So, you're waltzing down to Melbourne... but where to next, mate?
Ah, Melbourne! The city that's constantly winning awards for being the most livable on Earth (sorry, everyone else). But what if you've exhausted your supply of flat whites, dodged enough trams to qualify for the Olympics, and need a change of scenery? Fear not, intrepid traveller, for there's a bunch of brilliant cities (and towns, and stunning natural landscapes) all within cooee of Melbourne.
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| What City Is Close To Melbourne Australia |
Hit the Beach:
- Geelong: Just down the road (well, a scenic 75km drive down the coast), Geelong is your gateway to the Great Ocean Road. Think world-class surfing at Bells Beach, dramatic rock formations like the Twelve Apostles, and enough fish and chips to feed a small army.
- Mornington Peninsula: Fancy a more chichi beach escape? The Mornington Peninsula beckons with its fancy wineries, hot springs, and beaches that look like they were ripped from a travel brochure.
Tip: Reflect on what you just read.
Craving Country Charm:
- Bendigo: History buffs, this one's for you! Bendigo was once a gold rush boomtown, and it still retains its Wild West charm. Explore the old mines, wander through restored streetscapes, and maybe even strike it lucky fossicking for gold (just kidding... mostly).
- The Dandenong Ranges: Looking to escape the city sprawl? Take a day trip to the Dandenong Ranges. Think rolling hills, cute villages, stunning gardens (hello, enchanted!). If you're feeling peckish, don't miss out on the local specialty: apple cider donuts - they're seriously next-level.
Further Afield:
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
- Canberra: Australia's capital might not be the first place that springs to mind for a jolly jaunt, but it's actually a hidden gem. Packed with world-class museums, a thriving food scene, and (let's be honest) kangaroos chilling on the lawns of Parliament House, Canberra is more than just politics.
- Tasmania: Feeling adventurous? Why not hop on a ferry and explore the wild beauty of Tassie? Cradle Mountain National Park is a must-see, as are the charming port city of Hobart and the opportunity to see one of the world's rarest creatures - the Tasmanian Devil (watch out for those cartoon-esque spins!).
Remember: This is just a taster! Australia's a big country, and there are heaps of other amazing places to explore, all within a whisker of Melbourne.
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Thinking of venturing out? Here are some FAQs to get you started:
How to get around: Australia has a decent domestic flight network, but don't discount the iconic Aussie road trip! Just remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road (unless you fancy a close encounter with a kangaroo).
Tip: Read once for flow, once for detail.
How long should I stay? It depends on where you're going! A weekend getaway to Geelong is doable, but Tassie deserves at least a week to explore properly.
What should I pack? Australia has all sorts of climates, so pack accordingly. But generally speaking, chuck in some comfy shoes, a hat, sunscreen (essential!), and bathers (that's Aussie for swimsuit).
What's the money like? Australia uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). Most places accept credit cards, but it's always handy to have some cash on hand.
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
Do I need a visa? This depends on your nationality. Check the Aussie government's website for the latest info.
So there you have it! Melbourne might be mighty fine, but there's a whole world of Aussie adventures waiting just beyond the city limits. Now get out there and explore!
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