April 4
We got up and got going. We had breakfast at Federation square which our hotel was nearby. We had to walk across the pedestrian foot bridge and through the Flinders street station, which is the hub of transportation for Melbourne. Federation Square also houses the visitor center. We decided to buy a $10 pass to hop on and off a bus with a running commentary about the city in order to see the city in the most efficient way. Before hopping on we went to Hosier Lane, which is the most photographed street art lane in Melbourne. However they are everywhere. We saw them creating the art walls also.
We then went to Chinatown and Greektown walking up Collins street and visiting the Block Arcade and Royal Arcade. These are older buildings refurbished to include many stores and restaurants.
We then walked through town on the way to the Queen Victoria Market, and stopped off at a store called "Books for Cooks" this gentleman helped us find a local chef's cookbook for Mark and provided suggestions for fine dining. This market was HUGE! They sold fruits, vegetables and meats along with gadgets, vintage ware and crafts.
We caught the next bus and travelled by the University of Melbourne to HArbour town and Docklands which is on the wharf and full of restaurants and stores and condos. We got tea and treats and then took the bus by the stadiums( cricket , soccer and Rod Laver stadium where the Australian Open is held, and got off the bus on the Sculpural bridge that highlights the history of Australia. We walked along the South Wharf Promenade. We went back to the hotel before going out to a place to eat on the waterfront. Forrest had flounder and I had snapper which were wonderful!!
It is our last night in Australia, and we can hardly believe that our vacation is coming to an end. It has been full of adventure, wonderful people and interesting cultures both in Australia and in New Zealand. We will travel on the 5 th and get home on the 5 th. Hard to believe it is time to go home, however I am sick of wearing the same clothes.
April 3
This was another travel day. Went to the last hotel we hadn't visited in the resort this morning. They had a beautiful art gallery there and we saw some Anangu paintings from contemporary artists that were stunning! We went to the Ayers Rock airport and their security scanner was broken, so they checked all the bags by hand which took awhile! We arrived in Melbourne in the evening. They have " ambassadors" at the airport that help you figure out where to go etc. They are so helpful!!
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