Cairns, with its 130.000 inhabitants, is a popular tourist destination which offers many cafes, bars and restaurants. There are an abundance of different accommodation types for every budget. All lodgings are contemporary designed and provide a wide variety of amenities. The city itself is compact enough to explore it comfortably on foot. (see  www.cairns.qld.gov.au/cep for more information.

Cairn is a paradise for sport enthusiasts, and, especially, rafting, sailing, surfing and kayaking are favored pastimes for travelers. Lots of areas present a tremendous opportunity for diving and parachuting, and most of physical activities can be exercised all year long. Cricket lovers should not miss an international cricket match at the Cazaly’s Stadium. Furthermore, the city is home to the Cairns Taipans, which is one of the leading national basketball teams.

There are several stunning beaches on the northern, as well as the southern end of the city. The Sunbus, a free shuttle, transports vacationers from the marketplace direct to the ocean shore. In town, there is a beautiful lagoon-like pool that is open all year and is a popular recreation spot for tourists and locals alike. The swimming basin is a splendid alternative from October to May, as the beaches are closed because of the frequent invasion of deadly box jellyfish.

Form Cairns it is possible to enjoy an unforgettable trip to the Great Barrier Reef, where it is safe from box jellyfish. One can also discover the Atherton Tablelands and the breathtaking Daintree Rainforest. The Flecker Botanical Gardens, which lie approximately 4 miles outside the city, are worth a visit, too. There, travelers gather every year to marvel at plants that do not exist nowhere else in the world.

For those who are interested in the local way of life, a stroll to the market is worthwhile. At the Port Douglas Market, one can buy anything from fruits and vegetables, crafts, glassware, to jewelry and even boats. Rusty’s Market, in the center of Cairns, focuses primarily on food and takes place every Friday and Saturday. The prices are extremely affordable, mostly because all the produce comes fresh from one of the surrounding farms.