Darwin

Never trust estate agents or YHA descriptions of themselves! Well, Darwin YHA not quite as expected, however 5 room mates were all nice. Everyone very respectful of each other, and friendly. 2 said worst hostel they had experienced, but not so bad I felt I had to leave. Told that kitchen was not very clean - saved from even pretending I'd try my hand at cooking! First night, went to the Deckchair Cinema. Fab experience - sitting outside watching the film, with hot food and drinks being served. Sorted. Out for 6.50 next morning to spend 5 hours on birdwatching tour. Marvellous. Got me to part of countryside I wouldn't have been able to access, saw lots of lovely birds, and best of all spotted my first ever kingfisher. Magic. Half way through morning, guide set out table, folding stools, wet facecloths, napkins, banana loaf and variety of hot and cold drinks available. Very civilised, and much appreciated in the 30 degree heat. In the monsoon rainforest, we saw among others, Rainbow Pitta, kites, rose-crowned fruit-dove. In the afternoon, off to the market at Mindil Beach, with every conceivable stall, and many varieties of foodstuffs from many countries. The great attraction is to watch the sunset from the beach, which is at 6.30 then have your meal. People flock to the beach at 6.25 from nowhere! Next day, 7am-7.30pm visit to a Nationla Park, Litchfield. Superb day, viewing crocs in the river first, from a boat; stopping at Humpty Doo for our morning tea; swimming or lazing in the pools at the bottom of waterfalls; viewing massive termite mounds; walk through monsoon forest where spiders and LARGE bats could be viewed. Sadly, camera slipped from my hands. Mix of hands moist from heat and suncream. Ended our day back at Mindil Beach for fresh prawns and champagne. It's hell, I tell you. Got some good tips from young Irish couple re good places to visit east coast Aus, and in NZ (and where NOT to go). Also, a girl from England endorsed the bus company I'm using to tour NZ. Last day in Darwin (all on tour complained about their accommodation!) and went to art gallery/museum. Off to Bali.