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The fourth largest city in economic terms, Perth is located on the banks of the Swan River, built along the ocean front. A city surrounded with water, no fewer than four rivers run through it. The city has raised the profile of beach sports and has cultivated an art of living where it is important to take your time. But don’t be fooled by this nonchalant appearance. Perth, which is developing just as quickly as Sydney, is also a cultural city that showcases theatres, cinemas, cabarets and jazz clubs.

Event

The Perth International Arts Festival is the city’s most important cultural event. From February to March 2009, it sets the tone for creativity and design and lets young Australian artists come face to face with experienced talent. Theatre, dance, music, cinema and family performances are showcased through national and international companies from around the world. Visit www.perthfestival.com.au for a detailed programme and bookings. 

 

Must do… Spend a day with aborigines

45 minutes from the centre of town, the Yanchep National Park is one of the rare places that has been able to preserve the authenticity of aboriginal culture. As well as a visit to a traditional village, the park is packed with wonders and offers a close-up guided encounter with koalas. Before leaving, don’t forget to visit the shop which is full of aboriginal crafts and paintings. Wanneroo Road, Yanchep, WA 6035 - Tel: (+61 8) 9561 1004. Activities and tours vary according to the season. To receive the programme, please contact: yanchep@dec.wa.gov.au


On the terrace

…of a café in Barrack Square, the place where trendsetting young people get together in the city. Be sure to pop by Bells Café, 5 minutes from the town centre. Very Australian, with a minimalist design, it is the hub of the city and is situated on the Swan River. “See and be seen” are the key words for this place. Very trendy. Eastern Pavillion, Barrack Street Jetty, Perth

Tel: (+61 8) 9221 2344


Dinner

At Zafferano, which is probably one of the best seafood restaurants in the city and has a panoramic view of the Swan River. As well as the very romantic terrace, the chef prepares fantastic Australian cuisine spiced up with an Italian touch. Original and excellent taste. Zafferano - 173 Mounts Bay Road - Old Swan Brewery - Tel: (+61 8) 9321 2588 –

Reservations:  info@zafferano.com.au


Within two hours

We often forget that the Perth region took an interest in wine very early on. The most famous wine of all, very popular with Australians, comes from Houghton. It is here that the Ferguson family has been cultivating wine over more than 50 hectares, now including the vineyards around Pemberton of Margaret River, since 1859. A guided tour of Houghton Winery gives you a better understanding of this famous Australian taste and enlightens you about wine making techniques. You must visit the boutique, which includes a small museum of the finest bottles from the area.
Cellar Door - Dale Road, Middle Swan, WA 6056 – Tel: (+61 8) 9274 9540 - www.houghton-wines.com.au - info@houghton-wines.com.au


Must see art 
 

Craftwest is a must for those who appreciate Australian culture and art. Half museum, half boutique, this place of discovery, which works alongside museums and contemporary art centres, puts together a comprehensive panorama of trends and styles. It is difficult to leave empty-handed. 357-365 Murray Street King Street Arts Centre – Tel: (+61 8) 9226 2160


Shopping centres

Sized to match Australia itself, the very large shopping malls set the trends in shopping. The most interesting, in terms of price and choice, is located 7 km from the centre of town.  Centro Galleria groups together five major brands from the city and around 200 boutiques. Be sure to visit City Chic, which offers one of the most beautiful swimwear collections for women twice a year. More than 800 different styles!