Melbourne - MEL *updated 11Aug2012
GMT+10
GMT+10
Where some of the Crew MAY Stay:
"Grand Hyatt Hotel"
"Grand Hyatt Hotel"
They really put the GRAND in the "Grand Hyatt hotel. Rooms have large windows with great views of the city and the river. To top it off, a fantastic lounge, with a welcoming fire place. The entire space overlooks the city scape with a full 180degree view. A beautiful spot to watch the sunrise/sunset.
Being centrally located, it is a stone's throw away from China town, the shopping district, the arts museums, theaters and exhibition centers. All of which, within walking distance of about 1km and less.
- Free Wi-Fi access in the lounge, available up to 4 devices.
ABBATIP: Although it is stated a $2 charge for 24hrs usage, if you can log-on to the "lounge" Wi-Fi, you will have free web connection up to 4devices.*Stayed on the 29th floor but lounge was on the 31st floor. Wi-Fi signal was strong and provided fast connection.*
- Free eats and beverages all day
ABBA details:Breakfast spread (0630-1030/1100SUN) and Canapés for dinner (1800hrs-2000hrs) with additional access to selection of beers and wine.
Light refreshments and non-alcoholic drinks available through out the rest of the day. Refer below.
ABBA details:Breakfast spread (0630-1030/1100SUN) and Canapés for dinner (1800hrs-2000hrs) with additional access to selection of beers and wine.
Light refreshments and non-alcoholic drinks available through out the rest of the day. Refer below.
Grand Hyatt Lounge, 31st Floor
Great view, excellent and tentative service staff, top notch spreads,
in a modern-sheik decor and vibe.
Breakfast spread (0630hrs-1030/1100hrsSUN)
What was served:- Smoked salmon
*with all the condiments of lemon wedges, cutting through the saltiness,
capers, always goes beautifully with seafood,
*with all the condiments of lemon wedges, cutting through the saltiness,
capers, always goes beautifully with seafood,
red onions, making the flavors pop and
creme fraiche, adding a creamy and balancing flavor combination.
The only way good, fatty, smoked salmon, should be enjoyed!*
The only way good, fatty, smoked salmon, should be enjoyed!*
- Cold cuts *Turkey and Ham*
- Cheese Board with condiments
- Cheese Board with condiments
- Basic Oats, Cereals, Breakfast Roles & Fresh Fruits
- Fruit Juices, Coffee and Tea Selections
- Fruit Juices, Coffee and Tea Selections
Dinner spread and happy hour (1800hrs-2000hrs)
What was served:
- Black pepper, smoked, fatty salmon
- Parma Ham served over salad and orange
- Caprese Salad *Sweet Tomatoes, served with
- Parma Ham served over salad and orange
- Caprese Salad *Sweet Tomatoes, served with
mozzarella cheese and drizzled with balsamic and micro salad*
- Cooked salmon and fennel shavings served with grape fruit
- Fried stuffed buns and prawn dumplings.
- Assortment of cheese and cakes, cookies
- Cooked salmon and fennel shavings served with grape fruit
- Fried stuffed buns and prawn dumplings.
- Assortment of cheese and cakes, cookies
- Ice Cold Beer selection as well as wines
To Do:
Queen Victoria Markets
Queen Victoria Markets
The Queen Victoria Markets is the largest open market in the Southern Hemisphere, selling organic foods and various dining opportunities. An array of mini-shops/stalls, most of which offer uniquely different items for sale, provides variety and diversity to all whom visit. Watch out for street performers, providing laughter, musical tunes and cheers to appreciative visitors. Nearing closing times are the most exciting and lively, as vendors let go of foods and eats cheap, to clear the days stock.
Two special mentions at the Victoria Parks are the
Donut Van
Donut Van
Click here for ABBA location of "Aquarium and Reptile Centre" at the Victoria Markets 442 Queen St Melbourne 3000
The Markets opens early 0600hrs/0900hrs but closing times vary from as early as 1400hrs and a little later at1600hrs. So take note of when you maybe visiting as well as the closing times.Market Trading Hours
Tuesday: 6am - 2pm
Thursday: 6am - 2pm
Friday: 6am - 6pm ( General merchandise closes at 4pm)
Saturday: 6am - 3pm
Sunday: 9am - 4pm
Click here for ABBA details on latest closing times of Victoria Markets
Click here for ABBA location of Victoria Markets
Tuesday: 6am - 2pm
Thursday: 6am - 2pm
Friday: 6am - 6pm ( General merchandise closes at 4pm)
Saturday: 6am - 3pm
Sunday: 9am - 4pm
Click here for ABBA details on latest closing times of Victoria Markets
Click here for ABBA location of Victoria Markets
Never will I look at Pens the same again! Here Pens go from timeless designs, to the really exotic. Prices may go up to four figures and beyond. Here are some of the unique ones that I came across.
Pictured Left are the Porsche series.
Pen 7 made from the Brake Line of the Porsche and Pen 6 from some other parts of the engine. Its not just an esthetic beauty but its incorporated in function in the deployment of the pen. Pen 6 twists the spokes to be aligned and Pen 7 contracts like a snake, both of which to deploy the pen. Aprox AUD300++ each.
Pen 7 made from the Brake Line of the Porsche and Pen 6 from some other parts of the engine. Its not just an esthetic beauty but its incorporated in function in the deployment of the pen. Pen 6 twists the spokes to be aligned and Pen 7 contracts like a snake, both of which to deploy the pen. Aprox AUD300++ each.
Pictured Right
Pens 1 and 3,4 are made from Volcanic rock, from Italy. The selling point were that it could withstand extremely high temperatures, but more interestingly, people suffering from sweaty palms, would have no trouble gripping onto these pens. A really good sell at the shop as proclaimed by the staff. Aprox AUD350++ each.
Pens 1 and 3,4 are made from Volcanic rock, from Italy. The selling point were that it could withstand extremely high temperatures, but more interestingly, people suffering from sweaty palms, would have no trouble gripping onto these pens. A really good sell at the shop as proclaimed by the staff. Aprox AUD350++ each.
Pen 2 design, was designed, way back in the 18 something and even put on display in the museum, because of its timeless design. Made from Titanium, this pen goes at about the AUD300 range. Pens 5 and 8 are sleeker, women's pen, with carbon fiber and some deployment by shaking the Pen itself. Amazing!
Much more varieties and collector editions, such as wooden pens, gold tip fountain pens which glide effortlessly as you write, sting-ray skin, limited editions. A unique gift for sure.
Click here for ABBA details of Pen City 215 Elizabeth Street
Click here for ABBA details of Pen City 215 Elizabeth Street
Can Do:
"Little Italy"
Need your Italian fix and Gelato delights? Lygon street is laden with a large range of Italian and various dining bistros. To top it all, a Ferrari shop, Forza Italia. Visit this place especially during the F1 racing period. You'll get to see Super Cars line the streets in support of the racers.
Various Gems found in "Little Italy" on Lygon Street.
San Churro - In my opinion the best hot/cold chocolate drink and shakes.
Gelatissimo - A good, rich range of Gelato
Main Shopping District
You have all the big shop name like Myers, David Jones and many more. Take a stroll and you will find many more big brand shops, specializing in shoes, clothing, cameras and electronic equipments. There are also, comic/collectables shop lots, as well as army surplus stores, with great outdoor camping gears, which line Bourke Street. Further down this street is China Town.
China Town
Almost everywhere in the world, you will find a China Town. This relatively small district has all your Asian food delights, with some Ice-cream stores like "Tom Turtle 169 Bourke St"offering very local flavors well known in SE-Asia , such as Teh Tarik, Longan, Durian, Coconut Pandan and more. Above pictured are Passion Fruit and Panda-Coconut flavor.
Located near the Grand Hyatt, these places offer late night bites when every thing else is closed.
Click here for ABBA location of China Town along Petaling Street
KrispyKreme
Click here for ABBA location of China Town along Petaling Street
TO EAT
Tapas Movida
Mekong Vietnam
original Vietnamese Rice-Noodle Soups
Fan of Tapas food? Yet to be reviewed, but came highly recommended. Long lines and booking needed up to 2 weeks in advance.
Click here for ABBA details of MovidaClick here for ABBA location 1 Hosier Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Click here for ABBA details of MovidaClick here for ABBA location 1 Hosier Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
Mekong Vietnam
original Vietnamese Rice-Noodle Soups
This place got well known after the patronage of Chinese celebrities. It further shot to fame when then, President Bill Clinton, patronized this outlet, advertised as ordering two bowls of Pho! They were probably smaller bowls backs then.
Overall, big noodle servings, but felt its large patronage was more of its celebrity patronage novelty than anything else. Beef was done just right and noodles not over cook. Soup stock was average, but border-lined on salty. Chili and pickled onion condiments were excellent though.
What was ordered:
Beef Pho x1
Chicken Noodles x1
Vietnam white Coffee Cold x1
Hot Black Coffee x1
Total AUD25
Fed2
Overall 7/10
Overall 7/10
Open 7 days
Mon-Fri 9am-10pm
Sat-Sun 10am-10pm
Sat-Sun 10am-10pm
ABBATip: Place gets crowded by about noon. Arrived at 1140 without much trouble on getting a seat.
Stalactites
Open 24hrs 7days a week
Open 24hrs 7days a week
The decor absolutely suits the name of this 24-7 joint to a T.
Ordered the Lamb Souvlaki, AUD10.50. Beautifully caramelized meat, dripping with juices carved off the rotisserie, served with fresh cabbage and tomatoes, served up in a warm wrap. Absolutetly delicious and whats more. Did I stress on 24-7?
Only a stone throw walk from the Grand Hyatt, this place delivers big on flavor. Will definitely be back to try the other stuff on the menu.
Royal Arcade *located opposite Myers*
- Kokomo black-
Located opposite Myers shopping centre, down one of the many beautifully arched shopping arcades found in Melbourne, stretches a wide range of handmade truffles and chocolate pralines to satisfy you.
A great place to stay sheltered, and people watch as you enjoy a Cuppa. Letting the day wind down, with half-hourly and hourly chimes by GOG and MAGOG, two 7feet giant striking time since 1892.Click here for Royal Arcade and location of Kokomo Black Shop 4,Royal Arcade/335 Bourke Street, Melbourne Victoria 3000, Australia
KrispyKreme
E'Nuff said. What is it for the unintiated? It's super awesome doughnuts, with the cream filled, sugar-saturated ones, going for about 500+KCALs or more a pop. Sugar overload, wonderful greatness in a oval shaped oval! Order in boxes of dozens or more to bring back home.
Click here for ABBA location in the city nearest to Hyatt Hotel55 Swanston Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
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