Tourists flock to WA’s stunning South-West, data shows

Western Australia’s stunning South-West region has surged in popularity with tourists from around the world, new figures have revealed.

According to Tourism Research Australia figures reported in The West Australian recently, the number of international visitors to the South-West grew 15.2 per cent last year.

The International Visitor Survey showed the South Coast city of Albany, in particular, receiving a 17.3 per cent boost in visitors from around the globe, which eclipsed even the figure for WA as a whole — 12.4 per cent.

WA actually had the second-highest visitor growth rate in the country in the year to December, receiving more than 100,000 additional visitors last year, largely driven by a boost from Asia.

Compared to domestic travelers, international visitors stayed for longer periods of time in the region, and chose to travel throughout the year, rather than only in peak periods.

Private Properties’ Managing Director David Moyes said the figures didn’t surprise him at all.

“Twenty per cent of our guests are international guests, and a lot of our owners live internationally, too,” he said. “We have seen a huge growth in international visitors generally but particularly from the ex-pat community, mainly out of Asia.”

Stunning scenery and magnificent experiences in the South-West

“The increase really is being experienced across the country, but there are a number of factors that particularly attract visitors to the South-West — including it being a shorter travel distance to get here (from Asia) and being in the same time zone. Once you get to somewhere like Margaret River there is a lot of action within easy reach.

“Obviously the exchange rate is in our favour but there’s also the security and safety issues, too — this region is considered very safe and family friendly.”

The visitor boost is hardly a surprise to those of us familiar with WA’s stunning scenery and incredible experiences, especially those in the beautiful South-West — with its internationally famous Margaret River wine-growing region.

At Private Properties, we see it all the time. We know our beautiful homes in some of the world’s best natural environments are what keep international guests coming back time and time again, no matter the season or weather.

As word gets out about the South-West, don’t miss out on your chance to stay in one of the region’s premier homes. Let Private Properties’ team of local staff provide you with recommendations on the best choice for destinations, accommodation and activities. Call +61 (08) 9750 5444 to speak to a booking consultant today.