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Melbourne Shopping Mecca
"Melbourne has grown"
Not having been to Melbourne for 5 years since Ansett's demise I was amazed at how much the place has changed. Coming in from the airport through Docklands noticed the skyrise apartments abound. Impressive architecture was what came to mind. I was invited by a friend who was invited by a Company that was a major sponsor for the Commonwealth Games. So all accommodation, food, alcohol, functions and Events for the games were all paid for. A great way to have 4 days and 3 nights in a bustling city. Staying at the Royce on St Kilda Road will be a very nice hotel accommodation when the adding of the 5th floor is completed. Yes... being from Perth they started at 7 in the morning.... Which is 4 for us Sandgropers...
"Blisters"
I was impressed with all the beautiful buildings around Melbourne, there was so much to see and do that I didn't have enough time. I spent most of my time walking around admiring the beautiful achitecture of old and new as well as the beautiful parks and gardens. Make sure you wear VERY comfortable shoes as my feet are now paying for it. Not only was there excitement in the air with the streets filled with tourists from all over the globe, traffic which comprised of people and vehicles ran smoothly. It leaves me to wonder why can't our drivers here in Perth be hospitable and considerate...
"Shopping"
Well... everywhere you go there are beautiful shops catering to everything you may want to buy as well as not!!! Cafes and restaurants abound with fantastic menus... The Royce Hotel has a great bar menu at very reasonable prices... On one of my long walks I ventured along Chapel Street on Saturday night, purely so that I didn't do it during the day... Why?? So I wouldn't get tempted to spend more money, I felt window shopping would be acceptable. I planned on going to Bridge Road Sunday Morning before the closing ceremony of the Games. The great thing about Bridge Road is that you get anything you want. The tram from Flinders St Station drops you off at the beginning of Bridge Road and they inform you that if you're here to shop, this is where you start. You walk down one side of the Road and come back up the other side... When I returned from my 4 hours of shopping comments of "You've been shopping!" were voiced. My answer as I'm standing there with feet throbbing holding 7 full bags "What ever gave you THAT idea!!!!" All in all, Melbourne was a great experience and I would have to say that you'd never get bored!
