Western Australia stands in stark contrast to its eastern cousins. Here development has not occurred along the coast at the same furious pace as it has on the eastern seaboard. Escape the crowds and float amongst tropical sealife on Ningaloo Reef just offshore from the tiny hamlet of Coral Bay, feed wild dolphins at Monkey Mia or swim with whale sharks off Exmouth.

This is an ancient land and a huge one: Western Australia is the largest state in Australia, constituting one-third of the country. Its diversity often astonishes, with extreme contrasts in climate from the tropical north to the temperate south.

Indulge in boutique wineries, gourmet produce and world-class surfing in the southwest, known for its forests of karri trees. Or head north to Broome, an oasis in a harsh landscape with beautiful Cable Beach, and the gateway to the ancient and spectacular landscapes of the Kimberley Region.

Perth is regarded as being 'the most isolated city on the planet' - but you wouldn't know it when you're here. This evolving city, its growth fuelled by the state's rich mineral deposits, is sparkling clean, cosmopolitan and blessed with a wonderful location that includes pristine beaches, hills and leafy woodland areas.