Monthly Breakdown for Market Devotees, Urban Roamers, and Oyster-Loving Nomads

Melbourne’s been a favourite of mine — and yes, the Queen Victoria Market is a big part of that. There’s something about fresh oysters in the morning, donuts in the afternoon, and international food options at every corner that just makes this city so livable.

💰 Expenses Breakdown

🛏️ Accommodation: SGD3,000
→ I stayed in the city centre this time, and that made all the difference.
→ I’ve stayed further out before and regretted it — this location was worth the splurge.
🍽️ Food: ~SGD70/day
→ With so many international cuisines, it’s hard not to eat out.
→ And Queen Vic Market? Dangerous in the best way — oysters, mussels, donuts, and more.
🚇 Transport: SGD300
→ Well-connected city. Easy trams, reliable trains. Zero stress.
💄 Grooming: SGD250
→ Coffee runs, little market buys, and the occasional splurge.

Total: ~SGD5,720 (excluding activities)

📌 Definitely not cheap, but Melbourne makes up for it with lifestyle ease and flavour.

🏡 Where to Stay in Melbourne

✔️ City Centre (CBD) — Stay central if you can. You’ll thank yourself.

It cuts transport time, and puts you closer to all the markets, food, and late-night cravings.

🏠 Airbnb, Hotel, or Something Else?

✅ Airbnb often gives you a kitchen (handy for market goodies).
✅ Hotels near CBD = pricier but convenient if you’re in work mode.

📌 I once stayed further out thinking I’d save — big mistake. The transport time eats into your day, and you’ll miss out on spontaneous market stops or late-night dessert runs. If you’re a wanderer (or snack hoarder), just stay central and don’t fight it.

🍽️ Food and Dining in Melbourne (SGD70/day)

✔️ Queen Victoria Market — Absolute must.
→ Go for the oysters, stay for the donuts and people-watching.
✔️ International food scene is incredible — from Vietnamese pho to Greek souvlaki, all within reach.

📌 Eating out adds up fast here, but it’s so hard to resist.

🚕 Transport Costs (SGD300 for the Month)

✔️ Trams are free in the CBD — massive win.
✔️ Everything else is easily accessible by train or tram.

📌 You can get by without a car, even for day trips.

📶 Internet and Workspaces (SGD25)

✔️ Great speeds, no connectivity issues.

📌 Most Airbnbs and cafes are remote-work friendly.

🎟️ Where I Spent My Time in Melbourne

✔️ Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria — A green pocket in the middle of the city. Great for decompressing.
✔️ Queen Victoria Market — Go in the morning for the full effect. It’s loud, fresh, and addictive.

📌 Even just wandering through the laneways with coffee in hand feels like an activity.

🌟 Final Thoughts: Was SGD5,720 Worth It?

✔️ Pricey, but for me? Worth it.
✔️ The food variety, ease of moving around, and cozy city energy made it a favourite.
✔️ If you can afford a city-centre stay, do it. It upgrades the whole experience.

🙋‍♀️ Who This City is For

• Food-motivated city dwellers
• Travellers who want both markets and gardens
• Remote workers who like balance and brunch