Melbourne

Named after then-British Prime Minister Lord Melbourne, the city was founded in 1835 when Englishman John Batman and a group of businessmen bought 600,000 acres of land from the local Aborigines. Today, numerous gardens and parks give an open feel to Melbourne, the skyline of which mixes elegant spires with modern skyscrapers. Fine Victorian-era buildings can still be seen along tree-lined streets.

The city has four distinct seasons, and usually enjoys a temperate climate of mild temperatures. However, not only can winters get chilly, summers may see some swelteringly hot days. Sometimes, as the locals say, all four seasons occur in a single day.

Melbourne hosts an array of world class festivals during the year showcasing fine artistic talent, exquisite foods and Melbourne's simple appreciation of history, people and entertainment. Melbourne's culture is intrinsically linked with its broad population made up of so many people from different countries and nationalities.

Major sporting events are held in Melbourne each year including the Australian Tennis Open, the Australian Formula One Grand Prix, the Australian Rules Grand Final and the Spring Racing Carnival, featuring one of the world’s richest horse racing events, the Melbourne Cup.