Thanks to Jim and Sharon, Aussies whom we met at Romantica Chalet in Paihia, NZ and again on the ship, we were able to locate the free shuttle and the free bus in Melbourne -- a complicated public transportation system.
As usual, looking lost.
The Flinders Rail Station
The ultra contemporary Visitor/Information Center, the hub of the Square.
We decided against the electric bicycles pictured in the foreground....stayed on the bus/shuttle.
After NZ, even Hobart, we are a bit overwhelmed at the size, the masses of people and the frenetic activity of a large city!!!!
This Eiffel Tower looking structure indicates the art section of this lovely city
Fellow Americans, Bob and Carolyn, and the Aussies, Jim and Sharon.
The two Danes who took our picture
Look for the yellow vests!!!! These transportation guys can help you find your way! The red vests are volunteers who answer questions about the city....a very tourist friendly place!
It is not just the tourists who use the free transportation.....hence, VERY crowded.....ALL the time!!!
Jim and Sharon went to the outlet mall....Bob, Carolyn, Tom and I went exploring...
Checkin' out the toilets!!
According to the guide, this is Melbourne's most "recognized" symbol! The largest WW I memorial we have seen yet.
Back on the bus in search of the Rod Laver Tennis Center
Covered walkway to the enormous sporting complex in Melbourne. Residents of this city describe themselves as "sports fanatics" and this area proves them right! ALL the sports arenas are located in once section of town.....
We watch the Australian Open every year. Actually, we had hoped to see it, but the cruise ship connections did not allow that. This is the only thing we wanted to visit in Melbourne....the Aussies are expanding the tennis complex to include three air conditioned convertible top courts.
The Australians are cricket crazy.....this stadium holds 100,000 fans!
This is a sculpture of the original "football" in Australia.....now called "Australian Rule Football"....involves a lot of kicking. There are also two forms of rugby.....and soccer here is soccer, not football.
Back to Melbourne City Square and a closer look at Melbourne's Anglican Cathedral.
Apparently, the Anglican churches have the eagle lectern in common.....this is the same one as we saw in Napier, the only thing that had survived their earthquake.....this one is polished and shining!
The organ
The Anglicans are more progressive than their Roman brethren!
The first Apple store we have seen since we left Charleston.....it is a "reseller" which means the store is privately owned. The Apple computer geek was very knowledgeable and helpful.
A stop for an adult beverage before returning to the ship.
$100 to ride the carriage.....per person!!! Back on the 109 train to the ship.
