Melbourne - the capital of the state of Victoria - is Australia's second largest city. It represents all that Australia stands for i.e.all the good things in life. The city seduces every visitor who then wishes to return to her again and again. From riverside cafes to the designer boutiques this elegant city is described by different people in different ways:

She is said to be the the most 'European' of all the Australian cities with her Victorian-era buildings mingling with the modern buildings, Melbourne is exudes old world charm, culture and urban sophistication reminiscent of the great cities of Europe. The many parks and gardens, within walking distance of the city centre, lend it the name of the Garden City.

Melbourne is also the Fashion Capital of Australia with most of the major labels like Benetton and Country Road located here. With over 2000 restaurants in the city ranging from food courts to first class silver, Melbourne is also the Food Capital of the country. She also qualifies as the sports capital of Australia. The 1956 Olympics were held here. The world famous Melbourne Cricket Ground is here and off-course the Annual Australian Open is held here.

Lying in the south-eastern part of the continent, off the coast of Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne boasts of mountainous areas in the north-east, a rugged and wonderful southern coastline, and semi-desert areas in the north-west hence providing varied experiences, all rolled into one. While the Victoria Arts Centre, Rialto Tower, Underwater World Aquarium, Botanical Garden and Zoo are an insight into the growth and progress of Melbourne; the Great Ocean Road, the Yarra Valley, the Philip Island all signify the respect with which the people have protected these natural wonders.

Gold , discovered in the 1860s, brought with it people of many nationalities. With them came their customs and lifestyles. With a population of over 3.3 million Melbourne has a very rich and diversified culture.

Eating is a a very serious business for the residents of Melbourne and they indulge themselves in all kinds of food. Hence a wide variety of restaurants offering an extremely large range of eating options are available in Melbourne. The Little Bourke Street - Chinatown - is known for it's Chinese food; the Lygon Street in Carlton serves Italian Food; Lonsdale Street and Richmond are known for the Greek cuisine and Sydney Road in Brunswick is popular for Turkish food. Thai specialities are served by restaurants in Brunswick street in Fitzroy. The local specialities are bay scallops, oysters, mussels and a range of fishes, and offcourse the very popular Victorian wines. Very good dairy produce and cheese are also available.