It is a sad reality that a high percentage of you are probably thinking about taking off after graduation. This is partly because of the current economic climate and partly because everyone else has already fucked off and it is minus craic to be the only person left in the country. A lot of you are probably considering migrating Down Under. This is an excellent idea that I highly recommend. The only question that remains is which city to go to first. Today, let’s talk about Perth.
Perth
Perth is all on its own on the west side of the country. It’s less crowded than Sydney and less pretentious than Melbourne. It’s a beautiful city. It is very vibrant and young. There are parks and gardens everywhere, beautiful beaches and lovely, friendly people.
Every suburb is so green – gardens, lakes, football ovals. The beaches are spectacular and dog beaches regularly dot the coastline. It is impossible to spend a morning watching excited dogs sprint on the sand chasing balls and splashing around in whitewash and not be in a good mood for the day.
When in Perth you need to spend some time in Fremantle. There are street performers and regular markets. Little Creatures brewery is also based in Freo. There are so many wonderful little cafes and restaurants. It’s hard to believe that it is part of such a large city because Fremantle itself has quite a small-town vibe.
Cottesloe Beach is another must-see. This is where Heath Ledger’s wake was held. Dip your feet in the Indian Ocean here – it’s good for the soul.
Spend a night in the casino. This is a wonderful experience. Get all dolled up and go watch adrenaline inspire people to throw money away. Channel your inner Jim Sturgess and see if you can make some money of your own. A casino in Australia recently lost $33 million to a conman. See if you can do better.
Swan Bells is worth a trip. See the padlocks inscribed by lovers from all over the world and visit the bell tower. This is also a great little tourist information centre. Get your info on day trips including a visit to Penguin Island. The Lucky Shag bar is right outside, on the waterfront. Enjoy excellent food and drink while appreciating the magnificent view.
You cannot visit Perth without going to see the Whispering Wall in King’s Park. Go with a friend and witness this amazing feat of engineering as you sit at opposite ends of the wall and hear each other speaking as clearly as if you were side by side. King’s Park is also the home of the State War Memorial. Read the names of the soldiers who have lost their lives while fighting for their nation.
Spend a great evening drinking in My Place bar (70 Pier St). There are often great cocktail promotions to be had and the food isn’t bad either.
One thing to keep in mind about Perth is that WA is the mining capital of the country. A lot of fly-in fly-out workers are based here. The town has a lot of mining money. As a result, it’s one of the most expensive cities in the world to live and the second most expensive city in Australia – after Sydney. But it is wonderful.
