Down Under to Melbourne
My heart still beholds the memory of that skilful artist juggling fire sticks on a ladder by the bank of the Yarra river. This impression of Melbourne is so indelibly embossed on my mind that each time I think of it the love for Melbourne embedded within each nerve of mine sparks delight in me.
Melbourne is a picturesque city situated in the southernmost part of Australia facing the Southern Ocean in the state of Victoria. This city is home to the world’s best tourist attractions and some of the best sporting arenas. Come let’s dive into the wonders of this modern metropolis.
The first and one of the best attractions is the zoo. With its roaring lions and performing platypuses it attracts millions of tourists from all around the world. It is also a haven for native Australian wildlife. My all time favourite must see is the 11.30 am Seal Presentation.This special zoo is the place where people can observe animals in their natural habitats.
On number two comes the aquarium, a wonderful place to view the aquatic flora and fauna from across the world. Here live all kinds of fish and sea life. There are jellyfish and starfish and what not. My personal favourite has been Pinjarra in the crocodile lair. From two spectacular viewing levels, come face-to-face with Pinjarra — one of Australia’s largest saltwater crocodiles. A full, 360 degree, jaw-dropping viewing experience. The Melbourne Aquarium has been one of the best places I ever visited.
The next attraction that can enrich your knowledge of history is Melbourne’s National Museum. It contains Melbourne’s ancient heritage, without it we may have known nothing about Melbourne’s history. To many, the stores of knowledge preserved in the museum may seem apocryphal but all have a story behind them. There are many artefacts in the National Museum but the one that I really enjoyed was the Titanic: The Artefact Exhibition. It actually shows how the Titanic used to look from inside. The tours are usually open daily 9 am to 5 pm.
The next attraction is the parliament building of Victoria, a heritage site that is still in use. This antediluvian place may be the most useful building in Melbourne. You can get a tour of the parliament on non-sitting and sitting weeks ,Monday to Friday from 9:30 am, 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm, and 4:00 pm. These tours are usually of 50 mins duration. They also give additional public tours which you can lookout for. These can be cancelled on a short notice so travellers need to be prepared with alternative plans. Without the parliament Melbourne wouldn’t be as efficient as it is. The parliament is a must visit.
MSAC(Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre) and MCG(Melbourne Cricket Ground) are world famous sporting arenas that make Melbourne the sporting capital of Australia. An MCG Tour is an absolute must on any Melbourne visit. The guided tour is the only opportunity to get an exclusive, behind the scenes peek of one of the world’s most iconic sports stadiums but is also a chance to hear about the history and secrets of the MCG. You have a chance to get this amazing tour and only for $33. MSAC is a world famous sports arena especially famous for swimming. Only for $8 you can enjoy 25 metre and 50 metre pools and also a wave pool. For $21 you can get a swimming coach. Don,t miss these.
Last but not least come the trams that one should get on. Melbourne is one of the cities that still has an efficient and thriving tram network. Trams are a fast and sustainable way to travel. They can also be a stress relief. Just catch tram number 1 and get down at the last stop at south melbourne beach. The sights you see are incomprehensible. A serene beach leading to a calm blue sea. The feel of the sand, and the scent of the sea breeze is just breath taking.Melbourne is a gem for Australia and I believe that everyone should get a chance to visit this amazing city.
