When I decided to hop over to Melbourne, I didn’t realize how literal the hopping part would get. More on that later. This city? A delightful cocktail of cosmopolitan flair, quirky culture, and… kangaroos. Let’s dive into my whirlwind adventure, Yeauxleaux-style, where the vibes were high, the sights were stunning, and the kangaroo tattoos were forever.
Queen Victoria Market: Retail Therapy Meets Cultural Charm
First stop: the iconic Queen Victoria Market. Imagine a giant treasure chest where the loot is fresh produce, vintage threads, and kitschy souvenirs. I browsed stalls packed with everything from handmade trinkets to stacks of cheese so aromatic they practically introduced themselves. It was the perfect place to soak in Melbourne’s bustling vibe and pick up unique keepsakes.
Zoological Zen: Meeting My Kangaroo Muse
At the Melbourne Zoo, I locked eyes with a kangaroo, and something shifted in my soul. I knew, deep down, that this marsupial encounter required commemoration. But first, I marveled at all the other animals, from cheeky lemurs to majestic lions. The kangaroo, though? Pure magic. Spoiler alert: they became my wrist tattoo muse by the end of the day.
Tattoo Me Kangaroo Down, Sport
Melbourne has no shortage of tattoo parlors, and I strolled into Blah Blah Blah Tattoo in the Melbourne CBD with the confidence of someone who just had a spiritual connection with a kangaroo. The artist inked a minimalist line-art kangaroo on my wrist, a perfect souvenir that won’t gather dust on a shelf. It’s also a great conversation starter: “What’s the story behind that?” Oh, just me, my new kangaroo bestie, and Melbourne vibes.
Pesto the Penguin: Viral Stardom at Sea Life Aquarium
Did I cry a little seeing Pesto the Penguin at Sea Life Aquarium? Maybe. (Okay, yes, absolutely.) The little fluffball waddled their way into my heart and my Instagram feed. If you haven’t heard of Pesto, they’re basically Melbourne’s biggest influencer, minus the hashtags. Watching Pesto strut around was peak serotonin.
Pie Paradise: Meat, Pastry, and Hungry Jack’s
Melbourne knows its way around comfort food. I enjoyed classic meat pies and sausage rolls, which made for hearty meals during my busy days. For science, I also tried the Tropical Whopper at Hungry Jack’s (Australia’s version of Burger King). Verdict? Pineapple on burgers might just be the hill I’m willing to die on.
Suburban Train Tales: A Scenic Detour
One day, I decided to hop on a train to the suburbs because why not? The ride itself felt like a movie montage, with scenic views of Melbourne’s outer edges. The suburbs were charming, with cozy cafes and quiet streets that made me briefly consider becoming a suburbanite. Briefly.
Street Art Spectacle: Hosier Lane
No trip to Melbourne would be complete without touring the street art of Hosier Lane. This vibrant alley is a living, breathing canvas where every wall tells a story in neon colors and bold designs. I wandered through, snapping photos and marveling at the sheer creativity on display. It’s a testament to Melbourne’s artistic soul and a must-see for anyone who loves urban art.
Kmart vs. Target: The Aussie Edition
As an American, I had to see how Aussie Kmarts and Targets stack up. Let me tell you: they’re a vibe. Kmart was a minimalist’s dream, with sleek home goods and chic basics. Target, meanwhile, felt like a boutique department store compared to its Stateside sibling. Both places had me questioning my suitcase space and budget.
Melbourne Museum: A History Buff’s Playground
The Melbourne Museum is where history, art, and science collide in the best way possible. Highlights included the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre and the Phar Lap exhibit (RIP to a true horse legend). I could’ve spent hours wandering the halls, soaking in all the fascinating stories.
A Chance Encounter: A Longtime Friend Emerges
One of the most unexpected highlights of my trip happened on the way to the Melbourne Museum. I noticed there was an arts market across the street, so my friend and I decided to check it out. While wandering through the vibrant stalls, I saw a familiar face emerge from the crowd: a longtime friend from the Pacific Northwest! We’ve known each other for years but could never coordinate a trip to meet up. I had resigned myself to thinking it wouldn’t happen this time either, even though we both happened to be in Australia. The sheer serendipity of it all hit me like a ton of bricks. We hugged, we cried, and then we explored the museum together. A perfect twist to an already magical day
LGBTQIA+ Acceptance: A Warm Embrace
As a queer traveler, I felt incredibly welcomed in Melbourne. The city’s inclusivity and vibrant LGBTQIA+ community made it feel like a safe and affirming space. From rainbow flags in shop windows to queer-friendly bars and cafes, Melbourne’s open-hearted attitude was as comforting as it was inspiring.
Final Thoughts: Melbourne, You Beauty
Melbourne is a city that wears many hats: foodie haven, cultural hotspot, and wildlife wonderland. From meeting kangaroos and penguins to admiring street art and eating my weight in pastries, every moment was a delight. And now, every time I look at my wrist, I’m reminded of the kangaroo who started it all.
Until next time, Melbourne. You’re a legend.
