If you’re a visiting Pom, then the vast city of Melbourne will seem strangely familiar. This familiar feeling will no doubt be something you might experience across Australia, but Melbourne seems particularly Anglicised.

It is little wonder that the city is known for being particularly liveable. Its 3.9 million conspire to create a cosmopolitan atmosphere where all manner of cultural activities take place. Many UK backpackers find their way here – that is if they get past the sprawling city of Sydney.

The generally good climate combined with the modern transport system and friendly inhabitants make this a very popular place to be. I personally loved it so much that instead of spending my last couple of weeks in Sydney I spent them lounging around Melbourne’s Botanic gardens (where lots of weird looking fruit bats live) and getting inebriated in the pub that was conveniently positioned underneath my hostel.

If anyone goes back to that hostel, have a look in food locker number 34, because there’s a Lonely Planet guide to Australia in it. In fact, I would recommend starting any journey in Australia right here, just so you can go to this hostel, prize open the locker door – and grab this book. It was printed in 2003, but still – Ayers Rock is still in the same place, isn’t it?

One of the highlights has to be the Botanic Gardens, which are a great place to hang around and avoid spending money in, if that’s what floats your boat.

Putting hilarious jokes aside for second, if you want to get a taste of one of the world’s most exciting cities, then have a visit here.