Get lost and rediscover Melbourne Central
Back in September 2006, the Australian government of Victoria announced a tourism campaign to encourage more people to visit Melbourne and surrounding areas. They aim to take advantage of people from far and wide are drawn to this fabulous city, reminding them out-of-the-way places are worth discovering.
This in mind, I took it upon myself to go wandering and see what kinds of local sights I'd stumble upon. I didn't follow a tourist book of typical highlights. So Melbourne is known by others as a city of sophistication, pizzazz and romance. But what kinds of unmentionables make it special? Which stops would I make?
Initially, I followed the lines of people moving in no particular direction. Then, I turned off on my own. I was fascinated with the many lanes and winding streets throughout the central districts. Where did they come from? A different world!As the result of some reserach, I learned over 180 of these smaller streets exist in Melbourne. I admit I'm especially taken by cobblestones, though watching women with stelleto heels stagger along them, I doubt they feel the same way. The graffitti is a culture in and of itself and I wonder how people squeeze into some places to create their imaginative artwork. Color and texture jump at me.
Why was I drawn to smaller streets? Fewer people? More people? I suppose I instinctively go in unfamilliar directions just because I sense I'll find treasures. Of course, it depends on how you feel, your mood on a particular day and more. Your state of mind and sense of adventure determine whether or not you'll appreciate what you find, and if anything is notable beyond what you've seen.
In Drewery Lane for example, your curious eyes may peer into the back ends of narrow shops, linger at locked iron gates, entice you to reach up and clang hanging copper pots, or be tempted to change your identity in a Celebrity Wig Store. If you like trees, you'll find those too. How many types can you name?
Okay, so Melbourne strolling lanes isn't exactly like getting lost in Diagon Alley from Harry Potter stories, or are they? Tug on one of those dusty, loose bricks beside you and you may come across a door to another world. Flip through second-hand books you will really sink your teeth into. Wide choices mean some subjects will appeal to everyone. Multiple concert posters are glued on painted walls. You decide if they're dated. Alternative concert venues stare back at you. You may never have heard of them. Refer to your city map. Another goldmine!
"Melbourne's Streets and Lanes" can be obtained free from local historic society offices in A'Beckett Street (after Victoria's 1st chief justice Sir William A'Beckett) and at the visitor centre at Federation Square. If you remain alert, similar guides can be found to tell you more about historical train stops and bus routes.
At one point in my wandering, I overheard a stranger speaking about Liverpool and Crossly Streets and couldn't help but ask if they were worth visiting. The woman gave me the once over and told me outright she didn't think these places would appeal to me. When I asked why, she added these streets near the Princess Theatre used to be called 'Romeo Lane' and 'Juliet Terrace,' and for good reason. According to her, the brothels remain. I decided to skip them.
Around meal time, I sought a memorable dining experience. My instincts led me to head up to George Parade off the top end of Collins Street. Quite a change of scenery. Much to my surprise, a number of basement restaurants bubble with energy and thrive. Below-ground eateries include Bar within the city's legal precinct, where pub food is available along with upper crust cuisine. Block Place is another alternative, and since jazz in the air was music to my ears, I was temporarily lured into an intimate, wood-paneled café.
A long lost friend advised I take the chic Sofitel Hotel elevator up to the bar level at night. On this elegant side of Collins Street, I learned the elevators are only activated by a room key for most floors, except for the bar one. You'd seldom meet a local who would turn you away from a bar! Once I arrived, I marvelled at the panoramic view of the city of lights. I could also look down through glass windows to see the circular restaurant on the floor below. This has restricted access to guests with keys. Melbourne looks amazing at night!
