Playing Perth Tourist in My Hometown
Two years ago, we sold everything and began living the most incredible life of slow travel. For those unfamiliar with the concept, slow travel is all about immersing yourself in the places you visit, not just the sights, but the culture, the people, and the everyday rhythms. I’ve written extensively about it here on this website, so feel free to explore those articles if you’re curious.
This lifestyle has been both rewarding and challenging. Leaving behind family and friends was difficult, but the beauty is that I’ve made so many new connections while keeping in touch with my old ones.
As the song goes, I will always call Australia home. My work allows me the flexibility to return often, and I make a point of it, especially for my 92-year-old father. Bless him, he understands that we’re away, but he doesn’t grasp how long we’re gone. So, I need to visit regularly.
Currently, I’m based in Da Nang, Vietnam, a place I adore. But with November marking the start of typhoon season bringing rain, wind, and floods I decided it was time for a change of scenery. Knowing I’d return in the new year; I headed to Bali for a few weeks to unwind after a particularly busy period. Then, I returned to Perth, Western Australia, for the Christmas and New Year season. It was the perfect time to catch up with family and friends while enjoying the holiday season.
Even though I was only away for a few months, Perth felt different when I returned. It seemed like there were so many new things to do, and even familiar places felt fresh. That’s how I ended up playing tourist in my hometown.
Rediscovering Perth
My father lives in the same house he bought 35 years ago, shortly after the birth of my first son. It’s on the coastal strip, a location that has turned out to be a fantastic decision. The house is close to the beach, the train line, and the freeway, but more than that, it’s in a real community. There’s a local garden where my dad volunteers and a Christmas light trail that the whole neighbourhood participates in.
Yes, he lives in one of those streets. On our first night back, the neighbours invited us to see the lights. We strolled from house to house, chatting with everyone along the way. (I secretly think there’s a friendly competition to see who can outdo whom each year.) But what stood out wasn’t just the dazzling displays; it was the sense of community. The laughter of visiting children, the dedication of homeowners dressing up and handing out candy canes, and the warm banter made it truly special. Feeling slightly guilty about our lack of lights, we quickly put together a display for the next night. Our cheeky “DITTO” sign in red light rope earned plenty of laughs and was warmly received. Knowing my dad lives in such a caring neighbourhood is comforting.
A Day at Hillarys Marina
Meeting a friend at Hillarys Marina was another delightful surprise. This place was buzzing with life! On one side, there was a kids’ carnival, while on the other, an inflatable water park kept the laughter going. Cafés and restaurants were packed with people catching up for the holidays, and kids swam in the safe marina waters as parents relaxed on the grass or sandy beaches. It was vibrant, fun, and full of that carefree summer energy that makes Perth so special.
We spent hours just soaking in the atmosphere. From grabbing a coffee at one of the waterfront cafés to watching families enjoy the activities, it felt like a perfect slice of Australian summer. It reminded me of how lucky we are to have places like this that cater to all ages. It’s not just a marina it’s a hub of community and entertainment.
Exploring Perth Zoo
This outing got me thinking: where else in Perth hadn’t, I been for a while? My son, who’s still a big kid at heart, suggested the Zoo. He wanted to see the elephants before they were relocated to South Australia. So, with Dad in tow, the three of us headed to Perth Zoo.
Located in South Perth, the Zoo is easy to get to you can even take a short ferry ride across the river from the city centre. I was reminded why it’s world-renowned. Their breeding programs for endangered species are incredible, and the open-range exhibits are a joy to explore. The African Savannah, with its giraffes and zebras roaming freely, and the Orangutan Boardwalk, designed specifically for these spectacular and cheeky creatures, are highlights. There are also plenty of green spaces for picnics and even a water playground for kids. It was a fantastic day out and a reminder of how much Perth has to offer.
As we strolled through the Zoo, memories of bringing my kids here when they were young came flooding back. The place still had that magical charm, but now it also felt more focused on conservation and education. It’s a wonderful way to spend a day, whether you’re with family or just exploring solo.
Boola Bardip: The Perth Museum
On a roll, I started thinking about what else I’d missed. That’s when my long-time friend Craig mentioned the Perth Museum. Renamed Boola Bardip to honour our Indigenous history, the museum had been closed for years for renovations and had recently reopened. Craig, who had started volunteering there, encouraged me to visit.
Boola Bardip—meaning “many stories” in the Noongar language—is a masterpiece. Spread over three floors, it’s fully interactive and showcases the rich history and culture of Western Australia. One of the standout features is Hackett Hall, with its original brickwork and a breathtaking full-sized skeleton of a blue whale suspended from the ceiling. There’s also a fantastic section dedicated to the gold rush in Kalgoorlie, capturing the grit and glamour of that era. And let’s not forget the exhibit celebrating our America’s Cup win a proud moment for all Australians.
The museum beautifully blends historical artifacts with modern technology, making it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. There are hands-on activities for kids, stunning displays for history buffs, and plenty of thought-provoking stories for those interested in Indigenous culture. Walking through Boola Bardip, I felt a deep sense of pride in how far Perth has come in embracing its past while looking to the future.
Golden Ponds Fishing
Another hidden gem I rediscovered was the Golden Ponds in Baldivis. My dad loves fishing, so this spot was a must-see. At 92, he’s not as spry as he used to be, but there’s something about sitting by the water with a fishing rod in hand that lights him up. We found a shady spot near one of the well-stocked ponds, and sure enough, he caught the first fish of the day a big grin spreading across his face as he reeled it in.
Golden Ponds is a catch-and-release fishing destination, which my dad found fascinating. He chuckled, saying it gave the fish a chance to “tell their friends “Before being caught again. The ponds are stocked with barramundi, rainbow trout, and silver perch, so there’s always something biting. It’s peaceful, surrounded by greenery, and there’s even a lovely café onsite for when you need a break.
After our day out, my dad couldn’t wait to share the experience with his friends on his next senior bus trip. He told them all about the catch-and-release fishing and how much he enjoyed seeing the fish swim away unharmed. It reminded me how sometimes the simplest activities can create the best memories not just for us, but for everyone we share them with.
A Trip to Mandurah
Lastly, we took a drive down to Mandurah, which has always been a favourite getaway spot. The coastal vibe and laid-back atmosphere make it feel like a mini holiday without going too far. Mandurah’s famous canals are stunning, especially when you take a boat cruise to spot the playful dolphins that often swim alongside. It’s easy to see why this area has become such a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
We also visited the Mandurah Boardwalk, which is packed with restaurants and shops. It’s a great place to grab a bite and watch the world go by. The highlight, though, was the Mandurah Christmas Lights Cruise. The houses along the canals go all out with their festive displays, and seeing the lights reflect off the water was pure magic. It was the perfect way to end our visit and left me feeling so grateful for the beauty right in our backyard.
Falling in Love with Perth All Over Again
Between the Zoo, Hillarys Marina, Boola Bardip, and the Christmas lights, this trip back to Perth reminded me of why I love my hometown so much. There’s a sense of community, a celebration of culture, and a connection to nature that you don’t find just anywhere.
I also realised how easy it is to take these things for granted when you’re caught up in daily life. Playing tourist in my hometown was fun, nostalgic, and eye-opening. If you haven’t explored your backyard in a while, I highly recommend it. You might be surprised at what you rediscover and the new memories you create along the way.
This time in Perth wasn’t just about visiting places; it was about reconnecting with my roots, spending quality time with family and friends, and appreciating the beauty of familiar surroundings through fresh eyes. Whether it’s a stroll along the Swan River, a picnic at Kings Park, or exploring new corners of the city, there’s always something special waiting to be uncovered in Perth. So why not take a break, play tourist, and fall in love with your hometown all over again? Love MyLifestyle #Sheridan-Leigh
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About the Author:
Sheridan-Leigh is the passionate voice behind the MyLifestyle Blog, where life is celebrated with vibrant stories and insightful travel tips. With a deep love for slow travel, she believes in truly experiencing each destination, creating connections beyond the surface. Her blog is a blend of personal stories, expert advice, and a philosophy that life is for living to the fullest and is rich with opportunities for growth and adventure. Join Sheridan-Leigh as she shares her journey, inspiring others to embrace life, travel deeply, and live fully.
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