Darwin Convention Centre

Unless you have been to Darwin recently, the Convention Centre will be a new surprise. Just walk out onto the Darwin Wharf (everyone does) and look back towards the city. The Convention Centre is famous for hosting Darwin's International indoor rodeo inside – the RSPCA insisted that the bulls would get too hot and sweaty if they ran around outside!

What does the Darwin "waterfront precinct" look like now? Actually, it looks sensational. In August, the frangipani is in bloom, there is a wave lagoon operating (big, with complimentary flotation devices), there is a children's adventure paddling pool and there is an ocean swimming lagoon (safe and unaffected by Darwin's 7m tidal movement). Sunshine, a temperature of 34°C, lifeguards and costume-clad people sitting in blow-up tubes floating on the water – just perfect!

Darwin

Darwin definitely has its own distinct style – nowhere else in the world will you find a city quite like it. When you’re in Darwin, you really know you’re in Australia.

The multi-cultural capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, Darwin bursts with markets, festivals, fine blended cuisine and a unique collection of Australian iconic elements.

It’s hot in Darwin. The tropical climate delivers a vast range of weather conditions which dictate the casual, friendly lifestyle. Everyone seems relaxed here and why not? Darwin locals say it’s the best place on earth to live. They love the style and sophistication of the restaurants and bars perched right next to the warm water at the Cullen Bay Marina. In the cool of late afternoons they watch as pleasure seekers board magnificent boats and cruisers and head out into the city’s massive harbour or beyond for a sunset cruise. From the shores around town the setting sun produces some of the most spectacular natural sky shows in the world.

The sunsets are so spectacular; the Mindil Beach Sunset market is a favourite for taking in the impressive sky show. Ask the locals about the stalls selling unique Australian wares and delicious food that could only come from the Territory - they’re all just part of the fun. If the music and entertainment of the market doesn’t get you in, the party atmosphere will and you’ll be best friends with everyone. After your picnic dinner on Mindil Beach invest a few hours at the Deckchair Cinema down at the wharf. You’re sure to find a movie screening to your liking. Continue on to the nightspots and dance and drink in one of many pumping venues right into the small hours. Darwin won’t stop until you do.

Darwin has seen the hardships of Australian history and dedicated museums and brilliantly curated exhibitions let you see it again up close. The ravages of war and devastation caused by weather phenomena are carefully depicted in various venues around town. Must sees include the WW11 Storage Tunnels, the USS Peary Memorial and the Museum & Art Gallery of the NT.

Discover Australia’s rich Aboriginal heritage in Darwin or hire a car and explore for yourself the way it’s reflected in the unique and rugged landscape of nearby Kakadu National Park – a World Heritage-listed environment that overflows with amazement and wonder. Or venture further afield to Litchfield NP or the Tiwi Islands – everything’s big up here.

Darwin and the outlying areas of Australia’s Top End will give you a travel experience of a lifetime and you’ll never forget the feeling of connectedness to the people and the land – an ancient, rugged and beautiful land.