Living In The Top End

For those thinking of emigration, Australia's Northern Territory is often the most unlikely place that they would want to move into. Many picture the place as a barren wasteland. However, in reality, one find that this rather arid place actually has so many to offer for people coming in.

Though the picture of the Northern Territory as a desert is very popular to many people, it is not an entirely correct one. The truth is, there are actually two different climates in the area. The arid desert climate that many people associate with the Norther Territory is actually limited to its southern region, which is the center of Australia. And even here, there are actually large patches of land that are quite lush. On the other hand, the coastlines enjoy a milder and much more tropical climate, which is why most of the cities and towns are located near them.

And if you are thinking that it was only recently that people decided to move into the Northern Territory, you will be surprised to find out that it has been already inhabited by the native Aboriginal population for more than 40,000 years. The British themselves made three unsuccessful attempts to move into the area during the exploration years of the 1800's. It was only in the 1860's that settlement finally did took hold in the area. However, once it was established, development of the Northern Territory gradually sped up. Today, the Northern Territory actually has one of the fastest growing populations in Australia.

The capital and largest city of the Northern Territory is Darwin. This is also where most of the people living in the state actually resides. Darwin is on the topmost end of the Stuart highway, the only major highway that connects it to other parts of Australia. Contrary to what you might think, Darwin is not a sleepy town. In fact, the city is very lively and there is much for you to see here. One of the most remarkable landmark is the Government House. On the other hand, many people visit Nightcliff, one of the city's major suburbs for recreation.

Another town worth mentioning in the Northern Territory is Alice Springs. If you are looking for something that is rather idyllic and relaxing, this one will definitely be the place for you. However, there is still a lot for you to see here. One of the things that you must see is the historic Overland Telegraph Station, to which the city owes much of its existence. And only a few hours' drive from the city is Uluru, which is one of the most striking natural monuments in the area.