Art attack

Melbourne is a fabulous city. Sydney has a glamourous harbor and drool-inducing beaches, but Melbourne was soaked in an artsy, hip, friendly vibe that made me want to explore every nook and cranny. Part of her allure was the inviting charm of the Melbournians crowding the streets, pubs and parks. They were strictly law-abiding (no crossing the streets without the signal), but incredibly laid back. Pint by the river? Good on ya! Commute by rumbly tram? Who needs to speed into work? Public places to people watch? Let's cover them with art!

Thus, we found tree trunks safely snuggled into guerrilla-knit tubes.

And laneways tucked behind downtown buildings that would otherwise be dark and dreary if not for the colorful graffiti art. Beautiful scenes of nature, fantasy, silliness, people, and typeface jostled for space and tumbled along the walls. Here are a few of our favorites.