Darwin

Both urban and remote, Darwin is located on the tropical tip of Australia’s north coast and tends to pop up only on the more adventurous Australia vacation itinerary. It is a multicultural melting pot, generally friendly and laid-back, with a large natural harbour, best seen from Bicentennial Park which runs the full length of the waterfront. Charles Darwin Park, towering above Darwin with great views of the city, offers another great view.

Vibrant Mitchell Street offers bars, pubs and live music. You can dine al fresco in the Cullen Bay Marina surrounded by luxury homes and sailboats. It's also worth visiting East Point Reserve to see the monsoon vine forest and mangroves. Darwin's connection to nature goes well beyond its name. You can come face to snapping jaws with it at Darwin Crocodile Farm, seeing saltwater and freshwater species.

Three hours away from Darwin is the renowned Kakadu National Park with its wetlands, and multitudinous rock art galleries up to 50,000 years old. These depict animals, hunters and figures of the Aboriginal Dreamtime legend. Thundering waterfalls and escarpments with breathtaking views also define Kakadu, while a boat cruise lets you get close to its wildlife. Close by is Arnhem Land, an isolated reserve surrounded by beautiful beaches and an inviting spot for bird watchers and lovers of flora and fauna.