Melbourne has much to offer students who want to experience Australia in what is generally agreed to be the country's most cosmopolitan
city.
Unlike Sydney, Melbourne tends to radiate a more competitive spirit in comparison to Sydney's laid-back confidence. That competitive spirit can be seen in everything from the population's obsession with sports to the ongoing Sydney-Melbourne rivalry. Melbourne has very intentionally worked to distinguish itself, and the prevalence of galleries, museums, and other cultural centers is proof that they are succeeding. Most people would agree that Melbourne is culturally superior and is the Australian city with the most to offer as far as the arts are concerned. The National Gallery of Victoria is one of Melbourne's most well known treasures due to its valuable collection of traditional Australian paintings as well as its collection of modern Aboriginal artworks.
Study Abroad Programs in Melbourne
Melbourne might well be compared to Boston or Philadelphia whereas Sydney has much more of an atmosphere of San Francisco or San Diego. As such, Melbourne tends to be a very active, fast-paced city and the number of big events (both sporting and cultural events) the city hosts is indicative of that attitude.
For students looking for open space and splendid parks and gardens, Melbourne has all to offer that you would expect of a city in Australia. City planners years ago decided that investing in the city's future meant a commitment to open space, and the legacy of parks today with gorgeous trees and picturesque lakes and waterways is a testament to what those early planners accomplished. The city's Botanical Gardens are widely recognized as one of the best gardens in the country.
For those that are looking for excitement, you need look no further than the frenzied popularity of Melbourne's sporting events. Throughout the year, the city hosts some of Australia's biggest draws including the Grand Prix, Melbourne Cup, and the Australian Tennis Open. Any sporting event is bound to bring the population out in droves. Although the list of popular sports could go on and on, the two undisputed kings remain Cricket and Aussie Rules. (And if you've never heard of Aussie Rules, clearly you've not spent time in Australia!)
If you are looking for a cultured city living life at a faster pace than much of the rest of Australia, Melbourne will readily keep pace with you.
