourists to follow is the circular Great Southern Touring Route, which includes spectacular scenery and takes in some of Victoria's most beautiful, scenic and cultural attractions. The first part of the route hugs the coastline going south along the Great Ocean Road, renowned for its coastal scenery, passing lush Otways rainforests and on to the magnificent limestone rock sculptures known as the Twelve Apostles in the Port Campbell National Park. Other attractions along the Great Ocean Road include the historic villages of Port Campbell, Queenscliff, Portland and Port Fairy, as well as resort towns and coastal cities such as Torquay, Apollo Bay, Geelong and Warrnambool. Website: www.greatoceanrd.org.au

Grampians National Park

The lofty summits and ridgelines of the Grampians region provide inspiring natural beauty in a park that is home to a variety of habitats, unique wildlife and more than one third of all the plant species found in Victoria. The park is particularly well known for its colourful displays of springtime wildflowers, which are at their best during October. There is an abundance of wildlife in the lowlands, including emus, kangaroos, possums, koalas, wallabies and more than 200 species of bird. The park also has some interesting Aboriginal art sites among its 167,000 hectares of woodland, heath, swamp, forest and sub-alpine zones. There are campsites and some wonderful overnight walking trails in the park, as well as some shorter walks for those just wanting a pleasant stroll. Address: 277 Grampians Road, Halls Gap Website: parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/grampians-national-park

Eureka Tower

Opening time: The Skydeck is open daily, from 10am to 10pm; The Edge may be closed in certain weather conditions. Admission: Skydeck: A$20 (adults), A$11.50 (children 4-16). The Edge: A$12 (adults), A$8 (children). Other concessions and group tickets are available. The Eureka Tower is the tallest building in Melbourne and the tallest residential building in the world, standing at just over 984ft (300m) tall, and offering 360-degree views over the city. There is a public observation deck on level 88, the Skydeck, which affords visitors with a head for heights a testing experience: a chance to be suspended above the city in a glass cube (The Edge) that juts out from the building by 10ft (3m) to hang out over the city far below. On entry into the cube, the glass is frosted and moves out over the edge of the building, but as soon as the cube is in place the glass unfrosts to the sound of smashing glass, revealing the city far below. The Edge is not included in the Skydeck Experience and requires an additional payment, but it is definitely worth it for those wanting extreme views! Address: Riverside Quay, Southbank Telephone: (0)3 9693 8888 Website: www.eurekaskydeck.com.au

Melbourne Museum

Opening time: Open daily from 10am to 5pm. Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day Admission: A$14 (adults). Concessions are available. A fascinating museum complex situated in the Carlton Gardens, the is the largest in Australia, with more than 30 different exhibits covering history, culture, science, animals and more. Its most notable galleries include the Bunjilaka, which explores the history of Aboriginal culture in Victoria; the Science and Life Gallery, focusing on insects and spiders, the marine world and Australia's local flora and fauna; and the Children's Museum, housed in a tilted cube, which offers colourful and interactive displays. Opened in 2000, the Melbourne Museum is a showcase of modern exhibition standards, with a three-dimensional Imax theatre screening documentary films and a resourceful public research centre, where visitors can investigate any subject they wish. Getting there: Tram 86 or 96 to corner of Nicholson and Gertrude Streets, or City Circle Tram to Victoria Parade Address: 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton Website: www.museumvictoria.com.au

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Federation Square

Occupying a whole city block, is one of Melbourne's major attractions. A remarkable cultural nucleus, the square hosts more than 2,000 events a year in its outdoor public spaces, St Paul's Court and The Square, and vibrant covered space, the Atrium. Renowned for its unique design, the triangular shapes that characterise Federation Square actually create an abstract map of the Australian Federation. Affording spectacular views of the city, Southbank and the Yarra River, visitors can not only explore the peculiar design of this cultural precinct, but also visit the many galleries, cinemas, museums, restaurants and shops that surround it, most notably the Ian Potter Centre and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image. Address: Corner of Flinders and Swanston Street Website: www.federationsquare.com.au

Queen Victoria Market

Opening time: Opening times vary by day and section - check the official website listed above for details. If you are planning a picnic at Birrarung Marr or the Botanic Gardens or just looking for some affordable souvenirs, head to the Queen Victoria market, one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere, with almost 50 percent of the market dedicated to the sale of fresh produce, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, chicken, seafood, cold cuts and cheese. A popular meeting place for locals and foreigners, this cosmopolitan market is best visited on a Sunday when adjacent Queen Street is closed down and converted into a sidewalk café area, where buskers entertain passers-by and children's rides are available. Officially opened in 1878, the Queen Victoria Market has been affectionately frequented by Melbournians for more than 125 years and still proves to be the best place for perusing a myriad of clothing, shoes, jewellery, bric-a-brac, antique and toy stalls. Getting there: Catch any tram heading north along Elizabeth and William Streets. Stop at either Franklin or Victoria Street corner Address: Corner of Elizabeth and Victoria Street Telephone: (03) 9320 5822 Website: www.qvm.com.au

Melbourne Zoo

Opening time: Open daily from 9am to 5pm. Admission: $31.60 (adults), $15.80 (children aged 4 - 15). Concessions are available and children under 16 get in free on weekends and holidays. Housing more than 350 different animal species, Melbourne Zoo is a worthy attraction, even by the standards of a country famous for nature conservation and interesting animals. Built in 1862, certain areas of the zoo have been preserved as historic zones, demonstrating to visitors the significant changes the zoo has undergone. Famous for its endemic inhabitants such as the kangaroo, wallaby, koala and wombat, the zoo also has elephants in the Asian Rainforest area, a gorilla exhibit, an Orangutan Sanctuary and Butterfly House. Little more than two miles (4km) from the zoo is situated in a breath-taking botanic garden setting that extends 55 acres, including more than four different ecosystems and an impressive 70,000 plant specimens. Getting there: Tram 55 from William Street, or train from Flinders Street Station to Royal Park Station Address: Elliott Avenue, Parkville Telephone: 1300 966 784 Website: www.zoo.org.au

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Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG)

Opening time: Guided tours run daily, between 10am and 3pm. Check website for event information. Admission: Guided tour: A$23 (adults), A$12 (children 5-15). Concessions and combined tickets for the museum and tours are available. The (MCG) is one of the most impressive stadia in the world, and is well worth a visit even for non-sporting types. Originally built in 1853 for the Melbourne Cricket Club (who are still based at the MCG), the stadium has undergone major redevelopments in its history and now stands as one of the most beautifully-finished, spectator-friendly grounds on earth. The MCG also houses the National Sports Museum, comprising the Olympic Museum, the Australian Sports Hall of Fame, the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame, and the Melbourne Cricket Club Museum, all of which contain interesting sporting memorabilia. The MCG is used for cricket in the summer (try catch a Boxing Day test match), Aussie Rules football in the winter, and for events like rock concerts and a host of other cultural events year-round. Address: , Melbourne Telephone: (03) 9657 8888 Website: www.mcg.org.au

Puffing Billy Railway

The Puffing Billy Railway is Australia's Oldest Steam Railway. A century old, the train still follows its original mountain track in the scenic Dandenong Ranges, offering spectacular mountain views and winding through cool fern gullies between Belgrave, Emerald Lake and Gembrook. The whole trip takes two hours in each direction. Tickets can be bought before boarding the train, which departs several times a day, but bookings are essential for the special luncheon or dinner trips, which include a meal in the first class carriage. The train sometimes hosts other fun events, like comedy nights. Family tickets are available and kids will love the novelty of travelling by steam train! Website: www.puffingbilly.com.au Events in Melbourne Australian F1 Grand Prix Thursday March 14, 2019 to Sunday March 17, 2019 (TBC 2021) Where: Albert Park Lake, near St Kilda. Motorsport fans have a real treat when it comes time for the Australian Formula One Grand Prix at the superb modern Albert Park Lake circuit. The main race is the first on the annual Formula One schedule, and forms the centrepiece of four days of events from karting through all racing categories and off-track entertainment. The Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit is a street circuit around the ornamental Albert Park Lake just south of the Central Business District. The road surface is comparatively smooth for a street circuit, and the course is considered fast and fairly easy to drive, leading to competitive lap times, despite the fact that overtaking is difficult. The event is very well supported by Australians and attracts some international fans. http://www.formula1.com Melbourne Cup Saturday October 31, 2020 to Saturday November 07, 2020 (31 October - 7 November 2020) Where: Flemington Racecourse Melbourne's premier turf event isn't just any horserace. The annual Melbourne Cup is billed as 'the celebration that stops a nation' and 'Australia's most famous Tuesday'. The race is the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere and draws interest from across the world. First run in 1861, it carries a proud tradition and is the highlight of the four-day Melbourne Cup Carnival. The event is also an excuse for dressing up and sampling gourmet delights, with society embracing the chance to show off and mingle with the fashionable and famous of Melbourne. http://www.melbournecup.com.au

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Australian Open Tennis Championships Monday January 18, 2021 to Sunday January 31, 2021 (18 January - 31 January 2021) Where: What started out as the Australasian Championships in 1905 has become what is known today as the Australian Open. It has been staged at six different venues: New Zealand, Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth. Since 1972, the tournament has been held every year at Melbourne Park. The Australian Open is one of the four tennis championships that make up the 'Grand Slam,' along with the French Open, Wimbledon and the US Open, making the tournament a prestigious event for the top tennis professionals. Although the tournament was originally played on grass, two hard court surfaces are now used. The Australian Open is second only to the US for attendance numbers and is a very popular tournament with spectators. http://www.australianopen.com Melbourne Writers Festival Friday September 03, 2021 to Sunday September 12, 2021 (3- 12 September 2021) Where: The Melbourne Writers Festival is the city's premier literary event, well-established after nearly three decades. Every year the festival draws together well known and talented writers, artists, thinkers and performers from around the world. There is generally something for every lover of good writing, with a wide range of genres covered, from novels to film, journalism to song writing, comedy to cartooning, and even advertising and politics. The full program and bookings are available on the official website listed below. Past celebrity guests have included Isabel Allende, Margaret Atwood, Bill Bryson, A.S. Byatt, J.M. Coetzee, Paulo Coelho, Seamus Heaney and Ian Rankin, among many others. http://www.mwf.com.au Airports in Melbourne

Melbourne Airport (MEL) Melbourne-Tullamarine Airport http://www.melbourneairport.com.au

Location: Melbourne The airport is located 16 miles (25km) north of Melbourne's city centre. Time: GMT +10 (GMT +11 from first Sunday in October to first Sunday in April). Contacts: Tel: +61 (0)3 9297 1600. Transfer between terminals: The terminals are all within walking distance. Getting to the city: Numerous public bus routes access the airport, but the most convenient transport option is the SkyBus, an express bus service between the airport and the city centre, operating 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and departing the airport every 10 minutes. Taxis, airport shuttles and rental cars are also available. Car rental: Car rental companies include Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, Enterprise and Thrifty. Airport Taxis: Taxis are readily available at the airport, and taxi ranks can be found outside Terminal 1, and between Terminals 2 and Terminal 3. Taxis can also be found on the ground floor of the transport hub outside Terminal 4. Facilities: The airport has excellent facilities, with ATMs, currency exchanges, and a variety of bars, restaurants and shops in all terminals. Other facilities include showers, baby change facilities, public telephones and a medical centre. Shopping includes duty-free. Facilities for the disabled are good. Parking: The airport has a vast range of parking options and each parking lot has different rates. Substantial discounts are available for online bookings. A courtesy bus service operates between the long-term parking and the terminal buildings.

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Phillip Island and Gippsland Gippsland is a large, rural region of Victoria, between Melbourne and the border with New South Wales. The region is scenically splendid and a popular getaway from the city of Melbourne, with lakes, forests, dramatic coastline and historic towns to lure travellers. Gippsland is the place to head for an experience of Victoria's unspoiled wilderness areas, perfect for a peaceful and invigorating break from the urban attractions of cosmopolitan Melbourne. It is also gourmet country, filled with cheese-makers, wineries, fruit farms and markets. There are more than 100 vineyards and about 40 wineries in the region, providing a wealth of fine wine to sample in-between adventurous activities. Phillip Island, just offshore, offers the chance to experience being up close and personal with a variety of wildlife, including fairy penguins, fur seals and koala bears. The island also has several outstanding dive sites, and is surrounded by some of the best surfing and swimming beaches in Victoria. Visitors to Gippsland stay in the small alpine towns and seaside villages of the region. Popular travel bases include Walhalla, Port Albert, Mt Baw Baw, Paynesville, Metung and Mallacoota.

Sightseeing in Phillip Island and Gippsland

Gippsland's main attractions are natural, with splendid national parks and unspoilt wilderness areas including Agnes Falls Scenic Reserve, Wilson's Promontory National Park, Tarra-Bulga National Park, Croajingolong National Park, Baw Baw National Park, National Park, and many, many more. These pristine areas provide an impressive variety of landscapes, including mountains, forests and some beautiful stretches of coastline, and there are many rewarding walking trails for keen hikers. The region also boasts some marine reserves and pretty islands, as well as some great scuba diving sites. Other popular attractions in Gippsland include Walhalla, a historic gold mining town where visitors can take underground tours of the mines; the magnificent Buchan Caves, located in the town of the same name; Port Albert, Gippsland's oldest port; the exciting animals to be found on Phillip Island and at a number of other animal sanctuaries in the region; and the weird and wonderful A Maze 'N Things theme park, which provides a fun break from outdoor activities. Phillip Island and Gippsland Attractions

Agnes Falls Scenic Reserve

Agnes Falls, at 194ft (59m), are the highest single span waterfalls in Victoria. The falls are situated 100 miles (160km) southeast of Melbourne, near Toora on the Highway. The Agnes Falls Scenic Reserve protects a small remnant of the forests that once covered the Stzrelecki Ranges. The canopy of eucalyptus provides food and nesting areas for a variety of birds, including the laughing Kookaburra and a range of honeyeaters. All plants and animals in the reserve are protected, and camping is not permitted; however, taking along a picnic is a wonderful idea as there is a picturesque picnic site on the banks of the Agnes River. There are designated walking trails which allow visitors to take in the beautiful landscapes and the best of the falls. Address: Silcocks Hill Road, Toora Website: parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/agnes-falls-s.r.

Phillip Island Circuit

At Cowes, racing enthusiasts enjoy visiting the Phillip Island Circuit, originally opened in 1956, which annually hosts two international motorcycle events, the Superbike World Championship and the Qantas Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. The Circuit has a Visitor Centre, which includes informative displays on the history of motor sport on Phillip Island, a circuit viewing area, a café, water gardens and wildlife enclosures. Guided walking tours take visitors to off-limits areas around the track, including the winner's podium, the pit lane and the control tower. Visitors may also experience an adrenaline-pumping triple lap ride with an experienced racing driver in the HSV Hot Laps. Address: Back Beach Road, Phillip Island Website: http://www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au

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Wilsons Promontory National Park

The Promontory (known as 'the Prom') once linked Tasmania to the mainland. It has been a reserved area since 1898, with its 80 miles (130km) of coastline framed by vast granite masses, mountains, forests and fern gullies. The focus for tourism and recreation is at , about 19 miles (30km) inside the park boundary, where visitors enjoy the sandy beach at Norman Bay, and Squeaky Beach with its pure white quartz sand. It is possible to walk up Mt Oberon or take 'the Prom Lighthouse Trek' with a ranger along the southern section of the park. The north of the park, including Barry Creek, is a wilderness area which remains remarkably untouched by humankind and can only be accessed on foot. Hikers wanting a true wilderness experience can stay overnight in this area, but there are no amenities and everything needed must be carried in. Address: Wilsons Promontory Website: parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park

A Maze 'N Things

As suggested by the pun in its name, A Maze 'N Things is a theme park that specialises in mazes, tricks, puzzles, optical illusions and other ludic delights. The great strength of the establishment is that its exhibitions are aimed primarily at adults, and are of a high-enough quality to provide hours of entertainment to even the most jaded of theme park patrons. Truly discombobulating, the park's attractions are separated into four main sections: the Maze, a labyrinth of twisting, dead-ending passageways; Maxi Golf, a 19-hole putt-putt course that will bring even experienced golfers to their knees; Puzzle Island, an interactive area of challenges and illusions, including the Rotating Room and the 6.5-metre slide; and the pick of the bunch, the Illusions Rooms, where visitors will disbelieve their eyes, as they watch water flow uphill, watch themselves shrink, defy gravity, and even disappear. A Maze 'N Things is one of those rare places where everyone in the family - from grandfather to grandson - is pretty much guaranteed to have a great time, and is a highly recommend tourist attraction for family vacationers in Victoria. Address: 1805 Phillip Island Road, Cowes Website: http://www.amazenthings.com.au

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Victoria Attractions Overview Victoria is chock full of tourist attractions, with Melbourne providing a slew of worthy urban sightseeing opportunities, and the state's scores of national parks promising a varied playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Within Melbourne, top tourist attractions include Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, the lofty Eureka Tower, Melbourne Zoo, Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), and a wealth of museums and galleries. There are about 45 protected wilderness areas in Victoria, encompassing glorious rainforests, high mountains, and pristine stretches of coastline. The most popular national parks in Victoria include Dandenong Ranges National Park, Grampians National Park, Wilson's Promontory National Park, Mornington Peninsula National Park, Alpine National Park, and Tarra Bulga National Park. Victoria is celebrated as an agricultural gem, with some splendid wineries and great local produce. This rich farming heritage contributes to the gourmet culture, and foodies should be sure to experience the vineyards, restaurants and farms of the state. History buffs will also enjoy exploring the Gold Rush towns of Victoria, with the chance to take some underground tours of the old mines.

Cooks' Cottage Opening time: Open daily from 9am to 5pm (last visitor admitted at 4.45pm) Admission: A$6.20 (adults), A$3.20 (children aged 5 - 15). Concessions are available. This cottage was originally built in the village of Great Ayton in Yorkshire, England, in 1755, by James and Grace Cook, the parents of Captain James Cook. When the cottage was offered for sale in 1933 it was bought by a prominent Melbourne businessman, Sir Russell Grimwade. He arranged for it to be taken apart brick by brick and transported via ship and train to Melbourne. In early 1934 the cottage was rebuilt on its present site in Fitzroy Gardens, East Melbourne. Even the ivy that adorns the cottage was cut from the original plants in England. Today it provides visitors with the opportunity to glimpse what life was like in 18th-century England, a slightly surreal experience in modern Australia. The historic building also provides audio-visual exhibitions about Captain Cook's life and adventures.

Getting there: Tram 48 or 75 from Flinders Street or Swanson Street to stop 9 on Wellington Parade; or City Circle Tram to Spring Street Address: Fitzroy Gardens, Wellington Parade Street Yarra River A visit to Melbourne would not be complete without a good look at its main river system, the Yarra River. Often the subject of jokes due to its brownish colour, it is actually not dirty, just muddy. The Yarra has become the focus of much development in the central business district, with many new buildings, walks and parks having been created along its banks in recent years, including the relatively new Riverside Park. For the best view of the Yarra River walk to Princes Bridge, St Kilda Road, or take a cruise along the river from Princes Walk (below Princes Bridge). Otherwise, simply enjoy a stroll or a picnic on the riverbank in one of the public parks.

Website: www.yarrariver.info

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Old Melbourne Gaol Opening time: Open daily, from 9.30am to 5pm. Closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day. Admission: A$25 (adults), A$13.50 (children aged 5 - 15). Concessions are available. Victoria's oldest surviving remand prison gives visitors a chilling insight into prison life in a model 19th-century gaol. Behind the thick and forbidding walls Ned Kelly, the infamous bushranger, was one of 135 men and women who were hanged on the gaol's scaffold. Visitors can view the Hangman's Box, the Particulars of Execution book, and other exhibits relating to this grim period of Victoria's history, as well as the death masks used in the study of phrenology to predict criminal behaviour. The Women in Prison exhibition reveals the fascinating stories of the crimes committed by the female inmates. There are free performances every Saturday of The Real Ned Kelly Story - Such is Life, and night performances on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday with hangman 'Michael Gately' as he recounts stories of the gaol by candlelight (not for the faint hearted or children under 12 years of age).

Getting there: City Circle Tram No. 24, Stop No. 7 or train to Melbourne Central Station (2 min walk) Address: Russell Street (between Victoria and La Trobe Street) Telephone: (0)3 8663 7228 Website: www.oldmelbournegaol.com.au Agnes Falls Scenic Reserve Agnes Falls, at 194ft (59m), are the highest single span waterfalls in Victoria. The falls are situated 100 miles (160km) southeast of Melbourne, near Toora on the South Gippsland Highway. The Agnes Falls Scenic Reserve protects a small remnant of the forests that once covered the Stzrelecki Ranges. The canopy of eucalyptus provides food and nesting areas for a variety of birds, including the laughing Kookaburra and a range of honeyeaters. All plants and animals in the reserve are protected, and camping is not permitted; however, taking along a picnic is a wonderful idea as there is a picturesque picnic site on the banks of the Agnes River. There are designated walking trails which allow visitors to take in the beautiful landscapes and the best of the falls.

Address: Silcocks Hill Road, Toora Website: parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/agnes-falls-s.r. Phillip Island Circuit At Cowes, racing enthusiasts enjoy visiting the Phillip Island Circuit, originally opened in 1956, which annually hosts two international motorcycle events, the Superbike World Championship and the Qantas Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. The Circuit has a Visitor Centre, which includes informative displays on the history of motor sport on Phillip Island, a circuit viewing area, a café, water gardens and wildlife enclosures. Guided walking tours take visitors to off-limits areas around the track, including the winner's podium, the pit lane and the control tower. Visitors may also experience an adrenaline-pumping triple lap ride with an experienced racing driver in the HSV Hot Laps.

Address: Back Beach Road, Phillip Island Website: www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au Wilsons Promontory National Park The Promontory (known as 'the Prom') once linked Tasmania to the mainland. It has been a reserved area since 1898, with its 80 miles (130km) of coastline framed by vast granite masses, mountains, forests and fern gullies. The focus for tourism and recreation is at Tidal River, about 19 miles (30km) inside the park boundary, where visitors enjoy the sandy beach at Norman Bay, and Squeaky Beach with its pure white quartz sand. It is possible to walk up Mt Oberon or take 'the Prom Lighthouse Trek' with a ranger along the southern section of the park. The north of the park, including Barry Creek, is a wilderness area which remains remarkably untouched by humankind and can only be accessed on foot. Hikers wanting a true wilderness experience can stay overnight in this area, but there are no amenities and everything needed must be carried in.

Address: Wilsons Promontory Website: parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park

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Dandenong Ranges National Park The famous lyre bird, which has the ability to mimic any other bird, is the most important inhabitant of the Dandenong Ranges National Park, just 25 miles (40km) from Melbourne via Burwood Highway or Canterbury Road. The park, covering 3,215 hectares, plays an important role in protecting the famous birds. Visitors enjoy walking, cycling and picnicking in the park at venues with enchanting names like Ferntree Gully, One Tree Hill or Sherbrooke Forest. The park is rich in wildlife and spectacular mountain ash forests and fern gullies are to be seen. The historic Puffing Billy steam train runs from Belgrave to Lakeside close to the park, and there are numerous craft shops, antique shops, gardens and restaurants in the area. Dandenong Ranges National Park allows visitors to escape from the bustle of Melbourne for a taste of the Australian wilderness just beyond the city.

Address: Monbulk Road Website: www.parkweb.vic.gov.au Ballarat This historic town of great elegance and charm is the gateway to the goldfields. The name is an Aboriginal word meaning 'resting place', which is well suited because a tranquil lake and botanical gardens are the focal point of the city. The main Avenue of Honour is lined with 4,000 trees as a memorial to citizens who served in World War I. The city is steeped in the history of the Gold Rush era. Visitors enjoy the Eureka Trail, a two-mile (3km) walk that retraces the route taken by the police and soldiers during the Australian rebellion of the Eureka stockade in 1854, and it is possible to undertake a self-guided Heritage Walk through the inner city's streets. Ballarat is also celebrated for its fresh produce, sold at farmer's markets which occur almost every weekend somewhere in the city.

Website: www.visitballarat.com.au Great Ocean Road From Melbourne one of the most popular self-drive routes for tourists to follow is the circular Great Southern Touring Route, which includes spectacular scenery and takes in some of Victoria's most beautiful, scenic and cultural attractions. The first part of the route hugs the coastline going south along the Great Ocean Road, renowned for its coastal scenery, passing lush Otways rainforests and on to the magnificent limestone rock sculptures known as the Twelve Apostles in the Port Campbell National Park. Other attractions along the Great Ocean Road include the historic villages of Port Campbell, Queenscliff, Portland and Port Fairy, as well as resort towns and coastal cities such as Torquay, Apollo Bay, Geelong and Warrnambool.

Website: www.greatoceanrd.org.au Grampians National Park The lofty summits and ridgelines of the Grampians region provide inspiring natural beauty in a park that is home to a variety of habitats, unique wildlife and more than one third of all the plant species found in Victoria. The park is particularly well known for its colourful displays of springtime wildflowers, which are at their best during October. There is an abundance of wildlife in the lowlands, including emus, kangaroos, possums, koalas, wallabies and more than 200 species of bird. The park also has some interesting Aboriginal art sites among its 167,000 hectares of woodland, heath, swamp, forest and sub-alpine zones. There are campsites and some wonderful overnight walking trails in the park, as well as some shorter walks for those just wanting a pleasant stroll.

Address: 277 Grampians Road, Halls Gap Website: parkweb.vic.gov.au/explore/parks/grampians-national-park

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Eureka Tower Opening time: The Skydeck is open daily, from 10am to 10pm; The Edge may be closed in certain weather conditions. Admission: Skydeck: A$20 (adults), A$11.50 (children 4-16). The Edge: A$12 (adults), A$8 (children). Other concessions and group tickets are available. The Eureka Tower is the tallest building in Melbourne and the tallest residential building in the world, standing at just over 984ft (300m) tall, and offering 360-degree views over the city. There is a public observation deck on level 88, the Skydeck, which affords visitors with a head for heights a testing experience: a chance to be suspended above the city in a glass cube (The Edge) that juts out from the building by 10ft (3m) to hang out over the city far below. On entry into the cube, the glass is frosted and moves out over the edge of the building, but as soon as the cube is in place the glass unfrosts to the sound of smashing glass, revealing the city far below. The Edge is not included in the Skydeck Experience and requires an additional payment, but it is definitely worth it for those wanting extreme views!

Address: Riverside Quay, Southbank Telephone: (0)3 9693 8888 Website: www.eurekaskydeck.com.au Melbourne Museum Opening time: Open daily from 10am to 5pm. Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day Admission: A$14 (adults). Concessions are available. A fascinating museum complex situated in the Carlton Gardens, the Melbourne Museum is the largest in Australia, with more than 30 different exhibits covering history, culture, science, animals and more. Its most notable galleries include the Bunjilaka, which explores the history of Aboriginal culture in Victoria; the Science and Life Gallery, focusing on insects and spiders, the marine world and Australia's local flora and fauna; and the Children's Museum, housed in a tilted cube, which offers colourful and interactive displays. Opened in 2000, the Melbourne Museum is a showcase of modern exhibition standards, with a three-dimensional Imax theatre screening documentary films and a resourceful public research centre, where visitors can investigate any subject they wish.

Getting there: Tram 86 or 96 to corner of Nicholson and Gertrude Streets, or City Circle Tram to Victoria Parade Address: 11 Nicholson Street, Carlton Website: www.museumvictoria.com.au Federation Square Occupying a whole city block, Federation Square is one of Melbourne's major attractions. A remarkable cultural nucleus, the square hosts more than 2,000 events a year in its outdoor public spaces, St Paul's Court and The Square, and vibrant covered space, the Atrium. Renowned for its unique design, the triangular shapes that characterise Federation Square actually create an abstract map of the Australian Federation. Affording spectacular views of the city, Southbank and the Yarra River, visitors can not only explore the peculiar design of this cultural precinct, but also visit the many galleries, cinemas, museums, restaurants and shops that surround it, most notably the Ian Potter Centre and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image.

Address: Corner of Flinders and Swanston Street Website: www.federationsquare.com.au

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Queen Victoria Market Opening time: Opening times vary by day and section - check the official website listed above for details. If you are planning a picnic at Birrarung Marr or the Botanic Gardens or just looking for some affordable souvenirs, head to the Queen Victoria market, one of the largest open-air markets in the Southern Hemisphere, with almost 50 percent of the market dedicated to the sale of fresh produce, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, chicken, seafood, cold cuts and cheese. A popular meeting place for locals and foreigners, this cosmopolitan market is best visited on a Sunday when adjacent Queen Street is closed down and converted into a sidewalk café area, where buskers entertain passers-by and children's rides are available. Officially opened in 1878, the Queen Victoria Market has been affectionately frequented by Melbournians for more than 125 years and still proves to be the best place for perusing a myriad of clothing, shoes, jewellery, bric-a-brac, antique and toy stalls.

Getting there: Catch any tram heading north along Elizabeth and William Streets. Stop at either Franklin or Victoria Street corner Address: Corner of Elizabeth and Victoria Street Telephone: (03) 9320 5822 Website: www.qvm.com.au Melbourne Zoo Opening time: Open daily from 9am to 5pm. Admission: $31.60 (adults), $15.80 (children aged 4 - 15). Concessions are available and children under 16 get in free on weekends and holidays. Housing more than 350 different animal species, Melbourne Zoo is a worthy attraction, even by the standards of a country famous for nature conservation and interesting animals. Built in 1862, certain areas of the zoo have been preserved as historic zones, demonstrating to visitors the significant changes the zoo has undergone. Famous for its endemic inhabitants such as the kangaroo, wallaby, koala and wombat, the zoo also has elephants in the Asian Rainforest area, a gorilla exhibit, an Orangutan Sanctuary and Butterfly House. Little more than two miles (4km) from Melbourne city centre the zoo is situated in a breath-taking botanic garden setting that extends 55 acres, including more than four different ecosystems and an impressive 70,000 plant specimens.

Getting there: Tram 55 from William Street, or train from Flinders Street Station to Royal Park Station Address: Elliott Avenue, Parkville Telephone: 1300 966 784 Website: www.zoo.org.au A Maze 'N Things As suggested by the pun in its name, A Maze 'N Things is a theme park that specialises in mazes, tricks, puzzles, optical illusions and other ludic delights. The great strength of the establishment is that its exhibitions are aimed primarily at adults, and are of a high-enough quality to provide hours of entertainment to even the most jaded of theme park patrons. Truly discombobulating, the park's attractions are separated into four main sections: the Maze, a labyrinth of twisting, dead-ending passageways; Maxi Golf, a 19-hole putt-putt course that will bring even experienced golfers to their knees; Puzzle Island, an interactive area of challenges and illusions, including the Rotating Room and the 6.5-metre slide; and the pick of the bunch, the Illusions Rooms, where visitors will disbelieve their eyes, as they watch water flow uphill, watch themselves shrink, defy gravity, and even disappear. A Maze 'N Things is one of those rare places where everyone in the family - from grandfather to grandson - is pretty much guaranteed to have a great time, and is a highly recommend tourist attraction for family vacationers in Victoria.

Address: 1805 Phillip Island Road, Cowes Website: www.amazenthings.com.au

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Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) Opening time: Guided tours run daily, between 10am and 3pm. Check website for event information. Admission: Guided tour: A$23 (adults), A$12 (children 5-15). Concessions and combined tickets for the museum and tours are available. The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is one of the most impressive stadia in the world, and is well worth a visit even for non-sporting types. Originally built in 1853 for the Melbourne Cricket Club (who are still based at the MCG), the stadium has undergone major redevelopments in its history and now stands as one of the most beautifully-finished, spectator-friendly grounds on earth. The MCG also houses the National Sports Museum, comprising the Olympic Museum, the Australian Sports Hall of Fame, the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame, and the Melbourne Cricket Club Museum, all of which contain interesting sporting memorabilia. The MCG is used for cricket in the summer (try catch a Boxing Day test match), Aussie Rules football in the winter, and for events like rock concerts and a host of other cultural events year-round.

Address: Yarra Park, Melbourne Telephone: (03) 9657 8888 Website: www.mcg.org.au Puffing Billy Railway The Puffing Billy Railway is Australia's Oldest Steam Railway. A century old, the train still follows its original mountain track in the scenic Dandenong Ranges, offering spectacular mountain views and winding through cool fern gullies between Belgrave, Emerald Lake and Gembrook. The whole trip takes two hours in each direction. Tickets can be bought before boarding the train, which departs several times a day, but bookings are essential for the special luncheon or dinner trips, which include a meal in the first class carriage. The train sometimes hosts other fun events, like comedy nights. Family tickets are available and kids will love the novelty of travelling by steam train!

Website: www.puffingbilly.com.au

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Currency The unit of currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD), which is divided into 100 cents. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are freely available throughout the country. Banks and bureaux de change exchange most foreign currencies. Banking hours are generally 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday, and 9.30am to 5pm on Friday, but some banks offer extended hours and some are open on Saturday mornings.

Exchange rate for 1 AUD - Australian Dollar 0.72 BMD 0.65 EUR 0.72 USD 0.50 GBP 78.82 JPY 0.95 CAD Bermudan Dollar Euro U.S. Dollar U.K. Pound Sterling Japanese Yen Canadian Dollar 0.72 CHF 18.17 UAH 244.43 KZT 1,089.92 LBP 0.52 LYD 4.97 BOB Swiss Franc Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakhstani Tenge Lebanese Pound Libyan Dinar Bolivian Boliviano 78.08 NPR 0.28 OMR 2.63 QAR 1.00 SGD 6.00 SEK 4.80 TTD Nepalese Rupee Omani Rial Qatari Rial Singapore Dollar Swedish Krona Trinidad Tobago Dollar 7.22 VEF 33.17 DOP 4.86 HRK 13.49 MXN 424.36 XOF 2.29 PGK Venezuelan Bolivar Dominican Peso Croatian Kuna Mexican Peso West African CFA Franc Papua New Guinean kina 0.73 BSD 1.53 FJD 16.39 HNL 80.00 DZD 862.26 MMK 8.10 BWP Bahamian Dollar Fiji Dollar Honduran Lempira Algerian Dinar Myanma Kyat Botswana Pula 2.44 PEN 501.97 CLP 346.05 AMD 17.50 CZK 14.46 MDL 89.96 ISK Peruvian Nuevo Sol Chilean Peso Armenia Dram Czech Koruna Moldova Lei Icelandic Krona 2,127.05 UZS 2.79 ILS 0.51 JOD 0.22 KWD 22.69 UYU 25.71 MUR Uzbekistan Sum Israeli New Sheqel Jordanian Dinar Kuwaiti Dinar Uruguayan Peso Mauritian Rupee 20.64 NIO 6.04 NOK 2.84 PLN 2.71 SAR 105.69 LKR 25.78 THB Nicaraguan Córdoba Norwegian Krone Polish Zloty Saudi Riyal Sri Lanka Rupee Thai Baht 2.66 AED 2.60 BRL 2.93 RON 5.62 HKD 425.33 XAF 16,267.04 VND U.A.E Dirham Brazilian Real Romanian New Leu Hong Kong Dollar Central African CFA Franc Vietnamese Dong 10.10 ARS 1.95 XCD 5.67 GTQ 7.07 MAD 0.27 BHD 0.73 PAB Argentine Peso East Caribbean Dollar Guatemalan Quetzal Moroccan Dirham Bahrain Dinar Panamanian Balboa 1.08 AZN 2,256.65 COP 49.44 KGS 202.49 HUF 5.70 TJS 9,903.74 IDR Azerbaijan Manat Colombian Peso Kyrgyzstan Som Hungarian Forint Tajikistan Ruble Indonesian Rupiah 6.43 EGP 862.11 KRW 4,103.49 PYG 3.01 MYR 389.94 CRC 1.06 NZD Egyptian Pound South Korean Won Paraguayan Guaraní Malaysian Ringgit Costa Rican Colón New Zealand Dollar 75.81 PKR 48.35 RUB 11.29 ZAR 1.54 TND 1.45 BBD 1.27 BGN Pakistani Rupee Russian Rouble South African Rand Tunisian Dinar Barbadian Dollar Bulgarian Lev 2.14 TRY 33.74 PHP 23.61 TWD 142.23 NGN 77.55 XPF 2.83 GHS Turkish Lira Philippine Peso New Taiwan Dollar Nigerian Naira CFP Franc Ghanaian Cedi 90.42 JMD 1.31 ANG 1.00 BND 80.02 RSD 4.76 CNY 14,402.40 BYR Jamaican Dollar Neth. Antillean Guilder Brunei Dollar Serbian Dinar Chinese Yuan Belarussian Ruble 4.81 DKK 2.49 TMT 48.68 INR

Danish Krone New Turkmenistan Manat Indian Rupee

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