Melbourne Observation Deck The Melbourne Observation Deck is a member of the prestigious World Federation of Great Towers. It is the 21st tower to enter into this elite group. The deck is located some 253 meters above the city on the 55th level of the Rialto Towers. The towers are the tallest office building in the Southern Hemisphere. Facilities include function room, where you can celebrate your birthday on high altitude, souvenir outlets, information booth, café and theatre. There are also binoculars which give you a bird's eye of Melbourne city and its surrounding. Usage is free of charge. The deck offers a 360 degree view of the surrounding. A must for all first time visitors to Melbourne. Queen Victoria Market A must on the itinerary of shopping lovers. This 1878 market is not only a shopping paradise, it is also a historical landmark, tourist attraction and an institution for the locals. Open on Tuesday and Thursday through Sunday, there are almost 1000 traders plying their trade in this 7 hectares market which consist of open sided sheds and lofty-roofed halls. Products range from local fruits and vegetables to imported hardware, clothing and souvenirs. This is a true reflection of Melbourne cosmopolitan make up. And on Sunday, this market takes on a carnival atmosphere. Chinatown Located at Little Bourke Street, between Swanston and Exhibition streets, this Far East flavoured area has been home to Chinese immigrants for more than 100 years. The fascinating Chinese Museum is of course located here. Offer lots of Chinese restaurants and grocery shops. Chinese medicine is also available here. The Chinese population of Melbourne will gather here during their traditional festivals. This is especially so for their Chinese Lunar New Year festival. This is the most important and much observed tradition for the Chinese. During this festival Chinatown will features traditional and contemporary Chinese cultural activities, dance, stall of culinary and arts and crafts. Great Ocean Road Enjoy one of the world's greatest coastal drives, it's severity and striking contrasts will remain etched in your memory forever. The Great Ocean Road region demonstrates the power of the sea as it ruthlessly battles the land. View pristine beaches, sleepy seaside hamlets and the majestic monoliths dramatically protruding from the sea. Enjoy many photo stops, views and short walks as we tour this world renowned coastal drive. Hear stories of the many ships that have come to grief along this perilous coast. Melbourne Zoo The Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens, commonly known as the Melbourne Zoo, contains more than 350 animal species from Australia and around the world. The zoo is just 4 km north of the center of Melbourne. Melbourne Zoo is Australia's oldest zoo and was modeled on London Zoo. It is reputed to be the eleventh oldest zoo in the world. The zoo was opened on the Royal Park site of 55 acres (22 hectares) in 1862 on land donated by the City of Melbourne. Before this, animals were housed at the botanical gardens in Melbourne. Philip Island The little penguins provide a wonderful spectacle as they break free of the surf and waddle home across the sand at dusk at Phillip Island. Nature is on stage and we are the audience to these fisherman of the sea as they feed their families. Phillip Island is home to an astounding array of wildlife, including Australia's largest fur seal colony, the Little Penguins and furry koalas. |