Alas, the Australian chapter - the best chapter, thus far - of my life has to come to a bittersweet end, or perhaps a pause. What better way to conclude than with a trip to Melbourne, Victoria. As much as I enjoyed the west coast of the land down under, I was elated to be back where the sun rises.
Melbourne was in a word ART. This urban city was nothing less than cosmopolitan and culturally diverse. The old buildings are rustic, detailed and full of history. The new buildings were contemporary and built by architectural geniuses. The array of cuisine - divine. The cafe culture is enviable and the night life unforgettably Melbourne. And the shopping - let's just say I was thankful to be broke, because I would have done some damage.
And of course, to put the cherry on top, my gals. I was in good company with my amazing, jaw-dropping, head-turning, intelligent girlfriends.
And you know that saying "location is everything"? I don't think this applies to Melbourne. Every happening bar, cafe, lounge, restaurant, and vintage boutique was either underground, upstairs, or in a lane-way. And all were different from another. A refreshing and lovable concept when all we're surrounded by in North America are the retail giants. I loved the attention paid to detail and crafting their own image from scratch and op-shops! I thought I was living in a city of hippies until I experienced Melbourne. What other cities lack, they have. What others cities should lose, they lack.
If I was to live anywhere in Australia, this would be my hub. Toronto rubbed off on me and I, like many others, just have an indescribable love for the city. Even the weird, undistinguishable smell of what I think is a potent combination of pollution, food and new clothes made me close my eyes and inhale with satisfaction. I could get used to this place - a city with a true, distinct identity.
