Perth City

Introduction
The beaches go on forever and the horizons just won't quit. Perth is a vibrant and modern city sitting between the cerulean Indian Ocean and the ancient Darling Ranges. It claims to be the sunniest state capital in Australia, though more striking is its isolation from the rest of the country - Perth is over 4400km (2750mi) from Sydney by road.

Destination Facts
Time zone: GMT +8
Area: 1075
Coordinates: -31.9559993744 latitude and 115.852996826 longitude
Population: 1659000
Area codes: 08

Getting there and away
The east coast of Australia is the most common gateway for international travellers, although there are some airlines that fly direct into Perth Airport. If you do choose to fly to the east coast first, it's usually possible to book a same-day domestic flight that will wing you across country to Perth. There are daily bus services from Adelaide via the Nullabor to Perth, or head north along the WA coast on the 56-hour journey to Darwin. Buses also go to regional centres. The Indian Pacific train line runs from Perth to Sydney via Adelaide, and is one of the world's great train journeys. The intrastate rail network is limited to the Perth-Kalgoorlie-Boulder Prospector.

Getting around
Transperth(www.transperth.wa.gov.au) operates buses, trains and ferries. A free transit zone, including all Transperth buses and trains, as well as special CAT buses, covers the central city area. Cycling is a great way to explore Perth, and there are many bicycle routes around the city and its environs. Ferries cross the river regularly.

Weather
Perth has a long, hot summer (December to March) where little rain falls and the temperature can stay up around 30° C (86° F), especially in January and February. A late afternoon breeze off the sea, known as the 'Fremantle Doctor', helps cool the city. Winter brings coolish weather and rain, with an average temperature of 18° C (64° F).