Ok, I’ll come clean! Embarking on a trip around the world
hot on the heels of a business trip to the Middle East and London was a total
fluke! More so, a round-the-world ticket is a dream come true for me – “like
little boy learning about big people’s world” kind of dream. Cuan, my best
(guy) friend, asked me to be his Best Man, and of course I agreed… to a wedding
in Perth. I wracked my brain for 3 days when looking at flight prices, and then
struck gold – a round-the-world ticket would get me to Perth and to several
other places I’ve always wanted to visit… and for less than a return ticket
from South Africa! As for the business trip: they asked and I accepted. The
timing was marvelous!
Which is how I come to be in Perth. I’m writing this several
weeks into my time here. I’ve done some sightseeing, but the focus has rightly
been on the bridal couple. But since they’re now on honeymoon, leaving me to
housesit for just under 3 weeks, I can finally catch up on my blog posting… all
3-month’s worth. :D
Perth, renowned for being the most isolated city in the
world (and noticeably so), is the capital of Western Australia. While
stretching quite a wide area, Perth is largely suburban (residential) with wide
roads and slow driving (the speed limit in all Australia is 120km/h and is
well-enforced). Perth’s CBD is really quite small, but the port of Freemantle
on the south bank of the Swan River helps to give you the impression of
metropolis substance.
When coming to Perth, you’ll find it quite relaxing and
quiet. There are suburban hotspots (like Joondalup) where business, local
government, and entertainment nuclei make for more convenient shopping and
work-life. But Perth is geared towards taking it easy! Much like Bahrain, the
locals are used to soaring temperatures with little rain for months,
complaining of it being “coldish” when the mercury drops into the 20s Celcius!
Perth is definitely home of the sun worshiper, which is not
surprising since most of it banks a river or the great Indian Ocean. Beautiful
beaches (some even designated for dog use), lush green (and well-maintained)
parks literally at every corner, and the bright sunshine help Australians to
ignore the UV threat and explore the outdoors with topless zeal. Students here
are not only taught swimming, but snorkeling, scuba diving, and even sailing
during PE classes!
What I also like about Perth is that it’s very easy to raise
a family here. Ok, I’m years away from taking this advise personally, but this
is how I categorise Perth. I find the focus on safety and regulation quite
comforting. Kings Park, several beaches, the aquarium, Perth Zoo and Rottnest
Island are all fantastic tourist spots, but more so worlds of wonder for kids. Note
though that you’ll need to plan around buying a house and a vehicle should you
want to relocate to Perth, because unlike places like London, sharing
accommodation or single-person renting isn’t really an option. Public transport
is readily available and good, but because Perth CBD is the only real hub,
travelling between suburbs without a car is unfeasible.
Australians are fantastic people too. Pop a beer around the barbeque and you'll soon find your social network growing.
