I Heart Melbourne...In winter

I Heart Melbourne...but especially more so in winter! There's so much to see and do and experience. Apart from watching, with much amusement until karma strikes back, people running from the rain, winter sees an increase in the queues at Starbucks and Gloria Jeans looking for that recycled paper cup of warmth and a see of black coated people that meets you when you get off at Flinders Street Station.

What I heart, though, is the occasional spotting of someone wearing a coat other than black, like the lady in tangerine I saw the other day, or the smelling of roasting nuts on the corner of Swanston and Collins street or further up at Bourke street...I heart the winter exhibitions at the Arts Centre, the way the city skyline looks at night just how classically dressed everyone seems to appear. Having a particular dislike for flip-flops and crocs, especially in the city, its refreshing to see men in well coordinated yet stylish clothing other than the ubiquitous and habitual sea of shorts and flip-flops. What a relief...no more unshaven woolly legs, or unnecessary show of skin. People are forced to cover up and save us from cringing at the sight of a hairy butt crack!!

The women though, take the cake. Melburnian ladies are very stylish and this truly shows in winter. Whether it’s a jeans and t-shirt with a coat and scarf thrown over the top, we sure know how to ooze style and femineity all in one. And ladies, we save a bit of money too, as we don't have to spend as much on grooming as we do the warmer months...Now, I’m all for grooming, but its nice to know that its not a matter of life or death if we don’t wax our legs every so often, because we can cover them up with leggings and pants! Hoorah!! I also heart winter because it is the return of comfort food! We aren't as hung up on our bodies because we have those lovely thick woolly coats and knits to cover it all up (God bless 'em) and we toss away our gym membership cards in return for videoezy membership.

Restaurant and cafe's swap the salads on the menus for tasteful options and soups. It also marks listening to live music in Fitzroy and St Kilda whilst enjoying a lovely glass of red with friends or cuddling up with a mug of hot chocolate to watch a girly movie in bed...aahh...I heart winter...don't you? Now here are a couple more reasons why you too, will fall in love with Melbourne this winter:

Partaay
Laneway 3000: Winter Party
What: Celebrate the start of winter in the laneways of Melbourne. From fire-twirlers to glamorous Charleston dancers, this is an event not to be missed. If that doesn’t excite you, the complimentary cocktail on arrival sure will and there's a groovy DJ to keep the music blazing all night long. It’s an 18 and over event, so definitely worth checking out.
Why: Get into winter party mode and add fuel to your soul! oh and did I mention it's FREE!!! When: 30 May 2008
Time: 6pm til 9pm...
Where: Little Bourke Place Melbourne City 3000
Pricing: FREE!!

See
The Light in Winter
What: From June 5, light installations will grace fed square celebrating the diversity and beauty of our lovely city.
Why: Best to visit after a date or dinner in the city...make it a magical night
When: 5 June to 5 July
Time: 12am to 11:59pm
Where: Fed Square
Pricing: Free

Groove
Mary J Blige
What: A woman that needs no introduction! The Queen of Hip hop/soul herself will be gracing our city for a one-night only performance for the very first time. Now I don't need to tell yall how much of a great night you're guaranteed to have and MJB is sure to deliver. Having won 8 Grammy awards and 23 Grammy nominations, this is a concert not to be missed! What’s the 411 yall!!
Why: Serious street cred and a great night out!
When: Thursday, June 12
Where: Rod Laver Arena
Pricing: Visit ticketek.com.au for more info

Shop
Paul and Joe Sale
What: With savings of up to 75% on Paul and Joe, Paul and Joe sister and Zoe's T-shirts, it’s definitely a must attend for all you fashionistas!
Why: like you need a reason to flash the trusty credit card
When: 29 to 31 May
Where: 19 Newton St, Richmond

Eat
Moroccan Soup Bar
What: Moroccan, Soup and Vegetarian are there specialty. It's in Fitzroy and the vibe is great there this time of year, the food is perfect for this time of year and just the vibe of the restaurant will warm your soul! Did I mention for 17 bucks you could have an entire three course meal? Best to go on an empty stomach and if you've never tried Moroccan, you’ll be sold after eating here! Tip: go with a group of friends
Why: Because I'm biased and they make great lentil soup, oh, and its a cheap eat!
When: Open all year round for dinner only. Tue-Sat 6pm-10pm
Where: 183 St Georges Rd, Fitzroy North 3068. For more info: 03 9482 4240

Read
Chasing Harry Winston
What: From the lady who brought you the Devil wears Prada, Lauren Weisberger, comes Chasing Harry Winston. A novel about 3 best friends in Manhattan who agree to change their lives in the most personal and dramatic way possible -- and within one calendar year
Why: Great read on the tram or while waiting for your coffee at Starbucks
When: Available from Angus and Robertson on May 28
Where: Visit http://www.angusrobertson.com.au/ for more info

Watch
Sex and the City - The Movie
What: Carrie's back! You've seen the posters and trailers and waited like me for 4 years to see the girls and it’s finally arrived. SJP and the entire cast are back for more sex! Make a night out of it with your girlfriends and get dressed up- Carrie style of course!
Why: Seriously? You need a reason?! The shoes alone are with the trip!!
When: June 5
Where: Village Cinemas

I'm off to enjoy a little cup of heaven that is a soy chai latte. Next time you find yourself or someone you love with nothing to do in the city, ask yourself this, got soul?

Toodles Love Muffins

xoxo

Santi

For more info visit thatsmelbourne.com.au