I've looked at the weather report for when we're in Ayers Rock next week, and it looks like they'll be getting their entire monthly "allotment" of rain while we're there. I'm not too worried--because even that isn't a huge amount.

But, here's what I'm wondering: in the U.S. southwest deserts, rain showers tend to be heavy and then clear up. So, you could get 10 mm of rain really really quickly. Then it would be dry again. I'm getting the impression that the Red Center isn't like that though. Could it really just drizzle all day?

I guess on the positive side--maybe the rain will make the desert flowers come out??

You are unlikely to get rain AND flowers. Rain on the rock is wonderful. It makes for brilliant photographs, have a look at Dereck Roff's book.

Hi Caligirl,

You'll be one of a rare breed who can see they've seen rain on the rock!

I've been there a couple of times and it did rain the first time we were there. Sorry to tell you but it didn't bucket down and clear up - it did actually rain all day and if I remember correctly - the next day as well.

I do hope that it fines up for you because it is nice to see all the colours of the rock. Either way it's beautiful and a unique experience.

ooops...that should have read 'a rare breed who can say (not see)

We've got 3 nights at Uluru (and then 2 in Alice Springs), so there's some chance we'll see the sun. Patchy clouds can make the light really beautiful.

We really would like to see some rain--just not for the whole time!!

Calligirl if it's not too late to reverse the times, I'd suggest you only stay 2 nights at Uluru and have 3 in Alice Springs. There is much more to see and do in and around Alice Springs. Plus food and accommodation are better value in Alice.

Hi Caligirl56,
I agree with Susan, reduce your time at Uluru & add it to Alice Springs. So many people miss what I think is one of Australia's most interesting towns,with a wealth of interesting history, geography and Aboriginal art & culture.

www.TravelNT.com

There's so much to see & do that will be easier on your husband's foot, too.

Here's a few suggestions:
Take the little hop on/hop off bus to explore some of the highlights.

Go to the Desert Park in time for the morning Birds of Prey display. I think it's 9:30 or 10am. Once there, you can wander around at leisure through the park and see some unique Australian wildlife in open air settings. Also some nocturnals in purpose built shelters. I have a feeling they may also have golf buggies for hire.
There's a cafe/restaurant at the Park that I seem to remember was quite good.

I had 2 weeks there a couple of years ago and would go back in a heart-beat for another 2 or 3.

One of the highlights of my trip was a helicopter trip over the MacDonels, Simpsons Gap & more.
http://www.alicespringshelicopters.com.au

There are quite a few good eating options; this list will give you an idea. I've put my comments on the ones I can remember.

A. Bojangles Saloon & Restaurant - www.bossaloon.com.au - (08) 8952 2873 - This is quite a fun "wild west" saloon/bar. - just off Todd Mall.

B. Alice Springs Resort - www.alicespringsresort.com.au - (08)8951 4545 - 4 reviews

C. QC Restaurant - www.qcrestaurant.com.au - (08) 8955 5155 - 1 review

D. Barra on Todd Restaurant - www.alicespringsresort.com.au - (08) 8951 4545 -

E. Bluegrass Restaurant - www.bluegrassrestaurant.com.au - (08) 8955 5188 - I liked this one - we ate outside and had an excellent experience.

F. Keller's Swiss & Indian Restaurant - www.kellers.com.au - (08) 8952 3188 - more

G. The Overlanders Steakhouse - www.overlanders.com.au - (08) 8952 2159 - 2 reviews

H. Hanuman - www.hanuman.com.au - (08) 8953 7188 - 1 review

I. The Lane - www.lanewine.com.au - (08) 8952 5522 - Very good; excellent wine list.

J. Red Ochre Grill - www.ochrerestaurant.com.au - (08) 8952 9614 - 1 review

Weather: Yesterday's (Celsius) temperature ranges were: Alice Springs 6 - 20. Uluru 9 - 16.
Rain: 0.2mm (less than 1 point)
Forecast: 10 - 29, cloudy, possibility of a shower for both.
Sydney: Today it's cold & raining (11c at 11am, with 64mm in last 24 hours (250pts). Forecast 10-21, clearing during the week.
www.eldersweather.com.au

When you get to Manly, there's an excellent bistro right on the ferry wharf - Hugo's. I've been there twice in the last week & really enjoyed it.
http://www.hugos.com.au

Hope you have a fabulous trip - and do please do a Trip Report when you get home.

Bokhara,

Thank you so much for all of the wonderful suggestions! I'm printing the list of eating options to take with us!

We leave in just 10 hours. Thanks to everyone for all your help!!

Absent!