Perth

Perth is one of those places that feels like it exists in a world of its own — and in many ways, it does! Tucked away on Australia’s southwest coast, this sun-drenched city is closer to Singapore than it is to Sydney, making it one of the most gloriously isolated big cities on the planet. And with sunshine pouring down almost every single day of the year, it’s hard not to fall in love with the place the moment you arrive.

The city itself is a brilliant mix of outdoor adventure and fascinating history. You can wander through Kings Park, a vast green space perched on a hill with sweeping views over the Swan River, then head to Cottesloe Beach to watch the Indian Ocean explode into breathtaking colours at sunset. For something totally different, descend into the spooky tunnels beneath the old Fremantle Prison, built by convicts over 150 years ago.

Perth also has a secret weapon — Rottnest Island, a short ferry ride away, where cheerful little marsupials called quokkas roam freely and love posing for photos. This city truly has something for everyone!