Darwin – I am finally here! I have always wanted to visit this city only because I want to be able to say that I have been to ALL of the Australian capital cities. I am not a big fan of the heat and humidity so I had no intention of going into the CBD or seeing any of the sights. All I really wanted to do was to check out the airport and hey, be able to earn that bragging right that I have set foot at the top end of the continent!
Darwin is the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory and a former frontier outpost. It’s also a gateway to massive Kakadu National Park. Its popular waterfront area has several beaches and green areas like Bicentennial Park. Also near the water is the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, displaying Southeast Asian and Pacific art, plus a pearling lugger and other seafaring vessels.– Wikipedia
As I had a 10-hour layover so I thought it was a good idea to get a room at the Mercure Resort, only 300m away from the airport terminal. Having read a lot of reviews about it, I did not have high expectations because I knew how old it is.
Although the hotel provided an airport shuttle service, I decided to walk from the terminal. Although it was hot and humid, the photo opportunities were worth it!
A walk in the park? Yes, this is the walkway connecting the airport and the resort.
Upon arrival, I was greeted by a very airy lobby complete with a water feature that immediately sets you in a tranquil holiday mode.
Ahhh……the inviting pool! Where else would you rather be on a hot sunny day?!
I guess my fascination with the resort ends here. The rooms are basic but clean. Nothing to write home about. The bathroom is ancient. Nonetheless, the room is clean and perfectly sufficient for a decent rest before another long flight.
Instead of dining at the restaurant, I decided to return to the airport terminal to check out the Qantas lounge there. I was not disappointed! My review to follow… .
