Melbourne

Arrived to a fine day on Melbourne. Lots getting off and more getting in so the terminal is very busy. Not sure of the reasoning but everyone had to get off and have passports checked by border security. so after breakfast Julie had of to catch up with a friend and I had put off the terminal to catch the free shuttle bus into the city. We are dropped off on the South Bank side so it is s pleasant 15 minute walk to Bourke St mall where I'm happy to wander. As it is Melbourne I have packed a rain jacket and umbrella.

As I have no interest in shopping as such I'm happy to meander through arcades and stop for a coffee to watch the world pass by. The city sadly has its fair share of homeless and crazies.

I'm ready to head back to the ship so get back on a shuttle bus and work our way through the traffic to the terminal. It is very busy and a long line to come through security but I am eventually back in board and head to the International dining room for lunch as it finished as 1.30 and it is already 1.10. Lunch was lovely as usual and I still haven't been able for in a dessert.

I can't believe my luck as just as I was dropped off the coach to head towards the terminal it started raining and now it is grey skies and sizzle so I'm happy to work in the blog in a lounge, sipping a Sav Blanc and checking out the other passengers. It really is a mixed bunch. Not many young ones and I think I've dropped the median age by a good 15 years! Plenty of walkers and walking sticks. And in answer to the question my dad would have asked me, No, I haven't met anyone better than myself yet. LOL ... Had a look at the sail away party as we departed Melbourne but it was too cheesy for me so gave it a miss.

Caught up with Julie and we headed to the Wheelhouse bar again. Sat with a lovely couple from Vancouver and had a good chat with them until time for dinner in the Vivaldi restaurant. the goat cheese brulee was lovely but not a fan of the Cajun chicken which was more Kentucky fried chicken than spicy Cajun.

I was planning on heading off to the karaoke again but have opted for an early night as I'm pooped. All that walking around the city has certainly gotten all my steps done. Time for night night!