Best Entertainment Spots In Melbourne

Use Minibus Charter In Melbourne To Explore These Entertainment Precincts In The City

With a number of exceptional bars, clubs and theatres across the city, Melbourne has got lots to offer in terms of entertainment, whether it’s a social catch-up or a late-night DJ session. You’ll be spoilt for choice, given the large number of live music venues, where bands cover everything from blues and jazz to rock and pop. Catch a Hollywood movie in one of the theatres or watch a comedy show live. There is so much you can do in this vibrant city, but make sure to choose Melbourne minibus charter for a convenient ride to these entertainment precincts.

Chaise Lounge

Tucked neatly in the Queen Street basement position, Chaise Lounge is certainly one of the longest existing cocktail spots in Melbourne. Given the expansive list of varietal cocktails and elegant décor, the lounge caters to both weekend clubbers and corporate people. Sit back, relax and experience the way the Chaise Lounge is, as one of the best hip hop bars, with everything to hear from Rock and Roll to hip and hop. Friday nights are the main attraction here with DJs from Culture King DJ Angel Jay, DJ Shook, DJ Kahlua and DJ Rcee making your feet tap, up until the early hours of morning.

Cherry Bar

Located in the central business district of the city down the AC/DC lane, the cherry bar is the sublime essence of the Melbourne rock scene, founded in 2000 by the famous drummer of the Cosmic Psychos. It is generally referred to as the sister club to Ding Dong, being a laneway icon with killer live tunes and Rock’n’Roll dose. Each week, a stellar line-up of band and DJs take the stage amid an enthusiastic crowd that goes wild with musical waves, and the dance floor heats up as the body lets of the steam.

The Astor

Travel back in time to experience an era when watching a film was considered to be a special occasion in 1930s. Relax yourself in the art deco surrounds, after strolling through the busy chapel street. Feel the nostalgia of the late 80s, watch the latest Hollywood blockbusters and catch some of the big names of yesteryear, from Davis to Bogart.

Live Music Venues

Melbourne is the music capital of Australia, and its autonomous music scene comes to live every night in warehouses, clubs and pubs. This is the city where you will see everything from a moustached gentleman pecking an old countryside drink, to a kid wearing a skinny-jeaned indie and sweating it out to the tunes of local musicians.

The North part of the city, or more specifically, the Collingwood and Fritzroy region is home to some of the best live music precincts. Stroll past the Johnston Streets on a weeknight and be assured to be treated with eclectic mix of hardcore, indie, rock and jazz.

Move a little further away from the Brunswick Way to the Cornish Arms, the Retreat and The Spotted Mallard for some exemplary night gigs. Head to the High Street in Northcote to visit the best concert club in the city, Northcote Social Club, or grab the cosy bandroom of the Wesley Ann. Catch the touring acts of the Prince Bandroom in St Kilda and the Palais Theatre on the Southside, or join the young guns revelling at the Revolver Upstairs.

Dracula’s Comedy Cabaret Restaurant

Known to be the most successful theatre restaurant in Australia, the Dracula’s Comedy Cabaret is the longest existing one-of-its-kinds bistro that has entertained more than 3 million visitors over 3 decades. At a time when nobody thought that anything like this horror-themed comedy venue would work, it has been such a blockbuster. The minute you step into this place, the entertainment begins. You are welcomed at the door by exotic characters, who will lead you up the stairs directly to the ‘Graveyard’ Cocktail Lounge.

As you immerse yourself in a night of comedy, illusion, magic and puppetry, a wonderful 3-course dining experience awaits you in gothic luxury, with crazy antics of the unique performers and creepy waiters. At the conclusion of the show, dancing and cocktails are the mainstay to close a memorable evening.

The unique blend of mind blowing puppetry, comedy skits, Berlin Burlesque and novelty acts, along with an extra dose of live music is a real catalyst for the guests. You can also have souvenir photographs after the show, along with some shopping at the Shop of Horrors.

Crown Entertainment Complex

Occupying an area of two city blocks, the Crown Entertainment complex is itself a small metropolis with exceptional dining, shopping and entertainment options on the southern bank of Yarra River. This premier entertainment venue attracts more than 18 million visitors annually, offering an exceptional combination of luxury, hospitality and excitement. It has as many as 40 restaurants, cinemas, cafes, amusement park and a couple of night clubs along with an entertainment theatre.

The fabulous black marbled Atrium with an attractive crystal ceiling along with special music and lighting effects make for an exceptional precinct worth a visit. It features one of the largest casinos in the southern Hemisphere, and is also home to sophisticated and modish luxury hotels, with Crown Towers, Crown Metropol and Crown Promenade being the notable ones.

Shoppers have a choice to browse through the luxurious gallery of Burberry, Bulgari, Chanel and Prada, while the diners can have an amazing experience in one of the food courts, including the best of Spice Temple Shrines, Rosetta and the Rockpool. With so much on offer and so much to extract, there is no doubt that this place is known as mini-world of entertainment.

Choose Minibus Charter in Melbourne for a Comfortable Commute

If you are travelling in a group and especially for the very first time in the city, choose minibus charter in Melbourne for a hassle-free ride. Not only do you save a lot in comparison to hiring a cab, but you can also travel collectively with your friends and family, making the experience even more fantastic.

Summer Travel Ideas For Victoria

Use Coach Hire In Victoria To Discover The Best Of Summer Travel

Summer is the best time to enjoy the diverse natural environment and breathtaking scenery of the Victorian State. Whether you are hiking up on a mountain, or surfing the coastline, the best way to experience Victoria is under the warmth of the sun and in the open air. But before you pack your bags and put on the walking boots, make sure to book Victoria coach hire for a comfortable and convenient ride to some of the well-known summer spots in the state.

Surf the Best of Victorian Beaches

Victoria is home to some of the best surf spots in the world, from gentle swells at ocean beaches to wild waves for seasoned experts. Pick up your wetsuit, pack up the wagon and go on a summer break in one of these pristine locations.

Great Ocean Road: Start with a destination that plays host to the World Surf League. Bells beach is a must visit if you are here, and the voyage goes on with exploration of the rocky shorelines and the reef breaks from Cathedral Rock to the Apollo Bay. Explore the wild surf precincts through the Cape Bridgewater, Portland and Port Campbell. Make sure not to miss the Johanna Beach at the end.
Philip Island: Recognised as one of the best beach breaks in Australia, offering a pristine ambiance, Philip Island is declared as a national surfing reserve, with four exquisite sites along its coast; Cape Woolamai, Cat Bay, Summerland and Smiths Beach.
Gippsland: Feel the gust and energy of the powerful waves as you put your step inside the Venus Bay, and if you are looking for some more thrills, try out the edgy Pearl Point Cape in the coastal park.
Mornington Peninsula: There are a plenty of options at this spot with beaches to suit all sorts of experiences. One can check out the shorelines at Sorrento, Portsea, Flinders and Point Leo, or face the ferocious waves of Gunnamata.

Explore the Alpine National Park

With an objective to protect the most of Australian Alps, the Alpine National Park stands strong as the largest national park in Victoria with its extension up to other parks in New South Wales. With open grasslands, snow gum forests, striking escarpments, dramatic landscape and exceptional alpine topography, the national park has 10 of the 11 highest mountain ranges in the state of Victoria. A diverse range of vegetation inhabits the place with alpine ash trees and snow gums in great numbers, alongside few wildflowers, moss beds, herb fields, and snow plains.

Set against the backdrop of mountains, the spot provides countless opportunities for a range of outdoor activities and summer camps. Witness the brilliant colourful display of wildflowers covering the slopes and the high plains, providing an ideal spot for bushwalking. One can also try horse riding along old mountain cattle trails or mountain biking above the range. Soar on wind currents on a paraglider or tear past the water on a water rafting trip.

Great Ocean Walk

Put on your walking straps and set yourself on a journey from east to west as you are gradually exposed to ruggedness and remoteness of the area, in a mild to wild journey. The entire walk stretches from the west of 12 Apostles passing along the striking shoreline of remote beaches and soaring cliffs, with massive eucalypt forests brimming with birdlife, koalas, wallabies and kangaroos. If you are lucky enough, you may also spot some whales at the beach stretches.

This multiday adventure accompanies with a comfortable stay in summer campsites with the comforts of BBQ facilities, and easy access to the land and ocean layered by historic elements from the aboriginal connections that once existed.

Cove Excursion at the Beach and the Bushland

Set off on a journey starting with a cove excursion at Shelly Beach, before you head inland towards the huge mountain ash. Re-join the shoreline at an ideal picnic spot of Blanket Bay, and continue towards the isolated Parker Inlet in the west. Trek a little upward to the surging farmland, and stop by at the iconic Cape Otway Lighthouse to know more about the history behind this dodgy stretch of coastline. The stretch expands further high above the waters through sand hills to reach the Escarpment Deck, boasting views of the Aire River inlet, where one can descend and set up a camp.

From Johanna Beach, the route diverts to the farm tracks, and the steep climb offers an expansive view from the top with small creek crossings and beautiful forest areas. Along this stretch is the magical spot of Ryan’s Den campsite, and the Gables lookout offering unparalleled views above the seascape. Walkers can choose to traverse ridges and stroll past the forested gullies to the Devils Kitchen Campsite.

Taste the Best of Australian Wines at Vintage Wineries

After all that extra-terrestrial dose of summer camps and weekend getaways, everybody needs an extra serving of booze, and what better place than Victoria to do the same. Take leverage of the cellar door tastings and get to know about the regional wines and the history behind them. There are as many as 600 cellar doors and 800 wineries spread across 21 different areas in the state. So literally, you have a wine menu to suit any palette.

The most well-renowned vineyard region is the Yarra Valley, where one can have a taste of the premium estate wines blended years back. If you are looking for a classical collection of artisanal wines, head towards the High Country to sample the full-bodied reds, fortfieds and Italian varietals. Roll down the hills of Mornington Peninsula towards the south of Melbourne for top shelf pinot grigio, pinot gris, chardonnay and pinot noir.

Family owned wineries can be found in the Bellarine Peninsula, Macedon and Geelong offering a unique tasting experience. By virtue of a cooler climate in these regions, one can find a good variety of European style liquors. The Macedon offers an unparalleled view of the nearby mountain ranges along with sparkling wines.

10 Exciting Events In Melbourne During January 2017

Choose Melbourne Bus Charter To Attend These January Events

With festivals, markets, musical shows, live entertainment, summer camps, kid’s activities and regional fests happening throughout the year, the vibrant city of Melbourne caters for people of all tastes and interests. If you are looking for a short trip to the city in January 2017, make sure to choose bus charter in Melbourne for a convenient journey to these event destinations.

Peninsula Summer Music Festival 2017

What better beginning to the new year than a Peninsula Summer Music Festival celebrating a decade of world class music, alongside lush green lawn, intimate spaces and wide selection of wineries offered at the Mornington Peninsula? Get ready to be entertained with fiery gypsy melodies, South African rhythms, baroque, contemporary Jazz, intimate piano recitals and mystical beauty of a pastoral opera. A number of local and international artists will come under one roof to participate in 20 events to be held across 14 days. The diverse range of programs will take you on an exciting musical journey right from the late 17th Century.

Summer Night Market at Queen Victoria Market

The favourite night market of Melbourne is returning for the 19th season with an excellent disco funk theme, and the brand new season will see the residents enjoying the summer with different themes each week. On Wednesday, 4th of January, the Market will be lit up to welcome the New Year with entertainment offerings and wide range of seasonal food. Over 150 merchandise traders will showcase their wares, including a variety of handcrafted and vintage apparel. There will be free roving entertainment which includes Tek Tek Ensemble, That Gold Street Band, The Everymen and James Kenyon who’ll tell you stories through music.

Melbourne Musical Theatre Festival

Perk up your vocals and put on the dancing shoes, as the highly anticipated debut season of the Melbourne Musical Theatre Festival will be on its way this January, starting 6th. The festive atmosphere will be filled with an eclectic mix of musical theatre, opera and musical comedy. The event creates an exciting platform for emerging songwriters, composers, designers and performers who can get themselves involved in this wonderful experience. Apart from the live performances, the festival also plays host to interactive productions, workshops and classes to encourage good understanding about local and international music.

Cave Hill Creek Summer Camp

The Cave Hill Creek Summer Camp will run from 9th to 13th of January in a fun and sociable atmosphere suited for both boys and girls. Over a period of 4 days, children will get a chance to participate in numerous outdoor activities including bouldering, balancing low ropes, building bush huts, archery, mountain biking, canoeing and abseiling. As the darkness sets in, kids can pitch a tent of their own, sing or dance in a talent show, go on a leisure walk or enjoy the night campfire. Kids will always be under the supervision of highly experienced and qualified camp staff.

Funfields – Season 2017

Funfields has evolved into a favourite theme park for many in the city of Melbourne, and is hardly a 40-minute drive from the central business district. The venue houses some of the most thrilling rides and modern outdoor attractions suited for people of all ages. The upgraded rides include Mini Go Karts on renovated track, Carousel, Birdy Cove Water Play Area and Treasure Cove Mini Golf Course. If you are looking to chill down, head towards the magical aquatic playground of the Wacky waters with more than 20 interactive features to pounce upon.

So Frenchy So Chic in the Park 2017

On the 15th of January, 2017, the Werribee Park will turn into a spot of cultural celebration with all things French from delectable food and drinks to music and entertainment. Francophiles will mingle together under one roof to rejoice a day of cultural discovery and pleasure for people of all senses. Grab some delicious French cuisine and a pack of crispy burgers. Add to that, a glass of premium champagne, and you are all good for the day!

Wonderful Indonesia Beach Fest

Scheduled to be held over a period of two days from 21st to 22nd of January, the Wonderful Indonesia Beach Festival at St. Kilda Beach promises to be an exciting event with all things Indonesian from food and drinks to culture and attractions. Come along with your friends and family to enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with traditional music and dances, costume carnivals and live performances by talented artists. There will be a yoga session on the beach, as well as cooking demonstrations by experts. The exclusive travel fair will showcase some of the best travel spots in Indonesia, beyond Bali.

Melbourne Bridal and Honeymoon Expo

Known to the largest wedding exhibition of its kind, the Bridal & Honeymoon Expo 2017 is due to be held on 22nd of January at The Melbourne Exhibition Centre. You get a chance to meet expert bridal exhibitors, and take inspiration from models presenting the latest bridal trends along with some free magazines and live entertainment.

Kath & Kim’s Aussie Shindig

If you are a true Aussie, you surely cannot turn down this wonderful event at the Supersmall Club in South Yarra on the 25th and 26th of January. On the eve of Australia Day, everyone is invited to celebrate the popular mother-daughter duo of Kath and Kim Shindig from 7 pm onwards. There will be free barbecue doing the rounds, as well as free photo-booth. Mask your face with the Kath & Kim cut outs, and booze all night long with some premium drinks including Lamington shots, Chardonnays, Tia Maria Espresso Martinis, Vodka Passionas and BBQ shape Margaritas.

Midsumma Pride March

Currently in its 22nd year, the Midsumma Pride March is an annual parade that will take place this year on the 29th of January to honour and acknowledge the people of the LGBT community in the city of Melbourne. You are invited to be as marvellous as you can, so that you can leave a strong influence of your presence. Sing, dance and march along, and if that’s not your thing, come along to the Fitzroy Street to encourage those who are parading. Join in the festivities at the Catani Gardens for some food and booze after the march!

Christmas Is Here – Find Out How To Book Our Buses & Coaches Fast!

Learn How to Book Buses and Coaches in Australia for Attending Exciting 2016 Christmas Events!

One unique thing about celebrating Christmas in Australia is the fact that we are celebrating it during summer. Australia is huge so celebrations and festivities are plentiful. We Australians love the outdoors and that’s why many of the Christmas events are held outdoors across the different cities.

This year, one of the most notable events during Australia’s Christmas season is definitely Carols by Candlelight. At this wonderful outdoor concert, you can join both the locals and tourists to light candles and sing Christmas carols while the stars shine brightly above, basking in an ambience that is second to none.

If you are travelling with a group of companions, make sure you book bus and coach hire in Australia. Whether you are just heading to the downtown area or travelling between cities, Transport Network Australia makes sure that everyone can travel fast and safe like Santa!

Key Christmas Events in Sydney & Melbourne

You have seen them on TV and heard great stories about them; we are talking about the major cities of Australia! Check out the 2016 Christmas events that are slated to happen in cities such as:

Sydney

Martin Place Concert and Tree Lighting. The moment Martin Place’s 21m high Christmas tree lights up, Christmas in Sydney officially begins. The event is hosted by Sunrise’s Samantha Armytage and Mark Ferguson from 7 News Sydney. This going to be a packed family-friendly concert you don’t want to miss! To get there on time, Sydney bus hire will help!

Woolworths Carols in the Domain. This is the country’s largest Christmas concert and it will be held in the Domain, Royal Botanic Gardens. Don’t know where it is? It is located between Hospital Road and Art Gallery Road. The theme for 2016 is Christmas Traditions; it features some of Australia’s and the world’s best-loved artists who will be performing Christmas songs and carols.

Melbourne

Gingerbread Village by Epicure. This wonderful event will be a big treat for your little ones. It is held at Melbourne Town Hall and slated to happen from the first of December to the 24th. As the name of the event suggests, iconic Melbourne landmarks and locations will be made of out of gingerbread. You and your children will get to admire places such as Luna Park, Albert Park Lake, the Arts Centre Spire, Melbourne Cricket Ground and more!

Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight 2016. On 24 Dec 2016, be sure to head down to King’s Domain Park. The event has been a magnificent Christmas tradition in the city for nearly eight decades. It brings an evening of entertainment and classic Christmas carols together for the whole family. The great thing about attending the show is you get to contribute to the funds used to improve the livelihoods of those who are visually impaired. What’s more, you no longer have to experience the hassles of taking public transportation. Bus hire in Melbourne will make travelling within a foreign city easy!

How To Book TNA Buses & Coaches For Christmas

First, you should do a quick head count and see who is coming with you to the Christmas event. Next, decide whether you need to hire minibuses, arrange for airport transfers, or book for the bigger vehicles such as coach buses.

At Transport Network Australia, we offer one of the largest bus charter fleets in the country. We have more than 5,000 vehicles, including coaches, charter buses, minibuses, and people movers.

Once you have the information you need, use our online quote form to get started. Simply enter your starting point as well as your destination. Let us know about your pickup time, the number of passengers, preferred vehicle type, journey type, as well as your contact details. Once done, you will be able to get a quote and confirm your booking with us.

Well, isn’t that simple?

We hope that you will enjoy your upcoming Christmas vacation in Australia. Besides Sydney and Melbourne, there are many other cities to visit and catch the different Christmas events – but one thing is sure, no matter where you want to go in Australia for Christmas, Transport Network Australia is more than ready to bring you there!

Things To Do In Federation Square

Melbourne’s Federation square stands over an area of 3.2 hectares and is just next to the city’s busiest railway station. This first public square in Melbourne was created in 2002 and is visited by 80 million people. The area is open for public throughout the year. Here are fantastic things that you can do here: Read more

8 Best Student Excursion Ideas For Melbourne

Student excursions offer valuable real-life learning experiences that can complement standard class room instructions. There are many awesome places to take students throughout Melbourne, which is also a good alternative to Australia’s capital, Canberra. When you are planning for an excursion, always keep flexibility in mind. You should also map out your entire itinerary for a particular trip and be aware of potential travelling situations. Read more

Sydney to Melbourne | Want To Go On A Minibus Road Trip?

Choosing to go on a minibus road trip from Sydney to Melbourne is definitely a fantastic idea as it can let you taste the essence of Australia’s natural landscape. The country is renowned for its opulent fishing villages, natural rainforests, pristine beaches and National Parks that are scattered down their impressive coastlines. Here are some of the best places of interest for your upcoming road trip you can stop at while you make your way from Sydney to Melbourne. Read more

From Melbourne to Mt. Buller

The largest ski resort in Victoria boasts an impressive 7000 beds available to accommodate winter sports enthusiasts. La Trobe University left behind a working cinema, gym, and indoor sports arena that is now being used by the Mount Buller Community Centre as its home. These facilities are open year round and there are many things to do on the mountain even when there is no snow on the ground. The National Alpine Museum can be enjoyed year round as well.

Mansfield – Two Day Trip for Outdoor Adventure Lovers

Tour the Victorian Alps and visit historic Mansfield. The population was under 5,000 residents on the 2011 census. This small town at the foothills of the Victorian Alps was once dependent on the logging and farming industries but now the main industry is tourism. Mansfield is the main support town for the famous Australian ski resort Mount Buller.

Upcoming Melbourne Events For Business Networking

Melbourne can be considered to be one of the major business hubs in the world. This means that if you are interested in networking with the movers and shakers in various industries, visiting Melbourne is likely to be one of the best ways to do it. There is a high concentration of businessmen from all industries in the city and by choosing to network with the right people, you will unleash powerful potential for your own business. Read more