A Few Of The Must See Things In Perth

Just a glance at an Australian map will tell you that the greatest concentration of population is on the eastern side of the country. Have you ever wondered what its like on the west coast? Visit Perth, Western Australia and discover another side of Australia.

Virtually every postcard and panoramic picture you see of Perth features the Swan River in the foreground with glimmering modern skyscrapers in the background. These photographs capture the spirit of this city of 1.7 million perfectly. As big and bustling as Perth is, it has never lost touch with nature or an appreciation of beauty and refinement.

Its location on the banks of the Swan River is no accident. The site was chosen because it was a safe and fertile inland location that offered easy water access to the coastal port, some 20 miles west. Back then, the Swan was the most important transport route. Today, it is equally important as the backdrop for the Perth lifestyle. Most of Perth's most popular attractions are located around the beautiful Swan River.

Back in 1872, city founders set aside 172 hectares to be developed and maintained as a public space. In 1901, the name of the park was changed from Perth Park to King's Park and was enlarged to 400 hectares, making it the largest city park in the world. In the park, you will find over 250 plant species and 100 species of animals.

Aspects of King's Park is a good example of how artfully Perth blends commercial enterprise with its beautiful natural surroundings. Aspects Gallery and retail shops offer some of the finest examples of Australian arts and crafts that can be found anywhere in the world. Whether you go there to make a purchase or just view the exquisite examples of art, glass, woodworks, ceramics and other fine crafts, you will come away inspired.

For an inspiring day of shopping or window shopping, call in at Aspects while you're exploring King's Park. Then visit the nearby Aboriginal Art Gallery and talk to some of the aboriginal performers who work in the gallery when they are not putting on one of their daily performances. It's a great way to learn about Perth and Australia's rich aboriginal history and perhaps pick up an example of fine aboriginal arts and crafts while you're there.

While you're in Perth, you simply have to go to the Bell Tower. Located on Riverside Drive, the Bell Tower is a stunning example of modern architecture. After Western Australia was offered a priceless gift of historic European bells for its Bicentennial celebrations in 1988, it was decided to build an architectural structure worthy of them. More bells have been acquired since then, including an enormous, 459 kilogram bell dating back to 1550 and the legendary 12 bells of Saint Martin-in-the-Fields, whose origins go back to before the fourteenth century.

These few examples of Perth attractions are just a handful out of dozens of places to see and things to do in this amazing city. After you have seen Perth for yourself, you will understand why it has been voted one of the world's finest capital cities. Your Perth accommodation will reflect the city itself - refined, sophisticated and still in touch with nature.