Melbourne

Our next stop in Australia was quite an important one. One of the items on our travel itinerary here had been finalized and paid for long before we even had a visa for Australia in our hands. I’m talking about the cricket world cup match between India and South Africa. I was sort of dreading this leg of the trip because I am one of those rare species that doesn’t watch a single sport and the thought of sweltering in hundred degree summer day watching sports was not in the least bit appealing to me, nevermind the novelty of the whole thing. But I am pleased to say – that match was one of the best experiences of my life.

ICC Cricket World Cup – India vs. South Africa 

When we first found our way to the seats for the match I was given fair warning by PK that India was in all likelihood, going to lose this match to their formidable opponents. I shrugged because I thought I didn’t care all that much but as the day went on I was drawn in and completely hooked. The stadium (the iconic Melbourne Cricket ground) was bathed in blue (the Indian team’s color) and the energy of the 70,000+ crowd was unbelievable. India played a terrific game of cricket and very convincingly destroyed it’s opponent that day. I think PK had a sliver of hope that the experience would convert me into a cricket lover but sadly, I went back to my ways after a few days. I am so glad to have shared this experience with him though.

Street Art in Melbourne’s Laneways

We checked these out as part of a walking tour of Melbourne. This was no ordinary spray paint action on walls. These walls have been painted on by renowned street artists from all over the world.

The Great Ocean Road 

We woke up early one morning to start off on our tour of the Great Ocean road. Many tourists choose to drive themselves through this stretch but we chose a highly recommended guided tour led by a knowledgeable and friendly guide who called himself Outback Billy. We had a fun day getting to know our fellow travelers who were a friendly and well travelled bunch. I was amused when an elderly gentleman from Nottingham scolded us for never having travelled to Varanasi in India despite calling ourselves Hindus. He had been there and to many more destinations around the world. Very inspiring. The natural structures along the Great Ocean road are impressive and if you don’t watch yourself you can go picture crazy here. After a while we just decided to shut off the camera and behold the beauty. Not before we snapped these up. 🙂