Perth is an absolutely gorgeous city! It's tall, gleaming buildings sit alongside the calm Swan River, and it is highlighted by clean streets, lush parks, colorful laurakeets (parrots,) and a plethora of trendy and unique suburbs. The city provides free busses around the city center to help its locals and visitors -- it was only after my 2nd bus ride that I found out that not all of the busses are free -- I am sure I had the bus driver laughing as I hopped on/off for about a 3-stop ride, oblivious that any fare would be due, until afterwards! To find myself still a bit lost in an English-speaking country is humbling and entertaining! At least I'm finally looking the right way when I go to cross the street... I'm just not riding my bike on the left side of the trail at all times -- probably some of their reasoning for the strict bicycle helmet laws in Australia!
There are trains and ferries that can cart you to Fremantle - Perth's sister city (I'm not sure how they refer to it exactly)... but they're about 20mins apart by car.
I spent my 1st night in Northbridge in a very unique hostel, called Governor Robinson's. It was tucked into a quiet neighborhood and was in easy walking distance to William's St. for some delicious vietnamese dining my first night, and Beaufort street for the following morning - where I enjoyed a brisk walk in the chilly air, as the sunshine slowly rose to warm me. I found an upbeat lil' cafe called Soto Espresso and enjoyed some nice lounge music, journaling and a "long black" before taking a walk through the surrounding neighborhoods for fun!
Later this same day, I had the chance to reconnect with friends (Tricia, Jim & Fiona... and their new dog, Stella) from L.A. that I hadn't seen since their going-away party in New Mexico nearly 2 years ago (when they were moving to Australia.) It was Fiona's 7th birthday, so we enjoyed an evening at her favorite restaurant - Fasta Pasta, had her charms put on her new charm bracelet, and she then proceeded to give Tricia and I the quickest, 1-minute manicures we've ever had, with some of her new beauty items! Having a chance to visit with each of them and see the school where Tricia works and Fiona attends, and also explore Kings Park, Bold Park and some of the surrounding area with Jim was an absolute joy. Our conversations could have continued for many days more... and they will someday in L.A. -- as they will move back to the U.S. in 7 weeks!
THANKS FOR ALL OF YOUR HOSPITALITY, "TOUR GUIDE" SERVICES, and INSPIRATION JIM, TRICIA & FIONA!!!
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