Melbourne Day 1

These are Doug's words with some 'JOS' (Julie over shoulder). Here she is in our apartment at City Edge 'Treasury'.



And the view from outside.



The day was foggy (airport was closed - lucky we got in) and about 10 degrees. We headed for the CBD walking through Fitzroy Gardens, about a block from our apartment. A lot of autumn colours.



The CBD emerged through the mist.



Police get around on bikes, with guns!



Melbourne has a very fine transport system that makes Auckland look like a mess. Trams run through the streets, including a free one on the City Loop taking about 30 minutes. Trains come in from all directions, above and underground. Tram or train fares are $3 for 2 hour's ride in the CBD.



Some remarkable architecture is all around, check out the Catholic Church. The feeling of the place is of much more wealth than Auckland, which is like a big $2 shop.

We walked a long way to Government house, to find it is only open to pre-arranged tours. Heading back into town we found the National Art Gallery of Victoria. Free entry included a remarkable collection of European paintings, Rembrandt, Gainsborough and many more.



This is one of the three Rembrandts. Photography is allowed, but no flash.