I finished uni in late 2004, and my dream career was no longer my dream. A bit lost about my future, I told my mum that I would be back in six months and that I was moving back to Nhulunbuy, where my dad lived. I’d work at Woolies until I decided what I wanted to do with my life, sounded easy.
That was 19 years ago. I never went back. In fact, it wasn’t until I’d moved to Darwin five years later and bought my unit three years after that Mum stopped asking when I would come home. Join me as I tell my story of living in Darwin.
Want to know all about planning your trip to Darwin? Scroll to the bottom of the post to see which site locals use to book hotels, where trusted travelers book tours, and how to find the best flight deals. Or Click Here to be taken there now.
My Journey to Living in Darwin, Australia
Living in a remote NT town in my 20s was where I grew up and became an adult. I picked up work in admin rather than Woolies, which I’ve made my career, and spent the time doing all the random things anyone in their 20s would do.
Yes, we spent most weekends at the pub getting loose on the dance floor. Yes, I did get the work car so bogged it took two other four-wheel drives to rip us out, but I sold it as ‘testing the equipment and finding what failed’.
Adventures in Nhulunbuy
Yes, I took selfies with friends at the ‘Crocodile sighted’ sign and went for a swim anyway (Because Croc Wise mustn’t have been a thing yet, and I was clearly an idiot).
We all built up excellent dress-up boxes because what else is there to do in a remote community other than having parties in a princess dress or a toga? And, of course, I spent a lot of time out bush visiting the most amazing rivers and beaches Nhulunbuy has to offer; it’s where I learnt to drive off-road (and get bogged).
Moving to Darwin
Moving to Darwin was a natural step for me. I lived in both Nhulunbuy and Darwin as a kid, so it just felt like I’d come home. Darwin is a unique destination and a very multicultural place to live. I love that about here, I mean, laksa for breakfast, anyone?
It has seen vast change over the past few decades and has stepped into its own. It still takes just 20 minutes to get anywhere, but we have new suburbs, places like the Waterfront with the wave pool, way more options for eating out, and better shopping options.
Top Things to Do When Living in Darwin
- The waterholes in the Top End are fantastic, and it is a great place to cool down on hot days; Berry Springs is beautiful, and so is Wangi Falls.
- Every sunset is better than the last, and a good photo opp to brag about how great it is here (but please, no need to applaud the sun setting, that’s a touro thing). Try the Mindil Beach Casino Resort or head to Wagait Beach.
- Head out to see wildlife on a Jumping Croc Cruise on the Adelaide River.
- Head to local markets like Parap Village Markets for local fruits and veggies and tasty Asian street food.
- Learn about Aboriginal culture on a women’s only tea and conversation tour with acclaimed Indigenous woman, Tess Atie.
- Head out to nearby Litchfield National Park to see iconic waterfalls and spring-fed plunge books and to learn the real story with an Aboriginal guide on this day tour.
- See the Top End from the skies in an indigenous-led heli tour to see Litchfield National Park and the Adelaide River.
Life in the Top End
Darwin is a place where you can go jet skiing in crocodile-infested waters, buy firecrackers in a shopping centre, or hop a helicopter to go fishing in the bush. There is a lot of adventure to be had here, some of it new and many classics. As a kid, we went down to Kakadu many times.
My family were the first-ever guests at the Kakadu Caravan Park, bartering to camp near the pool about a week before it opened to the public. Ubirr Rock is beautiful at sunset and one of my favourite places to step away from modern life.
Is Darwin A Good Place to Live?
The mantra in the NT is that you either love it or hate it. There is no in-between. The buildup, September to December, is the hottest time of the year, and if you can survive that in your first year with no air con, you’ll survive anything we have to throw at you, and we have things to test you (getting a cheap flight? Come at me!).
The Top End has a reputation for being laid back and relaxed. We run on NT Time, which is a couple of weeks behind the rest of the country, but don’t worry, things get done.
Worth a Visit
If you’ve found this blog, read to the bottom and still have questions, come for a few weeks and get out and about. Immerse yourself into local life, not just the touristy things, and see what we’re all about.
You’ll find the NT is an accepting place where people are easy to get along with and where getting wet in the rain won’t give you pneumonia. This is a place where you can advance your career somewhat quicker than you would down south (aka everywhere outside the NT border).
But don’t just take my word for it, a local of 29 years, come and see for yourself!
Living in Darwin offers a unique blend of tropical lifestyle, cultural diversity, and easy access to some of Australia’s most stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re drawn to the relaxed pace, the thriving food scene, or the year-round outdoor adventures, Darwin provides an experience unlike anywhere else in the country. From the vibrant markets and festivals to the gateway it offers into the Northern Territory’s iconic national parks, living in Darwin means embracing a lifestyle that’s equal parts exciting and laid-back. If you’re considering making the move or simply curious about what life here is like, Darwin’s warmth—both in climate and community—makes it a place well worth calling home.
*Cover image is by Sarah H
Norther would like to invite you to explore more about the beauty of Darwin here. And… as always, you can get more inspiration for other National Parks & Destinations to visit by following @northerhq or get your Darwin City daily fix by joining our FB group Darwin We 💙 Love You by Norther®
Heading to the NT? Here’s What You Need to Get Started
Travel Insurance
Whether you’re from Australia or across the globe, it’s a great idea to get insurance to cover unexpected accidents or medical emergencies. Cover More is our favourite travel insurance provider to give us the peace of mind while heading to the outback.
Flights
For the best deals on flights, we recommend using Trip.com. It’s super easy to compare prices across different airlines and booking sites. I always find great options for my trips, and it saves me so much time and money!
Hotels
We always recommend using Booking.com for hotels. They have a variety of accommodation options and great filters to help you find the perfect place for your trip to the NT. With amazing deals, a great loyalty program, and the largest selection of hotels and rentals, it’s our favourite place to book rooms.
Tours
Tours, either multi-day, half-day, or private excursions, are a great way to experience the NT. Viator has a great selection of activities to help you travel the Territory and learn from locals.
Car Rental
If you're looking to rent a car to explore the Territory on your own, we suggest checking out Budget. It’s so easy to compare prices and find the best option from their huge selection of cars. Or try Rentalcars.com to see cars from all rental companies in the NT.
National Parks Pass
If you live outside the NT and plan on visiting national parks, you'll need a Parks pass. Choose from a day pass, a 2-week pass, 12-month pass, or family pass at NT.gov.au. If you're an NT resident be sure you bring your NT driver licence or proof of residency. Note: Park Passes are not accepted at Kakadu or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Parks. Purchase those from Parks Australia.
Sim Card
If you're travelling and need a reliable connection, We'd recommend getting an eSIM from Airalo. Choose from data only or cellular connection. It’s super convenient and helps you stay connected without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards or paying exorbitant fees to your wireless provider.
