Embrace the Lush Life with Western Australia
Travel with style in Western Australia. Here, we guide you through the state’s most lavish experiences, hotel stays, and dining options.
Spring in Western Australia - or “WA” as the locals like to call it — is nothing short of spectacular. Imagine clear blue skies, cool air, and a laid-back lifestyle. Chillier weather comes early in the Land Down Under, where temperatures can get as low as 11 degrees celsius on most nights in the second half of the year, making it the perfect place to retreat to if you’re looking for a change of scenery. And with the borders open for travel with no pre-required PCR tests needed, it’s about time you spoil yourself.
Besides it being an escape from the hot and temperamental weather in Singapore, Australia’s biggest state (it’s a third of the size of the country) boasts picturesque sceneries, a plethora of activities, and rich wildlife, with many travellers opting for adventure when they visit.
If you’re looking for something a little more luxe this season, WA also offers a Rolodex of travel experiences for a true trip of grandeur. We’re talking wineries, 5-star hotels, helicopter rides, and more. Here, we’ve compiled a list of places to visit and activities to try on your journey to the sunny state.
Perth City
Planning a short vacation to WA? This city has more than enough activities to entertain you during your stay. In the morning, take a short walk around Kings Park, where you’ll be greeted by flora and fauna - including birds native to the state. You can even venture down to Elizabeth Quay to admire the Swan River in all its glory. The city is also home to Crown Metropol Perth - the hotel that doubles as a casino.
Where accommodation is concerned, COMO The Treasury is a great place to retire to after a long day of events. Located in the heart of the city, this 48-room contemporary luxury hotel is home to the best restaurants, bars, and world-renowned COMO Shambhala wellness therapies.
Swan Valley
Travel to Swan Valley for a mini-getaway that’s just half an hour away from the city. This scenic region, located in the upper reaches of WA’s famous Swan River, offers experiences you’d normally find only further in the outskirts of Australia - if you’ve been to enough vineyards in your lifetime, you’d know that these establishments are typically located hours away from the hustle and bustle of town, making Swan Valley a convenient retreat if you’re short on time during your stay in WA.
Our recommendations? Sandalford Wines, where you can enjoy the finest from the Swan Valley region at one of Australia’s oldest and most sustainable privately owned wineries; The House of Honey, where you can experience the country’s raw, pure, and unpasteurised premium honey and mead; Mondo Nougat, a family-owned nougat factory that specialises in soft confections in mouth-watering flavours; Morish Nuts, another family-owned artisan that produces the tastiest nuts; and Whistlers Chocolate Co, WA’s oldest confectionery company that creates giant chocolate sculptures of old architecture.
Rottnest Island
Nicknamed “Quokka Island”, this is the only place where you can get face-to-face with the smiliest animal in the world, the short-tailed scrub wallaby. The best way to get here? By air, of course. Book a private helicopter flight to Rottnest via Corsaire Aviation, where you can get breathtaking views of the city and island from up above.
Once you’ve arrived, opt for a fun tour by Segway Tours WA to truly experience everything Rottnest has to offer and learn about the island’s rich history. Alternatively, jump onto the Quokka Hopper by Australian Pinnacle Tours and you’ll get the chance to explore the island from the comfort of a buggy.
If you’re planning on staying in Rottnest overnight, consider the Samphire Rottnest — a luxury hotel with 80 impressive rooms and even better views. Make sure to try their restaurant, the Bali-themed Lontara, which is famous for its tropical cuisines and fresh, well-seasoned seafood.
Mandurah
Catch your own treat on board Mandurah Cruises — fresh, delicious crayfish. This sunset cruise will take you out to the clear waters of Dunsborough’s Geographe Bay so you can be a fisherman for a day. You’ll then proceed to have a seven-course dinner prepared by the head chef and paired with wines and local produce, like the Albany oysters and marron of the South West. If you’re lucky enough, you might even get to witness dolphins jumping beside your boat.
Margaret River
WA’s most premium wine region is home to impressive beaches, limestone caves, and timber forests — all so couples, families and solo travellers can relax and spend their days at ease. Reside at Smiths Beach Resort and enjoy views of the beach and gorgeous sunsets from the balcony. And when it comes to wine, a visit to Leeuwin Estate is a must for fine wine tastings paired with delectable gourmet offerings.
