There’s plenty of optimism about the global tourism industry starting to revive after the difficulties of the past two years. However, it would be naïve to think we’ll be back to anywhere close to normal till late 2022 at the soonest. Still, 2nd US President John Adams said “every problem is an opportunity in disguise” and restrictions on international travel are giving Australians the opportunity to explore new locations within their home country.
The gateway to Kakadu
Nature lovers will be blown away by Kakadu National Park. It’s just a two hour drive from the city and $17 will buy you a two-week pass, so it’s worth stopping there for a few days. There are several hotels within the national park, the most famous of which is the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel. The reason it is so named will be immediately obvious when you see it!
As for the park itself, it shows just how diverse the Australian ecosystem really is. Spectacular waterfalls, lush forests and marshlands teeming with every kind of life – it has to be seen to be appreciated. There’s also plentiful opportunity to check out aboriginal art.
A little slice of Vegas on the Timor Sea
Once you’ve checked the nature and culture boxes, head back into the city to enjoy another fine Australian institution – the pokies! Of course, over the past couple of years, those wanting to place a wager have been more likely to visit cyberspace, where sites like Bitstarz Australia have won plenty of new fans with their immense choice of slots and live games. But in Darwin, there’s the opportunity to do things the old-fashioned way, too, at Mindil Beach Casino Resort.
It’s like a little slice of Las Vegas transported to the Australian coastline. Gamers have more than 600 machines to choose from, and there are all the usual table games like poker, roulette, baccarat and blackjack. As well as the casino, the resort has hotel rooms, luxury suites by the lagoon, and a choice of eating and drinking options, from an informal sports bar to fine dining.
Downtown nightlife
The only trouble with staying at Mindil is that you can find yourself never actually leaving the resort. Again, in these uncertain times, that’s not necessarily a bad thing, but restrictions permitting, it would be a shame to miss the fun that downtown Darwin has to offer on a night out.
There are so many nightclubs, craft breweries and live music venues that it would be unfair to single out individuals. However, as a starting point, you can’t go wrong with an early evening drink at Shenannigans on Mitchell Street. From there, it’s a pleasant stroll down to the waterfront where you’ll really be spoilt for choice.
There’s no better time to discover Darwin – do it now, before everyone gets in on the secret!
