DARWIN is the only Australian state capital with a tropical climate, making it a perfect short break if you're looking to exchange the winter chill for an average temperature of 30 degrees C.
The dry season from May-October is characterised by warm, dry, sunny days and cool nights. It's the perfect time to visit.
Metro Advance Apartments & Hotel in the heart of Darwin city is offering 10 per cent off standard rates if you book online at metrohotels.com.au using the code METRO123.
The city centre property is just a few minutes' drive from Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, the waterfront and Darwin Casino, and within walking distance of Darwin Mall, restaurants and popular night spots.
It offers serviced apartments, including studios, one- and two-bedroom apartments.
All apartments feature separate living and dining areas, fully-equipped kitchen, private laundry facilities and balcony with air conditioning, complimentary high-speed WiFi and secure undercover parking. There is also a swimming pool and barbecue area.
Darwin comes to life in the dry season with the colourful Mindil Beach Sunset Market. Here you can sample exotic cuisines, browse hundreds of stalls, pick up beautiful handmade craft, or simply take your own wine and gather on the beach to watch the sun set.
Dry time is also party time, with the Darwin Cup horse racing carnival launching on July 6 and culminating with the Darwin Cup on August 6.
The biggest party of all is the Darwin Festival from August 8-25, a celebration of music, theatre, visual art, dance and cabaret.
Another fun event is the Darwin Beer Can Regatta on Mindil Beach on July 14.
Of course Darwin is the perfect launch pad for the Northern Territory's stunning natural treasures like World Heritage-listed Kakadu, Katherine Gorge and Litchfield National Park all within driving distance of the city.
Tiwi Islands is a 2.5- hour ferry ride or a 30-minute flight from Darwin.
The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is a great resource for local history, natural history, indigenous art and WWII history. At the Darwin Military Museum you will get an understanding of the city's important role in World War II, and a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service tourist facility to experience the interactive bombing of Darwin Harbour exhibit is a must.
And make sure to take a cruise around the harbour to see marine habitats, shipwrecks, mangroves and sites of cultural significance.
Metro Advance Apartments & Hotel Darwin, 55 Cavenagh Street, phone 1800-004-321, metrohotels.com.au
We have one two-night stay in a Studio Room for two people to give away valued at around $350.
https://www.thesenior.com.au/story/6201466/win-trade-grey-skies-for-darwins-blue/We have one two-night stay in a Studio Room for two people to give away valued at around $350. Flights are not included and the prize must be taken between October 1, 2019, and April 30, 2020 (Christmas period excluded). For your chance to win, tell us in 25 words or less why you would love to go to Darwin. Entries close 11.59pm, June 25.
Australian Competitions Club
