Mommy was only staying for 2 weeks so most of the time I spent with her was spent sight-seeing and being tourists. We tackled Melbourne first. Melbourne's mood is far from that of Manhattan's. It's definitely not as glamorous as New York, but it has its own pace. Walking around Melbourne made me homesick for New York, and I've really come to appreciate its unique character. I miss the Big Apple, there really is nowhere else like it.
The Melbourne Museum- nothing to write home about, especially coming from New York and all its grand museums. I will say, however, the museum had a fantastic array of insects and spider displays, which is where I spent most of my time anyway. As a science museum, it's great- but if you're looking for some art and history, you won't find it here.
The Melbourne Aquarium- your typical aquarium. The usual display of corals and exotic fish. I was pleasantly surprised to see they had a special sea horse exhibit going on. That was nice. Also saw some sassy penguins.
The Tram Car Restaurant- the primary method of public transport here in Melbourne is via tram, which I think is much easier to navigate than the subway. The tram car restaurant is furnished like an antique train with red velvet drapes and bronze light appliques. Dim lighting, makes ya feel classy. It's only by reservation so we called in a day prior. It takes you all around Melbourne while serving you a full course meal. I had higher expectations for the food but the overall experience made up for it. It's a one-time thing, but it's definitely worth it.
Crown Plaza Entertainment- situated on the Yarra River, this entertainment complex features a hotel, casino, cinema, and mall. A great way to spend the day. Great location- we were lucky with the weather and enjoyed a nice walk along the river. Mama and I saw Silver Linings Playbook at the cinema (great acting!).
Hopetoun Tea Room- by far my favorite place in Melbourne. The original tea house was established in 1892 and stood where it still stands today. Located in the posh Block Arcade, Hopetoun offers a very european atmosphere. It's beautifully decorated with crystal chandeliers and forest green fleurie wallpaper. There's always great music playing, be it '20s jazz or soft classical music, it really takes you far from the busy streets of Melbourne. It's best known for its whimsical display of pastries- of all kinds; tarts, sponge cakes, cheesecakes, macarons- you name it. There's always a crowd outside, either lined up to be seated or to take a picture with the delicate sweets on display. And the food is amazing, by the way. Best breakfast menu in Melbourne.
Immigration Museum- had it not been for the fact that my mom was catching a plane later that day, I think we would have been able to spend a good few hours more at this museum. It's full of personal accounts of immigrants leaving their homelands in search of a better life. Each person's story is different and all the details are so interesting. Melbourne is a big melting pot!
The Melbourne Museum- nothing to write home about, especially coming from New York and all its grand museums. I will say, however, the museum had a fantastic array of insects and spider displays, which is where I spent most of my time anyway. As a science museum, it's great- but if you're looking for some art and history, you won't find it here.
The Melbourne Aquarium- your typical aquarium. The usual display of corals and exotic fish. I was pleasantly surprised to see they had a special sea horse exhibit going on. That was nice. Also saw some sassy penguins.
The Tram Car Restaurant- the primary method of public transport here in Melbourne is via tram, which I think is much easier to navigate than the subway. The tram car restaurant is furnished like an antique train with red velvet drapes and bronze light appliques. Dim lighting, makes ya feel classy. It's only by reservation so we called in a day prior. It takes you all around Melbourne while serving you a full course meal. I had higher expectations for the food but the overall experience made up for it. It's a one-time thing, but it's definitely worth it.
Crown Plaza Entertainment- situated on the Yarra River, this entertainment complex features a hotel, casino, cinema, and mall. A great way to spend the day. Great location- we were lucky with the weather and enjoyed a nice walk along the river. Mama and I saw Silver Linings Playbook at the cinema (great acting!).
Hopetoun Tea Room- by far my favorite place in Melbourne. The original tea house was established in 1892 and stood where it still stands today. Located in the posh Block Arcade, Hopetoun offers a very european atmosphere. It's beautifully decorated with crystal chandeliers and forest green fleurie wallpaper. There's always great music playing, be it '20s jazz or soft classical music, it really takes you far from the busy streets of Melbourne. It's best known for its whimsical display of pastries- of all kinds; tarts, sponge cakes, cheesecakes, macarons- you name it. There's always a crowd outside, either lined up to be seated or to take a picture with the delicate sweets on display. And the food is amazing, by the way. Best breakfast menu in Melbourne.
Immigration Museum- had it not been for the fact that my mom was catching a plane later that day, I think we would have been able to spend a good few hours more at this museum. It's full of personal accounts of immigrants leaving their homelands in search of a better life. Each person's story is different and all the details are so interesting. Melbourne is a big melting pot!
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