We booked ourselves a well deserved European holiday almost a year ago, with the departure date in early March 2026. We were meant to travel from Melbourne to Rome with a brief stopover at Abu Dhabi Airport. As the days flew closer, we got more and more excited about eating pasta and being wow-ed by the best Italy and surrounds have to offer.
Mr Orange Face had to usurp the best laid of plans when he decided to declare war in the Middle East on 28 Feb 2026. The next two weeks were spent online anxiously trawling developments and news of flight cancellations. It did not help that war (declared or undeclared) means that most insurance policies will not cover travelling losses.
Long story short, our return flights were cancelled and although the tickets will be refunded in full, fees paid to the land tour operators may not be. A part of us was disappointed with the events that unfolded but I guess we should be glad that we are safe in Melbourne instead of in some overseas airports clamouring to return home.
So, when life throws you lemons, what do you do?
Why, we pretend to be in Italy, of course!
Over the subsequent weekend, we started on our local “European holiday” and did the following:
Every good holiday starts with delicious food. So, we trooped down to Al Dente Enoteca in Carlton for some delectable pasta, dessert and coffee. The vibe and food were amazing!
Having filled our tummies, it was then a stroll towards Carlton to soak in the atmosphere along Lygon Street, the undisputed “Little Italy” of Melbourne.
When in Rome, do as ….
So we plonked ourselves down in front of Pidapipo and ordered a two-scoop serving of gelato! Heavenly!
From the corner of our eyes, we spotted an Italian museum … hmmm … interesting.
Museo Italiano Melbourne is a free entry attraction. We found good exhibits on the early migration stories of Italians who left their homeland to start life afresh in Australia.
There was also a section of exhibits on the use of masks!
Having explored the rich cultural offerings of Lygon Street in Melbourne, we were reminded of the vibrant experiences that can be found even when overseas travel seems elusive. The Museo Italiano, with its fascinating exhibits on Italian migration and cultural heritage, provided a glimpse into the stories of those who forged new lives in Australia. Such experiences emphasize that the essence of travel can be discovered in one’s own city, bringing the world closer without the need for a passport. Indeed, moments spent in local cultural hubs can be just as enriching as international adventures.
All in all, it was a good day immersed with a different culture other than our own.
Beats being stuck in an airport somewhere!
