Melbourne and the Yarra Valley

The majority of my journeys to Australia have been with fellow travel professionals, through tour companies whose goal is to teach us as much about the country, the hotels and the sightseeing venues as possible. This trip was no exception and once again, we learned volumes, with visits to new areas and also some repeat visits.

I found Melbourne a very easy city to get around as it’s laid out in a large rectangular shape, set around the shores of Port Phillip Bay and bustling with shops, shops and more shops, plus cafes and bars. When I think of this city I remember that so many people run, walk and bike … everywhere. It’s a very active place to be. A favorite area is Lygon Street - a version of New York's Little Italy. One hotel that sticks out in my mind was the Crown Towers Hotel, especially the 16th floor or higher with its built-in TVs at the foot of the bathtub and also the casino that is below the property that extends for approximately two blocks.

The Yarra Valley wineries were also on the schedule this trip, including Yering Station – the oldest winery in the valley. Sitting on such beautiful grounds, the grape vines seemed to go on – forever. Rochfords Winery is noted for the celebrities who come to enjoy the live bands there … as they sit in the grass and ‘veg’ all day - or so we were told!

Another excursion out of Melbourne was Mornington Peninsula where we experienced a ‘country Victoria’ environment with its variety of boutique and resort properties. Golfing, horseback riding and spas are the things to do here, plus shopping dining and enjoying the various local Aussie wines.