After visiting numerous car dealerships, I finally found the car I was after, but most importantly, staff that I felt comfortable with. A test-drive was not too much hassle, a drop in cars to suit my budget did not get shown with disdain, and the finance manager did all he could to not stooge me. The offer stood, whilst I visited other dealerships, but the deal was already done, thanks to the staff at Eastside Mitsubishi I am now the proud owner of a Lancer.

Picked up some Pizza to go, from this little corner Pizza shop in Forest Hill. Was pleasantly surprised, with toppings galore and the freshest of garlic bread. Reasonably priced and friendly staff. Loved it. Although, they don't have a very big selection of desserts.

Approximate cost: $10

Situated on Springvale Rd, just before you hit the Eastern Fwy, Formosa House is a distinctive traditional looking Chinese Restaurant, and is sure to grab your attention. After passing it numerous times, I decided to check it out for myself. The entree of spring rolls was superb, but I was a disapointed in the special fried rice and the main. The rice was gluggy and you needed a microscope and a sieve to actually find a prawn which was like finding gold, hard work and not enough of them. The cost was quite steep and unfortunately, the meal did not live up to the expectation.

Approximate cost: $20

If you are after a different movie experience, this is a great opportunity on a clear night. Coburg Drive-In offers 3 screens, and a 50s style Diner with all the usual movie snacks. It is usally quite busy, especially on nice nights, so good to get there early and set your car up for the movie action. A fun and different night out.

This cafe used to be 'Whats a names,' and has been taken over by Barclays cafe (an old Bank!) in Heathmont and offers the same setting. Polished floor boards, an open style plan with friendly staff. I had breakfast here, there was a lot of choice, and it is open 7 days for breakky!! Enjoyed the eggs bennedict, a good serving, where the eggs were properly poached and not hard boiled. The pricing is reasonable, and I couldn't find a negative.

Approximate cost: $15

Do you have your leggings and fluro tops? Headbands, dancing shoes and electric guitars? If you do, then you are set for a night at the Retro. A non-pretentious club, wherever everyone is welcomed from the glamour to the goths to the casual to the 80s fanatics. It is usually a crowd of 20 year olds, trying to relive the glory years, but it is always fun. The club looks like it hasn't been renovated since the 1980s!! Upstairs the dancefloor is packed as Bon Jovi, George Michael, MJ and Belinda Carlisle are pumped through the speakers. Its difficult to just stand on the sidelines and listen when you could be out there dancing. The drinks are regular prices, and the service is great, not long too wait to get back on the floor. Staff are friendly and so are the clientele. Sure to have fun at Retro! Cover charge is $10.

Approximate cost: $10

Situated in the heart of Melbourne, and the legal district in particular, Hardware Lane offers a trip back in time, and more importantly to the laneways of Europe. It is a hidden gem. Violetta is one of many Italian restaurants on this lane, and offers a delightful menu with plenty of choice, not just encompassing the traditional Italian fare. With Kangaroo and steak on the menu. The service was rather disapointing, with a wait of over an hour for our meals to arrive. The chicken and mushroom risotto was a tad bland. The setting was beautiful, with an outside area candle lit and upstairs is cosy and comfortable.

Approximate cost: $18

Eclectic cafe restaurant, using organic foods and drinks! Reasonably priced, delicious food, the risotto was very tasty, not heavy at all. The mood is fantastic, the atmosphere different but wonderful.

Approximate cost: $15

Community supermarket, employing the local community and supplying the Heathmont community its food and beverages. A small IGA, with extended liquor department, the trading hours are reasoanble, just like the prices. The staff are sometimes overwhelmed during peak periods. The produce is limited compared to larger supermarkets, but this is the place to go when you just require the essentials. Have always been happy doing a quick shop here.

Seamus O'Toole Irish Pub, known the locals as the Irish at Knox, is situated in the Knox Ozone precinct next door to the movies. A band offers new and old hits on a Friday and Saturday night, Guinnes flows easily and the crowd is a mixture of ages, usually locals catching up. The actual pub is dark and dreary, a little unclean, booths are supplied which is great for a chit chat, the beer garden is nice on a sunny afternoon. Service is fairly slow at the bar, especially in peak periods. Any place is what you make of it, but you have to work pretty hard at the Irish Knox to make it an exceptional night, not really my scene. Sneakers and jeans is attire of most, so no need for glam.