A dream realized: marking my third notch in the Grand Slam belt. Could not have been a more perfect day: high 70s, nice breeze, free tram right to the gates.

The grounds, like the city itself actually, are immaculate. Lots of recycling, perfect grass and greenery, awesome signage and architecture. Similar to the US Open in the energy of the crowds; similar to Wimbledon in the accessibility of anyone to come. But it’s definitely its own when it comes to the availability of decent schwag, the number of coffee vendors outnumbering anything else and how much of a burn you can get in 8 hours here with multiple layers of SPF.

Quick recap of who was spotted: Del Potro, Schiavone and Azirenka on practice courts, Marty Fish (lost!), #1 seed Caroline Wozniacki, Jelena Jankovic, and a bunch of other random people in good form. Incredibly bummed the Federer match on our court was cancelled since he got to walk over but stayed in there for a few others anywhere.

A full day included a walk along Southbank, the neighborhood across the Yarra River from the Central Biz District. Another fun spot full of parks, gardens, boat sheds and tons of runners/cyclists. Hit restaurant row for a great steak salad and gelato.

As we crossed back over the river, more great sites: a bar nestled along a pylon of the bridge – talk about finding your own spot in the world. And it was packed. Found more great sculptures and a gym in an old train depot under the metro line. This thing is high tech meets masochistic. One tunnel is just endlessly lined with speed and heavy bags; another has the nicest spin bikes I’ve seen – set up on a dirt floor.

Bad ass.

Day one is always rough, what with jet lag, three flights, two shuttles and the embarrassment of showing pasty white legs going from Boston winter to Australian summer. BUT… I’ll survive. After all, it’s 85+ degrees here, people are incredibly friendly and hey, I’m half way around the world.

Found the hotel, showered and started exploration. Walked around the Central Business District and into Federation Square, an open air plaza with super modern surrounding buildings and great waterfront views. Another great thing about the waterfront: the bar scene. Grabbed a table, VB beer and lamb sausage to enjoy the view and listen to the locals’ after work chit chat.