May 21, 2000 Darwin

Thought maybe ought to catch up before we statrt on our big trip to the wilderness.  Darwin wss flattened by a cyclone in 1974 and rebuilt from scratch - consequently clean, wide sidewalks, trees and flowers planted all over - also consequently was built in a hurry and to survive another cyclone so have lots of cinder block, uninspiring buildings.  Staying in the Value Inn - to be honest, didn't know they could make rooms this small - two inch mattress on a board - but is clean and has air conditioning and ensuite john and shower.  Probably good to get use to roughing it!!  As Jack says if you think this is small, wait till we get the Landcruiser.  

Darwin has a real nice outdoor mall with coffee places - a really great Thai-Malaysian restaurant (Rendevous) - had a fabulous noodle soup - chili and coconut milk and lots of spices and fresh vegetables - called a Laksa.  Only $A8 and definitely a full meal.  Walked on the Esplanade and down to the Wharf - humid and hot and full sun - lots of palms, birds and flowers.  Still no swimming because of the box jellyfish.  Not very many people.  Thought would see lots of Asians but very few - maybe because of their economic situations or maybe becausse is low tourist time here.  See more Aboriginals and more Aboriginal items for sale.  Turned into American tourists and bought 4 t-shirts with Aboriginal designs painted on them.  Given my ability to spill coffee on my t-shirts, think I will save mine until I get home (sassuming my other t-shirts don't disintegrate during this trip).  

On Sunday, walked the 5 km to the Art and History Museum.  Good Aboriginal exhibit and ok natural history and maritime exhibits.  Had tea and scones at the cafe which was good before walked back along the ocean.  Again hot and sunny and humid but had a slight breeze and followed the Darwinian's advice and put on hats, a ton of sun screen and wore hats.  Also walked through the edge of the Botanic Park was well maintained with trees identified.  Saw a Rainbow Beeeater and some kites (too high up to tell for sure which one).  Lunch at Salvatore's - very popular place.  Got grilled Barramundi with a great sauce and greek salad for $A6 - I will eat that type of lunch any day of the week!!  Rest of day spent making lists for what needed to buy to start on drive tomorrow.