Summer Lovin'

It’s 29C today.  Plus, that is.  Started to cruise around my new hood this morning, there is great green space around the corner at Albert Park. There are a few grocers, as well as butcher within walking distance, so I’m sure I can find reason to use some of the public BBQ’s there.  No doubt I’ll also make use of the Lake Track too.

I strolled over to St. Kilda Beach, not bad.  The neighbourhood and sand are a little Beaches-esque from back home.  Sun tanning on the agenda for tomorrow! Looks like a trail along the water too.  There are a number great looking cafes, restos and bars along Fitzroy. I’ll swing by at night to see what the vibe is like. 

Central Business District

Made my over to Acland St. where there are an abundant number of bakeries and cafés.  I was good today, but not sure I’ll last thru tomorrow.  Saw ample people on bikes, made me envious.  I can’t wait another day to grab a ride.

By midday, I hopped on the tram to the CBD.  Yet, another example of a city public transit system that is far superior to the TTC.  Whisked by Alexandra Gardens on the tram, looks like a good place to take the bike and then skip along the Yarra River. 

I stopped off at Federation Square, nice architecture, which made for a nice pic or two.  I then started to stroll along the main drag of the CBD.  Priorities were to grab a phone plan plus sim chip and find out where I could rent a bike.  

Federation Square

The downtown here is vibrant and it is beautiful!  There is a definitely a cultural vibe to the city.  It reminds me a lot of Montreal, only prettier and warmer.  

I sorted out my phone issues at Vodaphone.  Here is my number:  04-14-838-772. The lass serving me was quite nice.  She mentioned it was 40C yesterday and unbearable.  Winter storm, now that’s unbearable.  She also advised me to head to Queen Victoria Market for the weekly night market on Wednesday’s.  Guess the local hood haunt will have to wait.  

Before leaving downtown, I picked up a rental bike at BSC Bikes.  It’s a single or fixed speed Schwinn as they don’t rent out road bikes. Beh! However, it is better than a mountain, hybrid or one of these city rentals. The latter is a great concept and based on a Montreal model.  Goddamn T.O, what gives? Poor bike lanes and it certainly won’t be progressing with that portly fella down at City Hall. 

There are plenty of bike lanes here. I went on a short spin from downtown to St. Kilda and around the Lake Track loop at Albert Park. This is how it made me feel. I wonder how long it will take me to crash riding on the wrong side of the road?

Alright, time to freshen up and hit the market.

Serge