“Discover a city full of life and creativity all year round.” This is Fiona Sweetman’s mission for all who follow her knowledgeable footsteps around Melbourne’s eclectic nooks, crannies, lanes and arcades.
As the owner of ‘Hidden Secret Tours’, she and her team of six vibrant guides, are out to show a side of Victoria’s capital which even Melbourne locals may have missed.
As a Sydneysider, I relish any chance to visit Melbourne. The fashion, cafe and restaurant culture of this city is like no other. And despite having visited Melbourne several times, during our tour, Fiona keeps my eyes wide and ears hanging off every word. I quickly discover there is much to Melbourne I haven’t explored.
We start with a walk through Centreway Arcade, Bourke St and the GPO building. Then the Royal Arcade to Block Place, Union Lane and Howey Place, each lined with cafes oozing character and shops that tempt all the fashionistas in the group, including me.
All that walking makes a girl hungry, so a stop at Koko Black, a delightful chocolate shop born in Melbourne is welcome. The chilli hot chocolate catches my eye immediately. Paired with a mini truffle treat, we are re-energised to continue exploring Melbourne’s hidden secrets. Next stop, the Nicholas Building. I peel through vintage buttons, exquisite lace, kimonos and handmade home wares- I don’t want to leave the shop!
Melbourne’s Aesop, found on Flinders Lane, treats us to a squirt of delightful hand cream and much appreciated samples to take with us. Lord Coconut, hiding on Level 4, 289 Flinders Lane, is renowned for handmade cuff links and intrigues us all – shirt wearers and non shirt wearers alike. Basement Discs, tucked away at 24 Block Place, is a music paradise with free live performances held among the rows of CDs and old-school records.
In between popping our heads into shopping gems, street art continues to surprise and amaze. The vibrant colours and talent brighten the streets giving Melbourne its unique edge and character. These, and plenty of other discoveries, keep time flying and before we know it, lunch is upon us at the delicious Caboose Canteen.
Without Fiona guiding the way, I’m sure we would have never have discovered half of what we saw. There’s no wonder why Fiona, bursting with enthusiasm and knowledge, continues to pull in hordes of people when it comes to exploring Melbourne.
As she waves our group farewell, I can confidently say – Fiona’s mission is complete. I’ve fallen in love with Melbourne all over again.