Melbourne

We sent back all our jackets and jumpers home in preparation for the heat of AUSTRALIA! However, it turns out that it rains quite a lot in Melbourne and in the spring it can be quite chilly! We will just have to wait for that warmth :-\

We were picked up by Olly’s ex-hozelock friend Shoji. We had the pleasure of staying and hanging out with him and his lovely girlfriend Verity whilst in Melbourne. As well as being jealous of their new location in the world, we felt like they gave us a real insight in a Victorians way of life as well as ticking off some of the more touristy things at the same time. We saw the historic St Kilda with its Blackpool-esque fair and famous cake shops, and saw a movie at the old Astoria theatre. We visited out of town beach spots and climbed the thousand steps. And we had a traditional Ozzie BBQ!

The city is renowned for its café culture, hipster residents, and arts scene. We spent a few hours visiting the quirky design and craft stores in the Collingwood area, before café stops in Johnston and Degraves streets.

We felt that Melbourne also had a large sports scene going on. Everyday the road up the coast into the city has an impressive number of cyclists and the beaches were constantly being used for watersports – surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding and windsurfing.

Old trams still in operation

City by night

City at sunset

Ned Kelly’s original armour

Melbourne = cake and coffee, nom nom!

More cakes!

Old Victorian entertainment at Luna Park

Our brilliant Melbourne hosts and friends; Shoji and Verity