Travel Destination: Perth
About Perth
Perth is an isolated metropolis with a very attractive raw appeal. It is nearer to Singapore, East Timor and Jakarta than to other Australian cities Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. It is the country’s fourth largest city and also the capital of Western Australia state. British-born residents, Australians, Irish, Scottish, Italian and Chinese and little percentage of Aboriginals form the ancestry makeup of the city. Perth’s Mediterranean climate is characterised by hot and dry summers (late December to late March) and cool and wet winters with most rainfall between May and September. The climate is conducive to outdoor activities especially sports. Netball, Australian football and cricket are the three most popular.
Perth Airport in the eastern side is the main airport in the city while the Jandakot Airport which serves charter flights and general aviation is located in the southern suburbs. From the airport, there is a good network of public transport that can take you around the city. Buses, trains and ferries are available. There are 59 railway stations and 15 bus stations that cover the city. There are cycle routes available and bike on hire are plenty. The Central Business District borders Swan River to the east and south while Kings Park is to the western side. Murray and Hay Streets in the CBD have retail and entertainment facilities while St. Georges Terrace is the main street where commercial offices are located.
Kings Park is on the western edge of Perth. It has historical attractions and tree-lined streets. The State War Memorial Precinct is an important landmark in Mount Eliza while the Royal King’s Park Tennis Club and Botanic Garden are all contained in the park. Guided walks and other tourist facilities are available.
The Eastern side of Perth is a picturesque location with rivers, valleys and hills punctuating the scenic tapestry. It is made up of the Swan River, Swan Valley and Perth Hills.
The Swan River offers various water activities on its wide river frontage, culture and arts attractions and other recreational facilities. On the Bassendean area is the Historical Railway Museum, Pensioner Guard Cottage, Old Perth Road, Earlsferry House, Daylesford House, foreshore and reserves. The Bayswater is the garden city and boasts a ten-kilometre river frontage. Visit the Centro Galleria Shopping Centre, Embleton Golf Course, Maylands Peninsula Public Golf Course, Old Peninsula Hotel and Riverside Gardens. Belmont and its surrounds are home to Perth’s horseracing and airports, both domestic and international. Set your sights on Ascot Racecourse Spring Racing Carnival, shop in Belmont Forum and relax in Adachi Park, Garvey Park and spend quality time with Tomato Lake as backdrop.
The Swan Valley is a mere 25-minute drive from the Perth CBD and is the oldest winery region. Get ready to sample Perth’s flavours in over 150 fine restaurants, breweries, cafés, wineries and distilleries. Follow the Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail, explore the Caversham Wildlife Park, sample the seasonal roadside stalls that sell the freshest produce and enjoy its markets.
Perth Hills offers a wealth of nature and various historical treats. Head to Kalamunda and enjoy its forest, orchards and art galleries. The Bickley Carmel Wine Trail and Scenic Drive will take you to picturesque hills, village markets, wineries, local cafés and restaurants, flower, fruits and vegetable farms and chocolate shops.
Perth is a city that has a laidback feel. It may fall behind from its big sisters, Melbourne and Sydney when it comes to cosmopolitan lifestyle but its serene and calm surroundings are haven for those who want to have a taste of the city without its overwhelming features.