Perth: General Informations

Perth is a vibrant and modern city sitting between the cerulean Indian Ocean and the ancient Darling Ranges. It claims to be the sunniest state capital in Australia, though more striking is its isolation from the rest of the country - Perth is over 4400km (2750mi) from Sydney by road. Unfortunately the city centre's sterile concrete-and-glass skyscrapers dominate a picturesque riverside location. Still, behind the towering edifices hide a handful of 19th-century buildings and facades and some saving-grace patches of greenery.

Main Attractions

• Western Australia museum
• The London Court
• Tudor Style shopping arcade
• Kings Park
• Rottnest Island.

How far from the airport ?

A privately-run bus theoretically meets every flight into Perth airport and travels to the city hotels and hostels. It will cost about $5 for your fare. There is also a suburban bus which runs every hour or so and costs substantially less.

How to get around - Local transport

Perth has a central public transport organisation called Transperth which operates buses trains and ferries. A free transit zone including all Transperth bus and trains is provided every day within the central city area. Cycling is a great way to explore Perth and there are many bicycle routes around the city and its environs. Ferries cross the river every half an hour (more frequently at peak times) during the day.

Shopping Areas

The two main shopping malls in Perth are the Murray and Hay street malls. Both of the malls are closed to traffic and offer a wide range of specialty stores. There are several arcades that run off either Murray street mall or the Hay street, mall and link the city from St George's Terrace to Wellington street. The two main department stores in Perth are Myer and Aherns. Both these stores can also be found in the larger shopping centres in the suburbs. Myer is the largest department store in the city and is in Forrest Chase. Aherns runs between Murray street mall and Hay street mall.

Weather in Perth

Perth has a long and hot summer (December to March) where little rain falls and the temperature can stay up around 30°C (86°F), especially in January and February. Winds off the sea, known as the 'Fremantle Doctor' help cool the city. Winter brings coolish weather and rain, with an average temperature of 18°C (64°F).