The city center is known for a number of "arcades," which are basically alleyways between buildings or enclosed narrow lanes that are lined with shops and cafes (see photo at the bottom). The other day I went exploring and sat out doors to enjoy a delicious "arcade lunch" of pumpkin and leek soup- yum!
I walked up north thought the city to see the site of the famous Victoria Market and then through Carlton Gardens - Melbourne is known for many lovely public parks and gardens. Such nice shade from the warm sun! (see photo below)
I then visited the Melbourne Museum for a little bit of local history. I was struck by a couple of things. First, the aboriginal people suffered loss of their culture and invasion similar to the American Indians. But the descriptions of violence against them were horrific. Children were commonly removed from aboriginal homes to be educated and "civilized" - apparently this was still happening as late as the 1970's!
It was also very interesting to follow the timeline of Australia's development. Many of the main cities - like Melbourne were not established until the 1800's (Melbourne in 1835) and the country was not unified until 1901. Unlike some other parts of Australia, Melbourne was not officially a convict settlement but about 25% of the men were ex-cons.
And finally there was an exhibit on Phar Lap - the most famous race horse in Australian history - he won 36 of 41 races. He came to America and won a big race (Aqua Calienta handicap) but then died mysteriously - poisoned with arsenic? His body is actually on display in a huge glass case in the museum, having been preserved by a taxidermist in NY! Amazingly life-like but kind of creepy!
Then yesterday my cousin and I rented a car and went touring in the wine country of the Mornington Peninsula, about an hour south of Melbourne. The Region is known for Pinot grapes, and makes some lovely Pinot Gris and Noir.
We saw some lovely scenery and tasted some really good wines (see pictures below). Our first stop had to be the best winery name ever - 10 Minutes by Truck! The story is that three families joined together to form the winery and found that their properties were 10 minutes away from each other by tractor. They have really good wine - apparently you occasionally see their 10X Pinot Noir in NY, so look out for it if you get up that way.
As for tennis, well...just take a look.
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