10 good reasons why Melbourne is better than Sydney

I recently spent 4 good days in Melbourne with the express intent of watching 4 AFL games in one weekend. I sucessfully saw some first class footy at exceptional footy venues. I've always liked Melbourne and went there with high expectations, but these expectations were not only met but passed in many instances.

At a bar on the Saturday that I had the idea for this post. Later, during a tram ride back to the hostel I was staying at, I was able to pen them down (the task being so easy, it was completed in about 2 minutes).

These are the reasons in no particular order. Some reasons contribute to, or overlap with, other reasons, but by and large they are identifable reasons why Melbourne shits on Sydney, and from a great height at that:

1) Culture (arts, museums, cafes, identity). Melbourne has a vibrant and identifiable cultural remit. Sydney has a homogenised, bland, tacky culture that does nothing to engage the senses.

2) Infrastructure (speed, proficieny, responsiveness, sign posts). The city is well organised. Not only in terms of layout, but also in terms of public services

3) Public transport (tickets across types, ease). The Sydney public transport system in particular is a disgrace. Melbournes is fast, efficient, frequent and affordable. One ticket allows you to ride all modes of public transport, unlike Sydney.

4) Government (corageous, public art). I'm sure they have their detractors, but the Melbourne government must be heralded for its abilility to see bold architecture projects in the city, as well as its ability to attract major events to the CBD. Federation square is an example.

5) Cost of living (reasonableness). Maybe Melbourne isn't that cheap, it's just that Sydney is outrageously expensive.

6) Architecture (inspiring). As afore mentioned, the architecture is bold and would compete with any other international city. Sydney architecture is 'sedate' at best

7) Attitude (not jaded or rude, tram seats). Melburnians are an interesting lot who love their footy and sport in general. Sydney-siders are far more concerned with how much money you make, where you work, or who you're friends with.

8) Women (knowledgeable, not superficial). Again, the fact that Melbourne women are fantastic is only supported by the fact that Sydney women are so superficial and cantankerous. Surprisingly, Melbourne women also dress better.

9) Drinking Holes (atmosphere, intimacy, not sterile). Due to the weather, most Melbourne bars are intimate little numbers with an open fireplace, cosy lounges and cruisy music. Far more accommodating than those polished floorboards/stainless steel/glass abhorrences they call bars in Sydney.

10) AFL. Not much needs to be said here really. Where else can you watch 4 games of footy in 3 days at 2 of the world's best sporting venues. And realatively cheaply as well.

The only thing against Melbourne is the weather and the beaches. However, given all things considered, not only does Melbourne shit on Sydney, but it does it from a great height.