Victoria

Victoria (VIC) is the second smallest state in Australia after Tasmania. Despite its size, it is the second most populated city in Australia and hence highly densed. The state is home to over 5 million people from all over the world, 70% of whom live in the capital city of Victoria, Melbourne. Melbourne has been growing rapidly during the last years and many new residents started to select Melbourne as their new home. The welcoming atmosphere of Melbourne resulted in an excellent model of well-integrated multiculturalism which enriched the life significantly from various points of view. Melbourne is a lovely city full of entertainment and a vibrant nightlife.

Victoria is bounded with Murray River on the north and is neighbour with South Australia on the west and New South Wales on the east. Victoria also has a sea-border with Tasmania which is located at Bass Strait. This makes Victoria especially a good base camp for ship trips to Tasmania. Ferries that depart from Melbourne arrive in Davenport after a pleasant overnight journey. Furthermore, Victoria offers numerous diverse activities for everyone, to every taste. Sea, sun and surf are usual attractions in Victoria as well, just like in any other part of Australia. But not every other state can offer every mountain sport. Victorian Alpine Areas are ideal for skiing and snowboarding type of sports in winter and climbing, trekking and similar during the rest of the year. The natural beauties in the surroundings of Victoria are also worth to discover. Take a day trip on Great Ocean Road and see the unique "Twelve Apostles", the magnificent rock formations in the ocean. Take a longer drive! Visit Grampians National Park and take a picture on Bird's Beak... Or how about inspecting some wineries and spending some time tasting wines, each of which is more delicious than the others? The problem is not finding an attraction but selecting among them!

The whole world's eyes are on Victoria several times per year as the state (particularly Melbourne) hosts world wide renowned events. A considerable number of people from all over the world follow Melbourne Cup in November, Australian Open Tennis Championships in January and Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix in March either on television or on-site.

Victoria shows various climate characteristics at each of its regions. The coastline is mild to cool, northwestern part of the state is pretty dry. The center of the state is effected by the cooler air that comes from Great Diving Range. Victoria has plenty of rain and relatively less rainfall in summer while heavy rainfall should be expected during the rest of the year. In general, it is wise to keep a pullover aside for eventual cooler evenings even in summer.