Daily Archives: March 16, 2023

On this day, our tour guide Matt took us on a bus tour of Melbourne. We drove through parts of the city, seeing lots of interesting features and architecture, and some upper echelon shopping areas. Then we were taken to St. Kilda’s, a beach community that apparently is both popular and high end. In particular, we stopped at Luna Park, which is a fun park, allegedly a rite of passage for teen birthdays and such. We continued to drive around, and then had to return to the hotel to pick up some fellow travellers who had been delayed in their flights. This was a very busy day for Matt, who had to track them all down. From there, we were driven to the Shrine of Remembrance.

The Shrine of Remembrance honors Australian and New Zealand military members who died during WW1, WW2, and other conflicts. It is a very impressive memorial; a moving experience. From the top we found a wonderful 360 degree view of Melbourne. The city is impressive, not least for its varied and innovative architecture.

Right opposite the Shrine of Remembrance is the Botanical Gardens, and a restaurant called Jardin Tan. We had lunch there, and it was an absolutely incredible meal! Both presentation and taste were exceptional! Here is an approximation of what we ate (different dishes presented in a similar fashion).

After lunch, we strolled through the Botanical Gardens. Very scenic and interesting. After that, back to the hotel for a rest, and and an included dinner at the hotel.