Despite existing on the fringe of an already isolated continent, Perth and Western Australia are also abuzz with modern cultural activity. In fact WA's isolation has resulted in cultural traditions that are truly unique and quite distinct from their urban Aussie counterparts to the east.

Perth has more hours of sunshine then any other state capital in Australia. This has given rise to a prolific and rich outdoor culture. Entertaining, socializing and drinking outdoors, is simply the way life is lived over here.

Western Australia is also the backdrop for such epics as Australia the movie, Rabbit Proof Fence and author Tim Winton's multi award winning novel Dirt Music. The annual Perth Arts Festival is an arts fest of major international standing with a 55 year history with many free entertainment and gigs.

For those with a taste for history The Western Australian Museum (www.museum.wa.gov.au) has brilliant branches in Perth, Fremantle, Albany, Geraldton and Kalgoorlie-Boulder. The museums have exhibits that explore local history alongside Aboriginal culture and indigenous wildlife.

During the summertime seek out various outdoor cinemas; classic, cult, and new release films are played under the trees and stars on balmy evenings. Throughout the year countless events are held in Western Australia. These range from Broome's Shinju Matsui Pearl Festival to Perth's Good Vibrations dance fest.

Recently Perth and Freo (Fremantle) have earned the reputation of being Australia's equivalent to Britain's Manchester or the United States' Seattle, due to the many first class artists and bands it has produced, including Gyroscope, John Butler Trio, The Waifs, Little Birdy, and The Little Panda Band. Check out unique local radio at RTR 92.1 FM.