Tennis tips Australian Open

1. Make the most of free services provided for tourists

When you first arrive, visit the Melbourne Visitor Centre at Federation Square. The team will help you with whatever information you need, including free brochures, guides and maps, information about “What’s On”, assistance with tour bookings and public transport information.

Also do a circuit on the Free City Circle Tram to get orientated and learn about attractions that you’ll want to visit later. This tram runs in both directions along Flinders Street and you’ll recognise it by its distinctive maroon colour.

While you’re navigating your way around the city, it’s good to know that in Melbourne streets can change name without ever turning a corner. For example Swanston Street changes name to St Kilda Road where it intersects with Flinders Street. This tip might save you from thinking that you’ve inadvertently turned a corner when you haven’t!

2. Stay in the Melbourne CBD, Southbank or at Crown

If you stay in these areas you can easily get to Flinders Street to catch a tram to Melbourne Park. Trams running between the city and the Australian Open are free if you have a valid tennis ticket.

Night matches can finish after most public transport has stopped running but trams to the city continue to run after the last match is completed. This is another good reason to stay in the city area. You’ll be able to get back to your accommodation easily, and you’ll have the option of walking to avoid crowded trams or queuing for taxis.

3. Be prepared for hot weather

The Australian sun is really strong and you can get sunburnt easily. Depending what tickets you have, you might be outside in the sun for long periods of time so be prepared.
• Reapply sunscreen regularly.
• Wear a hat.
• Have a long sleeved top available.
• Bring a water bottle that you can refill at the water stations around the
grounds.

4. Get the Australian Open app

To keep up with scores and highlights from around the grounds, which can otherwise be hard to do while you’re in your seat watching a match, download the Australian Open App for iPhone, iPad or Android. For those on Twitter, follow @AustralianOpen for updates.

If you’re using the AO app and Twitter or other social media during a long day at the tennis your battery will probably run low. Bring your phone charger so that you’ll be able to re-charge at one of the power points available inside Rod Laver and Hisense Arenas.