It was that sweet time again when we had to pack our bags and wait for a ride to the airport. A spring in our step and a smile on our faces; exhiliarating; priceless.

Had a stopover for a couple of days in Singapore – always welcomed; and we were on our way to the land down under. Our first stop was Victoria’s burgeoning capital city of Melbourne. The flashes of the city we saw from the window of the cab, on our way from the airport to the hotel were intensively captivating; so colorful, so much character. After checking in, we walked by the Yarra and grabbed lunch at one of the innumerable restaurants there. The bank of the river is laced with infinite exquisite cafes and restaurants; all with beautiful views of the skylines.

The most efficient way to explore the city is by foot or tram. After lunch by the Yarra, we crossed over to Flinders. This area is essentially the city centre. Boutiques, cafes, eateries, museums, galleries, entertainment, shopping; it is all here. There are numerous back streets and laneways that house incredible alfresco eateries, unique galleries, and some of the most amazing street and street side sculptures.. The iconic Queen Victoria Market is also in the vicinity; best to explore the area on foot, you never know what pops out from the corner

The architecture of the colorful city center is extremely diverse; with modern skyscrapers emerging and sitting next to exquisite colonial architecture. All giving the city a very unique and dramatic character

As the evening drew in, we found ourselves walking by the shores of the Yarra, enjoying a magical sunset. Soon, the city was under lights and sparking.

Day 2

Good Morning ! the rain Gods have descended ! was the news

I reckon the fickle nature of Melbourne weather had to make it presence felt. Feeling threatened by the ever growing notoriety of the skies above, we made a desperate run to the Chadstone mall – stoke the shopper; as it were. It rained out till nightfall, and we were holed up in the mall for the entire day, frustrated.

Well, let’s just say, all is not lost till there is a Godiva dark chocolate shake around the corner.

Day 3

We had to make amends and find a way to expend all the energy that had piled up by staying indoors yesterday. We had to purge. Luckily the weather was by our side today. We got ourselves a car and made a day trip today to visit the apostles. 

The drive was just under four hours from Melbourne through a very scenic route, especially when you hit the great ocean road. Enroute, we came across a tiny house at one of the junctions called the Church of the flying spaghetti monster. Based on the pillars of Pastafarianism. Aparently, it is one of the fastest growing religions of the world and this is a fact. Look it up on Britanica

And how do the pastarians pray…

 “Our pasta, who art in a colander, draining be your noodles. Thy noodle come, Thy sauce be yum, on top some grated Parmesan. Give us this day, our garlic bread, …and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trample on our lawns

Onward then and shortly we were at one of the most visited sites in this part of the world. The 12 limestone rock formations known as the 12 apostles line up over a 30 stretch on the southwestern coast of Victoria, majestically sit in the ocean on a gorgeous stretch. The effect of tonnes of water crashing into apostles and the loud thuds that follows is spellbinding, to say the least.

Right across the street are helicopter tours that circle around the apostles, giving you one of the best vantages of the entire nature reserve.

After visiting the apostles, we went explored the Port Campbell National Park. Apart from the famed apostles there is just so much to see here. The hidden beaches, grottos, natural arches, natural bridges; the coastline here is tremendous; breathtaking and inexplicable.

With the light dimming, we made our way back to Melbourne.

Day 4

The day began with a cruise up the Yarra. The perennial river which literally means to flow, has a notable prominence in the indigenous history of Australia, . It was the main food source and the epicenter of the pre-European Australian establishments. It has an immense spiritual and cultural significance for the Aboriginal communities that once stived here.

Today, it provides as magical way to explore Melbourne’s stunning landmarks . The river that flows through the heart of Melbourne is very busy with a lot of boat traffic. It was amazing to see the rowers practice tirelessly and enthusiastically, aiming to achive mastery at their craft.  The views of the city from the waterways with the colorful skyline of the city were gorgeous.

After grabbing some lunch at the docklands precinct, we made our way to the MCG. One of the most iconic cricketing stadiums in the world and oh yes, it lives up to its reputation. The showdown in the evening there was one for the record books. The energy, so palpable. The outcome was desirable as well; that always helps.