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My (Not So) Secret Love Affair with Melbourne

by Andy Hayes

It’s not that much of a secret, but despite living in the world’s best small country, I do have a tiny love affair with another place far, far away.  It’s a world capital in its own right and one of the globe’s most cosmopolitan confines.  Where, you ask, is this paradise on earth?  Melbourne, Australia.

Melbourne, my dear Melbourne, how I miss thee….

Where It All Started…

I went to Melbourne during an all out Austrlian-New Zealand tour back in 2006/2007.  God, it seems like it was just yesterday.  I was coming from Sydney, a place that wasn’t necessarily my favourite, and was curious to see what Melbourne would offer — I have quite a few close friends who just love it, so it came well recommended.

Landing in the airport, it was off to an interesting start.  There was nothing for miles around — just the horizon across the reddish hues of the Aussie bush (or outback, depending on the affectionate diminutive of choice).  That all changed halfway through the bus ride into the city, as through the wavy haze of the summer heat, there was the glistening city in the distance.  It’s not the world’s most gorgeous skyline, nor the most expansive, but it has its place.  Well porportioned, nothing ostentatious, but making a statement nonetheless.

The Great Outdoors

One of my favourite things about Melbourne is being outside – with some fantastic weather (albeit HOT), there are so many great places to go and enjoy it.

Federation Square, a hub of activity day and night

They say that the city has the world’s largest population of European Elm Trees – more than here in Europe!  Some of my favourite parks include:

• Royal Botanic Gardens – not as vibrant in colour due to the water restrictions, but still some interesting displays and often fun events like outdoor films and plays.
• Fitzroy Gardens – massive trees and don’t miss the wonderful conservatory
• Alexandra Gardens – gorgeous views guaranteed as this is right on the banks of the Yarra.

If you’re looking at Melbourne as a [temporary] home for your location independent lifestyle, you can go and sit outside with your laptop in Federation Square (pictured above) – there is Free Wifi everywhere!  How cool is that?   Don’t forget that iced latte.

A Gastronomic Capital

Starters, anyone?

Not many realise, but Melbourne is a formidable force to be reckoned with when it comes to the world’s foodie scene.  YUM.  So much fantastic stuff, and it all has this gorgeous European and Asian influences mixing together.  Some of the cuisines that are really a must-try include:

• Chinese (Sunday brunch in Melborune means going for dim sum)
• Indonesian (there are several famous ones, so I’m relucant to choose just one!)
• Italian (just go to Lygon Street, the home of Melbournian cafe culture)

That is just a sample.  In the CBD (commercial business district – e.g. the city centre) you’ll find countless other types of great restaurants.   If you have a hard time finding a place, that’s a good sign; anything hidden away down an alley or small street is bound to be good.

Gorgeous People with Gorgeous Attitudes

Disclaimer:  I don’t know if these people are Mebournian or not.  Nor am I saying they are gorgeous.  They’re having what looks to be a perfectly enjoyable afternoon in Melbourne, which was the whole idea of the picture.  

Never say never, but you won’t find me writing a list ordering the most attractive countries in terms of their population anytime soon.  However, I do know who would be at the top of the list: Melbournians.  Fit and good looking folk who always seem to have a smile on their face and wearing the top sunglasses fashions.  Speaking of which – the shopping in Melbourne is stunning, to say the least.  My favourite shopping stop?  Target.  Yes!  It has different stuff than other ones I’ve been to, and of course, it’s cheap.  Just go and have a look.  It’s fun.

So When are you Going?

Yes, paradise..I mean, Melbourne has a beach too:  St Kilda

I hope to be back in Melbourne early next year in combination with another trip.  There’s just something about it that keeps drawing me back – who knows, someday I might just live there.  But for now, I’ll be happy to fantasise about its golden beaches and turquoise ocean, shimming skyscrapers, blindingly white smiles and the smells of yummy foods….

Photo Credits:  reinn (Skyline), melork (Federation Square), avlxyz (Food & Beach), timparkinson (People)

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