Day 1 : Hot Air Balloon over Avon Valley

Years ago, during a trip to New Zealand, I had hoped to experience a hot air balloon ride but the weather had other plans, and it never happened. This time, during our stay in Perth, we made it a priority. With three nights in the city, we were hoping for better odds and thankfully, it worked in our favour.

The day began in the middle of the night. We opted for the pickup service, which allowed us to catch a bit more sleep on the way to Avon Valley, and avoided the risk of driving unfamiliar roads in the dark. It started off a little chaotic. After an hour drive to the meeting point, we were told the flight might be cancelled due to weather conditions. Then, just five minutes later, everything changed. The weather had cleared enough, and the flight was back on. A huge sigh of relief.

Soon after, excitement took over. Watching the balloon being prepared was an experience in itself. Flames roaring, fabric rising, slowly coming to life. Then came the moment to step into the basket. As the balloon gently lifted off the ground, everything became quiet. The pilot adjusted the direction, and we drifted slowly across the sky. We watched the sunrise unfold, with soft clouds glowing in the early light. Below us, endless stretches of green farmland painted a peaceful, panoramic landscape. It felt surreal, calm, weightless, and incredibly beautiful. The 90-minute flight across the valley was nothing short of magical. One of those rare moments where time seems to slow down, and you are fully present in the experience.

After years of waiting, it was everything I had imagined and more. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and worth every single moment.

Day 2 : Fremantle

Fremantle Markets

A visit to Fremantle Markets is a feast for the senses and a great way to experience the local vibe of Fremantle. The market is divided into two main sections, The Yard and The Hall. The Yard is where most of the food stalls are located, and it quickly became our favourite area. We wandered through, snacking our way from one stall to another, spoilt for choice by the variety. Among the many options, Eggspot and the Turkish cuisine stood out as our top picks. Inside The Hall, the atmosphere shifts slightly, with rows of unique local products, handmade crafts, and quirky finds. It is the perfect place to slow down, browse, and discover something a little different to bring home. Beyond the markets, Fremantle itself is worth exploring. Take a walk through the town, wander past heritage buildings, relax in nearby parks, and make your way toward the harbour area. The laid-back coastal charm, combined with a touch of history, makes Fremantle a delightful place to spend a few unhurried hours.

Western Australia Maritime Museum

A visit to WA Maritime Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Australia maritime history but the real highlight is stepping inside a real submarine. Its not something you get to experience every day certainly not back home so this felt like a rare opportunity. Walking through the narrow passageways, you quickly realise just how compact life inside a submarine is. Every space is tightly designed, filled with complex equipment and systems that keep everything running beneath the sea. Exploring the interior was truly eye-opening. It gives you a whole new appreciation for the precision, discipline, and conditions that submariners operate under.

Do note: Access to the submarine requires advance booking, so its best to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Day 3 : Rottnest Island

A visit to Rottnest Island is the perfect way to slow down and enjoy a carefree day just off the coast of Perth. We took a ferry from Barrack Street Jetty, opting for the hotel pickup shuttle service, an easy and convenient way to start the day without any hassle. Once on the island, everything felt instantly more relaxed. Rottnest is best known as the home of the adorable quokka, often called the “happiest animal in the world.” These little creatures roam freely around the island, and spotting them is part of the fun. We did not have to go far as many quokkas can be found around the cafe areas, just a short walk from the jetty. It made for a wonderfully easy experience: grab a meal, sit back, and before long, you will likely find a curious quokka nearby, ready for that iconic selfie. Simple, laid-back, and filled with small joyful moments, Rottnest Island is a place where you can truly unwind and just enjoy the experience.