Christine Knight

Christine is the editor of Adventure, Baby!

Top things to do in the “Top End” Northern Territory

June 7, 2022 / Australia, Northern Territory, Travel / 0 comment

Top things to do in the “Top End” Northern Territory

The “Top End” Northern Territory is where the tropics meets the outback. Visit the Northern Territory’s capitol city Darwin, World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, the Katherine region and remote Arnhem Land.

Darwin and Surrounds

We visited the Top End during the pandemic and while we had a great run through the surrounding area, unfortunately the pandemic caught up with us and we spent our scheduled time in Darwin mostly in lockdown. Darwin is a beautiful, coastal city, with stunning street art, fantastic cafes we were thankfully able to try prior to lockdown, and plenty of activities to do in the city and surrounds. There are so many things to do in the Top End Northern Territory, allow a good 10 days or so to see as much as you can.

Mindil Beach Sunset & Markets

Sunsets at the Top End must be experienced over the beach – there are few so famous for their sunsets than Mindil Beach. During the dry season (May-Oct) the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are the place to be on Thursdays and Sundays. Try food from 60 stalls and eat on the beach while watching the sun go down.

Crocosauraus Cove

See crocs up close at Crocosaurus Cove, right in the heart of Darwin. watch crocs being fed, wander through the reptile enclosure, hold a baby croc and other reptiles and, if you’re feeling brave, “swim” with a croc in the “Cage of Death”.

crocosauruscove.com

Darwin Waterfront Precinct

Stroll around the waterfront through the lush parklands overlooking the ocean and Darwin’s most popular attraction, the Wave Lagoon.

The Wave Lagoon at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct includes a huge pool with an artificial swell for riding boogie boards on and shallow water play areas for littlies, too.

The free, patrolled Recreation Lagoon in the same area has a sandy beach and safe swimming in salt water.

Kids can also hand feed fish at Doctors Gully where, at high tide, hundreds of mullet, stingrays, barramundi and plate-shaped moonfish swim in to let tourists feed them bread from their hands.

There are also playgrounds dotted around the water front area that kids will love.

Darwin Street Art

Darwin features a stunning collection of vibrant street art. International, national and local artists have contributed to this open-air gallery adorning the city’s walls.

Download the Darwin Street Art Festival app for insight into the artists and their works and bring the murals to life using augmented reality.

activatedarwin.nt.gov.au/local-favourites/guide-darwins-street-art

Where to stay in Darwin

In Darwin we stayed at the DoubleTree by Hilton. I couldn’t fault the hotel, even when the entire city was placed on lockdown. The included breakfast we experienced prior to lockdown was fantastic.

Kakadu and Surrounds

Spot wildlife, swim in waterfalls and see ancient Aboriginal rock art. There are so many incredible things to do in Kakadu National Park. Three hours’ drive from Darwin, Kakadu is Australia’s biggest national park. Covering nearly 20,000 square kilometres, Kakadu National Park is World Heritage listed for both its cultural and natural values.

Read more about things to see and do in Kakadu National Park.

No trip to the Top End is complete without seeing crocodiles. A highlight of our trip was the Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River, an hour out of Darwin, between Darwin and Kakadu.

Read more about taking a Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise on the Adelaide River.

Katherine and Surrounds

Plan to spend several days at the remarkable Katherine, a big country town located three hours drive south of Darwin on the Katherine River.

Swim in waterfalls, get an authentic Aboriginal experience, relax in hot springs and go underground at Cutta Cutta Caves.

Read about about the best five things to do in Katherine.

Litchfield National Park

Located just 90 minutes from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is the perfect Top End day trip with waterfalls, swimming holes, walking trails and termite mounds to see.

Read more about things to see and do in Litchfield National Park.

Arnhem Land

When we visited the Top End during the pandemic, Arnhem Land was closed to the public. It has since re-opened, and is a place to immerse yourself in an ancient landscape stretching over 97,000 square kilometres, filled with Aboriginal culture, stunning scenery and rare wildlife.

Read more about things to do in Arnhem Land.

Read about more things to do in the Top End.

Read more about visiting Litchfield National Park.

Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs.

Visit Cutta Cutta Caves.

Get information on visiting Maguk Falls.

Visit Jim Jim Falls.

See the Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles.

See some of the world’s oldest rock art at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock.

Stay at the Mercure Crocodile Kakadu Hotel.

Spot wildlife on a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise.

Find things to do in Kakadu National Park.

Take a dip at Edith Falls.

Experience a tranquil Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

Check out things to do in one day at Litchfield National Park.

Find the 5 best things to do in Katherine.

The Five Best Things To Do In Katherine, Northern Territory

May 30, 2022 / Australia, Northern Territory, Travel / 0 comment

The Five Best Things To Do In Katherine, Northern Territory

Plan to spend several days at the remarkable Katherine, a big country town located three hours drive south of Darwin on the Katherine River.

1. Explore the mighty Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

Experience the wonder of Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park with a Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

The tranquil Katherine Gorge Cruise Tours are the perfect way to experience the highlights of Nitmiluk National Park, particularly if you are time pressed or aren’t into long hikes or kayaking. They are especially suitable for families with kids whose legs aren’t up for long walks.

2. Enjoy an authentic cultural experience

Enjoy an authentic Aboriginal experience at Top Didj & Art Gallery in Katherine, NT, including storytelling, spear throwing, fire-lighting and traditional Aboriginal rarrk painting.

The Top Didj Cultural Experience was a highlight of our Top End NT trip. The cultural experience is led by Manuel Pamkal, a traditional indigenous man who grew up in the Top End. Manual very generously shares his experience as a child living On Country and surviving in the bush, giving visitors like us a deeper understanding of Australia’s indigenous communities.

Read more about visiting Top Didj & Art Gallery in Katherine.

3. Go underground at the Cutta Cutta Caves

Discover natural limestone caves at Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park in Katherine, Northern Territory.

The caves, located 27km south of Katherine, were formed millions of years ago. They are easily reached by the Stuart Highway, with the caves themselves a short walk along a dirt path from the visitors centre.

Read more about visiting Cutta Cutta Caves.

4. Relax in the Katherine Hot Springs

Take a dip in the refreshing Katherine Hot Springs, natural thermal springs on the banks of the Katherine River. The spring water is the perfect swimming temperature year-round, a balmy 32 degrees.

Read more about visiting Katherine Hot Springs.

5. Leliyn (Edith Falls)

Swim underneath a picturesque waterfall at Leliyn (Edith Falls) Nitmiluk National Park.

Leliyn (Edith Falls) is located on the western side of Nitmiluk National Park, a 60km drive north of Katherine along the Stuart Highway. It is easiest to access when driving between Kakadu National Park and the town of Katherine as a stop over.

Read more about visiting Leliyn (Edith Falls).

Where to stay

We stayed at Pine Tree Motel, which was reasonably priced and included a hot and cold breakfast. The motel was clean, conveniently located and the staff were friendly and helpful. Facilities at the Pine Tree Motel included a swimming and laundry.

Read more about things to do in Katherine.

Read more about visiting Litchfield National Park.

Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs.

Visit Cutta Cutta Caves.

Get information on visiting Maguk Falls.

Visit Jim Jim Falls.

See the Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles.

See some of the world’s oldest rock art at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock.

Stay at the Mercure Crocodile Kakadu Hotel.

Spot wildlife on a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise.

Find things to do in Kakadu National Park.

Take a dip at Edith Falls.

Experience a tranquil Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

Check out things to do in one day at Litchfield National Park.

Find the 5 best things to do in Katherine.

Top things to do in one day at Litchfield National Park

May 25, 2022 / Australia, Northern Territory, Travel / 0 comment

Top things to do in one day at Litchfield National Park

Located just 90 minutes from Darwin, Litchfield National Park is the perfect Top End day trip with waterfalls, swimming holes, walking trails and termite mounds to see.

While you could easily spend days slowly enjoying the area, if you’re tight on time it is possible to hit up many of the highlights in one day.

Download a full-size version of the map and fact sheet here.

Tips for visiting Litchfield National Park

Ensure your car is full of petrol. There are no petrol stations in the park.

Bring food and water. There are very limited places to buy anything to eat or drink (just one small kiosk)

Bring sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. Even in winter the park is blazing hot.

Magnetic termite mounds

The magnetic termite mounds of Litchfield National Park are up to 100 years old and two metres high.

Wangi Falls

The iconic Wangi Falls feature picturesque walking tracks of varying and stunning waterfalls. Camping is permitted at the falls – facilities include a kiosk, hot showers and barbecues.

Florence Falls

Visit a secluded plunge pool in the middle of a monsoon rainforest at Florence Falls.There are a number of walks around the falls, and Florence Falls is open for swimming for most of the year.

Buley Rockhole

A popular spot with locals and tourists alike, the Buley Rockhole is a series of cascading small swimming holes fed by waterfalls in the middle of a rainforest. Buley Rockhole can get quite busy. Picnic and barbecue facilities are available.

Tolmer Falls

Tolmer Falls is one of the most spectacular falls in Litchfield National Park, cascading over two high escarpments into one deep plunge pool. A short walk from the car park leads to two viewing platforms at the top of the gorge. The 1.6 kilometre Tolmer Falls loop walk takes you to two viewing platforms at the top of the gorge. It’s an easy walk (that is rocky in parts), taking about 45 minutes. Swimming is not permitted.

Sandy Creek Falls (Tjaynera)

Access to Sandy Creek Falls/Tjaynera is limited to 4WD access only, plus a 1.4km trek through the rainforest. Sandy Creek camping ground is available for those wishing to stay the night. Swim only in the areas marked safe to do so.

Lost City

Visit the unique rock formations that make up the Lost City of Litchfield National Park. A 4WD is essential to access the Lost City.

Read more about visiting Litchfield National Park.

Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs.

Visit Cutta Cutta Caves.

Get information on visiting Maguk Falls.

Visit Jim Jim Falls.

See the Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles.

See some of the world’s oldest rock art at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock.

Stay at the Mercure Crocodile Kakadu Hotel.

Spot wildlife on a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise.

Find things to do in Kakadu National Park.

Take a dip at Edith Falls.

Experience a tranquil Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

Easter High Tea and Lunch Celebrations in Sydney

March 31, 2022 / Sydney / 0 comment

Easter High Tea and Lunch Celebrations in Sydney

Easter is the perfect time for gathering with friends and family for a fancy hotel staycation, a luxe high tea or a fabulous brunch. These Sydney hotels are offering plenty of ways to celebrate Easter in style.

Four Seasons Sydney

Easter is a time to connect with family and make ever-lasting memories, and Four Seasons Hotel Sydney provides many family-friendly options – from a decadent chocolate high tea to an in-room experience with a custom tent – creating an egg-cellent Easter tradition.

Family Fun

With the Hotel’s Family Fun package, little ones arrive to a special Aussie-themed gift and welcomed to a room full of surprises – kids will be bouncing with joy!

The Family Fun starts here with:

Welcome gift for kids
Daily breakfast for two adults and two children at MODE Kitchen & Bar
One in-room kids’ movie with movie snacks
50 percent savings on kids’ laundry items
Kid-friendly bath amenities
Themed linen
With stays in a suite: Tent experience

Kids can wake up Easter morning to find the Easter Bunny has not forgotten about kids staying in the Hotel.

Win the Golden Ticket at Mode’s Easter High Tea

Savour a variety of carefully crafted menu that will treat the palate to a truly memorable experience. The three tiers of handcrafted sweets, savouries and scones on the Easter High Tea menu are made 100 percent in-house.

Just for the Easter holidays, kids are invited to take part in decorating their very own chocolate Easter egg, but the sweetest is what’s inside. Pastry Sous Chef Quentin Zerr has created a large chocolate egg that is nestled on top of a fluffy bed of Pariyas Persian fairy floss accompanied by edible chocolate paints for the kids to create a delicious masterpiece. Once it’s painted, they will quickly want to dive inside to see if they’re a golden ticket winner. Two lucky winners will receive an overnight accommodation in the Family Fun package.

Served in the relaxed ambience of Mode Kitchen & Bar, High Tea is available Friday through Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 pm; and the Easter themed high tea is available the weekends of April 8-10 and 15-17, 2022.

Easter at Mode Kitchen & Bar

Executive Restaurant Chef Francesco Mannelli and his talented culinary team have unveiled an extensive menu to appeal to all appetites and preferences with a special set menu dinner on Easter Sunday.

For the set menu, guests will be taken on a culinary journey from the moment they sit down with delectable starters such as Easter duck and pork terrine, quail eggs, pickled baby radish and grilled focaccia to Mode Kitchen & Bar’s favourite wood-roasted zucchini flowers with buffalo ricotta, truffle, fresh peas and sprouts.

For the main course, guests will be impressed by the pan-roasted snapper served with organic spelt, broccoli, cavolo nero and “acqua pazza” or a risotto Acquerello with Parmigiano Reggiano and fresh black truffle.

No meal is complete without the signature frozen Easter pavlova with banana, pineapple, passionfruit and bee pollen – and for those looking for something traditionally Easter, there’s a specially crafted Mode Easter delice with carrot cake, dark chocolate and orange, crafted by French born Pastry Sous Chef Quentin Zerr.

Children Dine Free at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts Asia-Pacific

No matter what package or room rate they book, families will enjoy additional dining perks as part of a regional campaign rolled out across all Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in Asia-Pacific. Valid from April 1 through to August 31, 2022, the extra benefits include:

Free breakfast, lunch and dinner at Mode Kitchen & Bar for children aged six years and under
50 percent off breakfast and kids’ menu pricing for lunch and dinner for children aged seven to 12 years old
Not applicable towards in room dining or high tea.

To make reservations, contact Hello@ModeKitchenanBar.com.au or call the Hotel directly at +61 2 9250 3160.

Four Seasons Sydney
199 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
https://www.fourseasons.com/sydney/offers/

Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park

Fall down the rabbit hole at Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park this Easter with their range of family friendly dining options and activities for a guaranteed memorable celebration. Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park has always been a destination for families and friends to come together over key holidays in Australia and they are getting ready to deliver even more delicious food, drink, creativity, and fun to their popular concepts.

From Thursday 14th April to Sunday 17th April, the hotel will host a delightful weekend of events from Easter-themed high teas in The Gallery to Easter Friday Brunch and Buffet Dinners at the famous Feast Restaurant.

The hotel promises special visits from Mr Rabbit himself set against the backdrop of a spectacular donut wall and a waffle chocolate fountain. The fun doesn’t stop there with egg-citing Easter egg hunts and kids showbag giveaways – all proving that Easter is set to be a whimsical and unforgettable long weekend at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park.

Easter Thursday – 14th April

Seafood Buffet Dinner at Feast Restaurant

Kicking off their Easter celebrations is the best seafood buffet in Sydney, overlooking stunning Hyde Park. Join them for all you can eat fresh seafood and Feast favourites from their signature Feast buffet.

The Seafood Buffet Dinner is available from 5:30p.m. to 8:30p.m. and is priced at $99 per adult and $49.50 per child (11-12 years old). Kids under 11 eat free.

Easter Friday – 15th April

Rabbit Hole Afternoon High Tea at The Gallery

The magic of Easter comes alive with the Rabbit Hole Afternoon High Tea at The Gallery, the best high tea experience in the heart of Sydney’s CBD. Guests can expect a rabbit warren of sweet and savoury treats along with a visit by Mr Rabbit, who will be bringing an Easter gift and colouring-in activities for the little bunnies to enjoy. For the big bunnies, included is a glass of sparkling on arrival.

The Rabbit Hole Afternoon High Tea is available from 12:00pm – 2:30pm and 3:00pm – 5:30pm. It is priced at $99 per person.

Easter Friday Brunch and Dinner

There is something for everyone at Feast Restaurant this Easter. For brunch, kids will be dazzled by a world of sweet treats with hot cross buns and activities including a visit by Mr Rabbit, a themed photo booth, show bag giveaways and an interactive donut wall and waffle chocolate fountain. Meanwhile, adults can enjoy the hotel’s famous seafood buffet dinner with an extended seafood offering.

For those who want to head outside and take in the beautiful surrounds of leafy Hyde Park, the hotel is bringing back their Feast’s Famous Fresh Seafood Takeaway Box which includes jonah crab claw, champagne lobster, balmain bugs and more.

The Easter Friday Bunch is available from 11:30am – 2:30pm at $119 per adult and $59.50 per child (11-12 years old). Kids under 11 eat free.

The Seafood Buffet Dinner is available from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and is priced at $119 per adult.

The Feasts Famous Fresh Seafood Takeaway box is priced at $320. It includes blue swimmer crab, balmain bugs, Sydney rock oysters, jonah crab claw, champagne lobster, mignonette dressing, smoked salmon, cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges. Pre-orders are required by 13 April 2022 with limited numbers available.

Easter Saturday – 16th April

Gallery Easter Family High Tea

A morning of indulgence awaits with the Easter Family High Tea at The Gallery. On Easter Saturday, the family can enjoy a themed high-tea buffet with hot cross buns, a chocolate fountain, an Easter gift for the kids, colouring-in activities, and a visit from Mr Rabbit.
For the adults, bottomless prosecco can be enjoyed as part of the 1.5-hour experience.

The Gallery Easter Family High Tea is priced at $99 per adult and $49 for children (ages 5 – 11years)

Feast Lunch & Dinner Buffet

On Saturday, guests can enjoy Feast’s famous lunch and dinner buffet and elevated seafood offerings which includes blue swimmer crab, balmain bugs and more.

Feast Seafood Buffet is available from 11:30am – 2:30pm and 5:30pm – 8:30pm.

It is priced at $129 per adult and $64.50 per child (11-12 years old). Kids under 11 eat free.

Easter Sunday – 17th April

Gallery Easter Family High Tea

A morning of indulgence awaits with the Easter Family High Tea at Gallery. On Easter Sunday, families can enjoy a themed high-tea buffet with hot cross buns, a chocolate fountain, an Easter gift for the kids, colouring-in activities, and a visit from Mr Rabbit. There will even be a themed photo booth where kids can take photos with and pet Hephner the Alpaca. For the adults, bottomless prosecco can be enjoyed.

The Gallery Easter Family High Tea is priced at $99 per person. The High Tea is also available for takeaway by pick-up only and can be enjoyed in the beautiful Hyde Park or at home.

Feast Easter Sunday Brunch

Join Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park on Sunday for the main event – a festive brunch buffet with classic Easter highlights including a traditional Easter roast, antipasto, a decadent Easter dessert and a glass of sparkling for the adults.

Kids will be entertained with a host of fun activities, including a dedicated kids chill out movie room, colouring, face painting, egg painting, an Easter egg hunt and show bag giveaways.

Feast Easter Sunday Brunch is available from 11:30am and is priced at $129 per adult and $64.50 per child (11-12 years old). Kids under 11 eat free.

Room Service Amenities

For families staying in the hotel over the Easter Long Weekend, kids Easter amenities will be included in the room including a colouring book and egg bags.

Sheraton Grande Hyde Park Sydney
161 Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000
marriott.com

Sydney Harbour Marriott’s Easter Extravaganza

Inaugural Easter Egg Hunt – On Saturday 16 April, join Sydney Harbour Marriott’s inaugural Easter Egg Hunt. From lobby lounges, the library, dining areas and across all parts of the ground floor and other hidden areas, kids are invited to explore and find eggs for their chance to win a mystery prize, along with the bragging rights as Sydney Harbour Marriott’s first ever Easter Egg Hunt winner.

Kids activity corner –Kids will also be able to come along to an Easter Activity Corner on Easer Saturday. From Easter bunny origami, Easter colouring books and an egg painting station, there’s something very egg-citing for everyone this long weekend.

Silvester’s Easter Brunch– On Easter Sunday, Silvester’s will transform into an Easter extravaganza featuring speciality easter treats including Easter donuts, ultimate sticky buns, an interactive pancake and waffle station, a mini chocolate Easter egg stall and a chocolate fountain – the whole family is sure to indulge.

Weekend toys galore – All weekend long, guests can enjoy exciting games, toys and activities across the hotel meaning there will never be a dull moment. From giant games on the play terrace to fun pool toys, in-room puzzles and play tents, Easter kids chocolate amenities – there’s something for everyone at Sydney Harbour Marriott.

Family-friendly rooms: Sydney Harbour Marriott features some of the city’s most interconnecting rooms and two-bedroom suites, with Opera House and Bridge Views, ensuring space, privacy, and a “wow” factor for both parents and the little ones. Several select enhancements are available including in-room tepees or giant cubby houses, complete with a “Hot Shoppe Cafe” setup, so they can let their imaginations run wild as they play shop.

At the heart of family attractions: Families can also enjoy all that Sydney has to offer with the kids’ M Passport Kids Attraction Guide to all things fun and family friendly nearby. Animal lovers can visit Taronga Zoo, catch the ferry to Darling Harbour and visit SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium or WILDLIFE Sydney Zoo, or enjoy a ride across the harbour to iconic Luna Park.

Sydney Harbour Marriott at Circular Quay
30 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000
Sydneyharbourmarriott.com

Sir Stamford Easter Sunday Mad Hatters High Tea

On Easter Sunday you are invited a Bonkers and Brilliant Mad Hatter’s High Tea buffet at Sir Stamford at Circular Quay hotel!

Enjoy a decadently delicious adventure down the rabbit hole as their utterly mad Easter celebrations transform the hotel into a wonky world of wonderful sweets and treats.

Sip chilled bubbles or your favourite fine tea while enjoying the scrumptious delights from wonderland.

You would be Mad not to attend!

Sunday 17th April 2022 from 11.30am, $119 pp

NSW Dine & Discover vouchers may be used for this event.

Easter Sunday Mad Hatter’s High Tea Menu

Cold Selection

‘The French Quarter’ Cucumber, Cocktail Prawn & Potato Salad en Croute
Tweedle Dee’s Bruschetta: Pastrami & Dijon Mustard, Green Bean Bouquet
Tweedle Dum’s BBQ Chicken & Chive, Cheese Charcoal Mini Brioche
The March Hare’s Roasted Cherry Tomato , Bocconcini & Pesto Tartlet

Hot Selection

Wonderland’s Signature Curry Puff
The Mock Turtle’s Beetroot, Goat Cheese & Chive Arancini
Alice’s Magical Mushrooms
The Caterpillar’s Duck Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls

Sweets

Cheshire Cat’s Mysterious Strawberry Rhubarb Coconut Sago Bowl
The White Queens’s Scones with Crème Fraîche and Jam
The Queen of Hearts Strawberry Mousse
“Eat Me” Macarons
Topsy Turvy Mango Coconut Tartelette
The Mad Hatter’s Sweet Unbirthday Cupcakes
The Duchess’ Pistachio White Chocolate
The Queens’ Coffee Praline Crunch
“Drink Me” Mango Shots

Menu correct at time of publishing and but may be subject to change.
Special dietary requests are welcomed – please indicate requirements when booking

Sir Stamford at Circular Quay
93 Macquarie Street Sydney 2000 NSW Australia
https://www.stamford.com.au/hotels/stamford-circular-quay-hotel/events/mad-hatters-high-tea-sydney

Top Didj Cultural Experience & Art Gallery

March 16, 2022 / Australia, Northern Territory, Travel / 0 comment

Top Didj Cultural Experience & Art Gallery

Enjoy an authentic Aboriginal experience at Top Didj & Art Gallery in Katherine, NT, including storytelling, spear throwing, fire-lighting and traditional Aboriginal rarrk painting.

There are plenty of hands-on activities to enjoy as part of the cultural experience, making it a fantastic place to bring kids to learn about Aboriginal culture.

After listening to Manuel play a tune on his didgeridoo and telling stories of growing up in the bush the traditional way, he taught us to paint our own aboriginal rarrk painting using a special reed brush called a Jalk, as well as demonstrating and showing volunteers how to light a fire using two sticks and how to throw a spear using a woomera.

We also enjoyed meeting a wallaby who was living at the wildlife rescue located on site, and bought some stunning artwork created by local indigenous artists.

Top Didj Cultural Experience sessions run twice daily, seven days a week, from May to October. The tour lasts for 2.5 hours and is located a very short drive out of the centre of Katherine.

Get more information on Top Didji Cultural Experience and Art Gallery here and here.

Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs.

Visit Cutta Cutta Caves.

Get information on visiting Maguk Falls.

Visit Jim Jim Falls.

See the Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles.

See some of the world’s oldest rock art at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock.

Stay at the Mercure Crocodile Kakadu Hotel.

Spot wildlife on a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise.

Find things to do in Kakadu National Park.

Take a dip at Edith Falls.

Experience a tranquil Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

Katherine Gorge Cruise Tours Nitmiluk National Park

March 16, 2022 / Australia, Northern Territory / 0 comment

Katherine Gorge Cruise Tours Nitmiluk National Park

Experience the wonder of Katherine Gorge in Nitmiluk National Park with a Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour.

Nitmiluk National Park is located 30 kilometres north-east of Katherine. It includes 13 impressive gorges carved from ancient sandstone. Viewing the gorge from the Katherine Gorge Cruise Tours is a spectacular way to view the dramatic cliffs and also to learn about the history of the Park and local indigenous people from the knowledgeable tour guides.

Half-day, full-day, overnight and sunset trips are available, however the most popular tour is the NitNit Dreaming Two Gorge Tour, which run for two hours multiple times a day, year-round.

The tour comprises of two boat tours with a walking transfer in between the gorges. The walk between the first and second gorge is a man made uneven path approximately 400m in length. There are about 70 stairs on the path in total and those sections all have handrails. Closed in non-slip shoes are recommended.

The first two gorges are the longest ones in the 13 gorge system. Our fantastic guide shared information about plants, animals, dreamtime stories and culture throughout the tour.

We took the Katherine Gorge Cruise Tour in July, and even in winter it was extremely hot. We highly recommend doing doing an early or late tour to avoid the heat, and taking a hat, sunscreen, protective clothing, insect repellent and plenty of snacks with you.

There is drinking water and toilets located on board the boats.

After finishing the tour, I highly recommend the short but extremely steep Baruwei Lookout
Walk. The views from the lookout of Katherine Gorge and 17 Mile Valley are spectacular.

The walk is 1.8 km return from the visitors centre, however the jetty for the Katherine Gorge Cruise Tours is located along the path, so the distance from the jetty to the lookout is shorter. Allow around 1 hour to complete the walk, which is graded 3 – moderate.

Get more information on Nitmiluk National Park and Katherine Gorge Cruise Tours.

Take a dip in Katherine Hot Springs.

Visit Cutta Cutta Caves.

Get information on visiting Maguk Falls.

Visit Jim Jim Falls.

See the Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles.

See some of the world’s oldest rock art at Burrungkuy (Nourlangie) Rock.

Stay at the Mercure Crocodile Kakadu Hotel.

Spot wildlife on a Yellow Water Billabong Cruise.

Find things to do in Kakadu National Park.

Take a dip at Edith Falls.

Treetops Adventure St Ives

February 22, 2022 / Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Treetops Adventure St Ives

Soar to new heights on the rope courses and ziplines at Treetops Adventure St Ives, located at the St Ives Showground on the southern border of Ku-ring-gai National Park, Sydney.

The newest in the Treetops Adventure parks, St Ives Tree Ropes Course Park boasts 95+ aerial obstacles and 10+ ziplines which can be experienced on their 8 tree ropes courses. Courses start at 1m for the littlest climbers, up to 15 metres for older kids and adults.

Each climbing session at Treetops Adventure St Ives goes for 2.5 hours, which includes gearing up and a safety talk.

The climbing sessions run somewhat differently now at all of the Treetops Adventures parks, regarding children who can climb alone and those who need an adult to climb with them as a course supervisor.

Tickets are required for grown-ups who will be climbing as course supervisors. Tickets are not required for ground supervisors. See below for details on the age groups, courses and adult supervision required.

Juniors (3-7)
No Grown-Up access on Junior & Junior Pro courses
1 Adult : 4 Juniors
Ground supervision only

Child (8-12 yrs)
1 Adult : 4 Children
Course supervision required

Child (13-17 yrs)
1 Adult : 15 Children
Ground supervision only

Courses available for each age group

JUNIOR
3-7 YRS
2 courses

BEGINNER
8+ YRS
2 courses

INTERMEDIATE
8+ YRS
2 courses

ADVANCED
10+ YRS
1 course

EXPERT
13+ YRS
1 course

What to wear

Secure, enclosed shoes (such as sneakers) are required. Treetops recommends wearing appropriate clothing, suitable for both the harness and physical activity. They do not recommend crop-tops, shorts and skirts that can ride up when worn with the harness. Long hair must be tied back. Gloves are provided but you’re welcome to bring your own gloves or purchase your own pair at check-in.

KidZip sessions are available if you would prefer any kids aged 8-12 to climb without a supervising adult from your own party. In the KidZip sessions, a group of 20 or so climbers are taken through the various courses with a Treetops Adventure staff member.

While the KidZip option is an excellent one if you prefer not to climb yourself, be aware that the group is large (20+ climbers) and moves extremely slowly with only one staff member supervising. In our sessions, the kids only completed three ropes courses in the two hour period and spent a lot of the time waiting for the rest of the group to catch up. I would certainly advise the better option to get better value and more exercise would be to climb as a group with your own supervising adult.

There are drinks, ice blocks and snacks available at the check in / booking desk, however there is no cafe at the facility or nearby. There are plenty of picnic tables to bring your own food however.

Before or after the climb, check out the excellent St Ives Showground Playground.

There is plenty of parking available – drive all the way to the Treetops Adventure through the St Ives Showground.

Treetops Adventure St Ives
450 Mona Vale Rd, St Ives
Hours: School Term Mon-Fr, 10am-5pm, Sat & Sun, 9am-5pm
School & Public Holidays Mon-Sun, 9am-5pm
Closed Christmas Day & New Years Day
0434 377 865
stives@treetopsadventure.com.au
treetopsadventure.com.au/location/st-ives

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Hotel Review: Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa

February 8, 2022 / Australia, Blue Mountains, Katoomba, NSW, Travel / 0 comment

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa

Escape to the luxurious Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort and Spa for a weekend of pampering, delicious food and relaxation.

Just 90 minutes’ drive from Sydney CBD, Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa the perfect place to unwind and relax, in the heart of the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains National Park.

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa offers 89 spacious guestrooms and suites, each room featuring elegant décor with Wedgwood wallpaper themed in pink, green or lilac, high speed Wi-Fi access and LCD TV and DVD player.

We chose a deluxe twin room which include two queen size beds. Each deluxe twin room also features a spacious marbled bathroom with full sized bath and separate walk-in shower, individually controlled air conditioning, iPod docking unit, ergonomic work space, laptop-sized safe, mini bar, tea and coffee making facilities, 24 hour room service, ironing facilities, hairdryer, APPELLES bathroom amenities and dry cleaning service.

Check in time is from 3pm and check-out time is 11am.

We ordered room service. The door came quickly and was fresh and hot.

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa has fantastic facilities available to guests, including a spa, tennis court, reading room, games, room, 13m outdoor infinity pool and 10m indoor pool. Both pools are heated year ’round. There is also complimentary mountain bike hire available.

The gardens are also stunning.

There are several dining options at the hotel: the award-winning hatted Darley’s restaurant, a more casual lunch and menu and high tea service in The Lounge, and Orangery Restaurant, which is where daily breakfast is served.

You can read about our previous high tea experience here. Lilianfel’s has one of the best high teas we have ever experienced.

The Lounge is beautiful, bright space filled with comfortable lounge chairs.

Our package included a delicious breakfast at Orangery Restaurant. Choose from a continental buffet of cereals, pastries, breads, fruit and yoghurt, plus a selection from the hot menu.

Complimentary parking is available onsite located opposite the front of the main hotel building or Darley’s Restaurant. There is also undercover parking available underneath the main building.

Lilianfels Blue Mountains Resort & Spa
5/19 Lilianfels Ave
Katoomba, NSW
lilianfels.com.au

Find things to do in the Blue Mountains here.

Boongaree Nature Play Park, Berry Playground

February 4, 2022 / Australia, Berry, NSW, South Coast, Travel / 0 comment

Boongaree Nature Play Park, Berry Playground

Boongaree Nature Play Park is located in the town of Berry on the NSW south coast. The first stage of the playground opened in January 2022.

On the outskirts of the beautiful country town of Berry lies a fantastic new regional playground, Boongaree Nature Play Park.

The Nature Play Park has seperate play areas for younger and older kids. Equipment includes a dual, accessible flying fox, sensory play area, swings, slides, climbing nets and exercise equipment.

The giant hamster wheel was a huge hit with kids of all ages.

There is a large grassed area for picnics, BBQs, covered picnic tables and amenities with lift and change facilities.

An accessible play area is located at the front of the Berry playground, including a ground-level carousel and accessible swings.

There is also a water and sand play area with pumps located at the front of the Berry playground.

Bring bikes and scooters to try the new skate paths with traffic signs.

A skate bowl is located towards the back of the playground, which looks to be scheduled for replacement with a newer skate park in the next phase of the playground, due to start 2022 quarter two. A fenced dog park is also planned.

Find more things to do in Berry.

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Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

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Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Visit the most beautiful Sydney gardens.

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Neighbourhood Earth: Exploring Our Solar System

December 12, 2021 / Indoor Play, Museums, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Neighbourhood Earth: Exploring Our Solar System

Experience space in an immersive, interactive exhibition that combines cutting edge technology and science to tell the story of space exploration with Neighbourhood Earth.

Developed in conjunction with the U.S. Space & Rocket Center and NASA’s George C. Marshall, Neighbourhood Earth is an award winning exploration of space, transporting audiences across the galaxy through a multi-sensory cinematic environment.

From the impressive entrance featuring a detailed scale model of the Earth suspended from the ceiling, set against videos of stars, galaxies and clouds of nebulae on the screens behind it, to the final room filled with hands-on activities kids and space enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy, Neighbourhood Earth is an educational, interactive and immersive look at our solar system.

Neighbourhood Earth showcases rare space artefacts and scale models of some of the most important equipment in the history of space exploration,, including the Hubble Telescope and Ingenuity; the small helicopter which, earlier this year, became the first craft to make a controlled flight on another planet when it completed several short journeys on the surface of Mars.

A fascinating part of the exhibition is the showcase inventions used in every day life like scratch-resistant lenses, dustbusters and ear thermometers, all developed with life on the International Space Station in mind.

Visitors can also get a taste of life on the International Space Station, walking through a replica cross-section complete with a porthole designed to help them imagine they are in space, orbiting the Earth.

The hands-on elements make Neighbourhood Earth particularly family-friendly, with a great range of fun activities to try such as keeping a satellite in orbit, building and shooting a rocket and designing your own space creation and seeing it come to life on a screen in front of you.

The exhibition is currently on display at Sydney’s ICC in Darling Harbour. It is suitable for children (kids ages 2 and under are free), and there is ample space for strollers and wheelchairs (read an accessible review here).