Tough, sombre and gloomy. That’s how the year 2020 was for not only me but many of you. The infamous coronavirus pandemic has gained a lot of attention, curbing our freedom of movement to an enormous extent. With social interaction taking a backseat, travelling and exploring new places seem like a distant dream, isn’t it?
Cheer up, my dear friends! COVID-19 may have disrupted your 2020 travel plans but the good news is, it isn’t going to stay forever. Let’s exhale the past and inhale the future, shall we?
If you’re like me, thinking where to travel after the pandemic rests in peace, let Perth be our first destination!
A Little Information About Perth
Perth is the fourth most populated city and the capital of Western Australia. Located at the meeting point of Swan River and the southwest coast, Perth was discovered by Captain James Stirling in 1829 and is home to nearly 2.14 million people. Also known as the largest city in Australia, Perth has a plethora of notable public buildings like the Government House, Parliament House and iconic historic sites.
Now, you must be wondering why I suggested Perth instead of Bangkok, Paris, London and other most popular cities in the world. That’s because those who’ve visited Perth will know why it’s a city you’ll want to tour again and again (and I’m planning my second trip this time!)
So, for all those first-timers to this renowned Australian destination, I am going to share a list of must-do activities that’ll make your Australian vacay super fun and exciting. Well, you can thank me later for this but for now, let’s start!
The 5 Most Exciting Things to Do When Touring Perth
1.Go on a Margaret River wine tour and savour a glass of Sauvignon Blanc
Do you like long bus journeys? You may have gone on a bus ride numerous times previously for work or other purposes. But what if I tell you that a 3-hour bus ride will get you an incredible bottle (glass) of wine? That’s right! I am a red wine enthusiast and when I’m in Perth, I have to visit the Margaret River, the place that shelters hundreds of wineries.
Here, apart from learning about the winemaking process in detail, you can even surprise your taste with rich reds, tender whites and crisp roses. For a better experience, you can opt for a Margaret River day tour and taste the best local chocolates and coffees along with the wines.
2.At the Cottesloe Beach to Admire the Sunset
Perth and sunsets go hand in hand. The first time I saw the sun setting over the ocean, I was completely mesmerized! Luckily, I have captured the beautiful scene and now I look at those snaps to relive the memories again.
Cottesloe is one of the most sought after places to watch the setting sun over the Indian Ocean. It’s a suburb off the beach and takes only 15 minutes to reach from the Perth CBD.
The crystal clear water of Cottesloe is inviting enough to try swimming, surfing or snorkelling. If you’re visiting with your family, Cottesloe is an amazing spot where you can have wonderful picnics beneath the Norfolk Pines.
- Get enthralled at the architectural beauty of Perth
Did you know Perth was previously known as the Swan River Colony and has a rich history of British colonists? The British colonists first arrived here in 1829 and Western Australia was officially delegated to the British colony in 1832. One of the best ways to go back to Australia’s historical colonial era is to get a glimpse of its architectural magnificence. And Perth flaunts some of the most idiosyncratic and revolutionary structural designs and construction works.
At the Barrack Square, there is the Bell Tower that is popular for the Swan Bells. The tower was constructed to honour the old tradition of ringing bells by official bell ringers. Moreover, you can also catch the most beautiful views of this city if you’re visiting The Bell Tower.
The Government House Ballroom oozes grandeur and luxury from every nook and corner. It has been THE venue for numerous special occasions in Perth. Constructed in 1899 by John M Grainger, The Ballroom reflects the Classic Revival style where several receptions and balls have been hosted for Royal dignitaries, Queens and Governors. Click some Instagram-worthy pictures here and share it with your followers!
The Wesley Church is one of the first Christian buildings in Perth and is more than a century old. The architecture is a witness to Australia’s long British history and is built in the Victorian gothic style, featuring a spire, parapet gables, sharply tilted roofs and wall buttresses.
After sighting such architectural splendour, I had only one question in my mind – ‘what kind of cranes did they use to build such breathtaking structures?’
4. Tour the Swan Valley
Named after Swan River, this is a place that’s away from the hubbub of the city and quite popular for its enchanting natural beauty. Here you’ll find some of the best gourmet restaurants and wineries. You can even have a good time by peeking into the nearby shops to taste honey and chocolates. Even a stroll at the Swan Valley has the power to gladden your heart!
To take a 360 tour around the Swan Valley, you can ride a bicycle, drive a car or rent a vehicle. Again, if you’re a wine lover like me, this is a must-visit place as the Swan Valley has some of the oldest wineries that are even 180 years old!
Want to know something more interesting? It has more than 40 wineries, 6 boutique breweries and numerous distilleries and cideries. No wonder why it’s a paradise for wine enthusiasts!
5.Plan the perfect getaway at the Hillarys Boat Harbour
If you’re looking for the best recreational place in Perth, Hillary’s Boat Harbour will surely grab your attention. This is indeed the ideal venue to have an entire day of adventure and is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Perth. How about exploring the aquatic life of Western Australia? You’ll be delighted to know that Hillary’s Boat Harbour is where the famous AQWA (The Aquarium of Western Australia) is located. Walk in through an underwater tunnel to embark on an underwater journey and explore the spectacular marine life of Western Australia.
Final thoughts: These are only five of the activities that I have mentioned in this blog, but believe me when I say that Perth will offer you a unique experience to cherish forever. There are a host of other things to do, see and experience in this effervescent and affable city. I hope your post pandemic tour to Perth will be a thrilling one, provided you remember to do the above-mentioned things. Wish you all the good luck!