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INTRO
THINGS TO DO
TOP FESTIVALS
TOP MUSEUMS
FOOD & DRINKS
A journey into the rugged lands of central Australia is not taken by every traveller. It’s not on the famed East Coast surf trail. It’s not an easy 3 hour hop from Asia. And it doesn’t have the omissible art and culinary scene of Melbourne. So why take a journey to the third largest town in the lowly populated state of the Northern Territory, smack in the middle of the geographically huge landscape of Australia? Why, there are more reasons than any guide could possibly cover. The original desert dwellers of this area, known as the Arrernte Aboriginal Australians, have marked this territory as their own for tens of thousands of years. Their indigenous artworks and sacred sites paint their history and tell the stories of the dreamtime; their laws of existence and deeply spiritual and connected understanding of the world. Though Alice Springs is often used by travellers as the gateway to nearby Uluru, sticking around to explore the biggest town in the ‘red centre’ will offer plenty of rewards to gung-ho travellers. Gorges, wildlife and dynamic rock formations abound across the West MacDonnell Ranges, home to the popular 223 kilometre walking trail known as the Larapinta. The Emily and Simpson Gap attract those in search of ancient artworks, mythology and a chance to take a cycle through the open desert. Meanwhile, the festivities of Alice offer insight into the spirit of community found here, coming in the form of a camel race, an off-road motor race and a modern, illuminated display of Aboriginal artwork. It is here under a blanket of brightly sparkling stars or scorching sun that Australia’s heartbeat can be heard. This journey might be one you’ll consider for weeks, but we can assure you it is one that you will never regret.
FAST FACTS
Language: English
Currency: Australian Dollar
Electricity: 230V
Visas: Click here to see if you need a visa to enter Australia.
Dialling Code: +61
Time Zone: GMT +9:30
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If it’s a squeal inducing, eye-popping cultural festival you are looking for in Alice Springs, look no further than the Apex Camel Cup. Dusty outback tracks see camels and their riders whipping along their routes, in a one day annual event that draws in visitors from across the globe.
Step into the 70 years old building of the first hospital in Alice Springs, now a museum space dedicated to the founder of the flying doctors, Rev. John Flynn D.D.. Offering an interesting insight into life in the outback in days gone by, this museum is a must visit in Alice Springs.
Hartley Street School was the first school opened in Alice Springs, which has now been converted into a charming museum. The space offers a window into life and education in the early 1900s of outback Australia.
Smoked cod croquettes, barbeque pulled pork sliders and potato skins with bacon, cheese and sour cream are just some of the share plates on offer at Deck Eatery. Blending the adored concept of Spanish tapas with local NT produce is a culinary hit sure to leave you craving more.
Best eaten at
Deck Eatery and Bar, 82 Barrett Drive, Desert Springs NT 0870
There's nothing Australians love more than kicking off a day of outdoor adventures with a hearty breakfast. Join the crowd of locals at Page 27 at Todd Mall for a tempting menu featuring the likes of french toast with mascarpone and pistachios, and smashed avocado with minted yoghurt on rye.
Best eaten at
Page 27, Fan Arcade, Todd Mall, NT 0870
Found in the Double Tree hotel by Hilton, Hanuman offers innovative and sophisticated menu items inspired by countries across Asia. Expect the likes of masala fried fish, taro yam spring rolls and Koh Samui style slipper lobster.
Best eaten at
Page 27, Fan Arcade, Todd Mall, NT 0870
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