Reader's guide to Darwin

DARWIN is the hottest Australian city in more ways than one, having been named one of Lonely Planet's Top 10 world cities for 2012.

Darwin Escape

DARWIN is the hottest Australian city in more ways than one, basking in the surprise glory of being named one of Lonely Planet's Top 10 world cities for 2012.

Escape readers reveal their world-city travel secrets in this special Doc Holiday guide, compiled by Anthony Dennis

And right now, with the tourist-friendly dry season in full swing, is the perfect time to explore Darwin and its surrounds. 

Photos: Darwin in pictures

See

Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

A great place to see the sunset on Thursdays and Sundays, shop at art and craft stalls and sample a wonderful variety of food from different cultures. Shuttle buses operate from many hotels to the markets.See www.mindil.com.au

- Janet 

-- Litchfield National Park

There's so much to see and do here. Buley Rockhole is a series of rock pools joined by small waterfalls where you can sit in the waterfall and have a natural spa. And some of the rock pools are so deep you can dive into them. Blythe Homestead is a step back in history; and there's The Lost City, with its spectacular rock formations.

See nretas.nt.gov.au

- Karen 

-- Museum and Art Gallery of NT

A good, free museum. The Cyclone Tracey exhibition is well done and there are lots of Aboriginal paintings and great animal displays.

See nt.gov.au/nreta/museums

- Janet 

-- Yellow Water Cruise

A highlight of a trip to Kakadu National Park is a tranquil cruise on Yellow Water. The water and lotus lilies and birdlife are wonderful, the guides informative and, yes, you will also see some crocodiles.

See environment.gov.au/parks/kakadu or gagudju-dreaming.com

- Janet 

-- Aquascene

A memorable time can be spent here feeding bread to many kinds of fish and seeing other marine creatures, such as stingrays, while hearing interesting facts about the fish that frequent the area. Suitable for children, this experience is hands-on and safe. Check the website for fish-feeding times as this depends on the tide.

See aquascene.com.au

- Jenny 

-- Defence of Darwin Experience

The Darwin Military Museum at East Point has a new exhibit called the Defence of Darwin that is worth seeing. We also went to Adelaide River to the World War II cemetery.

See darwinmilitarymuseum.com.au, defenceofdarwin.nt.gov.au or en.travelnt.com

- Lisa 

 Eat

-- Char Restaurant

The outside tables at this restaurant on The Esplanade are in a garden, making it a lovely venue on a warm balmy night. The menu is comprehensive and has two sections: char-grilled meats and seafood. It's a good idea to book.See chardarwin.com.au

- Janet 

- Humpty Doo Tavern

On the Arnhem Highway, this is the place for fantastic food, such as barramundi burgers, and icy cold beer. The tavern, while nothing flash, is clean, with a great menu and impeccable service.

See en.travelnt.com

- Jo 

- Darwin Sailing Club

A nice location overlooking Fannie Bay (especially at sunset) serving great, reasonably priced, good-value food.

See dwnsail.com.au

- Jo-Anne 

- Buzz Cafe

Buzz Cafe is a two-tiered restaurant with decking, which is situated alongside the marina. I had a tasty, well-presented prawn and avocado salad, while my friend had a warm lamb salad. And the chips were some of the best I've eaten. They also serve fabulous mango daiquiris.

See cullenbaymarina.com.au

- Janet 

- Darwin Ski Club

A great, casual and quintessential Darwin place to watch the sunset over Fannie Bay. There's an outdoor bar and a lunch and dinner menu, and music on the weekends.

See darwinskiclub.com.au

- Lisa

- Fannie Bay Super Pizza

A great way to finish off a day of sightseeing is to grab the best pizza you are ever likely to come across, then head to nearby East Point Rd and pick out a spot by the beach and watch a brilliant Darwin sunset.

- Petra 

Stay 

- Mantra Pandanas

We had a two-bedroom apartment, which was comfortable and well appointed. Next time we'll try the Mantra Esplanade on the waterfront.

See mantra.com.au

- Janet 

- Holiday Inn Esplanade

There's a fabulous 24m outdoor pool, an outdoor bar and eating area, gym and a full buffet breakfast at Sirocco Restaurant, along with comfortable rooms. The hotel is on The Esplanade and close to Mitchell St, Darwin's main street. Front desk and restaurant staff are helpful and courteous.

See holidayinn.com

- Jackie 

- Aurora Kakadu Lodge & Caravan Park

At Jabiru, close to Kakadu National Park, there are all types of accommodation at this resort. We had our own caravan. The park is centred around a pool and bar/restaurant area.

See auroraresorts.com.au

- Karen 

 Tips 

- Bombing of Darwin

There are lots of books about the bombing of Darwin. One I particularly enjoyed was Peter Grose's An Awkward Truth: The Bombing of Darwin February 1942. It made the history of Darwin come alive on our visit there.

- Lisa 

- Footy

If you go to see an Australian rules football match, the bus out to TIO Stadium at Mararra is free. Just ask your hotel where it stops.

See aflnt.com.au

- Janet 

- Darwin Sailing Cinema

There's a sunset cruise where they show a movie on an outdoor screen attached to the mast. A glass of champagne is complimentary and you can buy drinks and nibbles on board. You can bring your own picnic. Big comfy seats and friendly hosts made this sunset cruise a winner.

See darwinsailingcinema.com.au

- Lisa 

- Darwin Waterfront

The wave pool is great for families. The entrance fees are reasonable and it's suitable for all ages.

See waterfront.nt.gov.au

- Janet 

- Jumping Crocodile Cruise

In addition to crocs, they also feed an eagle and other birds,.

See jumpingcrocodile.com.au

- Jo-Anne