Melbourne retains title as world’s most livable city for 6th year; Taiwanese visitor numbers up 14.7%

▲ Melbourne has been named the world’s most livable city for six years in a row. (Photo / Provided by Tourism Victoria)

Reported by Chen Rui-zhong / Compiled by staff

Australia has long been one of the most popular travel destinations for Taiwanese tourists over the years, and Melbourne has emerged as a top travel hotspot in recent times. For the sixth consecutive year, the annual Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) Global Liveability Survey has ranked Melbourne, the capital of Victoria in Australia, as the “world’s most livable city.”

The Global Liveability Survey evaluates 140 cities worldwide based on factors such as social stability, healthcare, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure to determine each city’s score, with Melbourne topping the list for the sixth year in a row. In addition to being recognized as Australia’s hub for culture, shopping, music, and nightlife, the city’s unique laneways, parks, gardens, and creative communities have also received high praise. The “World’s 50 Best Restaurants” recently announced that the 2017 awards ceremony will be held in Melbourne, marking the first time the event will take place outside of London.

▲ At Healesville Sanctuary, you can get up close and interact with platypuses.

Tourism Victoria stated that visitors to the state can explore Melbourne and also visit Healesville Sanctuary in the Yarra Valley, where they can get close to native wildlife such as dingoes, kangaroos, and wombats. They can even venture into shallow waters to interact with the unforgettable platypus. Sports fans can head to Flemington Racecourse, Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit, and the Melbourne Sports Museum. Additionally, travelers can visit the Mailbox art space in central Melbourne and then relax at nearby cafes, enjoying an artistic and serene afternoon while immersing themselves in the atmosphere of the “world’s most livable city.”

▲ Melbourne Sports Museum.

According to the latest statistics from the Victorian Government, from April 2015 to March this year, a total of around 48,000 Taiwanese visitors traveled to Victoria, marking a 14.7% increase compared to the same period last year. The average length of stay for Taiwanese overnight visitors in Victoria also rose by 9.8% year-on-year.