Any trip to Melbourne is a good one. It's a great city, full of an indefinable spirit and energy. A certain class and a great deal of beauty. But a trip with a loved one is even better. A chance to share all those great experiences is something wonderful, such as wonderful restaurants, art galleries, markets and the great game of Australian Football. An unexpected delight of our trip was the surprise purchase of a Charles Blackman etching. This iconic Australian artist has become a personal favourite and the chance to buy a reasonably priced piece of art (Touching II, above) was too good to pass on. It's beautiful.

The mighty Essendon Bombers at the MCG.

The truly sublime Great Ocean Road.

Oh, Polyester Records is the best record store in Australia. Period.