Darwin

Day 1: When we flew into Darwin, although it was winter, the day was hot and humid. We caught a taxi to Maui to collect the camper van, and – after completing paperwork – we headed to the Casuarina shopping centre to buy supplies, on the way to Lee Point Caravan Park. Once we had been allocated a site, we drove to Mindil Beach to watch the sun set.
We drove to the wharf precinct, and wandered around, but as it was dark we didn’t see much. We passed several restaurants, before deciding on an outdoor table at Wharf One. It was a lovely location to enjoy the balmy evening and reflect on our day over a delicious meal, before returning to Lee Point to sleep.

Day 2: We woke early and it was beautifully cool and fresh. We drove to the bustling Parap Markets to buy something to eat for breakfast, and stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables. As the morning progressed, I struggled to adjust to the tropical heat and humidity – it felt like an effort to do anything.

Myilly Point Historical Precinct contains four well preserved examples of colonial tropical architecture, built in the 1930s for senior public service and military personnel, they survived the bombing of Darwin, during the second world war, and Cyclone Tracy. One of the four, Burnett House, is open to the public. It was cool inside, with a refreshing breeze and view to the water through the shuttered windows in the upstairs rooms.

The Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory was a cool place to spend a few pleasant hours. It was interesting to learn more about Darwin’s history. The animal displays were excellent and helpful for identifying the wildlife outside. We really enjoyed the collection of Aboriginal art. When we left the gallery, we walked across the garden toward the water.

Boats in Fannie Bay, near the Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

At East Point Reserve, we decided to find somewhere shady to park the van and make lunch. We had a picnic on the grass under trees, near the water, and relaxed for the rest of the afternoon.

We had arranged to meet local photographer, Louise Denton, for a low light photography session at Nightcliff Jetty. We had a great time. After a long day, we returned to Lee Point to cook a simple meal and sleep.

Day 3: We woke early, packed up the van, and drove to Nightcliff Markets for breakfast. It was shady, with tables under trees, a friendly relaxed atmosphere, with a musician performing, and a variety of stalls for clothing, crafts, and food. We shared a huge almond and honey buckwheat pancake, and bought amazing ruby grapefruit, pawpaw, and bok choy from two stalls with very friendly women, before we drove south out of Darwin.