After a record-breaking seven years as the world’s most liveable city, the Economist Intelligence Unit has now given the top gong to Vienna. All based on data and various indices. But, what really, makes Melbourne so liveable? TML took the city for a test drive for a few days to see what makes it Australia’s most dynamic capital.
Melbourne’s best known for the country’s best coffee, public transport that works, shopping and arts scene, much of this all happens in the compact CBD or in the inner suburbs. The ideal way to enjoy time in the city on the Yarra is to stay within the 3000 postcode.
Once upon a time, before Airbnb disrupted the travel industry, accommodation choices were limited; now, a number of brands offer slick, new apartments at the fraction of the cost of a 5-star hotel.
At the corner of William and Little Bourke Streets, Wyndham Hotel Melbourne is prime Australian real estate. From your balcony, with a bird’s eye view over the Melbourne CBD, you’ll be breaking out the bubbly to celebrate.
Whether you’re off to the G or catching the latest musical at the Princess Theatre, celebrating a birthday or a girl’s weekend it’s easy in the middle of the city. In town for business? You can still take time out for a little bleisure with Melbourne’s finest attractions on your doorstep.
Luxury starts at the front door. The lobby at 199 William St is busy but surprisingly quiet. Elevators deliver people and Deliveroo drivers/riders deliver food throughout the day.
Rooms start with deluxe studios and gear up to 3-bedroom Presidential suites. It’s easy to have that millionaire feeling in a one-bedroom apartment perched above the city. A pied-à-terre with all the mod cons.
The living area is large enough for six with uber eats for dinner or drinks taking in that view. With some of the country’s best restaurants and cafes a stone’s throw away, cooking might seem an afterthought but the stylish galley kitchen with integrated fridge makes it a cinch to cook up a 3-course dinner for six.
There are ultra-soft waffle weave robes with slippers to match. The bathrooms are enormous, the shower superb and the Temple Spa amenities subtly fragranced.
Wyndham Melbourne’s three-bedroom Presidential Suites, come complete with wine fridges and expansive living spaces indoor and out. Up on the roof is a heated pool, and the hotel also features a fitness centre and a library/working space to relax or finish that report.
The Wyndham Melbourne is in the middle of it all. Stroll down the hill to Bourke St Mall for a little retail therapy. Or further to the designer flagship stores on stylish Collins St for some of Australia’s finest window-shopping.
Melbourne does a good job of preserving its heritage. Look up as you stroll through the streets. The 18th-century gold rush gave the city grand boulevards and opulent architecture.
A few minutes to Federation Square for the best people watching or front row seats to the latest protest. The nearby arts precinct guarantees a day of blockbuster exhibitions and immersive art experiences. MoMA to NGV is enthralling.
Running till 7 October 2018, the Masterworks from The Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) New York is dazzling the crowds with the most recognizable works from Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, Henri Matisse and Paul Cezanne.
Melbourne’s many galleries and museums aren’t the only places to see masterpieces. Murals, stencil, graffiti and large-scale street art is everywhere. It’s a constantly changing, free exhibition. Hosier, Tattersalls and Union Lanes, Centre Place as the laneways off Flinders Lane are all prime viewing spots.
Part 2 of Melbourne, where to eat and what to do when you’re living in the city is coming soon.
Disclaimer: TML were guests of Wyndham Hotel Melbourne but all opinions are our own.