Perth is one of the world's most isolated cities, but that does not mean there is a shortage of city things to do. On the cultural side, the central Art Gallery of Western Australia houses both Australian and international art, and includes interesting aboriginal art. Entry is free. The colourful old port of Fremantle, founded 1829, is only half an hour from the city. This is certainly one of the world's most fascinating ports.
Many historical buildings add atmosphere to a nautical world of sea and boats.
Here locals and tourists dine on the waterfront with its choice of cosmopolitan restaurants. Here you shop in 'arty crafty' markets for something different. You can get to Fremantle from Perth by train or bus, a ferry ride or cruise down the river. Two hours offshore is Rottnest Island with rocks and sandy beaches meeting a crystal clear Indian Ocean. And look out for the friendly Quokka, a short-tailed Wallaby.