Melbourne

Melbourne was fabulous! An ethnically diverse, very "artistic" city with a University atmosphere, it seemed like a mix between San Francisco and Buenos Aires. Not a bad comparison! There were many, many outdoor restaurants with all International types of food represented.

I stayed with Talia in her apartment and we saw as much as we could in a few days. We took walks around the town, went shopping, sightseeing, looked for great coffee bars and restaurants. We went to dinner one night with her colleagues from her laboratory; it was great fun. Another night we passed the time with her fellow student friends, mostly all working on some aspect of curing AIDS. We ate Vietnamese food, Chinese dumplings, Asian fusion, Pizza and more. At Talia's favorite coffee bar, we were able to sample their daily special, coffee from Nicaragua! We spent a lovely day with Talia's boyfriend's mother, father and brother. Had lunch, then walked around a beautiful mall in Melbourne. Talia showed me her school, where she shops for fresh produce and her favorite stores.

One night we went to a Vampire dinner show! But it wasn't about vampires at all. Only the table attendants were dressed up that way. And you take a little "train ride" through a haunted gallery before you get into the restaurant. But the show was hysterical and very racy...only for adults! A grandfather and his 11 year old grandson were sitting across from us, but they left after a short while as the skits were definitely not appropriate for the young man's ears. Very funny show!

Talia and I had a lot of fun eating, walking and talking. She lives in a gorgeous and vibrant city, has wonderful friends and colleagues, and I can breathe easier knowing she is so well situated. It is tough living on the other side of the world from your daughter!

Thanks again to everyone who made this wonderful wedding and vacation so terrific. And a VERY SPECIAL THANKS to the Sivertsen family, who really went above and beyond the call of duty to accommodate everyone. Next trip? Who knows? To see the photos of Melbourne, click here.