Perth City Centre is located alongside the peaceful waters of the Swan River, twenty Kilometres inland of the Indian Ocean on the West Coast of Australia.

Originally Perth was located for the safe inland position during colonial times, while the river provided an excellent means for transporting supplies from the coastal port to the fledgling colony. Much of Perth was originally built using convict labour and this can still be seen today in some of Perth's remaining historic buildings. These days however, the river and surrounding area provides a scenic outlook for the city of Perth as well as a place for recreational activities.

The area around the city also had significant historical meaning to the Aborigines of the region, and according to Aboriginal folklore the Swan River was created by a large mythical snake known as the Waggyl, which slithered its way through the area creating the bends and gullies which shaped the river. In winter came the rains which filled the empty channel with water, and the river we know today as "The Swan" came to be.

PERTH shopping at www.shoppingsales.com.au

The Perth City Centre also offers tourists a wealth of great shopping opportunities. Whether it is souvenirs, Aboriginal Art and crafts, fashion, swimming and beach wear, jewellery, cameras and high tech items, the vast array of shops available offer an extensive range of choices, from shopping malls and department stores, to cafes, restaurants and food halls. Some of the most popular shopping areas to visit include the The Hay St Mall, Murray St Mall, Raine Square, Forest Chase, Barrack St and Kings Street, however there are many other malls to visit as well.

While in the city visitors can also visit some or Perth's main tourists attractions including the Perth Zoo and the Old Mill, both just a short ferry ride from the city, as well as Barracks Arch and Kings Park both of which are located just on the edge of the Perth city centre, and are easily accessible by public transport. More information on what to see in Perth can be found in our Perth Attractions section.

PERTH WEATHER GUIDE

Perth Weather and Climate: Perth has a mediterranean climate and is located in one of only five mediterranean climate zones in the world. This means that for most of the year, the weather is fine and sunny, and even during the short mild winter the sun is often shining. It is because of these endless summers that many Perth activities revolve around the outdoors. So if you enjoy sight-seeing, outdoor activities, warm sunny days, or lazing on clean sandy beaches, Perth is the perfect destination for your next holiday.

The Seasons: *Perth weather is recorded and forecast in degrees Celsius.

Springtime in Perth: Spring begins in September in Perth, and from this time on, the weather quickly warms to fine sunny conditions for the many months ahead. For the most part spring is sunny and warm, especially from October and November, the weather is generally fine and rain is usually minimal or absent.

Summer in Perth: The official start of summer in Perth is December, finishing 3 months later at the end of February. The weather is warm to hot over the summer months, although the hottest months are usually January and February. The weather is fine and dry, and rain at this time of year is very unusual. Perth also enjoys a refreshing afternoon sea breeze known as the Fremantle Doctor which brings welcome relief on hot days.

Autumn in Perth: Autumn begins in March and finishes at the end of May, although autumn in Perth is not typical of autumns most people would be familiar with. Autumn in Perth is like an extension of summer, or perhaps a second spring. With warm sunny days and cooler nights, there is still plenty of sunshine left before the onset of winter. Although the weather is still mostly fine, there may be an occasional shower or humidity.

Winter in Perth: The mild Perth winter begins at the start of June and finishes at the end of August. It is generally a rainy season, mingled with cool sunny days. There are however occasional storms, characterised by downpours of rain, lightning or thunder.

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PERTH ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE