Leaving Melbourne for Broome in winter was a sheer delight for two reasons: one, we were leaving rain for sun and, two, we were about to visit a place rich in natural beauty and history.
Being up north, Broome has wet and dry seasons and unless you like humidity, travelling there between May and October is the way to go.
We arrived at our hotel in Broome’s popular Cable Beach district and couldn’t have been happier with our accommodation, which had plenty of character, including a thatched roof and an outdoor shower.
Not that we spent much time inside as Broome has plenty to see and do.
The Broome Visitor Centre is a great place to start for ideas on where to go.
A camel ride on Cable Beach — watch out for nudists in your path — is fun especially if it’s done around sunset when the ‘Staircase to the moon’— a beautiful spectacle of the moon rising over Roebuck Bay — occurs.
Speaking of Roebuck Bay, I’d recommend a trike tour run by a local who fills travellers in on the history of the area, and if you’re lucky he’ll pull a mono while you’re on the back. My tip: hang on!
Or hire a scooter — as we also did — and cruise around seeing the sights at your own pace.
There’s no denying Broome is a hot place whenever you go, so a trip to Matsos Brewery is sure to quench your thirst.
Try their mango beer for a refreshing drink.
Of course, what Broome is most famous for is its pearls.
For anyone who loves the glamorous gemstones, a visit to the many jewellery stores and Willie Creek Pearl Farm and museum is a must.
A bus takes tourists out to the pearl farm where a tour is conducted and travellers get to taste oyster meat and buy pearl jewellery.
Remember, when buying pearls, there are two types: freshwater, which are very common and often of irregular shape (but an affordable alternative) and cultured pearls, which are rarer and of a higher quality with a brighter lustre.
And for a relaxing night out after a busy day sight-seeing, visit Sun Picture Theatre for a movie under the stars.
