1. What is the time difference between India and Melbourne?
Melbourne is 4 hours 30 minutes ahead of India.

2. Where is Melbourne located?
The capital of Victoria, Melbourne, is the second-largest city in Australia. It is found in the South Eastern part of mainland Australia. The city takes up much of the Port Philip Bay on its edges. Moving inwards, Melbourne spreads into the hinterlands towards the Yarra Valley and Dandenong range (east) as well as areas like Mornington Peninsula (south) and Maribyrnong River (west).

3. What is the best way to travel to Melbourne?
Melbourne has a well-connected international airport and there are several flights from major Indian cities to Melbourne. Alternatively, if you’re travelling to Melbourne from another state, then the buses are a good and comfortable option too. There are also several trains that take you to Melbourne. 

4. Is it a safe destination?
Melbourne is considered a safe city as the crime rate here is low. But as always, be wary when in isolated areas.

5. What are the popular places to see here?
The Royal Botanic Gardens are a must-visit while the Melbourne Zoo is also popular. There are art galleries and museums and several other beautiful architectural wonders to visit here. 

6. What are the drinking laws?
The legal drinking age in Melbourne is 18 years.

7. What is the currency used in Melbourne?
Melbourne uses the Australian dollar as its currency. Credit cards are accepted in all restaurants, cafés and bars. However, a good idea would be to get a Thomas Cook Travel Prepaid Card as it is a secure way of carrying money and Thomas Cook is one of the most trusted foreign exchange partners in the world.

8. Will I get WiFi connectivity? Can I buy a local sim card there?
There is free WiFi services in most places in Melbourne, starting right from the airport. It’s easy to purchase a local sim card from providers such as Optus or Amaysim.

9. What kind of food will we get there? What about Indian food or even vegetarian options?
Foodies will be delighted at the various delicious options such as pizzas, burgers and the famed jaffles that are Australian favourites. Melbourne also has several Indian restaurants that serve popular street food, as well as modern Indian food that’s delicious and healthy. There are plenty of options for vegetarians as well.

10. What are the local travel options here? Can we use Uber there?
Travelling inside the city is made easy thanks to the numerous buses or even the free visitor shuttles that take you to all the city’s attractions for free. Melbourne also has the metro, and a huge network of trams. Yes, Uber is also a popular option for those who want to travel within the city.

11. What are some of the things to do here? 
Melbourne is a cosmopolitan and thriving city with all sorts of attractions. The Botanical Gardens offers delightful landscapes while the museums and shopping will keep you busy. Queen Victoria Markets are also an excellent way to connect with the local community and learn more about the city.

12. Are we expected to tip here?
Tipping is not customary in Melbourne and restaurant staff don’t expect to be tipped. However, you can tip if you felt the service has been exceptional.

13. What is it like to travel to Melbourne with infants, children and elderly? 
Melbourne is a great place to take kids along. While travelling, do remember that you are allowed to bring infant formula, but any other fresh food is strictly not allowed, and the penalties can be staggering. There are several family accommodation hotels which are better than hotel rooms, especially if you are travelling with small children. As for older folks, Melbourne is great for a number of things, but do make sure you follow the weather tips and bring the appropriate warm clothing if required.