According to Lonely Planet, Darwin in Australia's Northern Territory (NT) is 'a mellow, modern metropolis [and] sociable hub where non-Aboriginal meets Aboriginal (Larrakia), urban meets remote, and industry meets idleness.'

More importantly for those planning to visit, the guide points out: 'Darwin’s location on a tropical tip of the country’s north coast means six subtle shifts of season, with a not-so-subtle disparity between the Dry and Wet, which can bring colossal storms'. Indeed! Mention Darwin to anyone with even the slightest knowledge of the city, and the devastation of Cyclone Tracy in 1974 is certain to come up.

All that said, there are plenty more positives. The average temperature year-round is a delicious 30 degrees C (about 86 degrees F) and Darwin has the highest daily average of sunshine (about 8.4 hours) of any Australian capital city. Read that, 8.4 hours each day. That's a megadose of Vitamin D, folks! The Dry season runs from April or May through until October. June and July are the coolest months and, as such, the ideal time to visit; especially for Aussies wishing to kick back, throw on some thongs and escape winter's chill. If that isn't enough, there is a feast of fabulous markets, and perhaps the most spectacular sunsets you will ever see.

'Oh, that's delicious, may I have the recipe please!'. How many times have you begged that question of a friend or family member after enjoying the first bite of a superb-tasting meal, dessert or morning/afternoon tea?