Darwin is Australia’s most unique capital city and gateway to the Northern Outback. Nature is part of Darwin’s backyard with the famous national parks of Kakadu and Litchfield only a few hours’ drive while the unique Tiwi Island is only a boat ride away.
The multicultural city is an exciting blend of markets, museums, nightlife and natural attractions. It is situated beside a harbour bigger than Sydney’s and is a beautiful, fascinating city. Its melting pot of people and cultures reflects a pride shown by the unique and friendly laid back lifestyle. As well as markets, crocodiles and cruises, you’ll find strong Aboriginal cultures here, evident by the array of indigenous languages spoken and the vibrant art that fills the city’s galleries and museums.
The city’s close proximity to Asia has developed a strong Asian influence which is displayed in the food scene and the famous Mindil night markets – well worth a visit to catch the sunset as well as great food.
Darwin’s modern history is accented by struggle and overcoming hardships on its way to establishing itself as the stepping stone to Asia. It was a former frontier outpost, bombed by the Japanese during the Second World War and in 1974 was almost completely wiped out by Cyclone Tracy. Darwin has shown its resilience and today is a modern cosmopolitan city with more than 50 nationalities calling it home.
One of the city’s biggest changes in recent years is the transformation of industrial wasteland into the vibrant Darwin Waterfront precinct. The area includes a convention centre, hotels, restaurants, boardwalks, parklands and a wave lagoon.
Darwin likes to be the unhurried, balmy northern capital but almost in spite of itself, the city is transforming from a quirky tropical backwater into a vibrant metropolis attracting hordes of domestic and international visitors.
