Sunday, September 2, 2012

Seize the moment. In Melbourne. NOW!

They say that to truly understand a country and its people, it is important to know its history and where they come from. 

I agree. But personally, my interests are more contemporary in nature. I am more fascinated by how the place is now and how its people are today! What are their passions, what do they like to do after work, what are the slangs they use with friends, how do they like their food - I want to experience Melbourne and the melting pot of multicultural ethos that it is NOW! through all my senses. 

I'd like to go where the locals go, eat what they eat, and do what they do. Because to understand a culture and its people, you've got to merge with them and become one nebulous entity of pulsating mass.

This becomes even more exciting in a world city like Melbourne, which was ranked the world's most live-able city in 2011 and again in August 2012 by the Economist Group's Intelligence Unit.


Federation Square, Melbourne (courtesy Visit Melbourne)


In the by-lanes of Melbourne 
A buzzing, cosmopolitan city like Melbourne would present one with unlimited possibilities to indulge in its culture. 

On my wish list are activities that would help me submerge myself in the local culture and give me an opportunity to connect with the people of Melbourne: grab a feed at a popular restaurant, have a jug of beer at a watering hole and shake a leg at its various dance clubs, appreciate indigenous art, experience the live music scene and have a laugh at some seriously funny stand-up shows - the list is endless, really.     

But this isn't all. Australia, and the state of Victoria, is well-known for its nature, wildlife, beaches and outdoor activities. I would love to relax on the sunny beaches across Melbourne from the popular swimming spots at St Kilda to the bathing huts at Brighton. Go for a stroll to the city's parks like the Treasury Gardens, pay my respects to the Scarred Tree, and picnic at Flagstaff Gardens. There's nothing more refreshing than a walk amid thick foliage - something that is completely missing from my home city, Mumbai.

Sight for sore eyes
Something else that are conspicuous by their absence in Mumbai are walking trails and well-defined cycling paths. I'd love to do both while in Melbourne. Melbourne Heritage Walk and a walk along the Yarra River path top my wish list. 

And last but not in the very least - ballooning. No, not of the gluttonous kind but one with hot air in it. A beautiful city like Melbourne should be finally enjoyed from a hot air balloon to get a bird's eye view. It is bound to give visitors a perspective on the city that they have so enjoyed and loved.

A stay in Melbourne, as I see it, can be in slow motion and it can flying, jammed with activities that keep time with the city's heartbeat. It's your time to visit Melbourne NOW!      

2 comments:

Nirvana said...

Wow! Your post was quite informative, and did have a loge of imagery! Certainly on your way to being a travel writer! All the best.

http://lafemmenirvana.blogspot.in/2012/08/vacation-fit-for-god.html

R&NB said...

Good post. You have your finger on the pulse, now it's time to grap hold of its hand and pull yourself there! Best of luck!