Sunday in Melbourne

Melbourne is well set up for tourists. I walked about 10 minutes from hotel to catch a free tourist tram that goes all around the city, and is narrated so we can learn about the city while we travel. My goal was to get to the Queen Victoria Market which is huge. A giant sort of flea market with all kinds of clothing, crafts, foods, and and Aussie items. Did my shopping, then trammed it back to another area where I had to return my "loaner" cell phone, then walked back to hotel. This footbridge that I had to take is actually a piece of public art. Sounds and song snippets come out of speakers that you pass as you walk along. The effect is that you're overhearing various conversations and interactions and musical exchanges as you would as you pass by any groups of people on a street or bridge. These voices and songs, though, represent different countries. It made the hike from the main part of the city to East Melbourne, where my hotel was, that much more enjoyable.

I was met at the hotel by Andy who's David (from Sydney's) best mate. Andy showed me around last time i was in Melbourne and was kind enough to do it again this trip. We went out to dinner in an area where there are lots of restaurants by the Yarra River.

FYI, I didn't realize when I booked this Melbourne trip that the Grand Prix would be underway. Have seen many many crowds, and was advised not to take a taxi today due to the traffic congestion. Plus there was an Aussie Rules Football game going on right near my hotel. That's why I spent much of the day on foot.