melbourne
Best time to travel:
The best times to visit Melbourne are between March and May and September and November. These shoulder seasons feature moderate temperatures and tourist crowds, plus lower airfare rates. In the summer months (North America's winter months) of December to February, Melbourne bursts at the seams with hot, sweaty tourists, while June through August (Melbourne's winter season) affords cold weather and fewer travelers.
Suggest itineraries:
Your first stop should be St. Kilda Beach. This landmark is famous for the colorful bathing boxes that make it Insta-famous, but it's also a great spot for walking, rollerblading, windsurfing, and all matter of water sports.
Another stop you should be sure to go to is the Queen Victoria Market. Today it’s one of the city’s most vibrant community centers, with entire halls dedicated to organic produce, meats, cheeses, and artisan wares. And in the wintertime, it turns into a night market with plenty of soul-warming offerings to keep you cozy.
If you are open to a short road trip, Port Campbell National Park is a must-see. One of Australia's most stunning natural wonders is the Twelve Apostles rock formation found here. Seven stacked rock structures constitute the Twelve Apostles, six of which can be seen from the attraction's main viewing platform. Other landmarks situated in the park include The Arch, London Bridge, and a grotto.
Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, an art lover, a fashionista, or a foodie, you'll find something to enjoy at The Block Arcade. More than 25 boutiques, galleries, and specialty food stores are housed within this stunning structure, which features skylights, cast-iron details, mosaic floors, and stained glass windows. Noteworthy shops include Haigh's Chocolates, Hopetoun Tearooms, and a Dr. Seuss-themed art gallery.
Things to pack:
Pack clothes for all seasons
Raincoat
Umbrella
Jacket
Boots
Layers
Winter coat, jeans, sweaters (if you’re traveling between May and September)
Tops and blouses in breathable fabrics, like cotton, linen, and chambray (if traveling in summer)
Comfortable shoes/sneakers