I've been anticipating this trip for months. Melbourne is my favorite Aussie city and to go there for work made my job even more exciting!

I stayed at the Park Hyatt. Adored having a corner room all to myself with a giant bed, fluffy pillows and doona and crisp white hotel sheets. Bliss!

We got taken out to dinner at Yu-U. You would probably not find it at first because it's tucked in a laneway and there's no sign. In fact the front door blends in with the graffiti on the outside walls. Inside is a gem of a Japanese restaurant with sleek interiors and superb cuisine.

I had my first taste of soju which is smoother and more potent than sake. Served on ice, you can dilute it with water if preferred. The distilled beverage looks and tastes like water with a slight sweet aftertaste.

Soju, you deceptive and wicked temptress!


After dinner, I ended up wondering around listlessly at the Crown Casino. It was after midnight and I realised that being at the casino is not all that it's cracked up to be. Especially if you were alone and don't gamble.

Still feeling peckish, I bought some beef tataki and took a cab back to the hotel. By the time I got to my room, I just wanted to sleep.

I learned that Soju is a friend who desserts you before the party's over.

Thankfully the next day was cruisier since it was a half day of work.

Went to the National Gallery of Victoria to see the Salvador Dali: Liquid Desires exhibit. I urge everyone to see it as Dali's art is pure genius.

Melbourne, in my opinion is Australia's epicenter of style and culture.


Typical winter Melbourne weather. Rainy/cloudy/sunny/cold/you name it!


Afterwards I walked around the shops of the city, getting lost in the laneways and having a hot chocolate to rest my feet. It was sad being alone since it would be nice to share the reverie of Melbourne.

I met up with a friend after hours for drinks and dinner. My friend was kind enough to put me up for the night so we could go shopping the next day.

We had brunch at Brunswick St and it was heavenly. Totally hit the spot after two consecutive nights of drinking.

Free range eggs on sourdough toast with bacon, ham, spinach and cheese. Fattest yolks I've ever seen. *Drools*


Most devine soy latte to go with brunch.


We shopped around on Brunswick and Chapel Streets. I was good since I'm saving up for my Singapore trip next week. Only bought a pair of earrings and necklace on the cheap.

As the day ended, we hit the pub for a few pints in the city. Everyone was so friendly. I was anchored in good spirits as my Melbourne trip drew to a close.