What to do in Melbourne?

Since we arrived in Melbourne, we have mainly taken care of bureaucratic things such as TFN, bank account, and ultimately bought our car, a 1995 Nissan Pathfinder.

In terms of sightseeing, we went to Federation Square in the city center where over 2000 events take place annually. However, when we were there on Sunday, the supposed spectacle seemed rather subdued. There is Wi-Fi at Federation Square, so we logged in to activate our SIM card. Unfortunately, we forgot our passport, so we couldn't test and use the new communication :D

Afterwards, we walked along the Yarra River, which is honestly quite dirty and brown. There was a bar directly over the water on a platform of a bridge pillar, which looked pretty cool. However, the bar would have easily emptied our wallets, so we treated ourselves to a small, very delicious ice cream (2 scoops for $7) at Trampoline instead. They had some more unusual flavors like Bananoffee or something similar.. (I can't remember the exact name).

Then we came across an art gallery, which made us linger for a while. There was an outdoor area with an interpretation of a car wash for children, which was great in the warmer temperatures, like on Sunday, as it sprayed a light mist. There were also bean bags and a cafe to relax. Afterwards, we went to a more modern exhibition in the same museum.

During our search for a car, we also went to Frankston, which is about 1 hour away from our apartment by public transportation. Here, we saw the ocean from the mainland for the first time - the highlight of this trip. What more can I say? :D Unfortunately, the campervan we looked at was not right for us, as it was too old and too broken and too eww.

By chance, however, two hours later, we found a car that matched our lowered expectations on Gumtree and ultimately bought it.

On the way to our current car, we took the tram along Chapel Street, where there are countless bars and restaurants.. everything seems very modern and young and is certainly worth a closer look if the money is right. While we waited for the tram home, we only walked a few stops on foot and looked through the windows into the pubs.. sad but true. 🙈

However, our highlight in Melbourne was the Melbourne Cup. The highlight of the horse racing week here in Melbourne and the most famous horse race in the area and one of Australia's most celebrated. With an entrance fee of $60 (equivalent to €40 for students or €55 for adults), it apparently attracts an affluent audience. All guests dressed up (as also indicated on the tickets) with hair accessories or hats and fancy dresses or suits. Luckily, our landlady has the same size as me, as a fancy dress and high heels are not part of my travel wardrobe.

Betting is part of the event as well as a picnic on the lawn; provided you can find a free spot. Ha - our landlady won around €80 (in betting, not picnicking) and I won €20, beginner's luck :D once I understood the principle, the short lucky streak came to an abrupt end.. Towards the end of the race day, more and more shoes were taken off or changed. So, we wore ballerinas and sneakers with our fancy dresses. Men have it much easier in that regard.

We also plan to visit the Immigration Museum and hopefully not spend too much time at IKEA to complete our car.