The French and I are loving being here in the Red Centre. And we haven't even left the Ayer's Rock Resort yet. But there has been plenty to see.
This morning we left a cold and wet Sydney. Our flight left on time at 10am and we landed just before 1pm. With the half hour time difference between here and the east coast, that was a flight of just three and a half hours. But we are a world away.
We took some time getting our hire car organised - Domi's French licence (acceptable in our home state) wasn't looked upon too favourably at first. In the Northern Territory you need an international licence - who knew? But eventually the kind lady at Thrifty spoke to her boss and they agreed to put The French down as an additional driver. And suggested we plead ignorance if pulled over by NT police while Domi is behind the wheel.
Less than 10 minutes drive from the airport we arrived at Ayer's Rock Resort camping ground and were soon checked in to our small but comfortable cabin - home for the next four nights. With a double room at one end, and a four bunk room at the other, it would be a tight squeeze for 6 but is perfect for us.
We settled in quickly and then it was time to take a stroll, firstly around the camp grounds to find the nearest amenities block (showers toilets and laundry). Less than 100 metres away. Good to know in case of middle of the night nature call. Check!
The next few hours we spent walking around the the camping grounds, and through the 'desert bush' on rich red paths under clear blue skies, over to the Town Centre (visitor information centre, various activities, apartments, a few cafes and shops, supermarket, post office). We enjoyed a quick late lunch at the Outback Pioneer Hotel, bought some groceries for dinner and made our way back 'a la maison'. Then up the hill to see the sun set and back 'home' for a tasty dinner and a glass of Tempranillo. Parfait.
Oh, and on our afternoon walk we were treated to our first 'on land' views of The Rock. It's mesmerising. We are looking forward to a much closer encounter tomorrow.
Until then.
J X
