We started our trip in Melbourne, Australia after a 6 hour flight. The girls travelled like little angels. We really enjoyed Melbourne. We would characterize it as a very cosmopolitan, artistic and tourist friendly city. We have to admit that before our departure, we were lazy. We did not read-up on the things to see and do. However, this proved to be beneficial since we didn't have any preconceived ideas about what to expect. As a result, everyday was a new adventure.
Some of our high points included:
- shopping;
- travelling with 2 "starlets";
- food;
- city landscapes; and
- free transportation for tourists.
We found it challenging to limit our purchases. We didn't want to max out our luggage allowance so early in the trip. So we sat on our hands and purchased very few items. Not an easy thing to do when you are surrounded by great fashion, both women's and men's, great sales, original items not to mention a favourable exchange rate. Despite these temptations, we manage to fend off our urges!
Interestingly enough, on our first day, we discovered what it may feel like to be pursued by the paparazzi, albeit on a smaller scale. Let us explain. We were crossing over the Princess Bridge, which is very touristic spot. It is an area surrounded by the National Art gallery, the Alexandria Gardens, the Queen Victoria Gardens, Hamer Hall (their NAC), Federation square, cafes, restaurants, etc. As we stoped to take some panoramic pictures of the view from the bridge, a Chinese lady asked if she could take a picture of Mackenzie and Breeana. Micheal told her to ask Mackenzie so the lady did. Mackenzie agreed and the lady handed her camera to her friend to take a picture of Mackenzie, Breeana and herself.
Nothing too strange so far. That quickly changed. Immediately after the photo was taken, we were surrounded by a large group of Chinese tourists, all waiting for their turn to have their picture taken with the girls! Not 3, 4 or 5, but more like 50! It seemed that every time we thought it was the last photo, another person approached us to have their picture taken. This went on for at least 15 minutes. Some of them even videotaped the girls. Mackenzie and Breeana smiled and laughed the whole time. We were all a little puzzled and Michael and I just kind of shrugged it off. When they were finally done, we realized that it was an entire tour bus. Their guide thanked us as he ushered them along. This happened several times during our holiday. Who knows, maybe the girls will be "starlets" in Shanghai one day!
The food... ok knowing the Quinns, we hope you guessed it - Sweets! Specifically CHOCOLATE and lots of it! Everywhere you looked there were these wonderful little cafes, chocolatier shops filled with decadent treats. Not to set a bad example for the girls, we would take turns and stop at these small shops during the girls nap in the pram, and the other kept walking to make sure they slept. It became our 2:30 pm ritual to find a spot and get our chocolate fix. We are still suffering some withdrawal symptoms!
We have to say that we were both very impressed by Melbourne. Having no pre-conceived idea about what to expect, we found this city very picturesque and filled with a little bit of everything for everyone. The Yarra River cuts right through the city and plays a focal point in the urban planning. There are many green spaces and outdoor markets. It is pedestrian friendly and a wonderful mix of old and new architectural buildings. There is a free tram and bus for tourists to use, which takes you to all the major sightseeing attractions in the city.
All in all, Melbourne definitely caught us off guard.
Unfortunately, the giant 100 million dollar fairestwheel that opened in January and closed 8 weeks later due to "serious architectural design deficiencies" was still not open. Not sure we would have gone for a ride anyhow...
As promised, here are lots of pictures. Hopefully you will enjoy them!
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