Tootling around the Top End

Earlier this month my partner and I visited Australia's Northern Territory for the first time. We'd already explored the six states and one other territory, but neither of us had been to the 'Top End' before. We spent three nights in Darwin before catching the fabulous Ghan to Adelaide. It was delightful, if a little weird, to visit tropical Darwin in the middle of the Canberra winter!

While in Darwin, we took a bus tour to learn more about the city's experiences in World War II, ate at plenty of local eateries, and wandered around on foot.

Tropical vegetation at Government House

Spotted at Java Spice Cafe (where the coffee and cakes were yummy)

We ate Sri Lankan curries on Mindil Beach and watched the sunset

The trip on the Ghan was good fun and included tours at Katherine and Alice Springs.

Nitmiluk Gorge cruise (near Katherine)

My bed on board the train

Sunrise seen through a train window

Panoramic shot of Alice Springs from the top of a hill (click to enlarge)

We also enjoyed the food on the Ghan! This included ...

Wild peach and vanilla parfait

Tasmanian corn bread with smoked salmon

... and many more delicious offerings. Well worth a visit ... especially during a chilly Canberra winter.