Perth: I’m glad I ignored the advice

When I first told my Australian friend I was going to Perth, they were a bit confused as to why, and almost thought I was joking. I had the same reaction when I told other friends, who didn’t really know much about the place beyond the quokka on Rottnest Island, but didn’t see what else was there to make it worth spending 11 days. It almost made me doubt myself and reschedule to go somewhere else entirely. Almost.

I’m very glad I ignored those reactions and went ahead anyway, because it led to a fantastic introduction to Australia. The city itself is fun, most notably for Kings Park (the largest city park in the world) and Heirisson Island (home to wild roaming kangaroo). Outside of it though is where the real gems are. Freo is a port town with an artsy feel and a terrific central market where I had the best flat white of the whole trip. Cottesloe beach also takes advantage of the west coast beach sunsets, and fish and chips by the sea for my final night was the perfect way to cap it all off.

Further afield, the Pinnacles is an otherworldly park full of natural rock formations and clear skies where you can see the Milky Way with the naked eye. I’m no astrophotographer, but someone who is into it would have a field day - I’ve never been somewhere where I’ve seen so many stars. Margaret River and Swan Valley had some great vineyards and food spots which were terrific to quieter days and souvenir gathering. Rottnest Island is the obvious daytrip, and lives up to the expectation - hire a bike and allow for a full day. Busselton is also worth a visit, as home to an iconic super-long jetty with reef viewing area.

With all of this to do, and throwing in some incredible morning run scenery, craft breweries, delving into Aussie rules football, and checking out the comedy scene, it made for a fantastic well-rounded trip in a place that doesn’t seem to get a lot of attention. Having been, I’m not sure why, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it ends up on some underrated destination lists in a few years time. For anyone thinking about it, do consider spending more than a day or two to just see the quokka, because I really don’t think you’ll be disappointed if you do.