Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
8
HOW TO MAXIMISE YOUR PERTH TRAVEL BUDGET
Everything you've heard is true. Compared to other Australian state capitals, Perth is expensive. Central city ho-
tels especially are in high demand, and prices can be significantly higher than in east-coast Australia. Follow
these tips to make the most of your dollars when visiting the city.
»
Book accommodation as far ahead as possible.
»
Accommodation can be significantly cheaper from Friday to Sunday.
»
Consider a self-contained apartment with full cooking facilities.
»
Perth B&Bs are usually good value.
»
Consider Fremantle, especially for B&B accommodation, as a base while visiting Perth.
»
Use Perth and Fremantle's free-of-charge Central Area Transit (CAT) bus services.
»
Look out for good-value lunch deals at central city pubs and cafes.
»
Cheaper ethnic restaurants dot the streets around Northbridge.
»
Visit markets and other specialist stores for self-catering supplies (see boxed text,
Click here
).
»
Free Perth attractions include the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts
and the Western Australian Museum.
TOP OF CHAPTER
4
East Perth
o
Wickham Retreat
OFFLINE MAP
HOSTEL
$
GOOGLE MAP
( 08-9325 6398;
www.facebook.com/WickhamRetreatBackpackers
; 25-27 Wickham St; dm $35-40, d $70-100;
)
Located in a residential neighbourhood east of the city centre, Wickham Retreat has a
quieter vibe compared to other hostels around town. Most of the guests are international
travellers, drawn by the colourful rooms and dorms, and a funky AstroTurf garden. Free
food (including rice, fresh bread and vegies) stretches travel budgets eroded by Perth's
high prices.
Regal Apartments
( 08-9221 8614;
www.regalapartments.com.au
; 11 Regal Pl; apt from $230; )
Tucked in behind
good-value Asian restaurants east of the city centre, these recently redecorated one- and
two-bedroom apartments are spacious and modern. Fully-equipped kitchens and private
APARTMENT
$$
