So, I arrived at Perth airport on 11th January after two hours sleep in Alice Springs (not the greatest way to start, but it could have been worse). The temperature was a nice change to Uluru from 44 to 38. It was still an incredibly warm day, but after a little drive around and some lunch we headed to Halls Head, Mandurah. When I say we, I am referring to Brett, the friend I have been staying with these last two weeks, who very kindly showed me around.
Staying 2 minutes from the beach is a beautiful thing, especially when the beach is almost empty the large majority of the time. You can hear the waves from the house and the sunsets over the sea are just incredible.
My first day in WA was a chilled out one. Nothing too strenious and a good way to ty and get my inner clock working properly again. A chilled out evening down to the beach, take away and a movie.
Sunday was a relaxed day again. I went for a walk along the beach before meeting up with Brett and his mate Ben for a swim in the sea... I say swim.... I got unceremoniously dumped on my backside by the waves...not for the first time on this trip. We were invited to a BBQ for lunch at another of Brett's mate's houses. Was a lovely way to spend a Sunday and I was made to feel incredibly welcome.
During this first week we headed into Perth and I wandered round, exploring the city and what it has to offer. One thing I always try and find is a good coffee shop that I could see myself sitting doing work in, reading a book or just watching the world go by. I found Perth's. Down an old little arcade was a a lovely cafe called the London Arcade Cafe. A simply set out little place that was inviting and had good coffee and tasty treats. I sat looking out into the Arcade, opposite little antique and boutique shops listening to smooth jazz and swing. it was a good way to spend an hour or so at breakfast. I strolled some more round Perth's city before heading to sit in one of it many Parks to sketch and read. It isnt a busy city compared to London and Sydney but everything is there.
I spent the rest of the week exploring the local area, going to the movies and having dinner out or cooking for others, walkign along the beach, watching the sunsets and having cuddles with Ash (Brett's gorgeous dog). I spent Saturday catching up with my friends Nico and Shane. Was good to see them and get a very quick taste of Fremantle.
Another chilled out Sunday. I watched my first ever game of Baseball. Brett's team were playing. was great fun. we then went and grabbed some lunch before having a picnic and watching the first team play. A lovely relaxing Sunday....... then into my second week in WA.....