Exploring far-flung destinations to delight, Rebecca Underwood offers an insight into why Perth is a perfect stop off as part of any Australian expedition
The beautiful city of Perth offers visitors an array of attractions, long hot summer days with balmy nights and mild winters. Western Australia’s vibrant capital, located on the Swan coastal plain, is known for outstanding hospitality, captivating scenery, miles of soft white sandy beaches and enchanting wild life.
To see some of Australia’s animals visit Perth Zoo on Labouchere Road and wander around the beautiful landscaped gardens and the Rainforest Retreat, which features more than 5,000 plants. The Australian Bushwalk area is home to a number of kangaroos, echidnas, emus, dingoes, wombats, wallabies, koalas and quokkas.
For a close encounter with wild dolphins, make your way to Mandurah and embark on a cruise with the multi award-winning Mandurah Cruises. The dolphin and scenic canal cruise is wonderful and it’s highly likely that you will see bottlenose dolphins leaping out of the beautiful blue inland waterways.
For another wonderful cruise opportunity, head for the Barrack Street jetty on the Swan River and embark on Captain Cook Cruise’s voyage to Fremantle and you’ll dock in Fremantle port in 80 minutes. You can then hop on and off the all-day Fremantle City Tour’s Tram, which makes it easy to get around.
For a rather disturbing yet fascinating experience, hop off at Fremantle Prison, Western Australia’s only World Heritage listed building; built by convicts in the 1850s, decommissioned as a maximum security gaol in 1991 and now open to the public. Tours include the opportunity to view the main cell block, solitary cells, a whipping post and the gallows.
Keen sailors may wish to consider embarking on the three-hour ocean adventure voyage onboard the magnificent STS Leeuwin II; a three-mast 1850s-style schooner barque with more than 810sq m of billowing sails and a length of 55 metres. The vessel sails from Fremantle and passengers are welcome to learn to sail a tall ship as it was in the 19th century but with the advantages of today’s modern facilities, or you can just relax and enjoy the exhilarating experience.
If you’re wondering where to stay, the affluent central business district of Perth is ideal. Consider the privacy of a luxurious apartment, located on Adelaide Terrace, in the heart of the city, and only a short stroll away from the beautiful Swan River. Features include two plush double bedrooms and bathrooms, an open-plan kitchen, dining and lounge area, surrounded by a spacious balcony with spectacular sweeping views across the Swan River; the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail and watch the sunset.
After a long day of exploration you can take a leisurely dip in the lap pool on the 29th floor or if you’d like a work out there’s a fully-equipped gymnasium. If you want to hire a car, a secure enclosed parking space is included in the rental or you may prefer to take advantage of the bus stop outside the building or Perth’s train station, which is within walking distance.
For those on a tight budget, Mountway Apartments on Mount Street offers a warm welcome and back packer style accommodation with everything the traveller needs. The building is just a short stroll away from Perth’s main shopping areas on Hill Street, Hay Street and Murray Street.
Explore Perth, Western Australia’s cosmopolitan capital, and experience an unforgettable adventure. n
For more information on the Adelaide Terrace apartment, please contact seanphillipgomes@gmail.com
Book your Perth airport transfers in advance and avoid the queues. Holiday Taxis provides punctual, reliable and friendly drivers. Visit www.holidaytaxis.com
