We flew with Qantas from London to Darwin, via Singapore and returned from Alice Springs to London via Perth. Having never flown with Qantas before, I was very impressed with the overall experience. From the moment we checked in, everything felt smooth and professional. I would highly recommend this airline.

Our group were lucky to experience Business Class from London to Singapore! The upgrade really showcased the quality and comfort that Qantas has to offer. From the spacious seat that turned into a flat bed, to the exceptional service and fine dining, every detail made the experience feel special. 

Before the flight we spent some time in the Qantas lounge in LHR terminal 3. The lounge has two levels to it, the lower level features a gin bar and a la carte dining, while the upper floor boasts a dramatic marble cocktail bar, buffet stations, ample workspaces and even a children's zone.

The staff, both on the ground in the airport and in the air, were superb, which made a great first impression. 

Our adventure kicked off in Darwin, the laid-back capital of the Northern Territory. This city is a fusion of cultures, with a tropical climate, bustling markets, and a rich indigenous and wartime history. From here we enjoyed a trip to Litchfield National Park. Just a couple of hours from Darwin, Litchfield is known for its stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear swimming holes, and unique magnetic termite mounds.

Later, we headed to Mindil Beach Sunset Market. The market is held every Thursday and Sunday evening during the dry season and perfectly capture the city's laid back, multicultural spirit. The market offers a superb mix of local art, handmade crafts, and delicious food from around the world.

Dinner at Snapper-Rocks offered a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful views of Darwin harbour. The seafood here was amazing! At The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, we explored fascinating exhibits on local history, art, and natural science.

Ending our time in Darwin on a high, we did the Darwin Sunset Dinner Cruise. We sat outside on the deck, so we were able to enjoy the breathtaking views and peaceful vibe as the sun set over the water.

Our next stop was the world-renowned Kakadu National Park, about a three-hour drive from Darwin. Enroute, we stopped at the Fogg Dam Conservation Reserve, a remarkable wetland ecosystem where you can see small freshwater crocodiles, wallabies, lizards, and a large amount of birdlife. The reserve features a network of boardwalks and trails that meander through diverse habitats, including monsoon forests, floodplains, and paperbark woodlands. 

The next morning, we visited Kakadu. Kakadu is incredibly famous for its rock art as it’s among the oldest and most significant in the world, with some paintings dating back over 20,000 years. The rocks not only reflect a deep spiritual connection between the Aboriginal people and their land but also provides valuable insight into changing environments, cultural practices, and social life over thousands of years. 

After lunch, we did the Yellow Water Billabong Cruise and saw saltwater crocodiles! The scenery was spectacular, and we also managed to spot an array of birdlife and even a wild buffalo.

Where we stayed: 3* Cooinda Lodge. This hotel is very well located with great facilities. I recommend the upgrade to the Yellow Water Villa – think African safari tent vibes! Also, Cooinda Lodge has a campground and convenience store making it a great option if travelling by motorhome.

From Kakadu, we made our way to Katherine, home of the amazing Nitmiluk Gorge - a breathtaking series of 13 gorges carved by the Katherine River through ancient limestone.

After getting up early to enjoy a hike to the Nitmiluk Gorge viewpoint for sunrise, we did the Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise which offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Australia's Top End. The scenery is stunning with huge sandstone cliffs that tower either side of the river, glowing in shades of red and gold when lit by sunrays. We also managed to spot a couple of freshwater crocodiles! 

On the way back to Darwin we spent the afternoon at Edith Falls, offering stunning views and refreshing pools to swim in.

Where we stayed: 4* Cicada Lodge. This hotel was my favourite hotel from the whole trip. This lodge only has 18 rooms and provides a private and tranquil setting. The hotel also has a restaurant serving award-winning cuisine inspired by the region's flavours. The food was delicious, I had the lamb which was cooked to perfection. 

When most people think of Australia, they picture the bustling cities of Sydney and Melbourne, or maybe the beaches along the Gold Coast. But if you are after raw beauty, Indigenous Culture, and unforgettable landscapes, the Northern Territory is where it's at.