When I first stepped out of the airport after spending $12 AUD on a chai latte, one of the first things about Melbourne that caught me off guard was the cold. Ironically the cold weather is something I grew to appreciate despite getting me a little under the weather for the first few days. What I really admired about Melbourne was the scenery as demonstrated in the photos taken, I liked how close together all the shops and restaurants were and the outdoor trains were certainly a sight to see, too bad I was too tired to really take it all in the first day. I also appreciated the indigenous acknowledgment of the land which is something you don't usually see in many parts of the world so that was very refreshing to witness

It was actually quite nice to start off the second day in a rather relaxed manner, as even though there was a lot of walking it wasn't unbearable. Overall I would say that I really enjoyed the art tour as it was interesting to see a new side and another culture of Melbourne. Growing up in the U.S. I'm no stranger to seeing graffiti in cities, but it was interesting to see a new perspective behind those who create it as well as the risks they run expanding their craft. After the tour and the workshop that followed it, we proceeded to head towards the St. Kilda festival which I also found to be quite relaxing despite the crowded and slightly chaotic atmosphere, despite this me and a friend were able to find a relaxing spot by the beach to enjoy our overpriced food. 

Although at first kayaking was a bit of a struggle I eventually got the hang of it and had a lot of fun (despite the blisters). Despite this, I highly doubt I'll be entering the water again anytime soon. After that, the photography workshop was a good way for me to enhance the skills I already had and I also learned how to really look for interesting things to focus on (even though Snapseed drained my battery)

Despite the near freezing temperature inside I found the theater to be quite exceptional, I especially enjoyed learning about the history it, and took note of the interesting artwork. The puppetry workshop that we had afterward was also eventful as well as a great team-building activity that I feel everyone enjoyed. Finally, the Alexander McQueen exhibit is probably something that I will likely remember for many years to come, even though I am not really that into fashion it was incredible to see just how creative peoples minds can really get. 

It was nice to go back and truly experience Queen Victoria Market after only getting a glimpse of it previously, while there I was able to pick up gifts and souvenirs for my family and friends. After this, we got a more detailed tour of the NGV art pieces that were sorted into countries, and out of the bunch, I would say that my favorite pieces were from the British and French Exhibit as I have an interest in the history of European royals. After these festivities, we had the privilege of watching the Mary Poppins musical late into the night. 

During this day I was lucky enough to get into the activity I chose which was costume design, but fell asleep for most of it as I may or may not have stayed up a bit too late last night after the morning activities were done and our food was eaten it was a grueling walk to the Moonlight Cinema in order to watch Avatar 2. However once we got there the walk proved to be worth it, the environment of the venue was relaxed allowing us to completely enjoy the movie.  Also, I got a stomach ache on the bus ride back. 

Thankfully I was able to wake up on time, and not get left behind, but when leaving Melbourne I couldn't help but be grateful for this oppurtunity presented to me and it is likely something I wont experience outside of SAS. I throrughly enjoyed this trip and hope to come back to this wonderful city.