Covering a third of Australia but only possessing a population of 1.9 million, Western Australia’s expansive lands and distinct regions are attracting increasing numbers of tourists from “the East,” as the rest of Australia is called in Western Australia.

The majority, roughly 1.5 million, of Western Australia’s population resides in Perth. Renowned for its endless sunshine, Perth is one of the most notable attractions in Western Australia.

AUIP’s Eleanor ventured to Western Australia recently and caught up with friends, including our field guide Dr. Tyrone Ridgeway. One of her favorite spots was Kings Park, Perth’s most popular attraction. The five-kilometer expanse of parklands gave sweeping views of the CBD and adjoining Swan River, pictured left.

A three-hour drive south from Perth, Eleanor visited another common Western Australia destination: the Margaret River region. Characterized by secluded beaches, award-winning wineries and breath-taking coastlines, the region has plenty to see, do and taste.

Over 100 wineries fill the area making winery visit decisions challenging. Eleanor picked a mixture of well-known wineries, such as Vasse Felix, and smaller ones like Stella Bella to stop by. Pictured right, Eleanor and friends Carrie and Ben pose outside Stella Bella prior to their intimate tasting at the winery. After touring the wineries, a relaxing evening at Gilgara Retreat with kangaroo spotting right outside the accommodation made for an enjoyable weekend getaway.

For students interested in further travel in Australia, be sure to check out the Free Time webpage