12 years ago we stayed at the Observation City Hotel and locals told us it was going down, the views were spectacular though. 5 years ago we stayed at the Sheraton and locals again told us it was on the way down. What is the best place to stay in Perth for 2 weeks? Would prefer something in the luxury category on the beach.

Perth, Australia or Scotland or ...?

Perth, Australia. Kiwi, do you know anything about WA?

I'm envious; Perth and environs may be my favorite place on the planet.

But, the city of Perth proper is about 20km inland on the banks of the Swan River. If you want something near the beach or on the beach by the Indian Ocean, you'll want to look for places in places like Cottesloe or Fremantle. There are a number of nice places to stay in Freo and elsewhere along the coast.

A good overview site is: www.perthtouristcentre.com.au

If this isn't a work trip, or if you have a few days free to holiday at the beach, I'd strongly suggest taking a ferry over to Rottnest Island and either staying in a rental cabin or taking a hotel room. The island has a variety of lodgings from hostel-caliber to luxe. My personal choice on past stays has been the Rottnest Hotel (or "quokka arms") for a moderate level hotel that's right on the beach.

The official Rottnest Island site is: www.rottnest.wa.gov.au for an overview of the island and links.

And hotels by the river in Perth itself have nice views. The Swan River is fairly wide - almost like a lake.

I have only stayed at the Sheraton and Hilton and I had nice suites in both within the past year.

I second the notion of going to Cottesloe or Fremantle. Cottesloe is a sleepy little beach town where I have stayed in rental flats. Beaches are great. Some nice places to eat.

Freo is much more lively and developed mainly for tourism starting from the time of the Americas Cup races some years back. Fun. Not too big.

Perth city center is a bit dead. On the river as mentioned, overlooking "Perth Waters" which is the big ballooning of the river. Home of the Royal Perth Yacht Club, former holder of the Americas Cup. Lots of sailing. No beaches to speak of.

Great trips to the south. The wine country of Margaret River. Good B&B's some excellent vineyards and restaurants that go with fine wines. Near caves.

I have spent a good bit of time anchored off Rottnest, but not much time on the populated part of the Island. There are great secluded beaches on the west side and some decent but not spectacular snorkeling and fishing.

Good place, WA!!!!

If in Perth not Free Mantle stay at the Sheraton ask for a corner room.

There is also the island of Rottnest off the coast near Perth: http://www.rottnestisland.com