Melbourne

Started by merchants rather than convicts and fueled by a great gold rush, Melbourne reflects its prosperous 19th century beginnings in its glass high-rises. To experience Melbourne, ride a historic tram past terraced houses, visit art galleries, or shop the fashionable "Paris End" boutiques of Collins Street.

Activities

• "The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne" is considered to be one of the most significant botanical gardens in Australia. The gardens are home to over 12,000 different species of plants and are a natural sanctuary for native wildlife.


• Located in the midst of the Wimmera Plains in Western Victoria, Grampians National Park is renowned the rugged mountain ranges and vivid wildflower displays.


• Phillip Island Nature Park offers a unique Australian wildlife experience and is home to the famous Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach

Adventures

With short distances to travel from Melbourne, a wide variety of accommodation options, and affordable package deals, it's never been easier to visit Victoria's alpine resorts.

• Enjoy downhill and cross country skiing for beginners and intermediates, toboggan trails, snow tubing and family activities.


• The Legends Wine and High Country region is a premier bushwalking destination with an extensive network of tracks and trails.


• Following historical railway lines the Murray to the Mountains Rail Trail provides 98km of bitumen sealed track well suited to both cycling and walking.


• The great rivers and mountain streams of Victoria's high country offer fishing enthusiasts many opportunities to cast a line.

Shopping

Shopping in Melbourne is an eclectic affair - you can choose from large department stores and sprawling markets to snazzy basement boutiques and edgy hole-in-the-walls. And whether you're searching for designer labels or vintage clothing, children's toys or high-tech gadgetry, beaded pumps, Aesop skincare products or sparkling chardonnay, Melbourne has it all.

Food

Victoria is famed for its award-winning food and wine. The state boasts a fabulous range of quality produce - everything from roasted venison and barbecued quail to fresh fruits, vegetables and cheeses. Within this easily accessible state, there’s also a wealth and diversity of wine regions, wineries, vineyards and cellar door businesses.

Currency

Australian currency ($A) is decimal with the dollar as the basic unit (100 cents equals one dollar). The most commonly accepted credit cards are American Express, Bankcard, Diners Club, MasterCard, Visa and JCB.

Cruise Lines	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec	2009 Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun
Celebrity
Crystal
Holland America
Oceania
Princess
Regent Seven Seas
Royal Caribbean
Silversea

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