To begin with, the week started with preparations for final exams, as this was the last week of my first block of classes. During the first couple of days, I spent most of my time studying. However, as soon as I finished my last exam, I was finally able to enjoy the more entertaining aspect of my time abroad-traveling.
The highlight of the week was a weekend trip to Melbourne. After spending a sunny day at Coogee Beach in Sydney, our Bucknell group headed to Sydney Airport, where we caught a flight to Melbourne. We arrived late that night, so I decided to go straight to bed to rest for the busy day ahead.
The next day began with a tour of the city center. Our tour guide provided a wealth of interesting information about Melbourne’s history and culture. The most fascinating story for me was how Melbourne (the Colony of Victoria) gained independence from Sydney (New South Wales) and the challenges they faced in achieving it. Beyond that, I truly relished Melbourne’s diverse landscape and the vibrant atmosphere of its streets.
Since I am a passionate tennis fan, particularly of Novak Djokovic, I couldn’t miss the chance to visit the Australian Open Park. I had the incredible experience of seeing the legendary Rod Laver Arena, where Djokovic has won the most Australian Open trophies in history. As his countryman, I couldn’t have been prouder.
Later that day, a few of my Bucknell friends and I went to a techno party. Earlier during the tour, the guide mentioned that Melbourne is well known for its techno scene, and as someone who enjoys techno music, I was immediately intrigued. The outcome? The party was absolutely brilliant—one of the best I’ve ever attended! The DJ’s performance was outstanding.
On Sunday, I visited the Melbourne Vintage Market, where I explored a wide variety of vintage clothing and antiques. As I mentioned earlier, I am passionate about sports, so I was thrilled to find and purchase a Manchester United jersey from the early 2000s. I have been a fan of Manchester United since childhood, and the moment I saw the jersey displayed prominently at the front of the racks, I didn’t hesitate for a second.
Before heading back to the airport, I spent the rest of the day walking through Old Town, admiring the striking graffiti artwork that lined the streets.
All in all, the Melbourne trip was extraordinary, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to visit such a magnificent city. I definitely plan to return someday.
