While many in Malta are familiar with Australia’s East Coast cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, we do not seem to consider travelling to the west.

In recent years, this side of Australia, with its many areas of natural beauty, has greatly increased in popularity.

Perth is regularly ranked in lists of the world’s top 10 most liveable, friendly and attractive cities.

Gleaming skyscrapers, extensive parklands, stunning vistas of Swan River, the azure Indian Ocean and the imposing Darling ranges have made Perth andthe southwest a popular international tourist destination.

Situated beside the Swan River, Perth is a living postcard with the best views from Kings Park and Botanic Garden

Where to go and what to do

Situated beside the Swan River, Perth is a living postcard with the best views of all from Kings Park and Botanic Garden – one of the biggest inner-city parks in the world.

You will find Kings Park and the landscaped Botanic Garden a tranquil respite from the city and the grassy lawns offer great picnic locations.

Visiting the park in the evening gives a great view of the spectacular city lights from the top of Lookout Tower, the park’s highest point.

If you are more interested in the tales of Captain Cook, the British explorer said to have been the first European to reach this part of Australia, then the Swan River should not be overlooked.

Other historical places of interest include the Swan Valley Historical Trail, St Mary’s Cathedral, the Art Gallery of Western Australia and Perth Mint.

As it is always summer in Western Australia, you are spoilt with a choice of 19 stunning beaches in Perth alone.

For those who want to relax on the sand or take part in water sports, City Beach is only a short bus ride from Perth City.

As you approach the beach, you will pass a number of extravagant homes, capitalising on the expansive Indian Ocean views.

Do not miss out on a visit to the historic, vibrant city of Fremantle, Perth’s neighbour.

In a single day, you can discover Fremantle’s maritime and convict history, experience the buzz of the markets, taste the freshest seafood, sample handcrafted beers and hang out with locals on Cappuccino Street.

A ferry ride up Swan River sails you back to Perth – it is spectacular at night when the glittering lights are reflected on the river.

Eating and drinking

There is an abundance of fine restaurants in Perth. The bar scene is equally as impressive whether you seek a colourful country pub or an elegant, European-style small bar in the city’s charming lanes.

Perth shines even more vibrantly after nightfall as the streets and lanes fill with the bustle of entertainment seekers.

Beyond Perth

Travelling to the north or the southern coastline in Western Australia, you will find an endless list of things to do and see.

Throughout Western Australia there are plenty of professional guides keen to share authentic insights, wildlife encounters and a real sense of adventure.

For an extraordinary experience go north and visit the many treasures of Ningaloo Reef and the Pinnacles rock formations, the Kimberley gorges and a host of national parks, including the amazing Bungle Bungles.

Distances to the north of Western Australia are vast. A 4WD vehicle is desirable if visiting any national parks by road.

For example, Broome’s Cable Beach is justifiably world famous for its 22 kilometres of sun-kissed white sand, turquoise water and spectacular Indian Ocean sunsets.

But what really gives it a top spot on the must-do list is experiencing all its tropical splendour from the seat of a camel train.

In just two hours from Perth on the Indian Ocean drive, you can transport yourself to another world, venturing into the lunar-like Pinnacles.

Formed over millions of years, thousands of tall, limestone spires rise eerily out of the desert sands of Namburg National Park, just outside the coastal town of Cervantes.

Whale watching is another extraordinary experience. Between May and December, visitors are able to spot whales swimming along the coastline from various bays.

In some areas, the playful giants come close to the shore and you can see them with your binoculars from a vantage point.

For an even closer look, jump aboard one of the many whale watching cruises available.

The list of awe-inspiring nature wonder and panoramic landscapes is endless in Perth and the surrounding regions.

It combines all the essential ingredients for a great Australian holiday.