"The one with sharing your birthday with a nation..."

You just can't help but fall in love with Melbourne sometimes.

It's surprising to think of how much Melbourne takes the cake when it comes to being such an international city. The city's entire population is truly a melting pot of diverse people, culture and ethnicity. Being in modern day Australia means to live in tolerance and respect of each other's indifference and uniqueness; and Australia Day is the best medium to which this spirit is aptly celebrated. 

The Australia Day parade never fails to remind me that despite our differences - we are share the same planet. This, in a nutshell, was how I spent my birthday; hope it brings you as much joy as it did me.

From India to China, and even a galaxy far, far away...the Australia Day parade truly had it all.

Of course - who better to spend your birthday with but your loving, wonderful wife?

I love buskers and street performers - the world is their stage, and we are their audience.

Thanks Azah for going through the hassle of getting me something!

Lunch at Secret Recipe, Melbourne Central - *sigh* You can take the Malaysian out of Malaysia, but not the Malaysia out of the Malaysian indeed.

There's another sign that read - Buy now or Cry later. I kid you not.

Ever the wonderful friend - thanks Umar for coffee!

Melbournians take their coffee seriously - where else could you enjoy such artistry?

At the Melbourne Press Coffee House.

Tea-time savoring a Malaysian favorite.

Of course, puns aside - I really had a pleasant birthday this year. Spent it alongside extraordinarily exquisite friends, shared copious laughs and smiles, and felt all the love one could ask for. Makes being away more bearable, and inspires me to strive to be a much better person for the years to come.

My most humble gratitude to my darling Fifah and everyone for a birthday well spent.

-JeP