Day 1 in Melbourne (or as the natives say it "Melbun")

Hello all!  I hope this post finds you well and enjoying winter back in the states.  Arrived safely into Melbourne on an Airbus 360 (see above) to temps in the 80s.  Big-mamma jamma plane with fantastic movies and service that Quantas is known for.

Looking windblown and refreshed after a shower and arriving in Federation Square - the visitor center for Melbourne and site of free wireless!

 

I headed to the Melbourne visitor center and 

embarked on a journey called the "Secret 

Gardens" walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens.

Working on my "self timer" skills in the Garden in the roots of this big ol' tree.  

Arrived at the Temple of the Winds on the east side of the Gardens.  The temple had gorgeous views of the Yarra River and Rod Laver Stadium (tennis fans eat your heart out).

The Swan Street Bridge with some rowers.  Makes Lake Union look a little dreary, don't you think?

Concluding the walk on the north bank of the Yarra River with a spectacular view back towards downtown Melbourne.  I'm off for a night of food and Australian beer.