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A Newcomer’s Guide To Perth

Travel Things to do in Western Australia Perth

Last Update: May 26, 2024

Table of Contents

Things to do in Perth

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Perth guide

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3 years ago Benjamin Hodgetts moved from Sydney on the East Coast of Australia to Perth on the West Coast. Here, he dishes up his experiences of Western Australia already, and guides us on where to eat, shop and take a day trip from Perth.
Why did you move from Sydney to Perth?
I got a job offer, had never been, didn’t know anyone and it’s one third of Australia. Figure it a good time to shake things up a bit. Four and half months later and here I am.
The best place to go for breakfast: Maystreet Lader for some coco whip in East Fremantle or Mary Street Bakery in Mt Lawley for pancakes, bacon, eggs and chilli maple syrup. Boom!

The best bar: Joes Juice Bar
The best place for a coffee: Roasting House in South Freo (Fremantle).
Are there any food trends that stand out?
I would say Perth has started tapping into the American vibe: the biggest and nastiest shakes/ fried food/burgers. Sweet and savoury combos for days! Ribs, brisket, southern food…

The best place for live music: I don’t mind a messy gig at Mojos
The best market: South Freo for live music and all your organic fruit and veg needs.
What’s the health and fitness scene like?
There’s definitely a big cycling and running scene here, which is good to see, also cross fit and gyms are booming! If we can just let the fellas know it’s not ok to wear tights without shorts over them and kidney belts aren’t fashion accessories, we will be kicking goals!

How would you spend an ideal weekend in Perth?
A surf/ swim after work, a few cheeky whiskeys in Northbridge somewhere (likely Joes, The Bird or Ezra).
Saturday day: gym, swim/surf. Depending on weather, a ride on the Harley with some mates to Spadille for a coffee, followed by a ride out into the hills for a pub lunch. Maybe a hike somewhere to explore.
Saturday night: hopefully a few more whiskeys and a gig or dinner date if someone will have me.
Sunday morning: market mission and another ride if weather permits.
Sunday night: Yum Cha in Northbridge if I’m still feeling dusty, a sunset beer and get horizontal with Netflix.

What day trips have you taken from Perth?
The best bit about Perth for me is exploring on the weekends – hiking, riding and breathing in the much fresher air than Sydney had to offer. I love getting out into the hills: Swan Valley, Kalamunda, Ellis Brook, John Forest National Park, Dwellingup. Freo, North Coogee Power Plant, Rockingham… Or if you can be bothered, down south to Dunsborough/Margaret River for a slice of heaven.
Check out Ben’s photos of Perth at Benjaminstagram