Perth CBD, West Perth, East Perth, North Perth, Highgate, Mt Lawley
Founded in 1829 on the banks of the Swan River, Perth was known initially as the Swan River Settlement. Development was slow due to its isolation from the other states so convicts were brought in to help alleviate the labour shortage in the 1850s. Ironically many of Perths finest buildings - Government House, Perth Town Hall etc, were built using convict labourers. Perth continued to lag behind the eastern cities, until the discovery of gold 40 years later, whereby the population increased 4 fold and the building boom was initiated (to date 80% of Western Australia's population lives in Perth). Unfortunately many of these fine buildings have disappeared but you will still find a handful, intermittent between towering glass and concrete skyscrapers.
The city offers an abundance of world class entertainment, sporting events and cultural festivals (see things to do, Markets and Festivals) at a more leisurely pace the ultra sophisticated European alfresco cafes, fine restaurants and pubs offer a colourful and lively dining experience allowing you to sit back and enjoy the Mediterranean climate.
If you wish to escape the bustle of the city, the magnificent Kings park (perched on top of Mt Eliza) is situated to the west, on the banks of the Swan River. With over 400 hectares of native bushland and 2000 differing WA wild flowers and plants, the park is a refuge for locals, travellers and sports enthusiasts using the number of cycling tracks, walking paths and barbeque areas. If you don't fancy walking the park and would prefer just to sit and absorb the fantastic views over Perth there is a fantastic cafe and restaurant which promises to tantalise your taste buds.
Heading North out of the city if you cross over the railway tracks you enter Perth's soul. The streets are filled with fantastic pubs reminiscent of the 19th century era but with a distinct modern atmosphere. During the week the pubs are filled with a mix of business people and travellers and here you will find a steady source of some of the best selection of beers in the country. The Brass Monkey on William St (see night guide, pubs) is the cream. You will barely need to venture off William street as there is a cornucopia of cafes, restaurants and clubs. from Lebanese, Korean, Italian, Vietnamese, and Asian. As day turns into night the street comes alive and the number of pubs and clubs (see night guide) in the area go off, with live music spilling out on to the streets. Whether you prefer hard core rave, drum and base, indi, pop or to be at a gay or lesbian venue you will not be disappointed.
