Melbourne

We got to Melbourne a few hours later than originally planned as we missed our flight, however, when we did arrive, we got a cab to North Fitzroy and met Tony’s brother who lives in Melbourne with his girlfriend Lily. We spent most of our time catching up with them over many ‘pots’ of beer and dinners out and it was really nice for me to meet them finally and for Tony to see his brother again. While they were working during the day, Tony and I spent out time visiting the tourist sites; federation square, Collin’s Street, St Kilda and the Southbank were a few. We spent some of an evening out in the Crown Hotel, where Mr. Tiger Wood’s stayed during the Golf Masters in Melbourne and we went to the famous tennis courts where the Australian Open is held each year.

At first we were due to stay above a pub but after inspecting the room and facilities we made a swift departure and found a really cool and friendly couple on gumtree who were renting their spare room. So as we did in Sydney we did a house share which worked out more comfortable and cheaper than any hostel or hotel and both Anna and Mat were very welcoming.

Our visit to Melbourne coincided with the release of New Moon, so me being a very big fan thanks to my chums Solene, Ally and Kiera went to see the first movie ‘Twlight’ the night before the big release and then spent the following evening watching New Moon – which I must add was amazing, can’t wait for the next movie!

Most of the other days Tony spent his time playing golf or hitting balls at the range or swimming in the local pool, we both had two attempts at Bikram Yoga which is basically Yoga in extreme heat; very interesting but frustrating too.

We both left the city and went with his brother David and gf Lily for a drive along the Great Ocean Road taking in the sites, including the 12 Apostles. We also had a very nice evening in Apollo Bay. The next weekend I left Melbourne and headed to Coff’s Harbour where my long lost 3rd cousin Sophie lived. After finding her on facebook and getting in contact I booked my long weekend to Coff’s. It was super amazing spending the 4 days with her and her family, made me miss home even but was nice to be around so many different people especially their little girl who was the cutest princess I’ve ever seen! Had a mini experience and I say MINI experience on the back of a bike but was too scared to do it again and was supposed to go horse riding but my trip was interrupted by food poisoning which wasn’t too pleasant!

Had a few more days left in Melbourne once I returned, one I spent in the hospital on a drip as my food poisoning had completely drained me and my blood pressure was too low apparently and the second I spent writing xmas cards and packing. We spent our last evening in the Docklands with some good friends of Tony’s parents Roger and Sue who had also made it to our leaving party back in August so was good catching up with them and hearing about their travels.

Overall Melbourne was good as we got to catch up with long lost friends and family and although we didn’t do as much tourist stuff as usual we had a good time chilling out. The weather was a bit up and down and for the first time since being away, we both got hayfever which was yuck, the city centre was quite good and the 360 degree viewing tower is a must, both at day and night. I probably wouldn’t put Melbourne in my top10 but I know many who would, so it depends on your likes and dislikes really. I must say my highlight was seeing my new found family Sophie and co and having an amazing few nights with them – so thank you Sophie!