Two of the worlds most livable cities, situated in the beautiful country of Australia. But which is better? It is no secret that the two cities have a long-standing feud with each other. In one of my first orientation sessions at La Trobe, I was told that Melburnians hate Sydney and Sydney goers hate Melbourne. But why is this the case? It is a mystery as to how these tensions came about between the two cities. Some may say it is on the basis of what a true Australian is and should be, others say it is merely a competition between who wants to be the best of the best. While all this may be true, I personally do not think that one city is better than the other. Yes, I do have my opinion on which I prefer more, but this is merely on the basis of preferred lifestyle. Both cities boast countless unique opportunities, experiences and lifestyles that set each other equal yet so vastly apart. So, what are the two cities like in a snapshot? Affordability Some say Melbourne is more expensive, others say Sydney. However, this is a common misconception thrown around by those who have not visited both cities. The two rank neck and neck for being equally pricey. An average cinema ticket for one person costs $20, while a McDonald's meal costs about $10, and a cappuccino costs around $3.80. The only major cost difference is in rental cost, where the average Sydney rent is $500-$1000 more than that of Melbourne. Things To Do Around The City Drive a short hour or so outside of both center cities, and there is a plethora of activities to suit all adventure-seekers alike. Take a drive down the historic and iconic Great Ocean Road, hike through the Grampians or visit the famous Phillip Island in Melbourne. A short drive away from Sydney's CBD will put you at the famous Manly and Bondi beaches along with the world-famous Blue Mountains National Park. Culture Melbourne is often referred to as Australia's unofficial cultural capital. Melburnians pride themselves on their arts and music scene. Walk through Melbourne for 10 minutes and you will come across countless street murals, live performances and museums/art galleries. However, Sydney houses these cultural markers too, just in a more low key way. Sydney boasts famous art galleries and historical landmarks, such as the iconic harbour bridge and opera house. Weather Melburnians love to brag about how they experience all four seasons in one day, and it is scarily true. Melbourne weather is very unpredictable and as one of the most southern cities in Australia, is much cooler than the rest of the country. Therefore, winters experience chilling cold fronts and summers tend to be less extreme (but still pretty hot). Sydney has a more predictable climate, and has much more moderate winters, yet unbearably hot summers. In relation to weather and the US, I would say that Melbourne is like Florida, while Sydney is more Southern California. Food Let's be real: Australians love food and friendly gatherings. Food is abundant throughout Melbourne and Sydney, and I have found it is a common, popular thread within the two cities. Sydney has an abundance of top-rated fine dining experiences, while Melbourne boasts a wide range of cultural cuisine with a more chill atmosphere. Either way, quality food is not hard to find in each city. Nightlife Sydney is known to have a much more flashier, outgoing nightlife than Melbourne. Clubbing is a commonality on a weekend night out in Sydney, and the city houses some of the most popping clubs in the country. Melbourne definitely has its clubbing crowd; however, tends to side more with the rooftop-bar-live-music scene. Sport Sport is a huge topic of controversy between Melburnians and Sydney goers. Melbourne is home to the MCG, one of the world's largest stadiums and the grounds for AFL games and cricket matches. Sydney goers play cricket, but instead of cheering on at AFL games, their main sport is rugby. AFL and rugby are two completely different games to play and watch, with much different rules and stigmas behind them. While both cities have much in common on the surface, the vibes of each are vastly different. Sydney is commonly equated to LA, whereas Melbourne is said to resemble NY. Sydney is a trendy, business-oriented city in every aspect, while Melbourne is known to be more laid back and artistic. Choosing the better city cannot simply be reduced down to what each offers, as they offer similar opportunities; however, choosing the better city for you is based on personal preference and lifestyle. Melbourne wholeheartedly fits into who I am. Who are you? xoxo, Samantha
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AuthorHi, I'm Sam. Welcome to my blog! Archives
September 2018
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