When I thought about where I wanted to go after New Zealand, many different options came to mind. Ultimately, I decided that it was time to switch continents and head to Asia–for a variety of reasons. But, since Australia was basically “on the way” and I had some good friends offering me accommodation in Melbourne and Cairns, I decided to go to Asia via Australia.
My trip starts in Melbourne, a city I’ve heard many people rave about: “it’s so cultured,” “the neighbourhoods are awesome,” “the food…oh the food,” etc. etc.
My first stop in the city is slightly apart from these recommendations, though for those who know me it may seem obvious: the Victoria State Parliamentary building. This time, visitors are allowed to take pictures inside. We have a fun tour guide who even encourages us to take pictures in the Speaker’s chair.
Among the wares in the gift shop are bottled of “parliamentary-labelled” wine. The clever part is that the “Assembly” varietal (representing the “lower house”) is made with green grapes while the “Council” varietal (representing the “upper house”) is made with red grapes. Green and red are traditionally the respective colours of these chambers.
I’m staying with my friend Kevin, just off of the South Bank in Melbourne. Kevin and I know each other from the Montreal volleyball scene. We also happened to both need a change of scenery and jobs around the same time. Kevin left Canada for Australia about a week after I set out on my adventure.
It’s nice to catch up with Kevin as we compare and contrast our working holiday experiences to date. Our conversations on this point give me the time to reflect and appreciate all the people I’ve met, and all the things I’ve learned and experienced since leaving Canada. And it’s a bonus to be able to speak in French too.
Kevin asks me some questions that many other people have also asked along the way: do I know when I’ll be heading back to Canada? Where I’ll live? What I’ll do? I don’t have any firm answers but the questions themselves provide a much valued opportunity to think about what happens “after” this journey.
Kevin and his partner are total foodies. Not only do they know where all the good restaurants are, but they very much enjoy cooking good meals at home. So, I am being totally spoiled with all the best eats here in Melbourne- and the city has lived up to its reputation in this regard.
As my time in Melbourne winds down, I can also say that I’ve enjoyed the neighbourhood explorations, the bike rides, and, especially, the local markets. I could see myself living here someday, but for now my journey continues. My next stop is on Australia’s northern coast.
Impermanent Establishments 