SrFlojo

Will be in Melbourne in 2 weeks for a short vacation and drop of teenage daughter who is part of an exchage program. Have read about the Penguin Parade on Phillip Island. After watching the movie "March of Penguins" wife has new found love. Anyway, how does one do thos without a car? Also this time of year is it worth saying on the island for the night? Any experience in this area would be appreciated. Finally, anything one should absolutely do while in Melbourne?

stormbird

I think you would really enjoy the penguins of Phillip Island however, they are Fairy Penguins - quite small and nowhere near the size of the Emperor Penguins as featured in the movie. They are however, every bit as cute.

I would say spend the night on the island as you will only see the penguin parade at night - it would make it a long day to head back to the city afterwards.

I just googled Phillip Island - this is just one link that I came up with for a tour from Melbourne http://www.phillipisland.net.au/trip.../bustour1.html - I'm sure there are many to choose from.

Melbourne is a great city to visit with great food, excellent shopping and plenty to see and do.

Percy

There are tours that take you to see the Penguins.

Get your tickets ahead of time..there could be line ups.

Go early and sit in the front row if you can, as this is the closest to the Penguins.

Don't sit in the middle of the stands but rather way over at the ends...this way the Penguins will pass right by you.

There is no picture take, no video either.

And finally and most IMPORTANT , dress WARM.

It is very cold sitting outside , by the ocean and night , waiting for the Penguins to arrive.

Dress in layers..bring your warmest sweater and jacket.

For Mebourne....Make a list of the nice places you want to see.
If you are staying downtown...almost everything is within walking distance.

Percy

SrFlojo

Thanks so much for your quick response. Stormbird, I found a really good website run by the Nature preserve on the island. My real concern was getting there without a car. Gracias Percy, I assume that you are the same one who is very helpful with CR questions. P.s. I plan on going down to Malpais latter this summer.

Percy

Hi SrFlojo

Yes I am the same Percy !!

Gee how many Percy's can there be !!

I am trying to sneak away for a quick trip in August to Costa Rica..

Take Care

Percy