Writing a book is a b*tch. Writers deserve epic holidays.
With Strike@36 all printed and packed, I saw it fitting to drift into Emirates First Class, soothing my frayed nerves with Dom Pérignon 2000. Further seduction occurred at the airline’s plush new lounge at Dubai airport, amidst clouds of Coco Mademoiselle and 24 hour a la carte dining.
Arriving in sunny Melbourne, it was time for the L’Oreal Melbourne Fashion Festival. Undisputed scene stealer? Alannah Hill’s tangerine cape (great for Delhi winters, IMHO), crashing Melbourne’s official colour code – black.
Trawled the city on a Windows by Design tour of chic retail establishments and quirky stores.
Caught some amazing street art on the way. And a Melbourne icon – Switchboard Café. Try their Avocado and Fresh Lemon on sourdough toast. Another find were these gorgeous hand-painted earrings by Anna Davern. While dining at Neil Perry’s Italian restaurant Rosetta (more squid ink risotto here, Sir!) spotted a Lamborghini slinking around. Love how this city goes from edgy to bohemian to unapologetic glamour within minutes!
More oomph oozed during a seven course meal at Vue De Monde on the 55th floor of the Rialto. Don’t be intimidated by nitrogen on ice cream and wasabi snow on duck eggs; the delightful staff is always happy to let you investigate their open kitchen. Another vibrant dinner venue is the Atlantic at the Crown Hotel, modeled after NYC’s meatpacking district. Conquer their mighty seafood platter, and they may just gift you with this very cool apron.
Six days later (post dreamy, rustic weekend at Mornington Peninsula), I’m definitively cured of author-itis! Thank you, Tourism Victoria and Merry Melbourne – equal parts sexy and soul.
Meanwhile, Strike@36 has a very small but cute Aussie connection. Do read (it’s available on Flipkart) and shoot me your thoughts!
