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Cairns Australia

INTRODUCTION

Cairns is the Gateway to it all--discover the Top End of Queensland, Explore the Outback, or Snorkel in the beautiful, Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef. Cairns, where the rainforest meets the reef. The city of Cairns is also known as Australia's Adventure Capital with raging nightlife, fun, and amusement all day and night.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Climate: Cairns has tropical climate, with temperatures in the summer varying between 30-40C with very high humidity, so you absolutely MUST take a hat, wear sunscreen, and drink plenty of water.

ATTRACTIONS

Cairns has catered itself to suit every budget. Between the rainforest, the reef, and the town itself - just keep in mind that there is so much to see and do it will take more than one holiday to experience it all!

Things To Do

Reef Tours: Discover the reef by glass bottom boat or enjoy a beautiful walk on the reef. Take a guided tour to discover the aboriginal cultural sites-there is even a cable car to discover the rainforest. You can get up close and personal with Australian wildlife. There are also, whitewater rafting adventures and guided tours of the outback and reefs.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway: Ride over the Australian rainforest canopy in a gondola in Gorge National Park. The cable way was built in 1995 and encompasses 4.7 miles. The complete ride takes about 3 hours, which includes stops at rainforest stations. You will be able to see various types of vegetation and possibly some wildlife. Costs vary based on the type of ride and packages your choose.

Things To Do under $50

Take a Wildlife Sunset Tour with Undara Experience. A 2 hour tour finishes with you perched on a rock pinnacle sharing champagne, fruit, and cheese as the sun sets. Cost approximately $39 for adults and for $20 kids.

Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park-Owned by the Tjapukai communities and elders, this park gives an authentic presentation of Aboriginal culture. You can watch ancient dances at the theater and find out what happened to their culture as a result of society's advances over time. Try your hand at throwing a boomerang. Can you get it to come back to you? Test your musical skill with Australia's famous didgeridoo- visitors be warned that it takes hard work to get a sound out! Prices start at $33 for adults and $16.50 for children.

Things To Do Under $20

Visit Birdworld Kuranda inside the Kuranda Heritage Markets, prices are $14 for adults and $7 for children.

RESTARAUNTS

There is a wide variety of Al Fresco dining to suit even the most unusual of tastes. www.tropicalaustralia.com.au/

LODGING

The accommodations in Cairns are world class and suited to any budget and preference--they range from 5 star resorts to backpacking lodges.

Oaks City Quays: This lovely hotel is located in the heart of Cairns and is close to shopping, attractions, and dining.

Best Western: A well-known name in the hotel industry, Best Western won't let you down. Situated in Cairns itself, the hotel is not far from restaurants, shopping, dining, and local attractions.