Entering Melbourne was another story - very disappointing. As we approached the suburbs from the north west we thought we might turn right round and bring our flight forward to Brisbane. We gave it the benefit of the doubt and have to say we have warmed in the last few days (even though it is renowned for its changeable weather - all 4 seasons in one day).

Melbourne is much bigger than we expected and as with all cities its population has different levels of prosperity but some choosing to live in conditions that could do with a bit of upgrading. It also has a very efficient and cheap network of transportation system. We have become quite accustomed to hopping on and off trams, buses and trains. Not something that is likely to continue when we get back home.

There is an array of coffee shops and restaurants each serving food from every corner of the world. Think we are eating and drinking our way through quite a few. Sunday night we have booked dinner on a colonial tram car touring the city whilst we dine.

The skyline is quite crazy as you stand in space age Federation Square you look up at 19th century ornate detailed buildings together with 21st century ultra modern. In fact the whole inner and outer city is a bit like that. We took a trip up the Eureka Tower to the skydeck on the 88th floor. Although we have done sky decks before this was quite different. We were in a 10 cu ft glass capsule that moved outwards from the building - at this stage the glass is opaque. Then miraculously when you are suspended the glass turns transparent and you are hanging there with the city below. They also throw in fog and storms for real effects. We were hysterical with laughter but think that was the substitute for freaking out. Brilliant experience.

We also went to see Sex and the City which was my choice but Ray thought it was the best choice as he would then not have to be embarrassed by me snoring my way through something I was not interested in. Good choice though as Ray admitted it was good entertainment value.

Quite looking forward to the next few days

Jen and Ray