NORTHERN Territory Tourist Commission WA manager Mike Flood says there are countless tourist attractions in and around Darwin for the short-stay corporate holiday.
“Obviously, Kakadu National Park is well known. It has World Heritage status and spectacular ecosystems, not to mention ancient Aboriginal art,” he said.
“Many travellers think a trip to Kakadu will take too long but it can be seen and enjoyed in a day. Two days are better, however.”
Mr Flood said Lischfield National Park is a treat for those who have not seen waterfalls.
“There are many plunge pools and, being spring water fed, they’re there all year round.
“Day trips cruising the Yellow-waters wetlands are easy to organise and you can visit nearby Nourlangie Rock.”
Mr Flood said 80 per cent of Northern Territory tourists self-drive after flying to Darwin, and the roads are designed to accommodate this.
“The best route I can imagine for tourists staying three to four days is from Darwin to Kakadu to Katherine to Darwin again. That’s only about 900 kilometres driving, and the beauty of self-driving is you don’t have to leave on scheduled departure times as you would with an organised tour.”
The main period for NT travel is the dry season from June through to September.
“In Darwin itself, you’ve got the Mindle Beach Markets every Thursday night during the dry season, and the Darwin wharf has a great boardwalk atmosphere and cheap meals.
“The Cullen Bay area is popular for fine dining. Tim’s is very popular with the locals for its seafood buffets and location overlooking Darwin Harbour.
“And for those who like to catch their meal themselves, the end of the wet season during March and April is the best time to catch barramundi. The minimum size here is 55 centimetres so you can expect to fill up your plate.
“If you can’t catch fish here, it’s time to give up!”
Mr Flood said the casino at MGM Grand is two kilometres from the CBD, with Darwin Carlton and Rydges Darwin offering further five star accommodation.
“And there is a plethora of good three and four star accommodation,” he said.
Call 1800 621 336 for information and booking of Northern Territory tours and airfares.
