The laid back tropical capital of northern Australia is closer to Jakarta than it is to Sydney, closer to Singapore than it is to Melbourne. This proximity and familiarity with Australia's northern neighbours is reflected in Darwin’s relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere.

More than fifty different cultures live harmoniously in Darwin and each contribute to the city’s character, culinary offerings and colourful markets. Add to this a rich history ( from the traditional aboriginal land holders to the discovery of gold to a major allied military base during World War 2) and a number of spectacular day trip destinations - including the rainforests, termite mounds and cool clear pools of the Litchfield National Park or the spectacular Katherine Gorge – and Darwin is so much more than just a gateway to the Top End.

Remote, pristine and spiritual - Arnhem Land, to the east of Kakadu, is home to the ‘Yolngu’ Aboriginal people who have lived in this region for at least 50,000 years and most of whom continue to practice their traditional customs. Access to this very special part of Australia is restricted by special permit and offers a unique insight into the fascinating Aboriginal culture. Blessed with wild coastlines, white sandy beaches, deserted islands, rivers teeming with fish, lush rainforests, soaring escarpments and savannah woodland, Arnhem land’s natural beauty inspires all who visit – photographers, ornithologists and angling enthusiasts alike.

Rugged escarpments, lush wetlands, plunging gorges and cascading waterfalls exist side by side in an area the size of Wales or the US state of West Virginia. Covering an area more 19,000 sq kms to the south east of Darwin, Kakadu National Park is a natural marvel enjoying the rare distinction of a World Heritage listing for both its natural and cultural importance.

The thundering Jim Jim and Twin Falls waterfalls following the ‘wet’ (Tropical Summer: November to April) will not fail to impress, whilst the shrinking waterholes following the dry season attract a menagerie of bird and animal life. Cruise the ‘Yellow Waters’ to spot some local crocs or fish for barramundi. Join a guided tour of the park’s aboriginal rock art galleries – whose works are estimated to have adorned the rugged cliff faces for more than 50,000 years ! .. and take to the skies for a scenic flight to reveal the full grandeur of this stunning national park.

This North West corner of Australia is a land of rugged hills inscribed with Aboriginal rock art, sprawling grassy plains, majestic boab trees, magnificent gorges and sandstone escarpments which radiate a kaleidoscope of colours at sunrise and sunset.

This awe inspiring landscape is home to a stunning variety of native wildlife including wallabies, dingoes, wild buffalo, crocodiles and countless species of birdlife. The coffee coloured waters of the ‘Vic’ (Victoria River) are a lifeline for vast cattle stations, a guardian of Aboriginal heritage and a mecca for fishing enthusiasts. A visit to one of this breathtaking region’s immense pastoral properties provides a personal introduction to Australia’s indomitable pioneering spirit and the genuine warmth of its people’s hospitality.