Visiting the Red Centre had been proposed by my parents a number of times over the past few years but it wasn’t until very recently that we journeyed into the Australian outback. I really didn’t know what to expect as it was the first trip since before I can remember where I didn’t pour over travel guides and trip advisor reviews, so I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the adventurous four day trip would become one of our most memorable Australian holidays.
DO: Astro Tour
I have always been
fascinated by astronomy and the universe. On a clear summer’s night there’s
nothing I love more than staring at the stars; unfortunately, living close to
the city has always hindered viewing just how beautiful the night sky can be.
So imagine my delight at being able to walk out into a secluded section of the Yulara
desert (only five minutes from the town centre) and watch the sky illuminate
with countless stars, and even a few planets. With highlights including the
Milky Way, shooting stars and the rings of Saturn, I’ve truly never witnessed
anything as beautiful. The tour guides were extremely friendly and knowledgeable,
willing to answer any questions, debunk incorrect myths and tell a few corny
‘dad jokes’ along the way as well.
SHOP: Craftworks
With the resort centered
around tourists exploring the desert and embracing nature, shopping in Yulara
is extremely limited. Despite this, I really enjoyed the selection at
Craftworks, an art and design store located in the town’s centre. Housing
accessories and prints crafted by their current resident artist Lesley Chaston, the
pieces draw on the landscape of the Northern Territory and traditional
Aboriginal art, making them the perfect choice for your souvenirs.
EAT: Gecko’s Cafe
It was hard to pick a
favourite eatery as each place in the town centre served a unique purpose;
whether that be a quick lunch, sit down dinner or take away option. What stood out about Gecko’s Café in
comparison to the other options was its varied menu, ensuring everyone will
find something to enjoy. Their generous portions at reasonable prices will
leave you satisfied after a long day touring and trekking.
TIPS: Uluru Tours and Weather
It is no longer considered culturally
appropriate to climb Uluru due to the location’s heritage and the negative
impact on the environment, and its popularity is subsequently on the decline. There
are still ways however to explore the natural surrounds in a socially mindful
way. SEIT run intimate base trek tours; the six hour, 13 km walk allows you to
explore the area, with the running commentary providing interesting information
about Aboriginal cultural and the morals learnt through their cultural fables,
fables which link directly to the markings on Uluru. Sunrise and sunset tours are another
beautiful way to relax as you watch the colours of the sky and Uluru slowly
transform before your eyes.
Timing your stay is also
essential. I recommend traveling in winter, you’ll miss the fly and wet seasons
which are notoriously unbearable and while the temperature overnight can reach
as low as -1/-2 the days are sunny and pleasant
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