Diana Lewis
Broome is beautiful and is one of those cities that have a vibrant yet poignant past which offers plenty to learn from. To discover all the wonders this city has in store, below are a few activities to try.
Yes Broome does have camels and these creatures are ever so exciting to ride on. Camel rides in Broome can be experienced at the Cable Beach which has the reputation for being one of the most serene beaches in the entire city. The best part is that the sunsets here are terrific and atop the camel's back the view of the skies are even more magnificent. Take it nice and slow and steer your camel along the shoreline of the beach and all the way relish in the multitude of orange hues painting the skies. This early evening experience will be imprinted in your memories for long after your visit to Broome.
Broome produces fantastic beer. At the Matso's Brewery you get a chance to try some delicious Broome dishes while sipping on one of the specialty beers that the region is so famously known for. Award winning varieties that are available here include Smokey Bishop dark lager, Hit The Toad mid-strength, Mango Beer, Pearler's Pale Ale and of course Matso's famous alcoholic Ginger Beer.
Above all of its attractions, Broome is known for its history in the pearling industry. The Japanese Cemetery is almost a tribute to the lives lost in this industry for more than 900 pearl divers are interred at this location alone. It was a great risk pearl diving in Broome and most men actually lost their lives in the process. Their contribution is the stuff of legend and always poignant to learn of. The Japanese Cemetery also has a characteristic appearance with smaller colourful beach rock headstones that beautify and stand in testament to the town's history.
Owed to its rich pearling history Broome still happens to be one of the best places in Australia to shop for pearls. Broome pearls are excellent in quality and make for a classic souvenir that you can don on yourself forever. There are several places in the city where one can shop for pearls. In fact many opt to stay at a Broome hotel in close proximity to the city so that they have easy access to pearl stores and shopping in general. From the Oaks Broome for instance the Broome town centre is just 5 minutes away. The best place for pearls however is the Chinatown in Broome. At Pearl Luggers Tour you get a chance to learn a little something about pearling history, watch a demonstration of old diving gear and even sample pearl meat.
