www.womanthismonth.com October 2018 77 LIFESTYLE | travel Cairns A popular tourist destination due to its coveted tropical climate and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns lies in Queensland, beckoning travellers with the promise of great outdoor experiences. Cairns is a great place to see the rainforest meet a modern city. If you prefer the tranquillity of long walks and hikes, you would enjoy making your way along the steep walking trail amidst the rainforest to the Crystal Cascades, a freshwater swimming hole, as serene as the walk to reach it. Known as the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns is the best place to book either a reef boat, island cruise or pontoon to snorkel with the astounding array of marine wildlife at the reef. If beachlife is your thing, Cairns, though not blessed with its own seaside, is just an hour off the exotic Port Douglas, which offers a lovely stretch of sea and sand, perfect for swimming and relaxing. From here you’ll also have easier access to the Daintree Rainforest, to bask in the tropical feel for a few hours, and make use of the photo opportunity, among the ancient ferns and canopy of greenery, that inspired the movie Avatar. Pass by Cairns’ night markets for some cheap shopping to take home with you, indulge in some pescatarian delights at Dundee’s, try the fresh, local fruit gelati on a stick at Gelocchio (rumour has it the passionfruit and mango ones are two of their yummiest), and make friends with the inviting locals as you enjoy the spirited nightlife. Cairns is the best place to get to the Great Barrier Reef, to snorkel or dive to your heart’s content. Tully River is perfect for some white-water rafting fun. Visit the Australian Butterfly Sanctuary, the largest butterfly aviary in Australia. Crystal Cascades, a secluded paradise. Opt for various, delicious seafood dishes in Cairns – they’re known for it. Splurge at the Cairns Night Market before you head for a chilled night out. Go on a walking tour of the Daintree Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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