Traveler's Directory
So vast that it can't be captured in one breath, WA is home to some of the most remote wilderness on earth, some of the most spectacular natural wonders and unique wildlife to be found anywhere. Our cities are open and our outback is immense and untamed.
Asia is more economically linked to WA as the rest of Australia is. It's also geographically closer and cheaper to reach by air. Bound by the Indian and Great Southern Oceans and the Timor Sea, all of which contain some of the rarest (but best known) marine life in the world, WA's coastline is more than 12,500 km.
It comprises about a third of Australia's total surface area (over 2.5 million square kilometres) and encompasses so many landforms, moods of weather, wildlife and geological make-ups it could be an entire continent in itself, from the windy plains and deep forests of the south to the endless red desert of the goldfields, uninhabited archipelagos that stretch into the distance and the cyclonic fury of storms that pummel the tropical north.
One of the world's most isolated capitals but with a level of technological and cultural sophistication to rival even the European and American metropolis', we're renowned for our abundance of space, proximity to nature and accessibility to some of the world's best sightseeing. Everyone who comes here leaves believing Western Australians are laid back and friendly.
A vibrant primary producer and export economy and great diversity and attractions such as the tropics, ancient unspoiled coastline, dolphins at Monkey Mia, European settler heritage, Ningaloo Reef, harsh Goldfields desert, Pinnacles, Wave Rock, famous wineries and all Perth has to offer make WA Australia's biggest secret
There was a time when Western Australia's tourism resources were limited and travelers were regarded, if not with suspicion, then with something close to surprise. These days Perth citizens and Country folks are well aware of what they have, and how rare, beautiful, and valuable are their assets.
The people have a deserved reputation for friendliness and an honest desire to show off their attractions. Tourists are welcome. A lot of time, thought, and effort has gone into making a visitor's stay as pleasant as possible.
Most of the main hotels will be able to assist in an emergency with telephone numbers for private doctors or dentists. Failing that, the emergency departments of Perth's teaching hospitals—such as Royal Perth, Sir Charles Gairdner (see Health Care section below)—are the best options.
Hotels will also change foreign currency and traveler's checks. Banking hours in Perth are from 9:30 AM to 4 PM Monday–Thursday, and from 9:30 AM to 5 PM on Friday. Banks close on the weekends but there are plenty of automatic teller machines in the city, metropolitan and most country areas.

---

Shopping & Entertainment
Large shopping centres are generally open 9am to 5:30pm Monday to Saturday, although big stores such as Coles, Myers or Woolworths may open slightly earlier. Late night shopping in the metro area is on Thursday nights until 9pm and the Perth CBD on Friday nights.
Smaller stores and many retail outlets are open on Sundays throughout WA.
Tipping staff in cafes and restaurants is generally not expected in WA although it is appreciated, particularly if you have received good service.
Depending on their liquor license, cafes and restaurants may allow you to bring your own wine (BYO) but you will be required to order a meal to drink alcohol in the venue.
Hotels and pubs are generally open from late morning until 12am unless they have a special license, in which case they may stay open until the early hours of the morning. Nightclubs open around 10pm and don’t close until late (usually around 6am depending on the venue). Most have a door charge ranging from $5 to $10.
Currency - Australia uses a metric currency system of dollars and cents. 100 cents make one dollar.

---

Emergency Services
Within WA, DIAL 000 for Fire, Police or Ambulance for life threatening emergencies 24 hours a day.
  Ask the operator for the service you require and wait to be connected.
For Police assistance in Perth metropolitan area, call (08) 9222 1111.
Toll Free: 13-14-44 - (Police—general inquiries)
The Poisons Information Centre can be contacted on 13 1126.
The Australian Search and Rescue service can be reached on 1800 641 792 (marine) or 1800 815 257 (aviation).
Other helpful numbers include Alinta Gas 13 1352, Western Power 13 1351 and the Water Corporation 13 1375.
see below for Hospitals

---