Overview Tab
British colonists first settled in the region in 1829 and Perth has grown steadily since those early colonial days. However it was during the 1960s that the city’s prosperity really took off with the exploration of the state’s natural resources including gold, iron ore, coal, oil and nickel. Today Perth continues to ride high on the commodity boom and is regularly considered one of the world’s most desirable cities to live.
Although Margaret River was named in 1831, the town really only drew settlers to the region when logging commenced around 1870. The area became more accessible when rail lines were laid in the early twentieth century. From these early humble beginnings, South West WA is now a premiere tourist destination attracting around half a million visitors each year.
February is the hottest month with the temperature rising to around 31 degrees. In July temperatures peak at around 18 degrees but drop as low as eight degrees at night. Rain falls more frequently in winter, with summers being drier and less humid. Many travellers believe the mild Autumn and Spring are the best season’s to visit Perth.
Perth regularly hosts major international festivals and events. The Perth International Arts Festival hosts major international performance across theatre, music, visual art and literature.
Air
Perth Airport is 10km from the CBD. The following airlines fly to Perth from New Zealand:
Flying from Auckland direct to Perth takes about eight hours.
Luxury Hotels
Perth offers luxury hotel chains including the Hyatt, Hilton, Intercontinental and the Sheraton. Other luxury options include the Duxton Hotel, the Rendezvous Hotel and the Joondalup Resort. These accommodation options offer all modern amenities associated with this style of travel. Margaret River offers luxury boutique and resort accommodation options.
To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 enquire online.
Sights to See
Strolling through central Perth is a pleasure; check out the Perth Mint, Swan Bells Belltower and His Majesty’s Theatre. Once you’ve admired the impressive architecture, wander up to Kings Park for its manicured gardens and panoramic views or walk along the Swan River.
Once the city-based formalities are taken care of, beeline to the coast and plonk yourself on Cottesloe Beach for sea based frivolities and stay to watch the sun set over the majestic Indian Ocean.
Just outside the Perth CBD lies trendy Fremantle, with its incredibly well-preserved heritage nineteenth century buildings. After exploring the colonial history, grab an outdoor table at a chic café and spend the afternoon people watching or pick up a bargain at the local market. Alternatively jump on the ferry to Rottnest Island for peace, serenity and to fraternise with quokkas, an indigenous marsupial found only on islands off the WA coast.
Margaret River is a picturesque town 277km south of Perth and nine kilometres inland from the Indian Ocean. This is serious wine territory, with almost 150 wineries producing over 20 per cent of Australia’s wine output. Many wineries open their cellar doors and welcomingly invite visitors to sample their speciality drops.
Don’t Leave Without…
Perth is a modern city, so if you accidentally forget your prized moisturiser for example, chances are it can be easily replaced in town.
Your favourite swimming attire is a good idea for beach fun.
Things to be careful of…
Sun
The Western Australia sun is strong. Be sun safe and always apply and reapply sun screen, wear a hat and a shirt.
Insects
Especially in summer, insect repellent is a good idea.
