There are lots of cacti at the Royal Botanical Gardens. — Photos: POLA SINGH
Last year, my wife Rina and I went to Melbourne in Australia to celebrate her birthday, immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture and culinary delights of the cosmopolitan city.
From its bustling streets to tranquil gardens, Melbourne welcomed us with open arms, offering a tapestry of experiences. Our son Dillon, who is based in Melbourne, played host.
Graffiti and an AC/DC sculpture seen on the wall of one of the laneways in Melbourne.
On arrival, we were pleasantly surprised by the efficiency of the Australian Immigration and Customs officers. They were polite and courteous, and in no time, we made our way out of the arrival hall. Our smooth passage was partly attributed to our meticulous attention to detail when filling out the Incoming Passenger Card, declaring all our food items and plant materials – a precautionary step that ensured a hassle-free entry.
When we arrived at the city centre, we were struck by its vibrant energy and cultural diversity. From the laneways filled with cafes to the bustling markets brimming with fresh produce, every corner of Melbourne offered a new adventure waiting for us to experience.
Our first taste of Melbourne’s delights came in the form of a late-night supper, my favourite pan mee which Dillon had bought from an Asian restaurant. Melbourne’s rendition of this dish offered generous portions of meat, veggies, and anchovies. Despite the higher price tag, the quality surpassed expectations, making every bite worth savouring.
Our first exploration the next day took us to the Royal Botanic Gardens, a sanctuary of green nestled amid the urban hustle. As we wandered through the lush pathways, we were captivated by the sight of flowers in bloom and the gentle buzz of pollinators going about their vital work.
However, our bliss was short-lived as hay fever struck me the next day – a harsh reminder of Melbourne’s pollen-rich air. I have heard of hay fever but I never envisioned that I would get it one day. It is an allergic reaction to airborne particles, particularly pollen.
Hay fever is common in Melbourne and we learnt that there was extreme pollen in the atmosphere the previous day. Hay fever season in Melbourne runs from October to December each year. It’s a period dreaded even by locals as they may suffer from things like itchy ears and throat, a runny nose, sneezing and watery eyes. I had these same symptoms; Antihistamines, eye drops and complete rest were the remedies, as well as staying indoors.
Having learned my lesson, I donned oversized dark glasses and a face mask as I ventured outdoors on our next outing, ensuring a comfortable and symptom-free experience.
A trip to Melbourne will be incomplete without visiting the 12 Apostles. We marvelled at the stunning vistas of the Great Ocean Road, where the majestic Twelve Apostles rose from the Southern Ocean, a testament to nature’s grandeur.
The Twelve Apostles are a collection of limestone stacks off the shore of Port Campbell National Park. Their proximity to one another has made the site a popular tourist attraction.
The writer’s wife and son.
The picturesque five-hour drive, with its rugged coastline and breathtaking views, was the highlight of our trip, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of Australia’s natural landscapes.
As we roamed Melbourne’s streets, a mural depicting the “rat race” in one of the “dirty” lanes of the city centre caught my eye – a poignant reminder of the universal struggle for success in urban landscapes worldwide.
Our culinary escapades reached a crescendo at a restaurant called Niku Ou, where we indulged in some Kobe wagyu. Sitting on a raised platform, we savoured each bite of the beef that was cooked before our eyes.
We left Melbourne with cherished memories of our time spent in this vibrant city. Melbourne, with its warmth and hospitality, had welcomed us with open arms, leaving an impression that would last a lifetime.
The views expressed are entirely the reader’s own.
