Keep Dreaming of Sacred Tales and Ancient Trails
The world needs us to stay in right now, so instead of boarding your next plane, join us as we continue dreaming about our next holiday.
Today we visit the Northern Territory - the pathway to Aboriginal culture and exploring the Australian landscape. Join us as we delve into this authentic and charming part of Australia.
Where to Stay
A distinct and spiritual experience awaits you at Longitude 131°. Camping doesn't come more glamorous, nor the view more spectacular than staying in one of the 16 luxury pavilions with views overlooking Uluru. One of the famed Luxury Lodges of Australia, you’ll awake to a private view of the warm rays of the sun rising over majestic Uluru and in the evening enjoy undisturbed star-gazing in the wilderness.
Pavilion at Longitude 131°
![Pavilion at Longitude 131° Pavilion at Longitude 131°](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/Longitude%20131-pavilion.jpg)
Cicada Lodge offers a private sanctuary in Nitmiluk National Park. Admire and embrace the wonders of the Top End in a style that evokes quality and care. Explore experiences very few have the chance to embrace; from touring the dramatic landscape of the Katherine Gorge, to relaxing on your private balcony enjoying the sights and sounds of the native bush.
Native bush surrounding Cicada Lodge
![Native bush surrounding Cicada Lodge Native bush surrounding Cicada Lodge](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/cicada_72_6876.jpg)
Bamurru Plains is an exclusive safari lodge, located on the coastal floodplains of the Mary River and offers guests exposure to one of most significant ecosystems in Australia. The design of the 10 safari bungalows allows you the unique opportunity to watch the parade of wildlife emerge to feed on the floodplain from the comfort of your bed. Other activities include airboat safaris spotting crocodiles, bird watching and guided wilderness walks.
Kingfisher Suite at Bamurru Plains | Photographer: Shaana McNaught
![Kingfisher Suite at Bamurru Plains | Photographer: Shaana McNaught Kingfisher Suite at Bamurru Plains | Photographer: Shaana McNaught](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/Kingfisher-Suite-Shaana-McNaught%20%281%29.jpg)
In the heart of Australia's Red Centre, Voyages Sails in the Desert hotel beautifully contrasts Uluru's raw natural beauty with a decidedly luxurious outback holiday experience. In a destination where one of the world’s oldest cultures still thrives, the mystery, colour and wisdom of the local Anangu people is interwoven into every facet of the resort’s modern design.
Voyages Sails in the Desert hotel
![Voyages Sails in the Desert hotel Voyages Sails in the Desert hotel](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/SID_PTY_Exterior_ABruzzone_H14.jpg)
Where to Dine
Tali Wiru meaning 'beautiful dune' in local Anangu language, is an intimate open-air restaurant with magnificent views of Uluru. The contrast between the spectacular natural setting and the world-class gastronomic adventure on your plate is simply awe-inspiring. Seating only 10 couples, enjoy an exquisite four-course dinner with each dish paired with premium Australian wine.
Dining at Tali Wiru
![Dining at Tali Wiru Dining at Tali Wiru](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/UKTNP_DIN_TW_ASmart_08%20%28Wagyu%20Beef%20Fillet%29.jpg)
Nowhere serves up the wild tastes of the Top End in finer style than Pee Wee’s at the Point in Darwin. The menu here includes local wild caught saltwater Barramundi, kangaroo, buffalo cheese, crocodile and the list goes on. Don’t worry, there are plenty of less adventurous options. The al fresco setting overlooking Fannie Bay is truly sublime.
Image Courtesy of @girlfriday.events
![Image Courtesy of @girlfriday.events Image Courtesy of @girlfriday.events](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/42161351_505386776603233_4617039648812116302_n%20%281%29.jpg)
The Mindil Beach Sunset Market is the heart of Darwin's cultural melting pot. You can taste local delicacies such as Barramundi, Kangaroo and Crocodile or indulge in international cuisines from all around the world. Better still, satisfy your taste buds while watching a spectacular tropical sunset
Picnic watching the sunset at The Mindil Beach Sunset Market
![Picnic watching the sunset at The Mindil Beach Sunset Market Picnic watching the sunset at The Mindil Beach Sunset Market](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/Sunset%20Strip%202019%20-%20KpKp%20Creative.jpg)
A table for two in the outback wilderness awaits you in Kings Canyon. Dining Under a Desert Moon is a mystical and magical experience. Dine in a hidden location where your table is set up under a canopy of stars in the great Southern sky. A fire flickers as you are served a five course dinner created from seasonal, locally sourced produce with paired wines. Some produce and native herbs you may be familiar with and others may surprise and delight.
Canapes and champagne at Under a Desert Moon
![Canapes and champagne at Under a Desert Moon Canapes and champagne at Under a Desert Moon](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/Under-a-Desert-Moon-Appetisers.jpeg)
What to Experience
Visit the UNESCO listed Kakadu National Park by plane, the only way to experience the true beauty, scale and diverse landscapes of Kakadu. Enjoy Aerial sightseeing of vast rock formations, coastal mangroves and grand escarpments before arriving at the picturesque Jim Jim and Twin waterfalls.
Scenic flight around Kakadu National Park | Credit: Tourism NT/Daniel Tran
![Scenic flight around Kakadu National Park | Credit: Tourism NT/Daniel Tran Scenic flight around Kakadu National Park | Credit: Tourism NT/Daniel Tran](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/130488-56_CREDIT%20Tourism%20NT-Daniel%20Tran_DIGI%20USE%20ONLY%20%281%29.jpg)
The Kings Canyon Rim Walk is a 6km circuit transcending down into the Garden of Eden and back to the top to wonder at the 360° views. The best time to take on this hiking experience is during sunrise as the sun slowly reflects onto the sandstone turning the landscape into a stunning array of oranges and reds.
Breathtaking scenery from Kings Canyon
![Breathtaking scenery from Kings Canyon Breathtaking scenery from Kings Canyon](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/Kings%2BCanyon%2BRim%2BWalk.jpg)
Walk through Field of Light after sunset, passing thousands of glowing coloured spheres. Covering more than seven football fields, it invites immersion in its fantasy garden of 50,000 spindles of light. Artist Bruce Munro’s creation was originally for a limited time, but has proven to be so popular that it is now a mainstay for the region.
Field of Lights encompassing 50,000 spindles of light
Shopping for pearl bling has always been a popular tourist pastime in Darwin. Commercial pearling here dates back to the late 1800s, but by the middle of the 20th century, overfishing had led to a steep decline in natural production. Today cultured pearls are the name of the game and The Pearl Galleria on the waterfront offers a complimentary pearl appreciation class every Wednesday morning at 11. Travel Associates recommends calling ahead to reserve your spot.
Complimentary Pearl Appreciation Class, Darwin
![Complimentary Pearl Appreciation Class, Darwin Complimentary Pearl Appreciation Class, Darwin](https://www.travelassociates.com/sites/v2.travel-associates.com.au/files/NT_Blog_Pearl_800px.jpg)