Perth, Australia

Why on Earth would I visit Perth in Australia? A common question many have asked me. Perth is the second most remote city* in the world after Auckland, New Zealand. It is located in the southwest region of Western Australia, facing west towards the Indian Ocean.

My response is simply I have family there. Two of my sisters and their families emigrated to this remote place on Earth. The city is not exactly remote since its population is quite diverse and its economy is enriched by mining and agricultural industries. Many people from all around the globe have made their homes there and it is very close to large Asian metropolises.

Perth was popular in 2014 for being the search base for the missing Malaysia Airlines MH 370 aircraft. Multinational companies in the petroleum industry know Perth because its proximity to oil rich regions in the area. But I digress.

There are many things to do and see in Perth. I have been there twice and have enjoyed my stay very much. You do not have to go to Sydney or Melbourne to enjoy the Australian hospitality and uniqueness.

Getting around Perth is easy with its clean, convenient and vast public transit network that consists of buses and trains. My overall impression of the city is really safe and a great place to raise a family. The weather felt similar to the Mediterranean climate and its lifestyle was similar to any other laid-back, easy-going Australian cities.

Here is a list of things that I highly recommend doing:

• • biking in Kings Park, by Swan River and around the city

  • gift shopping in London Court and Fremantle

  • eating fish and chips, shellfish, and other seafood delights in Fremantle

  • dining in Asian restaurants in Northbridge

  • shopping for fresh produce and local delicacies at Subi farmers market on Saturday mornings

  • cracking a whip, watching a live wool-shearing show, feeding kangaroos and lambs or petting koalas, wombats, and other exotic Australian wildlife at Caversham Wildlife Farm

  • spotting smiley quokkas or getting into watersport activities at Rottnest Island

  • tasting local wines in Swan Valley

  • hiking and dipping your toes in cool streams and waterfalls at Perth Hills

If you have a car, many have recommended venturing to the Pinnacles and Margaret River for the weekend.

* The "most remote city" is defined as a city with a population in excess of one million, from another city of at least that population

Last modified: August 21, 2015