Shopping Trip in Melbourne

Today we ventured out onto the streets of Melbourne CBD in search of bargains. Melissa was first up and went down to "Christmas Square" to purchase some breakfast pastries and coffees. She was entertained by Christmas Carolers during the trip.

Typical Street with Tram

We had several plans today; get Charlotte's ipod screen fixed (don't ask her about taking it to school against her parents wishes. She is paying for the repair), find "Mind Games" and a ipod touch case for Jacqs, visit "Victorian Hobbies" for Cos, and generally look for clothes for all of us. We achieved all of these tasks with a lot of walking and a tram ride.

We also visited the Victoria Markets, which was sadly late in their day and they were packing up when we arrived. Apparently the customers were not out in force, so they started packing up early. We still managed to get a bargain or two (perhaps). Next we enjoyed dinner in one of the many lane way cafes, then ventured into the Mall to explore David Jones and Myers. All in all a productive day.

People passing by in reflection

Myers' Christmas Display

During our retail adventures we got to explore more of the CBDs arcades and lanes that hold many  unexpected treasures. We also noticed the folks that walk the streets and lane ways have as yet to understand the issues of smoking. More smokers than one would see in a Queensland city, and their care of passive second hand smoke towards others is almost Southern European in disregard. Jacqueline had a cigarette flicked off her leg, and we witnessed similar disregard during the day. It was like travelling back in time 10 to 20 years in regards to home. Despite this unpleasant aspect of the city, the people are friendly and helpful. A very multi-cultural landscape of people all happily living and working together. On the whole the average person we saw on the street was better dressed and presented than back home.