Perth, the go-ahead capital of Western Australia, gives a feeling of space and light - set on the banks of the sparkling Swan River, a few miles from the magnificent beaches of the Indian Ocean. And a short way downstream is the vibrant, historic port city of Fremantle.

Fremantle, 18 kilometres south-west of Perth, is a colourful, busy port at the mouth of the Swan River, easily accessible by bus, train, ferry and taxi. Attractions include the Fremantle Arts Centre, the Western Australian Maritime Museum, the Round House, Fremantle Prison, the market and the lively town centre affectionately known as the cappuccino strip.

Visit some of the magnificent white-sand, Indian Ocean surfing visit some of the magnificent white-sand, Indian Ocean surfing beaches. The closest is City Beach, but Cottesloe, Floreat, Scarborough, and Sorrento are also popular. Safe, calm beaches on the Swan River include Como, Crawley and Point Walter.

Like Melbourne, Perth has a thriving friendly gay scene, so that Sydney can't claim it all!