Let's Talk About Perth

Perth is said to be the remotest capital city in the world. Well, I can attest to that! Our flight from Hong Kong showed us the blue skies above the West Philippine Sea, followed by the most beautiful sunset over Borneo Island. During the last three hours of our flight, small towns punctuated the inky dark landscape from my view as dusk turned to night. Even on our final approach, I couldn't discern a metropolis or cityscape as it was too dark outside. That's how remote Perth is. Several assumptions about Perth had been plaguing my mind at that time as I exited the airport terminal. But, as I embark on this solo trip, I'll see to it that whatever the outcome of this trip, I shall embrace it wholeheartedly.

Or so I thought. Join me as I explore Perth, Western Australia. 

Musings 01 from my solo birthday in Perth, Australia

“Excuse me, mate! Your coat looks amazing! You look good in it.”, said a local while walking back to my hotel at Hay Street in Perth. I had layered clothing because it was only 9 degrees in Perth. I wore a tan trench coat, wine-colored sweater, faded olive green pants, and low-cut brown corduroy Doc Martens shoes.

“Thank you, I appreciate it, mate! This is only from H&M, by the way. I bought this coat in 2016 in Bali because they were on sale!”

“No way! But we loved it! It looks good on you!”

“Thank you!” I replied with a smile. It’s not every day you get compliments from a stranger!

If there’s one important life lesson I learned from this solo trip to Perth is accepting compliments. Growing up, I was never confident, especially in my physical appearance. I was never the ‘crush ng bayan’ or the star player back then, not that I wished it, but when you’re in high school, being physically attractive has its advantage. I won’t dig deep as the list is very long, but you get my point. Being smart wasn’t enough, but at least I survived! I still have something to offer.

My 33rd #Perthday Celebration and some first impressions about this city

These are some of the snapshots of Perth’s Central Business District. Here are some of my observations and anecdotes:

1) I keep hearing many Bisaya conversations while walking around. While waiting to cross the street, I overheard two elderly couples conversing in Bisaya. As a maritess, I interrupted them briefly and asked, “Uhm, excuse me, taga asa mo?”. They got caught off guard. “Hala dong kabalo diay ka mag bisaya? Abi nako taga diri ka!”. Oh, puh-lease auntie, thanks for flattering me. It’s the Leo season. I feel good. Lmao

2) Growing up in the big cities in the Philippines, which are noisy and busy 24/7, Perth is the exact opposite. The stores close at 5 PM sharp (from retail shops to Woolies). Some restaurants, convenience stores, and fast food chains are open until late at night… but the lack of crowd AND the silence was truly deafening. If you’re looking for a city with a shit ton of nature, decent-sized, and some peace, then Perth is the place to be.

3) The CBD is relatively walkable and small, just like Sydney and Melbourne, albeit quieter. They say it’s livelier every Friday night, but I shall keep my expectations low.

4) Staying right at the heart of Perth CBD was my best decision for this trip. If I chose to stay at a lakehouse north of CBD, I’d be bummed.

I’m staying here for eight days. I already have my tours booked for the next couple of days. I’m just taking it slow.