City Guide: Perth, Australia

08 May, 2019

The fact that the world's last ever Blockbuster video store was in Perth is telling of this Australian idyll's laid-back attitude. From its low-rise neighbourhoods to the jewel-green Indian Ocean, there's a tangible spirit of chilling out, hanging loose and every other euphemism for relaxation. The year-round sunshine - Perth has an impressive 147 days of unadulterated rays compared to Sydney's 107 and Melbourne's measly 47 - certainly lends itself to sipping on a cold one at a poolside barbecue.

There's no doubt Perth is topographically blessed with its Pinterest-worthy landscapes, but the city's urban credentials are equally alluring - and ever-growing. As one of the world's most geographically isolated cities, Perth can feel like a bubble, yet its burgeoning cultural centre has trendy new boutiques, a new $1billion waterfront development and covetable restaurants boasting Michelin stars. Much more than a stopover en route to Sydney, Perth offers plenty to do beyond surfing or hiking (though a healthy dose of both are still recommended).

Here's our whistle-stop tour of how to experience the most of this Western Australian golden nugget.

hotel

The Alex Hotel

Perth, Australia

The Alex Hotel draws inspiration from Northbridge’s cultural scene to offer interiors that do its hipster surroundings justice – think: wicker chairs, accent walls and a generous helping of pastels. Chic furnishings more than make up for the rooms’ minimal amenities. For ultimate luxury, opt for rooms 602 or 515 which boast balconies ideal for people-watching and sunset-gazing. Outdoor terraces and the roof garden offer similar views, so you know where to head if your budget demands a smaller room. Brought to you by a team behind Perth’s most loved restaurants and bars, The Alex Hotel naturally carries some of the city’s finest craft ales, wines, charcuterie and cheeses this side of Australia. After hours, visit the Shadow Wine Bar downstairs which is always buzzing with hotel guests and locals.

Address

50 James Street

+61 8 6430 4000 Go to website

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hotel

COMO The Treasury

Perth, Australia

At the heart of the city, COMO The Treasury is your launchpad into Perth’s cultural and shopping scenes. Yet the hotel has a much more going for it than location alone; housed within the 19th-century State Buildings and retaining the original high ceilings, cornicing and balconies, the hotel is an effortless blend of sleek and ornate architecture. Airy, light-flooded suites benefit from dreamy super king-size beds, sumptuously deep duo bathtubs, heated floors and travertine tiles that make the rooms feel like an extension of COMO’s treasured spa – you’ll find this in what was once the treasury’s vaults. Bring your swimsuit as you won’t want to miss a dip in the hotel’s top-floor indoor pool surrounded by floor-to-ceiling glass walls.

Address

1 Cathedral Avenue WA6000

+61 8 6168 7888 Go to website

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hotel

Tribe Perth

Perth, Australia

“Home away from home” may be cliché, but it really does apply at Tribe. Just don’t expect mints on your pillows or bellboys; this self-proclaimed “edited hotel experience” strips away the superfluous and winnows it down to the essentials – albeit very cool, aesthetically pleasing essentials. Definitely a spot for creatives and freelancers, the boutique hotel is as much workspace and social club as it is accommodation, with the communal area attracting early worker birds and nighthawks seeking out a last drink before retiring upstairs. The design-driven interiors are at once fresh and familiar with wrap-around leather benches, fluffy chairs and industrial lights. This is accessible luxury at its most social.

Address

4 Walker Avenue WA 6005

+61 8 6247 3333 Go to website

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