LIVING IN DARWIN

Less than 1% of Australia's population lives in Darwin so do not be surprised if people start noticing a new face around town after you relocate. And if you like a drink, you'll be amongst friends as the Northern Territory's alcohol consumption is one of the highest in the world.

Darwin's tropical environment means it is hot and dry for half the year and hot and wet for the other. In the wet season you will need a fan or air conditioning to prevent the damp taking over. Darwin is also subject to cyclones.

The almost constant heat lends the city a relaxed attitude, both in dress and behaviour. It is also a young city. The median age is just 29.

With close to 80 ethnic groups, Darwin is a truly multicultural city. It has one of the largest Aboriginal populations of any Australian city as well as a large Greek community. The other main ethnic groups are: Chinese, Italian, Vietnamese, Indonesian, Filipino and Timorese. These different cultures bring a vibrancy and diversity that is unexpected in such a small city and makes for an exciting range of dining experiences.