Go the Distance - Visit Perth   by Michiel Van Kets

Perth is the lively capital city of Western Australia, and one of the most sophisticated. In the top ten list of The Economist's 2008 list of the World's Most Livable Cities, it is easy to see why with its warm climate all year round, and wide range of choices when it comes to entertainment, recreation and cultural activities.

Perth is an isolated city and a destination that is far enough away to really have a break from everything, and yet there are still plenty of fun and exciting things to do here. Famous for a number of attractions that brings in tourists from all over the world, and for its great weather, good all year around but at its best between March and May. Busy markets, heritage architecture, gardens and parks, stunning beaches, fine wineries and peaceful river cruises are just some of the reasons people travel the distance to experience Perth.

Kings Park is the world's largest inner-city park with natural bushland and parkland and millions visit here every year to see the beauty of its gardens. The Botanical Gardens feature a scientific collection chiefly made up of Western Australian plants. The astonishing diversity of WA wildflowers is like no other in the world and around 2,000 are displayed here. The glorious landscaped gardens and parkland lawns of the Botanic Gardens are a popular location for weddings, picnics, sunbathing on the lawns and outdoor music events in the summer. Whether you are here with friends or family, there is so much to do you won't know where to start! Go for a walk around Bold Park, visit the Ecology centre, take the kids to Synergy Parkland or climb the DNA Tower.

The Swan Bell Tower is one of the city's main sights situated on the Barrack St. Jetty, overlooking the Swan River and a place from where you can view the city skyline. 82.5m tall, it contains twelve bells of St. Martin-in-the-Fields from the 14th Century which you can hear ring out on certain days of the week.

Perth's London Court was built in 1937 and its truly unique Tudor-style architecture sets it apart from the surrounding sky scrapers of the city. The shopping centre runs from between St George's Terrace and Hay Street Mall - catch the replica of Big Ben at the northern entrance whose knights appear every hour and, at the southern entrance, the replica of Gros Horloge, a 16th Century clock tower in Rouen, with figures of St George and the dragon.

Western Australia is also a destination that attracts wine lovers due to its many wineries, just a short drive from the city is Swan Valley, Western Australia's oldest wine region. You can satisfy every sense here with a rich fusion of wine, food, art, countryside and scenery. If you can, don't miss the Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail, a 32 km loop taking in more than 150 attractions with wineries, breweries, restaurants, lively cafes, distilleries, shops, and roadside stands selling fresh local produce, and with accommodation.

Beaches in Perth and around the city are truly spectacular and the sunset view is different every day. See the Indian Ocean glinting under the blue sky along its 12,000 km of pristine coastline. Cottesloe Beach attracts all ages as it's the ideal place to swim, surf or snorkel. The area is buzzing with cafes and pubs and shaded by towering Norfolk pines. The Basin at Rottnest Island is also a good spot for swimming and snorkeling and has a protected, turquoise lagoon full of colourful schools of fish.

Scarborough Beach is where the teenagers and youngsters like to hang out. A historic seaside town it is known for the famous 1950s hangout, the Scarborough Snake Pit, and has some impressive surf breaks. In the evenings, Scarborough is a busy place with lively clubs and pubs. If it's surf you are looking for then try Trigg, where shifting sand banks over rocky ledges results in powerful surf.

For families with children then the tranquil waters of Mettams Pool, between Sorrento Beach and Trigg would suit you. The waters here are calm and ideal for snorkeling and paddling. Or head south of the city to Palm Beach Rockingham for its still, calm waters. At times you may even spot the dolphins, often seen around the jetty.

Hotels in Perth offer maximum comfort and you can choose from a great range and choice in the city centre and surrounding area whilst you explore. If you book early enough it's possible to find some really cheap travel deals. Booking a travel package has its advantages as you pay one price and everything is included in the price. Look online for weekend breaks, or last minute deals and choose the best travel deal for your holiday