Melbourne has always been the arts capital of Australia. The National Gallery of Victoria, already with a world-renowned collection of international art, has cemented that position recently with the daring renovation of the existing gallery and the opening of The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square, Victoria’s new home of Australian art. Within the city itself, Melbourne’s laneways have sprung to life. Cutting-edge fashion designers like Alannah Hill rub shoulders with local ragtrade mavericks. The tiny cafés, juice bars and crêperies of Centre Place are only a short walk from the genteel surroundings of Quest Jolimont. Combined with the talents of the world’s finest athletes and a sporting show that only Melbourne could put on, these are just some of the attractions that will make Melbourne the world’s most exciting city during the 12th FINA World Swimming Championships.