Over the past couple of weekends, John Paul and I have gotten a taste of many Melbourne attractions. Two weekends ago John Paul's co-worker, Elliot, and his girlfriend Mel (who are both native Melbournians) gave us the official tour of "Downtown" Melbourne....or they call it the CBD (Central Business District). It was great to have two people show us around that knew the city so well. On the surface, Melbourne has all of the the landmark shopping areas, restaurants, museums, and impressive buildings that most big cities have. However, what I think is really unique are the obscure bars, coffee shops, and stores tucked into allyways or up 10 flights of stairs into a building. We walked up to a rooftop bar that sets out bean bag chairs and shows movies every night on the top of the building. So cool - especially when it gets a little warmer. They also have the Victorian market every weekend where vendors set up shop and sell A LOT of junk (think flea market); but also have tons of produce, meats, and cheese stands set up. John Paul and I are quickly learning that produce prices here are astronomical (Think about $9/lb for cherries); but meat prices are extremely affordable. We are seriously considering going on a high protein diet. Around 3pm when the market starts to close, you can get some incredible deals ($2/lb for chicken, $5 scotch filets).
On a total side note - I also found a place at the market that sells baby ducks! (I'll upload pictures soon) Some of you may know that I've had a bit of bad luck with some of my prior pet ducks - but I feel like I am mature enough now to redeem myself as a responsible parent. John Paul didn't necessarily agree and threatened to start a genocide rumor across the duckling population. Oh well!
Melbourne also has a botanical garden/park nearby that sets up live music every Sunday. There are picnic tables and tons of people just hanging out and drinking beer. (As many of you know...I am not good at the laidback, no agenda weekends....so this is certainly a change for me!) Regardless, it has been a lot of fun. I'll post a video of some crazy Aussie's dancing like fools.
This past Sunday we drove up to a winery about an hour away and had a great time! The wine was great, but the views were spectacular! The vineyard was located in a more mountainous area where lots of familys go "on holiday". We took the scenic way home and took a lot of great pictures. Even without an agenda, it was a perfect Sunday! :)
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