These are some of the snapshots of Perth’s Central Business District. Here are some of my observations and anecdotes:

1) I keep on hearing a lot of Bisaya conversations while walking around. While waiting to cross the street, I overheard two elderly couples conversing in Bisaya. As a maritess, I interrupted them briefly and asked, “Uhm excuse me, taga asa mo?”. They got caught off guard. “Hala dong kabalo diay ka mag bisaya? Abi nako taga diri ka!”. Oh, puh-lease auntie, thanks for flattering me. It’s the Leo season. I feel good. Lmao

2) Growing up in the Big Cities in the Philippines where it is noisy and busy 24/7, Perth is the exact opposite. The stores close at 5 PM sharp (from retail shops to Woolies). There are some restaurants, convenience stores, and fast food chains which are open until late at night… but the lack of crowd AND the silence was truly deafening. If you’re looking for a city with a shit ton of nature, decent-sized, and some peace, then Perth is the place to be.

3) The CBD is relatively walkable and small, just like Sydney and Melbourne, albeit quieter. They say it’s livelier every Friday night, but I shall keep my expectations low.

4) Staying right at the heart of Perth CBD was the best decision I made for this trip. Imagine if I chose to stay at a lakehouse north of CBD, I’d be bummed.

I’m staying here for eight days. I already have my tours booked for the next couple of days. I’m just taking it slow.

Earlier this year, I planned to celebrate my birthday somewhere far, cold, and alone. Perth was a perfect choice. Being the remotest capital city in the world, it is living on its reputation as a destination for people who wants solitude with nature and enjoy a laidback lifestyle. Now that I’m thirty-three, I couldn’t ask for more. I am forever grateful for the privilege of traveling to a first-world country and can afford to stay at a decent hotel right at the heart of the central business district for more than a week. I am grateful to have a secured job. More than job security, being an ATC has always been a dream ever since. I am blessed to have family and friends who support my goals and life endeavors.  

I do not wish for material things. Instead, I hope for lifelong happiness and contentment in life. I am at this stage in life when I don’t give a shit about what people think about me and what I do with my life. Let us live a life that cultivates respect, love, and kindness. It will be the best birthday gift you’ll give me. 

Thank you for all your birthday wishes! My 33rd #Perthday trip is one for the books. If you’re looking for a place to spend some time alone, retreat from the cacophony of big cities, and have a close encounter with nature, then Perth is the perfect place to be.