PERTH, Dec 20 — Most visitors to Australia flock to the more vibrant cities of Melbourne and Sydney. Perth, named as one of the most isolated cities in the world, is often overlooked because of its serenity and quietness as compared to its eastern siblings. Only a five-hour plane ride away from Kuala Lumpur, Western Australia shares the same time zone as Malaysia.

Perth dwellers celebrate Christmas during summer, with temperatures rising within the range of 30s to 40s at its peak, and the winters are a bearable 10 degrees. But what’s there to do if you’re in Perth on a shoe-string budget and have limited time?

Fire-thrower performing outside Fremantle Markets on a sunny weekend

Fremantle Markets is definitely a must-go for anyone who enjoys farmer’s markets, shopping and “live” performances. The market has been around since 1897 and is open from Fridays to Sundays. Fresh produce of the season, handmade soaps, loose tea leaves, indigenous craft and food are some of the highlights of the market.

Outside of Fremantle Markets are bars, restaurants and retail shops; there are also weekly performances by fire-throwers, stuntmen, mimes and musicians. You may not be able to catch the same performance twice though unless you’re lucky. One of the hidden treasures within “Freo Market”, as the locals affectionately call it, is Dosukoi Ramen, a tiny ramen stall run by Japanese who have made Australia their home.

You’ll be surprised to know that Fremantle Markets has one of the most flavourful ramen in Perth

Priced reasonably below AUD10 for a bowl of miso-based or soy sauce-based ramen, choose from a variety of toppings – from the familiar chashu (pork slices) to karaage (deep fried chicken). Be prepared to wait up to 30 minutes for your ramen during peak hours! It is loved by both Asians and locals alike for its mouth-watering broth.

Catch this stunning view of the Perth cityline from King’s Park

Nature lovers would enjoy King’s Park, a 1,003-acre park located on the fringes of Perth city. Here you can find 300 types of plants and 80 species of birds. Be it on a warm summer’s day, enjoying the flora and fauna of the park or at night where you can view the spectacular Perth skyline, it’s perfect for a family outing or a romantic date.

In the mornings you will find fitness junkies jogging or students from the nearby University of Western Australia having picnics while overlooking the beautiful Swan River.

Cottesloe Beach is the most famous beach in Perth

If you’re in the mood for some sand and sea, head over to Cottesloe Beach which can be accessed via rail or bus services. The late Heath Ledger’s ashes are scattered on this beach which was reported to be his favourite. Cafes and ice cream parlours line Cottesloe Beach with hundreds of visitors during the spring/summer season.

It can get overly crowded at times so go early and find a spot to place your towel before everyone comes. Slather on sun protection or wear a hat when you visit Cottesloe Beach. Otherwise, you might get a bad case of sunburn!

Kids feeding sheep at Caversham Wildlife Park

A trip to Australia is not complete without kangaroos and koalas. Check out Caversham Wildlife Park, a half hour’s drive from the city. Here, you get to see sheep shearing, take photographs with cuddly koalas and feed kangaroos out in the open. You can also milk a cow when the opportunity comes! Oenophiles can choose either to take a tour of the wineries in Swan River or further down south in Margaret River which is about three hours’ drive away. If you’re pressed for time, it is advisable to go wine tasting at Swan River but to fully immerse yourself in vineyards and wineries, the Margaret River region is the place to be, with more than a 100 different wineries.

View from inside Kailis Fish Market, home of the popular fish and chips

People who have been to Britain would debate with you which country offers the best fish and chips. Kailis Fish Market Cafe is a favourite among seafood lovers; it is known for its scrumptious fish and chips by the harbour off Fremantle. Watch the yachts bob in the water as you devour a plate of fish and chips or a seafood platter of fish, scallops, shrimps, mussels and fries.

Would you like a cold one after a filling dinner of fish and chips? Walk along the harbour and you’ll find Little Creatures, Australia’s own brewery. Have a sip of their Pale Ale, a best-seller and the first beer this brewery created.

Grab a cold one from Australia’s homegrown brewery, Little Creatures

Established in 2001 by a group of friends who share the love for beer, it’s a nice hangout spot with spacious high ceilings in a warehouse. Little Creatures also serves food but it’s a little bit on the pricey side.

Before you head back home, do check out Harbour Town for good bargains on local brands such as Valleygirl, Cotton On, Jay Jays, Sportsgirl and more. Usually 70 to 80 per cent off retail price, it’s worth a look if you’re a fashion hunter.

Fremantle Markets Henderson St, Fremantle WA 6959, Australia The Yard Fridays - 8am to 8pm Saturdays and Sundays - 8am to 6pm The Hall Fridays - 9am to 8pm Saturdays and Sundays - 9am to 6pm

King’s Park Perth WA 6005, Australia Mondays to Fridays 5.30am to 10.30pm Weekend 7am to 9.30pm

Cottesloe Beach, Cottesloe

Caversham Wildlife Park Whiteman Park/Lord Street, Whiteman WA 6068, Australia Open daily 8.30 to 5.30pm www.cavershamwildlife.com.au

Kailis Street Market Cafe 46 Mews Rd, Fremantle WA 6959, Australia Open daily 8.30am to 8.30pm

Little Creatures 40 Mews Rd, Fremantle WA 6959, Australia Mondays to Sundays 10am till late Weekend 9am till 11pm

Harbour Town 840 Wellington Street West Perth Western Australia 6005 Mondays to Thursdays 9am to 5.30pm Fridays 9am to 9pm Saturdays 9am to 5pm Sundays 11am to 5pm

This story was first published in Crave in the print edition of The Malay Mail on December 19, 2013