Perth, Western Australia’s Jewel

The first sign of life around Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, are said to be some 40,000 years back, when local tribes first roamed its river banks. These days, Perth remains an attractive option, for its vibrant city center and proximity to the best that nature has to offer.

Since its founding in’29 by British sea Captain Stirling, the city has been in continuous habitation along the banks of the Swan River, some twenty kilometers off the Indian Ocean. Today its population is estimated at 1.65 million people.

A great way to see Perth is aboard a ship, cruising down the Swan River in style. At night, you can even have dinner or enjoy a show while you drift along.

After getting a look at this city’s architecture and river banks, head downtown and take advantage of Perth’s shopping. Check out the souvenir stores for great mementos of your trip, or browse through the Aboriginal arts and crafts. Perth’s bustling metropolis will deliver on high fashion and designer stores, but you will also find the materials to go exploring throughout Western Australia. Stock up on beach items like swimwear and surfboards, or get ready to go camping by buying your tent and thermoses here.

For a majestic view of the city and its surroundings, head up to Mt. Eliza where Kings Park allows visitors to see the area from high above it all. Get a feel for the bushland of Australia and see its exotic plant life in the Botanic Gardens. For the full effect, bring along a picnic basket and see an outdoor show or film.

Just a quick trip outside Perth’s center is the terrific Perth Zoo. Everything from Australia’s wild can be found here, from the famous kangaroos and dingoes to the fascinating wallaby.

For a look at historic Perth, visit the Old Mill which dates back to’35. The setting of the Old Mill has a distinctly colonial feel, offering a glimpse of Perth before its commercial supremacy. Learn about threats to the local population by Aborigine attacks and find out how this landmark survived its near demolition in the middle of the 20th century.

Back in the urban landscape, visit St. George Terrace and experience London Court, a Tudor-style taste of Old England. Follow the pedestrian thoroughfares past sidewalk cafes and antique merchants’ shops and take a picture of St. George’s great clock.

For a relaxing weekend on the beach, visit Perth’s Sunset Coast. From Mindarie Keys at the northwest to Cottlesloe just below, west of downtown Perth, you’ll find the perfect alternative to the city’s urban flow. In the summer months, the beaches of Swanbourne and Scarborough tempt city dwellers with their pristine climate and excellent accommodations.

Accommodations in Perth are top of the line if you are looking to spend your nights in five-star luxury or just need to relax in an affordable, comfortable hotel. Being in a capital has a lot of benefits.

The same goes for Perth’s award-winning cuisine. The most discriminating palette will find satisfaction in Western Australia’s best lineup of restaurants. Go exploring and ask the locals where to dine; you’ll soon find that there are more excellent choices than there are nights left on your vacation.

Allan Brrooks assists Perth’s visitors by providing Perth surfboard hire. It is a one of a kind longterm surfboard hire service in Perth