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 ■ Population: 113,955 (including Palmerston)
■Currency: Australian Dollar (100 cents = 1 dollar) AUD1 / SGD 1.26
■ Country and city code: +61, +8
■ Tourist Info: Tourism Top End, Corner of Bennet and Smith Streets, Darwin, NT, 0800, tel: +61 (0)8 8980 6000, email: info@tourismtopend.com.au
FUN FACT
When Darwin was established on 5 February 1869, it had a population of just 135.
25th Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Arts Award (until 26 October, Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Conacher Street, Bullocky Point)
The candidates for the premier Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander awards are always worth a look. The award is prestigious, the winner is often controversial and the exhibition offers a chance to gauge the state of Australian art. Admission is free.
World War II Oil Storage Tunnels (Kitchener Drive, tel: +61 (0)8 8985 6333)
Located beneath cliffs in the city’s Wharf Precinct, this tour is a one-of-a-kind experience. Take a walk under Darwin while getting a glimpse of wartime history. Admission costs AUD5 (SGD6.30) for adults and AUD3 (SGD3.80) for kids.
Hat Station (Shop 11, Anthony Plaza, Smith Street Mall, tel: +61 (0)8 8941 8088) When it gets hot and sunny, head gear is mandatory. Find yours at the Hat Station. They offer hundreds of hats to choose from, along with all manner of sunglasses.
 The Offi ce (Quest Apartments, Cavenagh Street, tel: +61 (0)8 8981 0999)
One of the newest cafes in Darwin, The Offi ce is open from Monday to Friday, from breakfast until 4pm. Bask in its cool urban vibe. The “Open Yiros” (AUD12/ SGD15) are highly recommended. $
EastWest Restaurant (Mantra Pandanas Darwin, 43 Knuckey Street, tel: +61 (0)8 8901 2900)
A big open-concept restaurant that spills out onto the street, EastWest is among Darwin’s most chic eateries. Try the mud crab or the “EastWest Fish” – a mix of Asian and Australian fl avours for AUD45 (SGD57). $$$
Sunset Harbour Cruise (tel: +61 (0)8 8941 4000)
There’s no better way to appreciate Darwin Harbour than from the deck of an old pearling lugger at sunset. There are a number of operators to choose from – the “Anniki” departs daily and costs AUD60 (SGD75.60) per person, which includes the three-hour cruise, champagne and food.
The Cavenagh (12 Cavenagh Street, tel: +61 (0)8 8941 6383)
A bar, a hotel, a cafe and a restaurant, the Cavenagh is popular with both residents and travellers alike. Catering to the younger crowd, this place can get noisy but is always happening.
Mediterranean All Suites (81 Cavenagh Street, tel: +61 (0)8 8981 7771)
* This four-star hotel is within walking distance of the Central Business District, buses and other amenities. The suites are bright and air-conditioned. Room rates start from AUD169 (SGD213). $$
alue Inn (50 Mitchell Street, tel: +61 (0)8 8981 4733) * The rooms are compact, but the inn is centrally located in the Mitchell Street precinct. Room rates start from AUD130.50 (SGD165). $$$
BY KIN LEONG
* FOR EXCLUSIVE DEALS, BOOK HOTELS AT WWW.TIGERAIRWAYS.COM
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