Melbourne Introduction

Melbourne's action is all in the inner city, from Elwood in the south to Brunswick in the north. (The ’burbs are comfy enough but mostly have same-old high street offerings.)

There’s a duality between colosseum and salon - while apparently officially obsessed with major sporting events (Aussie rules football, thoroughbreds, cricket, tennis, F1 racing), this city is also the hotbed of new art, design and multimedia.

Then there’s the importance of laneway culture — you have to leave the main drag, turn the corner and step into an anonymous doorway to find the best experiences.

The eating is great: diverse tastes, quality ingredients. Trams are usually the best transport choice in the city.

When you want a less urban vista it's an easy, scenic drive out of town to numerous good wine and wildlife experiences.