h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I have a lot of 'favorite' islands, but one that I yearn to return to is Rottnest Island, west of Fremantle, Western Australia. Fremantle is on the coast west of Perth and lies a few miles off of the mainland, a short ferry ride away. The island has abundant accomodations, mostly cottages, and is surrounded by reefs that are far better than those on the Great Barrier. (Which is much ballyhooed and not worthy of its reputation.) The water is COLD off of Western Australia, due, I believe, to an antarctic current. But cold water makes for more colorful and vibrant reefs. (Part of my great attraction for diving in California.) This cold water makes a wet suit a requirement, and a wet suit adds a lot of hassle to diving, such as limited mobility, extra weight on the weight belt, etc.

Rottnest was named by the Dutch when they observed a population of small marsupials (related to kangaroos), called Quokkas. The Quokkas are about the size of a rabbit and can be easily seen along the many foot trails crisscrossing the island. They are most likely to be seen in the shade af a tree or bush. They are inquisitive and can be coaxed into approaching if they think that you have something to eat to offer.

I only spent a day on Rottnest, but when I go back again, I intend to stay over for a few days and enjoy some quality scuba diving.

One of the benefits of visiting Rottnest is that you are likely to stay for awhile in Perth, a lovely city that has not gotten the favorable press that it really deserves. If you visit Perth, be sure to visit the Perth Mint for a demonstration of gold ingot pouring.