Joanna James
The Southeast of Australia nestles an exquisite city, which goes by the name of Melbourne. It's the pretty coastal capital of the state of Victoria that houses a wonderful array of attractions, some of which are absolutely free for anyone who craves to explore their charm.
Melbourne, Australia's culturally sophisticated neighbourhood, doesn't limit its chic ambience to the high-end fashion malls. Head out to the gorgeous Brighton Beach in Melbourne, which is located close to properties such as Citadines on Bourke Melbourne, for an utter feast to your eyes. You'd be greeted by the famous Brighton Bathing Boxes, which holds the spotlight of the entire region, with their beautiful, multi-coloured exteriors. You may even feel a slight déjà vu at this place, probably due to these iconic beach boxes adorning the many postcards and calendars sold at the Melbourne souvenir shops. The Beach Boxes in Melbourne are indeed an iconic sight of the city and a must-see if ever you are to come down for a visit.
The oldest library in Australia, the State Library of Victoria is also the fourth most-visited of its kind in the whole world. It is situated adjacent to many Melbourne apartments in Bourke and can be accessed from the Swanston Street in Melbourne. It is a remarkable construction, which nestles over two million books, lining the beautifully renovated reading spaces and splendid reading nooks for children. With a history of more than a century, the State Library of Victoria is an arresting neoclassical landmark where you can treat yourself to free guided tours.
Head out to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne on a beautiful spring day, and you can have a rather pleasant and relaxing stroll among its lush vegetation. Being surrounded by greenery is a splendid way to feel at one with nature while still in the heart of the city. The Royal Botanic Garden was founded in 1846 by Charles La Trobe, a Lieutenant Governor at the time. Having gone through many transformations over the years, it has become the verdant paradise that one can see today. The Temple of the Wind and the Ornamental Lake are two of the scenic attractions of the garden. There are many areas to sit back and relax, and you'd be treated with picturesque views of the lakes, where eels swim around in harmony with the ducks.
One of the tourist hotspots in the heart of Melbourne, the National Gallery of Victoria, is an enthralling location of Melbourne, where you can enjoy without getting a dime out of your pocket. Upon entering, you will be greeted by a wall of water. Once inside, you may have to check-in any backpacks or large bags at the cloakroom, which is also yet another free service they offer. The spectacular mosaic glass ceiling and the colourful, flower-patterned floor tiles are enough to keep your senses entertained. With quirky chair exhibitions and many other free exhibits presented at every corner, you'd be guaranteed to have a marvellous time at this relaxing location.
The Shrine of Remembrance is truly a striking tribute to all Australians who have served in the war. It also poses as a salute to the architectural genius of a bygone decade. World War I veterans, Phillip Hudson and James Wardrop, are the brainchild architects behind this masterpiece. A flight of stairs leads you up to this magnificent epitome of classical architecture. Visitors can either opt for a guided tour or explore this memorial in their own space.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
