We just returned from a week in Melbourne - would be glad to answer any questions I can via email: [email protected] <BR>

What did you enjoy most in Melbourne? We are going in September for 4 days. What sightseeing should we consider doing while there. We will not have a car but would consider a tour if desirable.

Hi, Just got back from Melbourne (and many more stops in Australia). Was lucky to have 9 days in the Melbourne area. Absolutely loved it, but saw a lot of things outside of Melbourne. Loved the small towns. Went to Phillip Island to see the fairy penguins, but stayed over in Cowes, and loved the entire island. Took two nights to see the Great Ocean Road--Could be done faster--went to Healesville Sanctuary. <BR>Stayed outside of Melbourne for the most part, except one night. Took the ferry to Williamstown, a suberb of Melbourne and a pleasant ride. Had dinner near the casinos on Southbank. Took the explorer bus, which gives you a short guided tour of the city and you can get off and on when you'd like. Stopped off at the museum (liked it but not enough time), the Market (fun!), and the Botanical Gardens which are beautiful. Went to an Italian restaurant in the Carlton area (Lygon Street) very fun! Shopped a bit downtown, and people watched. Four days is not a lot, but I think I would try and get out to see some of the countryside--it's beautiful! Have fun! <BR>The people in Melbourne are the best!!!

Where did you stay along the GOR? <BR>Did you book accomodations ahead of time, or just pull off the road someplace? <BR>

Shelly: <BR>I too just got back from a 2 wk trip in Australia, an spent 4 nts in Melbourne. I'm courious, what Explorer bus are you talking about? I never saw an explorer bus, nor is there any mention of one in ANY literature I have on the city. The only thing remotely close to it is a city street tram that runs every 20 mins around the perimeter of the city center, which is free for all passengers. But I did not find that usefull in the least, and since you can spend $5 Australian to buy an all day tram and bus pass, that would be the best and easist way to tour the city.