Summer in the City

OK, so Melbourne isn't exactly known for consistent (or warm) weather, but while I was visiting for four nights in December it was really quite pleasant. Having only ever been to the city during the winter months, it was a welcome change to be able to wear singlets, skirts, and shorts.

This time around I was with family from the UK, so we did a lot of the quintessential Melbourne things like going to see comedy shows, eating or stopping for coffee in hidden laneways, and seeing the street art in the CBD. We also walked a lot. But it was beautiful to explore the city when I wasn't worried about the lack of blood supply to my extremities. 

If I had more time, I would have loved to check out some more art galleries, see some live music, and explore more of the suburbs outside of the CBD.

The Fashion World of Jean Paul Gaultier

When I travelled to Melbourne last week the only thing I had on my to-do list was seeing the Jean Paul Gaultier exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria. The exhibition consisted of more than 140 garments as well as photographs, sketches, costumes and other multimedia elements.

Traversing through the seven galleries, it was clear how passionate Gaultier was about fashion and culture. The countless hours and amount of care that have gone into his garments has resulted in extraordinary detail and beauty. The exhibition delved into Gaultier's rich history of corsetry, and included costumes worn by the likes of Madonna and Beyonce. It was also interesting to see garments inspired by the London punk scene and costumes created for films.

If you are in Melbourne before February 8th, I highly recommend the exhibition.

Winter in Melbourne

Last week I had the pleasure of going to Melbourne for four nights. For anyone thinking of visiting, I really recommend it. It was my second time going to the city in the winter and while the wind is bitterly cold and shopping with layers of clothing on can be a bit of a hassle, I quite enjoy popping in to cosy cafes and enjoying a good cup of coffee and/or meal in between exploring the city streets. Plus, Melbourne is known for its excellent coffee, food, and shopping. What more could a tourist need? 

This time around I didn't get out of the CBD except for a quick visit to Brunswick, so I didn't see or do as much as I would have liked. However, I have made a mental note of a few favourite spots to go back to next time I'm there in December.

For a good breakfast, I like Hardware Société. I had the baked eggs which they are apparently known for. Luckily, we didn't have to wait for a table but a line quickly formed after we sat down. Manchester Press serves tasty bagels and good coffee. Also offering good coffee is Dukes Coffee Roasters.

For dinner, Mamasita served up a delicious Mexican fusion feast. My favourites were the chargrilled corn and the quinoa salad. This, however, is another place where you should expect a bit of a wait—it seems to be quite popular, even at 10pm.

If you're into quirky boutiques, there are plenty in the laneways in the CBD and in Brunswick, just north of Melbourne. Chapel St is also good for shopping, but quite a few of the bigger stores or designer boutiques can also be found in the CBD. 

If you're in the city for the first time, I'd try to check out the street art on Hosier Lane, maybe after breakfast on Degraves St. Obvious points of interest are also the gallery and museum. Melbourne is bursting with culture and there is always a comedy show, concert, or play showing.

If you have any recommendations for my next visit to Melbourne, please let me know!

Last two images are from my Instagram @_carys

Melbourne photo diary

The amazing bars and cafes tucked away in secret places, the abundance of cakes and sweet treats, being able to eat a meat pie with tomato sauce at the footy, the architecture and the huge offering of shopping in Melbourne is what made this trip so special.