Thursday, September 8, 2011

Melbourne - What To Discover In This Engaging And Delightful City

By Ben Pate


Melbourne, the second-most populated city in Australia and capital of the state of Victoria, sits on the sparkling Port Philip Bay. The city is famous for its Victorian architecture and vast amount of culture, and it is a favorite vacation spot for people all over the world. A bustling city with the unique Australian twist, Melbourne provides something a little more engaging than many other cities. Just remember that you will need a passport. If your passport is over ten years old, online passport renewals are easy to do online.

Americans Will Need A Passport

Online passport services take all the hassle out of getting a passport. A variety of passport services are available in one spot, meaning you don't have to run all over town just to get your family their passports. For passports looking a little worse for wear, expedited damaged U.S. passports replacement only takes a few minutes to apply for.

Queen Victoria Market

One spot you can't miss is the colorful and interesting Queen Victoria Market. This market is a great place to people-watch, experience the colorful atmosphere of Melbourne, and of course, shop. You'll find all sorts of products here: bread, cheese, veggies, fruits, cakes, handmade knick-knacks,clothes, and souvenirs. In addition to the market, there are many other attractions nearby, meaning it's easy to spend a whole day simply walking around and exploring. For more shopping, look into going to St. Kilda. There is a popular flea market that happens every Sunday.

St. Kilda

While in St. Kilda, be sure to check out the Shrine of Remembrance, a memorial to the citizens of Australia who have served in wars. There is much to explore here, including a memorial garden, and the views from the roof provide gorgeous panoramic views of the entire city.

Melbourne Museum

The famous Melbourne Museum is found in the suburb called Carlton, an area where many historical landmarks can be found. Not only does it carry much of its once-Italian past, but it's also a university town full of students, thanks to the nearby University of Melbourne. The Melbourne Museum is the largest museum in the entire Southern Hemisphere. There are seven permanent galleries over three floors, including a popular children's gallery,dinosaurs, and mummies, as well as a few temporary exhibits.

Melbourne Zoo

Another favorite attraction is the big Melbourne Zoo. Housing more than 350 species of animals, this is the oldest zoo in Australia. Housing famous residents such as gorillas, lions, elephants, and more, it's a great way to spend a day. The Royal Botanic Garden is as well. The gardens themselves are maintained to stunning perfection, and the area is low-key and relaxing. There are plenty of walking paths for those looking to take a stroll, and plenty of good spots for picnics. It costs absolutely nothing to get inside, making it a fun, relaxing, and budget-friendly way to explore Melbourne.




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