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The Mindil Beach sunset markets are one of Darwin's most popular tourist attractions. Held every Thursday and Sunday through the dry season (May - October), they are about the best picnic on the beach I have ever found. Darwin tourists are less familiar with the Parap Village markets which are held every Saturday (wet or dry season) from 8.00am till 2.00pm.
taken with my i-phone
The damp tropical air is infused with the smell of Asian cooking and sunscreen. Instantly the atmosphere is warm and inviting as you wind your way into the buzz of the markets.
taken with my i-phone
If you are lucky enough, you can find a table under one of the large shady trees and be entertained by music from one of the market buskers. Load up with tastes of the delicacies on offer and this is a great way to kick back and enjoy a Saturday.
taken with my i-phone
I love looking at the weird and wonderful tropical fruits. When in season, I buy my favourite pummelos for a burst of tropical citrus. Custard apples are also popular on my 'I can't buy in Canberra' fruit list. If you are prone to wok cooking, the stalls are abundant in Asian greens and herbs.
taken with my i-phone
When it comes to something to eat, it is pretty difficult to make a choice. There are a lot of stores selling laksa, noodle soups and deep fried treats such as samosas, spring rolls and fishcakes. Satay is also common with satay prawn skewers being sold in large numbers.
taken with my i-phone
Some of the more interesting things on offer are the Cambodian rice balls (with prawns, chicken and other things), made to order omelettes and the delicious BBQ pork Bahn mi rolls. The pork is minced and then marinated in a sweet soy based sauce. It is chargrilled and then served on a bread roll with carrot, coriander, cucumber and chilli. This is a seriously good sandwich.
taken with my i-phone
taken with my i-phone
Green paw paw salad can be made to order and a variety of other enticing salads, such as Thai style squid, pork and peanut or pummelo and prawn.
Refreshing tropical fruit drinks and smoothies are also popular in the heat. If you have a sweet tooth you can also find lots of interesting things to satisfy the sugar cravings.
taken with my i-phone
I normally buy some mud crabs to take back home to the family. After all, we have our beautiful, award winning 'The Whip' riesling which is superb with the delicate, sweet crab meat.
taken with my i-phone
This article has one comment.
“"It is chargrilled and then served on a bread roll with carrot, coriander, cucumber and chilli. This is a seriously good sandwich." Oh I hate you.
Would love to visit Darwin.
-- Declan Murphy (August 23, 2010) ”