Stop Doing These Things
Melbourne is a city full of culture, incredible food, and a personality of its own. Every day, thousands of tourists come and visit the coffee capital of Australia, and while blending in might seem easy, there are a few tell-tale signs that give you away as a tourist almost instantly.
After living here for a while, I’ve noticed these small (and sometimes funny) habits that scream “not from here” – and I’ve for sure done lots of them myself. If you want to fit in and not look like a tourist, here is a list of things not to do in Melbourne.
1. Wearing Colourful Outfits
If I had to pick one colour to describe Melbourne, it would be black. Maybe, maybe some neutral colours like beige or grey, but let’s be honest, most people dress in black (it’s kinda cool ngl).
So if you’re walking through the CBD in a bright, colourful outfit, chances are you’ll stand out straight away. It’s not wrong – just very un-Melbourne like.
(Although I have to say, since adopting a white-haired cat, I have reduced my all-black wardrobe a little lol).
2. Drinking Starbucks Coffee
C’mon, you’re in Melbourne. This is where you can find some of the best coffee in the world. And believe me, there are thousands of independent cafes everywhere with fantastic coffee or even speciality coffee drinks if you’re into that (If you’re a matcha drinker, check out this list).
3. Treating Queen Vic Market Like a Hidden Gem
Queen Vic Market is an iconic experience, but it’s far from being a hidden secret.
If you’re acting as if you’ve just discovered a hidden local spot, chances are… everyone else already knows about it. Locals love it, but they also know it’s one of the city’s biggest tourist hubs.
Not to say you shouldn’t enjoy it, though!
4. Calling it ‘Mel-born’
I probably struggled the most with this one, but let’s just blame it on my accent (lol). When people walk around calling it ‘Mel-born’, I guarantee you Aussies will raise an eyebrow.
For the record, it’s pronounced more like “Mel-bn” (with the “r” almost silent). Once you hear it, you can’t unhear it – and you’ll instantly sound more like a local.
5. Not Being Dressed for the Weather
Melbourne is famous for having all seasons in one day.
If you’re only dressed for sunshine (or only for cold), you’ll feel it quickly. Locals are experts at layering, and they always carry an umbrella because the weather can change in a heartbeat. Rain in the morning, sunshine at noon, storm in the afternoon – all very likely things to happen here.
Most locals don’t rely on their weather apps on their phone but rather use the website bom weather.
6. Reading This
Ok, ok, I’m just kidding. We all need a bit of support, and honestly, props to you for being prepared for your trip (or move to Melbourne). But let me say, I’m excited you get to experience this city, because it’s a very special one.
7. Using Your Myki (in the CBD)
Not promoting to no use your Mykie, but the number of people I spot who don’t tap on is slightly shocking. However, let me say there’s to areas where you don’t have to tap: the CBD within the free tram zone, but also when you leave any tram in general. I see so many people tapping off on the tram when there are signs everywhere saying you don’t have to make me crackle.
