Melbourne, Victoria

By far the most beautiful city I have ever seen! When we checked into our Novotel (which was located in the posh "French Shopping" part of town - across the street from "Tiffanys") we took a walk around the city at night, and walked past the river, Flinder's Street Station, and Federation Square. It felt odd walking safely around at night! The architecture of Melbourne is a pretty blend of Victorian and modern buildings. The next day we went to CERES Educational Sustainable Farm on 4 hectares (10 acres) of land right in the middle of Melbourne. We were able to eat lunch from foods they had grown there, For dinner we had a Fulbright Alumni Reception in China Town - at a restaurant called "Chairman Mao's" The owner and cook was a cook for Chairman Mao! I also forgot to blog the other day about how Jackie Chan had lived in the Australian Embassy for a year - his parents were the ambassador's cooks. The next morning we went to the famous Queen Victoria Market place with market stalls for any thing imaginable! The food section alone was a feast for the eyes! We spent the afternoon at the Melbourne Gaol (Jail) and saw where the legend of Ned Kelly ended (his execution) . Our tour guide told us some behind the scenes ghost stories. It was a very creepy place - even in the daytime! We then had a late lunch at an outdoor Greek Cafe along a quaint alleyway. That evening we went to an Aussie Rules Football Match (A Footie) This game is a cross between soccer, rugby, football, volleyball, and kickball!!! Eighteen players on each side. Huge Stadium! The North Melbourne Kangaroos played the Essington Bombers. I sat near Joclyn and Petie - two sisters 11 and 10 years old, who explained the game to me during the evening. Of course I had purchased my kangaroo hat and scarf and ended up sitting in the Bombers section. But the roos won. What a great sport! We walked the 12 blocks from the stadium to our hotel through the beautiful streets of Melbourne. Truly a memorable City!!!,,