Melbourne is one of the biggest business markets in Australia, so it comes as no surprise that many people come here for professional reasons. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your stay in this vibrant city when you are not in meetings and during your free time. So, let’s see how to make your business trip to Melbourne more interesting and have fun while there.
Ride a hot air balloon
Riding a hot air balloon is probably the last thing you would expect on this list. However, this attraction is not only popular but perfect to see the amazing view of the whole city from above, especially at sunrise. Think of this as a way to do something invigorating before tending to your business responsibilities that will make you more productive and focused.
Of course, if you are you are not too keen on flying out in the open, you can take in the 360-degree view of Melbourne from Eureka Tower Skydeck. For a more thrilling experience, join other brave souls in The Edge — a glass cube that takes you outside the building and more than 1,000 feet above the ground.
Do not miss out on nature
Going on a day trip outside Melbourne for a nature experience may be impossible for many on a business trip since it takes a whole day or two. This shouldn’t depress you since you can find all sorts of natural attractions in the city, like the Werribee Open Range Zoo near the CBD. Here you can go on a safari and see African wildlife, wetlands, and the Werribee River. Although the theme is African savannah, you will also encounter kangaroos, koalas, emus, and other native animals on the Australian Trail.
Melbourne won’t let you miss out on the plant life, as well, offering a display of 8,500 species at the Royal Botanic Gardens. The Gardens have many spots where you can have a picnic, like by the Ornamental Lake, or where you can just sit and de-stress from the busy day.
Experience the wilder side of Melbourne
Spending time in meetings and at conferences can not only be tiring but stressful. Since chances are the only people you know in Melbourne are the ones you spend time doing business with, it’s normal to seek companionship in a more relaxed context. You can hit bars and clubs to meet new people, or you can try some simpler ways, namely Tinder.
Visiting Melbourne brothels is another option since prostitution is legal in this city and not something only talked about in the shadows. Being one of the most popular Australian metropolises, you will meet people from all sides of the world. So just see what type of encounter you feel comfortable with since you have lots of options.
Forget snacks and room service
Big Australian cities are proud of being a fusion of many cultures that people brought with them when they decided to stay here permanently. This brings out many beautiful things about Melbourne, food being one of the most prominent ones. So, if you have cravings for dumplings, for example, stop by HuTong in Chinatown, but try their pork spare ribs and wontons, too.
Those who are slightly hungry should visit Lune Croissanterie, one of the best patisseries in the city with croissants so delicious that for a moment you will confuse Melbourne for Paris. When planning to go to a pub, try a commonly served dish at these establishments — a parma. This is a grilled chicken to crispiness with slices of smoked ham, tons of melted cheese, and Napoli sauce.
Taste beverages only Melbourne has to offer
Melbourne is called a coffee city and you must at least try Magic — a beverage made from an equal ratio of steamed milk and double ristretto. However, if you are a coffee lover, you should try as many coffee shops as possible since you will be awestruck by Melbourne’s offer.
Another city staple is whisky at Starward Distillery in Port Melbourne. It has a bar that serves Australian craft beers and spirits, but you can’t go wrong with ordering whisky and tonic. Moreover, wine lovers can join a drinking tour taking place at the Bellarine Peninsula’s cellar doors, like Basils Farm and Scotchmans Hills.
All in all
With many other ways to make your business trip to Melbourne more interesting, you may have to book a prolonged stay. In case that is not an option, use your time in this Australian city to the fullest with the attractions from our list.
