Lesley

I'm travelling to Melbourne in May. Could someone please tell me what's the weather like there then and also where are the best budget accommodation? I'm a single female travelling alone .... would it be safe? And one more thing: where are the best clubs for partying ( underground????) and the best shopping and sightseeing areas in Mel.? I'll be there for 10 days. Thanks !

Peg

Hi Lesley, Melbourne in May is late Autumn, mostly the days can be sunny, but still quite cool. Dress in layers with a good warm jacket. A small folding umbrella is advisable. I always feel safe where-ever I go in Melbourne. But I do feel that you need to just take common sense precautions you would take anywhere, not going down dark alley ways, keeping with a number of people, looking confident etc. every Friday there is published in The Age newspaper the EG (Entertainment Guide)also check out the web site www.theage.com.au. This will let you know what Melbourne enjoys - a thriving pub-rock scene, theatre restaurants,night clubs etc.. Possibly the best accommodation is where other budget travelers are staying this will give you a chance to meet other people visiting Melbourne at the same time. A couple to consider are Toad Hall,441 Elizabeth St City, a quiet stylish place and well equipped with a pleasant courtyard. Queensberry Hill Hostel 78 Howard St,North Melbourne,excellent facilities just outside city centre. Opposite Victoria market is Global Backpackers Hostel, great location and if you are into live music, but not so good if you are an early sleeper. If you want to visit Williamstown across the bay email me. Lots more info on www.travel.com.au Hope this helps. Peg

Jim

Melbourne can be anything in May. Max. temps. from 15c to 28c(60F-85F) Very safe, unless you wander at night into the crevacies. Email me for more info.

Jim

Is Shanghai more like Singapore or Hong Kong? Anybody?

Barb

We'll be traveling for two week to Melbourne in Mid-October, for son's wedding to australian woman. Since most of first week will be taken up by wedding plans, we will really only have about 10 days to sight-see. Where to, what to see, etc. I do know we want to see the penguins on an island (I forgot the name), and of course, the Melbourne zoo. Any suggestions? also, just what weather to REALLY expect? Cool? rainy? warm? sunny?

peg

Barb, email me if you would like detailed info about Melbourne otherwise go to www.citysearch.com.au regards Peg. <BR>

Janette

Dear Barb, <BR>Melbourne women are great! Your son is very lucky. Penguins are at Phillip Island about 2 hours from Melbourne. <BR>Melb. Zoo is terrific What they say about Melbournes weather is to be prepared for four seasons in one day, so bring a raincoat,and layer your clothes incase it gets hot,but don't worry if you forget something , the shopping is fantastic and will be three times as cheap if your coming from America . Have Fun!!!! <BR>