Neil: The hotel was probably either the Australia or the Metropole. :)

Just a couple of comments on Perth and WA.

I think one of the must see places is Rotto. No where else in the world can you see the world famous Quokka, although after you have seen the first few, they become less important. But the whole feel of the island, is just so laid back and casual, just an easy way to unwind. July is not beach weather, but a nice day could be sunny (70 degrees) and you could certainly walk on the beaches.

The city of Perth is very clean and easy to navigate around. My accomodation preferences would be Fremantle, then beach Scarbs or Cott, then Perth. The central Pertrh district to me always seemed like a ghost town at night, it basically was for workers during the day and they all go home to the burbs at night. Northbridge just over the train tracks had more of a night life.

Have you considered staying at the Burswood casino? Just outside of Perth center, easy hop to the airport. I haven't been to Perth for some time, but the drive from the Airport to Perth couldn't have been much more than 20 minutes off peak, and I sure did not see any motels I would stay at, until you hit the Burswood.

Agree with all the other people about heading south. Plenty to do down there, all of it involves driving considerable distances, but well maintained highways. Some accomodations may be closed off peak months, but usually there is enough for the smaller number of travellers.

One other thought for you. It may be a little warmer to go north, such as Kalbarri/Geraldton. We spent a few relaxing days there one winter. Great weather for hiking, fantastic fresh seafood - literally off the boat.

Bill

DO NOT MISS Margaret River!

I've been monitoring www.wotif.com, waiting to book my hotels for later this month. I've got my eye on the Heritage Trail Lodge in Margaret River, which looks like a great place for a little R&R. Any comments on this place?

Hi Melnq8, we're going to Perth too but in mid August. Been reading your thread. Can you please post a little report when you come back? We've never been to Australia before and I'm not sure how to plan our 4 day trip. It would be really nice to hear about your trip. Thanks.

Travelmug -

Absolutely. We leave this Friday and here's the plan:

Arrive in Perth near midnight, so we'll stay one night at Best Western Inter-City Motel, which offers free shuttle from AP to motel. We've rented a car through M2000 Car Rental -they'll deliver the car to our motel the following morning.

We'll head to Margaret River right away and spend four nights at the Margaret River Heritage Trail Lodge.

Then it's off to Fremantle for three nights - working on the accommodation right now - the prison cottages we wanted are full, so we're considering a villa within walking distance to town. Waiting to hear back from the owner even as I type. Using Fremantle as a base we'll visit Perth and the surrounding area.

I'll post a detailed report when we return.

PS - if you haven't done so already, you can obtain your OZ visas online.

Travelmug -

Just posted my trip report under Melnq8's Perth/Freo/MR Trip Report.

Thanks to all on this board for their helpful suggestions - we had a great trip.