Western Australia Travelers Recommend

Although a mere pinprick on the colossal northwest Australian coast, Broome looms large in the Australian psyche. Broome is synonymous with exotic, tropical beaches and the outdoors. Western Australia's isolation has served the north's largest town well, helping to preserve Broome's frontier feel despite a well-developed local tourist industry. Gourmet restaurants, all-star resorts and the nouveau riche have detracted from its outback appeal, but you can still find a unique culture unlike anywhere else in the state. Spend a day getting under this balmy town’s skin. Step back in time as you visit restored pearling luggers in Chinatown and pass by old pearling masters’ homes. Browse the Historical Museum to understand how the industry has evolved since the late 1800s, when Japanese, Aboriginal and Malay pearl-divers would risk (and often lose) their lives in pursuit of this valuable treasure.

Perth is a city with the sun turned up to ten. Start exploring the city of Perth by shopping in the glass-towered city center, meandering through leafy Kings Park and lunchtime dining in Northbridge or Leederville. A hop-on, hop-off bus tour is great for out-of-towners to get their bearings. In the afternoon, splash on the beaches of Cottesloe or Scarborough before an al fresco sunset dinner in the café-lined heritage port of Fremantle. Take it down a notch on Day Two and glide along on a Swan River Valley lunch cruise for the day. Western Australia is famed for its wine - enjoy complimentary wine tastings on a laid-back wine cruise, or combine your cruise with a trip to Perth Zoo. Day trippers are spoiled for choice in Perth as it's the jumping-off point for so many exciting trips. Head southwest to the famous Margaret River wine region to indulge in WA's sumptuous gourmet lifestyle.