If you had been following me on twitter, you probably know that I just got back from Melbourne and I am in love with the city. In fact, my last tweet from Melbourne airport was this,

#Melbourne – I leave a part of me with you. Till we meet again. pic.twitter.com/pYGu2Ie082

— Vinitha (@vinitha) December 11, 2014

Yes I left a part of me in Melbourne, Victoria. The city was so me and in fact it completed me. My visit was unfortunately too short. What made me fall in love with Melbourne you ask?

Did you know, Melbourne is one of the seven UNESCO Cities of Literature? (and here I am saving you from a google search – the other 6 cities are here). Obviously, as a self-confessed bookworm addict, I was excited. Hidden along the alleys and lanes are some of the greatest book stores I have ever visited. Shaded under umbrellas, we sloshed on puddles, gasped at beautiful buildings, checked the maps and made a pilgrimage to Embiggen Books, The Little Bookroom (children books only) and The Metropolis. Local bookshops filled with character and not the usual books.I came back with my heart and hands filled with books. (let us just ignore the fact that the wallet was much lighter). I wish I had the time to explore more of the bookshops in Melbourne.

We walked enjoying the slight drizzle and the unexpected chill in the air stopping short to point out interesting sights and click a quick picture. Like the murals at an unexpected alleyway, the giant purse art along Bourke Street, the Architectural Fragment art in front of the Library and more.

The magic of Christmas seeped inside us. The spirit of the season and the colours filled in as we watched the Town Hall burst into colours, posted letters to Santa, and tried to count the bells jingling on Bourke Street as we waited in line to watch the 59th Christmas display windows of Myer.

I wish I could find words to describe the way Melbourne welcomed me with ease, with love, and with food. Local food – fresh and scrumptious. How I wish I could have carried the Queen Victor Market home! We ate fresh raspberries for dessert and feasted on Sri Lankan food (the best kootu parota I have had outside India) at the market. I really mean it, I would have carried the market home if I could have fitted inside my suitcase. I would have also thrown in Gnache Chocolate and Suga inside my suitcase if possible. A sweet lover’s dream come true.

We explored Victoria, beyond Melbourne. The Penguin Parade at Philip Island was our first stop. I have had my share of natural encounters around the world but watching the little Penguins waddle home will remain close to my heart. As the sun sunk in the horizon painting the skies orange and pink and purple, penguins with blue feathers made their way back to their burrows on Summerland Bay – back home to their waiting and squealing chicks.

I teared up as I watched a hungry chick beg every single parent making their way past it for food. Hunger is the same irrespective of species, I realised. I hung around waiting for the hungry chick’s parents to come home and feed it. I watched in glee as wings were flapped and excited shrills filled the air. Photography is prohibited at the Penguin Parade but I did manage to find some chicks in their burrows at the Nobbies. Take a look.

I look at my pictures and try figure out why I have a Melbourne sized hole within me. Was it the Yarra river – flowing peacefully and compelling people to walk, bike and dragon boat along?

Or was it the spectacular theatre scene. [I literally wept when I saw what Melbourne had to offer. Believe me, the city has an amazing variety of shows in the offing. (I did make it to the Melbourne Recital Hall with kuttyma in tow to watch Justine Clarke groove.)]

Was it the enormous spread of green space around the city – calming me and begging to me to explore them?

Was it the amazing architecture and artists who call the city home?

Was it the majestic cliffs on the Great Ocean Road? The fasted eroding coastline in Australia has some of the most beautiful sights nature ever made. I have seen pictures of them, videos of them and knew what to expect. But I wasn’t ready for beauty in front of my eyes.

The caves, the gorge, the bridge and the grotto – painstakingly formed by waves, rain, and wind – the power of the world around you blows you away. I spent two gorgeous days walking the many trails along the Great Ocean Road. I could have easily spent a couple of weeks there.

Or was it the random Melbournians – some of the most friendly people I have ever met? Generous with their time, smiles and recommendations? I got quite a pleasant shock and surprise when a stranger paused and said “Bless you” when I sneezed as I walked along. Small gesture but such a friendly one.

Melbourne, I will be back. Meanwhile, be a sport and let me know what would you do in Melbourne, if you had a chance? Hit the book shops, the gardens, soak in the art scene, shop at Queen Victor Market head to watch the penguins or drive along the Great Ocean Road. You have a chance to win a gift voucher.

For more details about Melbourne check out the Visit Melbourne website. I planned most of my trip after browsing their site. And check out these cool Come Alive with Melbourne videos about the various stuff you could do in the region.

Contest ends January 4,2015. This post is a part of the Indiblogger – Fall in love with Melbourne contest.