Melbourne, Australia: Chocolates, Hats, and Honey

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Melbourne, Australia:
Chocolates, Hats, and Honey

Today, we will browse among shopping that is unique to Melbourne. You can buy Prada anywhere and so you won’t see super expensive items in this list.

Finding great items is really easy. The hard question is ‘how am I going to get this home?’ To help you, we include a place to buy inexpensive luggage. My favorite shopping in Melbourne is in the $ category.
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Queen Victoria Market and Night Market

The Queen Victoria Market (Vic Market) is a must-visit as the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse stalls, and a range of unique products.

• Arrive hungry because the food stalls should be sampled. I have a sensitive stomach and have never gotten ill here. I “may” have gained a few pounds but they were definitely worth it.

• Pick up practical items for yourself such as a leather belt that is made on-the-spot in your specific size. Mine has lasted 6 years - these are great quality.

• Pick up unique items. I brought back several awesome t-shirts from my last trip. This is the best place to find quality, affordable souvenirs such as boomerangs, didgeridoos, and local jewelry.

• Take an extra bag and pick up fresh produce for the next few days. It’s top quality.

• Pick up an extra suitcase to get all of your treasures home. Always ask for bubble wrap or packing paper if they have it. This will provide extra safety for your treasures in the suitcase.

• Pick up Australian outback hats such as the Aussie Akubra hats. I’m kicking myself for only buying one because they are a LOT more expensive in the US - guess it’s time to schedule another trip 😃 

• Tip: the prices are most expensive on the outer perimeter and drop as you walk further into the market. That belt that I mentioned above? The exact same item was offered at 50% less deeper into the market. Lesson learned.

• Tip: Time your arrival for ~ 3:30 so you can watch the transition from the day market to the night market. At night, live music entertains for free and performers of all types make you laugh. It’s really fun. I’ve never had problems with pickpockets at the night market but I do pay attention because you’re surrounded by distracted people.

• It’s expected to lightly haggle over prices. Not into negotiating? No worries. Just shrug your shoulders to indicate mild interest - but not urgent interest - and listen for the price to drop. The vendors are extremely friendly and not aggressive. You can always return to that stall on your way back out if you didn’t find the item at a lower price in another stall.

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The Block Arcade

The Block Arcade is a heritage shopping arcade known for its Victorian architecture, mosaic-tiled floors, and a mix of specialty shops. While some stores may be on the pricier side, the arcade offers unique shops that are distinctly Melbourne and not found elsewhere (including my favorite chocolate shop outside of Belgium). It’s also just a beautiful place to see.

• Bring a strong bag to carry the gifts that you find at Haigh’s Chocolates: An Australian chocolatier known for its handmade truffles, chocolate bars, and unique Australian chocolate flavors.

• You will find Australian-made gifts and craft at lot of the boutiques, including unique leather and wooden goods.

• Beechworth Honey made a friend’s eyes light up with the selection of honey comb and candy. I typically pick up a few jars of specialty honey and carefully wrap them in wine angels for the trip home. Fingers crossed, nothing has broken in transit.

Royal Arcade

Looking for something different than a t-shirt? The Royal Arcade might be your place. While you sample the various pastries, you will find truly unique clothing and gifts. Please remember the rule: if it took you 16 hours to fly there, buy 2. Life is too short for regrets 😀 

• Check out the Dr. Seuss Gallery: A unique gallery dedicated to limited-edition artworks inspired by the famous author.

• Did I mention chocolate? Koko Black is a well-loved (by me, anyway) chocolatier offering handmade chocolates, truffles, and cocoa-related gifts with a distinctly Australian twist.

• Curiosity Merchants smells good, looks good, and brings joy as you walk into the shop. I always make sure that I have room in my bag for something for myself.

Test your knowledge of Australian lingo

Of course there is so much more shopping in Melbourne. These were the places that consistently bring joy to my family and friends (souvenirs) and I keep on my ‘must do’ list for each trip. And yes, I’ve been known to Fedex home a box of goodies to make the trip home easier. It’s so worth it.

Tomorrow, we will share a summary from this week in a single location so you can find it easily when planning your trip.

See you tomorrow.

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