While Sydney was established in 1788 as penal colony for convicts by Captain Arthur Philips, Melbourne was founded by settlers and named in honor of Lord Melbourne, Prime Minister of England in 1835.

The discovery of gold in the area caused a bigger gold rush than the California gold rush. With a population of over 3 millions, it is now one of the safest city in the world.

We arrived in Melbourne on a warm summer day brightened by a glorious sunshine and enjoyed the view of sandy beaches from the ship.

An excursion bus gave us a tour of the city. We passed in front of the famous Rod Laver Arena where the Australian Open Tennis Championship was taking place at that time.

The highlight of the tour was the visit of Captain Cook’s Cottage.

Captain Cook’s cottage was built in North Yorkshire, England, and later transported to Melbourne. It is now located in the botanical Fitzroy Gardens. Even the ivy covering the house was transported and planted again next to the house.

Our ship sailed the same night toward Sydney and we anchored two days later in the early morning.

You all have seen a picture of Sydney landmark, the famous Opera House. But this is a unique photo that I will always treasure.

As the ship made its way up the picturesque harbor, we were given the opportunity to glance some breathtaking views.

We had dinner in the downtown, and ambled around the harbor. Since it was just before Valentine Day, several big hearts decorated the place.

On Wednesday we will travel to Iceland. So stay tune for a new cruise that started from England. We crossed the Atlantic through Norway, Iceland, Greenland, Newfoundland in Canada, and we docked in New York.

If you like to travel and love to read, come and enjoy my international romances. Around the world through stories that simmer with emotion and sizzle with passion.