A special anniversary calls for something a little more memorable than a pleasing but forgettable restaurant meal. When looking to mark a significant occasion, opting for something unique is the best bet to creating a positively exceptional experience.
From ghost tours and geothermal hot springs to moonlight shipwreck kayaking and a very close encounter in a crocodile pen, here are nine unique and unforgettable date ideas waiting for the most discerning couples to embark on, all over Australia.
Melbourne, Victoria
What could be more frivolous than sliding down some Melbourne tram tracks on a handsome colonial tramcar while enjoying a five-course meal and unlimited drinks? The tramcar restaurant is open every day of the year for luncheon, early dinner and late dinner. Late dinner is the best option, as it includes the full five courses (early dinner only includes three and is shorter in duration) and departs at 8:35pm, meaning the tramcar will be able to travel further and avoid being caught in the earlier peak hour traffic, taking in the sunset-glazed scenery of the CBD, South Melbourne, Albert Park and St Kilda. Melbourne's tram network is the largest in the world, with a staggering 250km of tracks weaving their way through Australia's second most-populated metropolis.
Darwin, Northern Territory
Swimming with crocodiles isn't usually an activity associated with relationship longevity, nor longevity of life, to say the least, but at Darwin's Crocosauras Cove, an exceptionally unsurpassed experience allows couples to do just that. Suited to the most robust adrenaline-seekers, the “Cage of Death” adventure involves spending 15 heart-racing and fear-inducing minutes in a crocodile's water pen with nothing but an acrylic cylinder separating guests from what would become a very violent ménage-à -trois. And to the most enthusiastic thrill-seekers who may worry the crocodiles will be asleep or inactive, the activity's description on Crocosaurus Cove's website ensures this won't be the case: “Regular feeding by our crocodile handlers while you are in the cage encourages more movement from the crocodiles and ensures an up close encounter that must be seen to be believed!”
Perth, Western Australia
A 30-minute ferry ride from Fremantle in Perth is all it takes to be transported to the incandescent azure waters and sensational scenery of Rottnest Island. The many bike hire services on offer allow visitors to spend the day at their own pace, taking in the amazingly unique flora and fauna (quokka selfie, anyone?), stunning beaches, woodlands and salt lakes. A range of adventurous activities keep guests occupied including snorkelling, Segway hire, skydiving and adventure boat tours. A lazy lunch in Thompson bay beckons, followed by some fun-filled aquatic action on the floating obstacle course at Just 4 Fun Aqua Park. And for time-wealthy travellers looking to stay on for a night or two, a range of accommodation options cater to all budgets.
