If you're reading this, you likely know that The University of Western Australia is one of the top 100 universities in the world (QS 2023). However, did you know that our beautiful state of Western Australia has been named one of the 30 best places in the world to visit in 2023 (Lonely Planet 2022)? Or that our sunny capital of Perth has also been considered the 9th best place to travel in 2023, the only Australian destination on the list (Forbes 2022).
When international students travel here, they can quickly see why our location has made these lists. But, if you have yet to jump on a plane and join us, here are our top reasons why we think Western Australia is the best place to be in 2023, aside from the obvious of studying at UWA.
The weather
Perth has a warm Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters and is the sunniest capital city in Australia. With an average of nine hours of sunshine per day, our students have plenty of time to go out and explore all that Perth offers. So, if sunny days and blue skies are what you are looking for, you know where to find us!
The beaches
It’s no secret that Western Australia is home to some of the most picturesque beaches in the world. With over 12,000km of coastline, you’ll be in awe of our white sandy beaches, perfect for a day of fun in the sun or a relaxing evening watching it set over the Indian Ocean. With over 19 beaches in Perth alone, at UWA you’ll be placed close to many of the state’s most popular including Cottesloe Beach, Scarborough and City Beach.
The endless road trips
A relaxing trip down south along the coast, an adventurous trip up North through the Kimberly, or a digital detox into the East towards the Australian outback, Western Australia has it all. Our state is the biggest in Australia and is packed full of tourist attractions and must-see road trips. If there is one thing that we can guarantee when studying in Perth, it’s that you will never be short of an adventure when it’s time to take a break from the books.
The wildlife
We couldn’t make a list of the best things about Western Australia without mentioning our diverse wildlife. Home to Ningaloo Reef, the world’s largest fringing reef, is considered one of the best places to swim with whale sharks. Closer to Perth, Rottnest Island is home to the world-famous quokka, which aren’t found anywhere else in the world. Of course, you will also see plenty of kangaroos in the wild plus a wombat or emu if you are lucky too.
The food and drink
Perth is a multicultural hub, with over 37% of its population born overseas and people from 190 countries (ThinkPerth 2019) and has the food and restaurants to reflect that. We are also home to some finest fresh produce including local fish from the coastline, fruit and veg, meat, cheese and wine from the South and Swan Valley regions.
There are always new bars, pubs, cafes and restaurants opening their doors around the city, so the hardest thing will be picking which place to try first!
Perth is a great place to visit and study – that’s a win-win in our books. Want to know more about joining us at UWA? Visit the international students page on our website, contact our Future Students Centre by submitting an online enquiry through askUWA or chat to a current international student.
