Focus of Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef

Cairns was the jewel of far North Queensland for many years but went into a bit of a decline when the Japanese economy tanked. It’s reinvented itself and now more than ever is a magnificent place to visit.

Winter is definitely the time to go as the summer is far too hot for most.

The Great Barrier Reef is in retreat and there appears very little that can be done. For that very reason it’s worth visiting now and not in 10 years time.

Cairns is merely a gateway to great magical places however it now has a great outdoor swimming pool and the state government has built a magnificent harbour for the reef traffic.

30 years ago a rather small fishing village was very cheap to buy property in and today it is so very different. Port Douglas lies 1 hour north of Cairns and is a beautiful village. Be careful of the beaches though as some of the locals are a bit snappy and rather protective of the sand.

Another hour north of Port Douglas is Daintree with its truly enthralling rain forest. Here the Great Barrier Reef gets its main source of nutrients and here in the estuaries are tiger prawns.

The drive north also holds some amazing sights. By the side of the road you will see spider’s nests that cover trees which is an amazing feat of silk engineering.

You also have the hinterland which is half an hour west. Here there are many tableland towns that offer a very warm welcome.

Cairns aren’t a place for beach holidays. In fact the beaches are quite dangerous especially for young children with Salties, but it is a magnificent location to relax and be enthralled. Cairns is Australia and all Australians should see Cairns for its rich reef and its lush rain forests.

You can easily reach Green Island where a wonderful resort awaits you. You can simply snorkel all day where you will see an amazing rich variety of fish. I myself came nose to nose with a reef shark which made me run on top of the water back to shore like Jesus running after his disciples.

Cairns can be as expensive or as cheap as you want to make it. There are many day trips as well as livabords but then the budget conscience traveller can experience the magic on Green Island.

To get around in Cairns it’s best to hire a car at the airport. The airport is 5 minutes from the city which means taxis are not expensive but if you want to see the hinterland and Port Douglas you will need a car.

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