Seattle Weather Down Under

This morning we woke up to wind, rain showers, and temperatures which had plummeted to 8 C (45 F). They say if you don’t like the Melbourne weather, wait 15 minutes. We learned that it changes often and drastically, with the potential for hot air coming from the northern deserts, or the icy cold winds blowing north from Antarctica. The phrase "four seasons in a day" is part of the popular culture. We spent the next few days both in and outdoors, depending on the weather.

One of our favorite spots was Queen Victoria Market, an open air market filled with a diverse range of inexpensive merchandise--over 1000 stalls worth! We checked out Federation Square, an irregular-shaped piazza with distinctive modern buildings. The architecture is striking and peculiar in design and seems to lack the warmth needed as a public centre and meeting place. We also enjoyed walking through Southbank, visiting the various ethnic districts, and patronising Starbucks, which was necessary to help us warm up between our cold outings. Yes, with the weather being so much like Seattle, more Starbucks exist here than anywhere else Down Under. -Marc

Flinders Street Station

Funky Federation Square