Tennis Thrills in Melbourne: Australian Open

As a tennis enthusiast who plays weekly, attending the Australian Open in Melbourne was a much-anticipated trip. The thrill of watching top-tier tennis, catching up with friends, and diving into Melbourne's vibrant coffee culture made it an epic journey. Each morning, I enjoyed strolling through the city and discovering the coolest cafes I had read about online, satisfying my curiosity and palate with every visit.

It's always fun reconnecting with friends who share my passion for tennis when in Melbourne. We were able to catch key matches and cheer for our favorite players, including Novak Djokovic, Aryna Sabalenka, Carlos Alcaraz, Emma Raducanu, and Elena Rybakina. In between matches, we enjoyed sipping on cold drinks and Spritzes, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the tournament grounds. My gorgeous gal Shar, who is twice as obsessed with tennis, attended most games all day, while I only went from the afternoon to night. #UltimateTennisGirl

For AO outfits, I had to keep them light; wearing anything heavier would have made me sweat within minutes of being outside. I mostly wore shorts, rompers, and crop tops to beat the heat.

Exploring Melbourne's Coffee Culture

Melbourne is renowned for its coffee culture, and as a coffee enthusiast, I was in heaven. The city's cafes are a haven for coffee lovers, offering a variety of brews that cater to every taste. I made it a point to visit some of the coolest cafes in town.

Auction Rooms: Nestled in North Melbourne, this cafe had a rustic charm that immediately drew me in. I immediately ordered their Breakfast Board when I saw it included grilled chorizo; it also consisted of smoked salmon, potato rosti, a soft-boiled egg, and chia pudding. The coffee here was some of the best I've ever tasted, and the relaxed atmosphere made it the perfect place to unwind before an action-packed day at the Open.

Higher Ground: This multi-level cafe in the CBD was a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. The spacious interior and unique design made it a standout, and the coffee was nothing short of exceptional. I ordered the ricotta hotcake, and it was so ridiculously delicious that it was gone in two minutes. Lol.

My Oh My: Just a stone's throw away from my accommodation in Richmond, this cafe was recommended by an Uber driver and quickly became my morning go-to. I always trust locals' recommendations, and this one did not disappoint. The attention to detail in their brewing process was impressive, and their breakfast options were simply delicious.

When I wasn't at the tournament or enjoying coffee, I explored the city. Melbourne's blend of old and new offers plenty to see and do. Some of my favorite spots included the State Library Victoria, a stunning architectural gem with a rich history, and Hosier Lane, famous for its vibrant street art. Melbourne Central provided a lively atmosphere for browsing shops and people-watching, while Carlton Gardens offered a peaceful oasis.

My trip to the Australian Open in Melbourne was everything I had hoped for and more. The city's charm and vibrant energy won me over, and I can't wait to return.