Voted the world’s most liveable city in 2017 by The Economist Intelligence Unit for the seventh year running and basking in its status as a global sports hub, Melbourne has a lot to offer residents.
But it’s natural that many Melburnians like to take the opportunity of romantic breaks and family holidays elsewhere — variety’s the spice of life.
If you’re arranging a trip with your kids, there’s a new children’s playground in the airport’s T2 international terminal that offers plenty of entertainment for youngsters and a chance for parents to relax.
And easy airport parking in Melbourne means you can travel to your flight in the comfort of your own vehicle.
In terms of destinations, there are regular flights to domestic hotspots and beyond — here are the top three holiday destinations from Melbourne.
- Canberra
Capital Canberra is quickly shedding its previous bland, bureaucratic image to reinvent itself as a haven for hipsters.
And that makes it an ideal weekend destination if you want to chill out in trendy hotels and get your art fix in brilliant museums and galleries.
There’s eclectic shopping and dining available in Braddon, a cool city-centre precinct bursting at the seams with bustling boutiques, artisan bakeries and vibesy bars.
Canberra’s just an hour and five minutes away — a short hop for something completely different.
- Hobart
The flight to Tassie capital Hobart takes about ten minutes longer than Canberra — but it’s a bit of a mini-cultural capital with plenty to keep you distracted and delighted.
The Museum of old and New Art (MONA) houses the David Walsh collection of cutting-edge and controversial contemporary art installations and there’s tasty food and drink at The Source Restaurant overlooking the River Derwent.
But delicious dining in Hobart is simple to source throughout the city — you’ll find seafood, international street food and vegan fare in various cafes, restaurants and markets dotted around town.
And if you’ve got keen eyes and a good camera phone, you might even snap a shot of a Tasmanian Tiger — despite being officially extinct since the 1930s, there’s been a spate of recent sightings.
If you haven’t taken a trip to Tasmania in a while, now’s the time to revisit.
- Tahiti
When you’re about to tie the knot, you may want to splash out on an exotic holiday to mark the occasion.
And wonderful white sand beaches with awesome azure waters mean honeymooning in tropical Tahiti fits the bill fantastically.
Accommodation options range from cost overwater bungalows to reasonably-priced Tahitian B&Bs named ‘pensions’ where you can explore the islands under the guidance of friendly local hosts.
As well as bonding together, there’s the chance to whale watch, scuba dive or explore dramatic cliffs and caves — the choice is yours.
Add cuisine that’s a fusion of French techniques and fresh local ingredients and you’ve got a robust recipe for romance.
So if you’re heading off on your hols from Melbourne, these are three terrific destinations — book today and you’ll be jetting off before you know it.
Where do you like to vacation from Melbourne? Share your tips in the comments section.
