Melbourne baby!

I went to Melbourne for a long weekend to visit my friend Eda, who I met in Sydney a few months ago. 

I found Tiger Airways was the cheapest and most convenient way to get there from Sydney. You also have the coach option but it takes about 12 hours :)

I decided to book two nights at the Nomads All Nations hostel for 25 AUD/night (http://nomadsworld.com/hostels/australia/nomads-all-nations), a 10-minute walk from the Southern Cross Station (20 minutes from the airport with the Skybus service - 17 AUD one-way; 28 AUD return). 

Eda is actually living there for free in exchange for a few hours' housekeeping per day. I met so many amazing people over the weekend, the hostel had such a great vibe, I would definitely recommend it :) Try out the neighbouring U-Bar in the evenings, that's where all the backpackers hang out, amazing atmosphere! The Deck Lounge Bar is also a nice trendy place to go to if you want to mix with "true" Melbourners ;)

My general impression was that life seems much more laid-back in Melbourne... I really enjoyed my time there, I felt right at home, people were so friendly and relaxed. All the backpackers I met who had been to Sydney previously told me they preferred Melbourne (including my friends Eda and Bero). It also seems easier to find casual jobs there (as well as cheaper accommodation!)

The weather wasn't too good and I was having such a nice time at the hostel that I must admit I didn't do much sightseeing during the three days I was there! 

Here are the few things I did get up to:

Immigration Museum (free for students, 10 AUD for others)

City Circle tram (free tram line going round the city with audio commentary)

Graffitti lanes

Federation Square

The huuuuge casino

Walk along the river at night with balls of fire going off every few minutes

I really hope to go back before I leave Australia! 

Love,

Laura xxx