Melbourne

The Oz trip wasn't just about the tennis. We took a couple of days off from the courts and got out and about in Melbourne. It's a really impressive city and I'm already looking forward to going back at some point. A lot of the social stuff is along the south bank of the Yarra River and fortunately for us this was the route to Melbourne Park from our hostel. The cafes are great for people watching - as Katie and I can testify!!

My Dad was in Melbourne during his time with the Merchant Navy in the 60s so it was great to visit some places that he had been to. This is Flinders Station which my Mum remembers him talking about. Its pretty iconic and sits right in the heart of the city surrounded by loads of new developments and some really amazing public spaces which allows people to congregate and (depending on what's happening) watch live sport/events on huge tv screens. 

This is Federation Square (across from Flinders) with hundreds of people sitting out watching the tennis. This photo was taken about 12.30 on a Friday night. Couldn't imagine this happening in Glasgow now, could you??

There were loads of rowers out on the Yarra every day. These are some of the boat clubs along the south bank. 

Just because.

Just out of central Melbourne is their beach area, known as St. Kilda. We had a cracking day out there, on the beach, in and out of trendy shops, cafes and bars. We also visited the much publicised Luna Park, the poor man's M&Ds, the only thing decent about it being the rather freaky entrance...

And finally, no trip to Melbourne is complete without a visit to Ramsay Street. I couldn't contain my excitement!

LM. :-)