Here I Come Perth...

[NYC_Native]

Well I'm headed Down Under and will arrive late March. The gf will join me later this summer (for us northerners, winter for you guys). I thought I'd take a break from packing and see what I can look forward to. What are the must-sees and dos of Perth? I'm early 30s, gf is mid 20s with no kids. We're outdoorsy people but are pretty much up for anything. Last weekend I went to a chainsaw carving festival... Don't ask. Best beaches, parks, festivals, music, eats? Show me the ropes. What are the hidden gems?! Thanks.

Alex

Ps Are all of Australia's visas now electronic (i.e. no visa label/sticker)? The immi VEVO system doesn't work for me i think bc I have multiple visa apps - tourist, business (the current valid one) and a migrant one. I'm actually leaving the States in less than a week for good but would rather not sit on hold with Immi all day.

[Con]

Hi Alex

March can be a pleasant time to visit Perth if the weather goes well. The last few days have been hot and humid (35 degrees +) but it is likley to cool down over the weekend. Perth is really small so you'll have no trouble finding your way around. Places to visit include Cottesloe Beach which is only about 20 minutes drive from the CBD - best to visit during the weekend otherwise it is pretty quiet. You can catch a bus or take the train to get there. Fremantle is about 30 minutes away by train which is a busy port (by Perth standard) with strong Italian/Greek influence and Italian restaurants, cafes abound. Northbridge which is 10 minutes walk from CBD is the clubbing district but do be careful as it is known for violence/unprovoked attacks in the streets late at night. Burswood casino is 10 minutes drive from CBD and is owned by James Packer. The Swan River is nearby and you can enjoy lots of water activities if you're the outdoor type. Good luck for your visit.

[All good]

Hey Alex.

You sound like you might get a lot from Perth which is good.

Any beach is Perth is great, Scarborough is the popular one, Cottesloe is nice, but really any beach will be great.

If you like the outdoors, there is heaps to choose from. Mundaring weir area offers cabins or camp sites only 1 hour out of Perth, there is great camping in Pemberton and that is about 3.5 hours from Perth city.

The weather will make things like Kayaking or any water sport possible for at least 6 months a year. Winter can be a little drab, so maybe head down south to the winerys in Margeret river (3 hours away) or head North for some great fishing (about a full days drive) to Carnarvon. Kings park also offers awesome walks and great views, and i's pretty much in the city.

Perth nightlife revolves around Northbridge, the pubs/clubs are safe, the streets can be a little dodgy after 1am, just stick to the main streets and you'll be fine. Highgate and Subiaco offer safer alternatives and both have decent pubs/clubs to visit. Fremantle is great on a Sunday, and also offers decent nightlife on Saturday night (get's very dodgy after 1am).

Eating in Perth is okay, but expect to pay for decent food, the lack of competition means anything good can charge more than usual.

[Weebie]

Anyone from NYC is going to really struggle to adapt to Perth. Try Sydney

[NYC_Native]

Thanks for the help Con and All Good. I'm excited. Didn't know about all that nonsense in Northbridge. The GF and I are way too mellow for that these days. But for sure, we're happy about the parks, beaches and nature/camping.

Weebie - I'm not choosing anymore, I'm coming to Perth. Early on I thought I wanted to be on the East Coast but everyone I've talked to from Perth has loved or raved about it. I'm a city person but I actually work outdoors. If we don't like Perth we'll contemplate a move but living abroad is an adventure in itself. I could do 2 years easy.

[cowboy]

I love Perth. I've wanted to move there since I first visited 6 years ago. Will be moving in the next 12 months or so, too.

Kings Park, in the city.
Whiteman Park, east of the city, contains Caversham Wildlife Park. (feed the kangaroos)
Freemantle. down on the water, get Fish'n'Chips at Cicerelos, or Joe's Fish Shack.
HIllary's Boat Harbour, northern suburbs, on the coast. There's an Aquarium.

Head down south for a weekend at the Quay West Bunker Bay Resort in the Margaret River area. There are caves to explore, lots of great little restaurants, and vineyards, cheese makers, chocolate makers, etc. A really great way to get away from the city for a weekend.

Rottnest Island. catch a ferry right near Port Beach (in between Freemantle (Freo) and Cottesloe.

And speaking of Cottesloe, there is a really great restaurant there for a romantic sunset dinner. The Indiana Tea House.

[amaslam]

For those who haven't experienced White Castle burgers <humor>

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