BOOZE!

[SteveDownUnder]

Dan Murphy in Victoria is the Mecca for drinking enthusiasts. If you're on your way to a party, plan on visiting DM's with plenty of time to spare, I've gone in there many of times on my way to parties and turned up late to the party every time, the place is huge, and you always come out with more than you need.

You can get all the top British beers (usually pricey @ $4 a can), plus there are some really good Aussie beers too; I like Coopers Ales, and also Boags.

European beers are pretty pricey here, none more evident that my trip to the UK in May 06 when I paid 9 pounds 95 for a slab (24) of Stella in Tesco's, that's about $25. Over here a slab of Stella Artios will set you back closer to $50.

The wine is very good here, and even if you're not much of a wine buff now, you'll soon find yourself stocking up on some fantastic local wines, just take a scenic wine tour through the Yarra Valley or down the Mornington Peninsular to get yourself acquainted.

Save money by entertaining at home, or having a picnic with your friends down by the Yarra or at BBQ sites anywhere along the coast, or if you do feel like going out for a meal, most eateries in Melbourne have a BYO policy.

Have fun and drink in moderation

[Stuju]

Hey you are looking at approx
$20 to $60 for a slab of beer
(carlsberg 24 x 330ml bottles currently $40)
Jack daniels between $35 & $40
have a peep at http://www.liquorland.com.au/

[spock]

Cold sweats, racing heartbeat.

OK I think I'm coming off the wagon!

This sounds great for parties and ents at home, but is it right about the lack of cosy pubs?

What about bars in the city - must be plenty of those? (Not talking about those huge gaming stations - that's not for me)

Spock.

[SteveDownUnder]

There's heaps of cosy pubs; good ones can be found in the inner Melbourne suburbs, around Richmond, Carlton, Brunswick, North Melbourne, Fitzroy, you just have to find one that suits, though I can't speak for the outer subs, I'm sure they all have something you can go for a quiet drink with your partner or a few friends.

The influx of large Irish and English pubs a few years ago brought a touch of home with them. Some of these pubs have cosy little alcoves in them where you can sit for hours, though not on Friday or Saturday nights.

I'll be making my yearly pilgrimage to the Charles Dickens in May to watch the FA cup, a night you just can't spend at home.

In my opinion, Melbourne has taken over from Sydney as a great place for inner city bars; Friday after work head to Meyers place or any similar little side streets for a good crack and a bit of fun.

[Wendy]

I like this post and wine is my tipple and we usually buy australian in the UK, so it's looking good for me, maybe too good. Stevedownunder mentioned saving money buy going for picnics or going to the bbq sites but then someone else said that drinking in public was not allowed so how strict are they?

[dwaldron]

I would recommend going for a spin through the winery regions and buying it as you go. It is dearer than the supermarkets but you will find a lot of wines that don't even make it to the shops.

[SteveDownUnder]

Wendy, the answer to your question is very intricate. Most councils have their own by-laws governing drinking in public places, it's probably best to check with local councils to see what they allow. Along the Yarra (below the botanical gardens) there's many public BBQ facilities. Throughout the warmer months, these places get packed with office parties and family gatherings, everyone here seems to be drinking responsibly and having lots of fun with police interference.

Though take a drive down the coast to Rye, Rosebud, Sorrento or Portsea, and you'll pass lots of signs saying no alcohol on the beach.

You also wouldn't see people walking through the city with a tinny in hand.

Again check the local council by-laws.

[SteveDownUnder]

That's meant to say without police interference.