We've got Andrew Forrester (the guy that runs Armageddon) to do 3 building inspections for us. He's very affordable, available at fairly short notice and really thorough. He's just someone who we feel we can trust - which is important when you're spending the best part of half a million dollars on a home.

Approximate cost: $350

Really excellent quality Asian food in a lovely setting in Albert park. The Korean beef quite literally melted in my mouth. Not the widest range of dishes, but what they do, they do outstandingly. Definitely somewhere to go if you're trying to impress a new date....!

Approximate cost: $25-30

Late, unreliable, planes are often messy/untidy/dirty when i step on to them. Well - at least they're cheap. But I'd rather pay a little more, fly with Virgin and at least know I'll get there on time and I won't be hanging around for an hour or more while my plane turns up. WHY IS JETSTAR ALWAYS SO LATE?!

Out of the two budget options available right now, Virgin Blue beats Jetstar by a million miles. That's not to say they're great, just the best of a ropey bunch (all two of them!). At least they're mostly on time and arrive when they say they'll arrive. Still - you do pay a little more than Jetstar for this "privilege". Looking forward to the cosy budget duopoly being opened up a little more this year. Bring on the competition!

i don't understand the big deal about this place. It's always PACKED yet the service is slow and the food is SO lame. Everytime I've been, it reminds me of eating cardboard. Yet people rave about it. maybe I leep going on the wrong days, but I'm not going there anymore. Just always very disappointed.

Approximate cost: $12

Maybe not the biggest selection of new movies, but probably one of the best selections of new, old, arthouse and hollywood films in Melbourne. It's huge and hard not to get lost in there sometimes...

Approximate cost: $5

When you're looking for a FINE dining experience, then I suggest you check out 312 in Carlton. Pricey food for sure - and the wine doesn't really start under $35 - but you really feel as though you're spoiling yourself when you eat here. Excellent service and outstanding food. I even had an complimentary, edible cigar as an entree. Amazing!

Approximate cost: $40

If you're looking for a quick, cheap Indian curry around Fitzroy, you can't go too far wrong with the Curry Cafe. Wide variety on the menu and a good selection of naan breads too. All for around a tenner - bargain!

Approximate cost: $10

One of my favourite clothing stores in Melbourne (for guys). The latest sunglasses, sneakers, jeans etc etc. When I'm stuck for clothes I always head here and come away with something I LOVE. Not the cheapest place, but great quality and cool clothes

I love this place. None of the "try to be your friend and make you feel guilty so you buy" selling tactics of certain wine cellars. They give you a glass and you go and get on with the business of tasting as much or as little wine as you like. Absolutely great prices too. A really good way to spend an hour or so!