Every year in January, blistering temperatures and even hotter action descend on Melbourne Park for the Australian Open, one of the tennis world’s top four Grand Slam tournaments.
Here, the three principal courts have retractable roofs to manage the weather variations. The event takes place on blue hardcourts, which use acrylic plexicushion surfaces (rated as medium speed by the International Tennis Federation).
Want to know why every tennis fan should experience the Australian Open at least once in their lifetime?
Experience the moments that move you
Grand Slam Tennis offers an exciting display of skill, tenacity and experience. Much like the top events in golf, athletics and swimming, the performance of the individual athlete is the stand-out; there is no team on the court to push him on, he has to rely on his wits and ability on his own.
It is a great day (or night) out
Sitting under the Melbourne sun for hours sounds like a challenge, but the back-and-forth of the ball across the court is mesmerising, especially if you are watching some of the world’s greatest players!
During the day, the temperature can rise dizzyingly high (above 40 degrees Celsius, invoking the tournament’s extreme heat policy). Due to the heat, the Australian Open has a night session whereby 5-set matches often continue into the early hours of the morning.
Somehow, the show will always go on, a testament to the physical and mental strength of the tennis players.
Entertainment on and off the courts
The AO Festival is a highlight. The lower terrace is all about getting fans ready for the tennis fun while the upper level features the best of Melbourne dining and all the live tennis drama on giant screens.
For kids, the AO Ballpark features children’s entertainment and fun play areas, such as a LEGO Play Zone and NERF BattleZone HQ, as well as family-friendly food options. The AO Ballpark is also where fans of all ages can meet their favourite tennis players and score their autographs.
Melbourne is an awesome city
Voted the World’s Most Liveable City for five consecutive years, Melbourne lives up to its easygoing reputation. Here you will find great food, excellent wines, exciting outdoor activities and a thriving arts scene. From its creative city centre and buzzing neighbourhood hubs to its beaches, wineries and alpine villages, Melbourne is a destination for everyone.
The atmosphere of the Australian Open is electric, both courtside and in the city. Luring thousands of people from around Australia and the world, all the tennis action is only a heartbeat away from the city – meaning you are always just a quick tram ride away from wining and dining to your heart’s content, pre or post-tennis.
Be there!
Start your year with some Grand Slam action at the 2018 Australian Open Men’s & Women’s Final! Our Australian Open Packages include your tickets to the Men’s and Women’s finals (dates to be confirmed), your accommodation in Melbourne as well as entry to exclusive pre-match breakfast, dinner and lunch functions with some of the biggest names in Australian tennis in attendance.
We can easily custom-make your 2018 Australian Open packages to include your flights and transfers, and even extend your stay in Melbourne, the World’s Most Liveable City. Enquire with us today, and one of our consultants will be in touch to discuss your travel plans to watch Australia’s most celebrated tennis tournament.
