Trustroots Wiki - User contributions [en]

Cairns

2016-11-06T05:00:31Z

Sarongrainbow:

{{Australia}}
{{Cairns}}

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Cairns botanical gardens precinct at Edge Hill (a 35-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Botanic Garden; Red, Blue and Green Arrow rainforest walks; Tanks Arts Centre; and wetland boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal on Lake St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (a 5 min drive from Kuranda and a 30 min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a noticeboard. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators is available, including snorkelling (all), scuba diving (some), lunches (most) and island visits (some). However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Come Sailing every Wednesday!

Join local yachtsmen and women who volunteer their yachts and time to take all-comers for a social race on picturesque Trinity Inlet each Wednesday afternoon. This is referred to as WAGS or lately as WAGALS - Wednesday Afternoon Gentlemen's and Ladies' Sailing. Sign on in the Cairns Yacht Club Boatshed at the Cairns marina at noon and return for drinks and snacks around 1700 hrs. All welcome. Please note spaces are limited, so be sure you're on time. For more info ph: (07) 4031 2750

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozens of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

'''Airport Shuttle'''

http://www.sunpalmtransport.com.au

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

(Most of the information for this page is from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)
[[hitch:Cairns]]
[[nomad:Cairns]]

Cairns

2016-07-14T04:08:01Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Cairns botanical gardens precinct at Edge Hill (a 35-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Botanic Garden; Red, Blue and Green Arrow rainforest walks; Tanks Arts Centre; and wetland boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal on Lake St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (a 5 min drive from Kuranda and a 30 min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a noticeboard. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators is available, including snorkelling (all), scuba diving (some), lunches (most) and island visits (some). However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Come Sailing every Wednesday!

Join local yachtsmen and women who volunteer their yachts and time to take all-comers for a social race on picturesque Trinity Inlet each Wednesday afternoon. This is referred to as WAGS or lately as WAGALS - Wednesday Afternoon Gentlemen's and Ladies' Sailing. Sign on in the Cairns Yacht Club Boatshed at the Cairns marina at noon and return for drinks and snacks around 1700 hrs. All welcome. Please note spaces are limited, so be sure you're on time. For more info ph: (07) 4031 2750

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

'''Airport Shuttle'''

http://www.sunpalmtransport.com.au

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

(Most of the information for this page is from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)
[[hitch:Cairns]]
[[nomad:Cairns]]

Cairns

2016-07-14T04:06:37Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Cairns botanical gardens precinct at Edge Hill (a 35-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Botanic Garden; Red, Blue and Green Arrow rainforest walks; Tanks Arts Centre; and wetland boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal on Lake St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (a 5 min drive from Kuranda and a 30 min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a noticeboard. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators is available, including snorkelling (all), scuba diving (some), lunches (most) and island visits (some). However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Come Sailing every Wednesday!

Join local yachtsmen and women who volunteer their yachts and time to take all-comers for a social race on picturesque Trinity Inlet each Wednesday afternoon. This is referred to as WAGS or lately as WAGALS - Wednesday Afternoon Gentlemen's and Ladies' Sailing. Sign on in the Cairns Yacht Club Boatshed at the Cairns marina at noon and return for drinks and snacks around 1700 hrs. All welcome. Please note spaces are limited, so be sure you're on time. For more info ph: (07) 4031 2750

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

'''Airport Shuttle'''

http://www.sunpalm.com.au

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

(Most of the information for this page is from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)
[[hitch:Cairns]]
[[nomad:Cairns]]

Cairns

2014-09-16T22:41:35Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Cairns botanical gardens precinct at Edge Hill (a 35-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Botanic Garden, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and wetland boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal on Lake St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (s 5 min drive from Kuranda and a 30 min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a noticeboard. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Come Sailing every Wednesday!

Join local yachtsmen and women who volunteer their yachts and time to take all-comers for a social race on picturesque Trinity Inlet each Wednesday afternoon. This is referred to as WAGS or lately as WAGALS - Wednesday Afternoon Gentlemen and Ladies Sailing. Sign on in the Cairns Yacht Club Boatshed at the Cairns marina at noon and return for drinks and snacks around 1700 hrs. All welcome. Please note spaces are limited, so be sure you're on time. For more info ph: (07) 4031 2750

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

(Most of the information for this page is from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)
[[hitch:Cairns]]

Cairns

2014-03-11T07:44:24Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Come Sailing every Wednesday!

Join local yachtsmen and women who volunteer their yachts and time to take all-comers for a social race on picturesque Trinity Inlet each Wednesday afternoon. This is referred to as WAGS or lately as WAGALS - Wednesday Afternoon Gentlemen and Ladies Sailing. Sign on in the Cairns Yacht Club Boatshed at the Cairns marina at noon and return for drinks and snacks around 1700 hrs. All welcome. Please note spaces are limited, so be sure you're on time. For more info ph: (07) 4031 2750

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

(Most of the information for this page is from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)
[[hitch:Cairns]]

Australia

2013-09-29T08:00:13Z

Sarongrainbow:

{{IsIn|Oceania}}
{{Australia}}
{{TOCright}}
[[File:uluru.jpg|thumb|left|Uluru]]

Where else in the world will you see an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Platypus otter-like duck that lays eggs?] Yep In Australia! Australia is a popular destination because we have sun, surf and sand, gorgeous weather, lots of space, weird animals, deadly animals and we talk strangely, calling our shoes 'thongs' and our trousers 'pants'.

Australia is a country in [[Oceania]], it is divided into eight states and territories. We are the world's biggest island with many different types of environments to explore such as our beaches, deserts and rainforests. Australia has 6 states and 2 mainland territories: [[Australian Capital Territory]] (ACT - capital [[Canberra]]); [[New South Wales]] (NSW - capital [[Sydney]]); [[Northern Territory]] (NT - capital [[Darwin]]); [[Queensland]] (Qld - capital [[Brisbane]]); [[South Australia]] (SA - capital [[Adelaide]]); [[Tasmania]] (Tas - capital [[Hobart]]); [[Victoria, Australia|Victoria]] (Vic - capital [[Melbourne]]); [[Western Australia]] (WA - capital [[Perth]]).

Australia also has 7 external territories: Australian Antarctic Territory; Coral Sea Islands Territory; Norfolk Island; Territory of Ashmore Reef and Cartier Island; Territory of Heard and McDonald Islands; Territory of Cocos (Keeling) Islands; Territory of Christmas Island

The purpose of this page is to give Couchsurfers an overview of Australia and to provide links to more detailed information. For specific information on stuff to do, best places to stay etc contact individual couchsurfers, look in a guide book, surf the net or look at the links below.

== Getting Around ==
Australia is a BIG country, therefore you should consider your transport needs before you come. Are staying mainly in cities? Do you like the structure of bus pass or would you prefer to be a free spirit and do your own thing? Check out the different types of [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transportation_in_Australia transport in Australia] or search the [http://www.yellowpages.com.au Yellow Pages] for bus/coach companies, car hire companies or airlines and airline agents (travel agents) throughout Australia.

=== By Car ===
There are a few things to be aware of if you want to drive around Australia. Because Australia is such a large country it is important to be prepared when driving long distances. To get an idea of some distances check out a useful [http://www.racq.com.au/cps/rde/xchg/racq_cms_production/hs.xsl/travel_trip_planner_5940_ENA_HTML.htm trip planner] or search [http://www.maps.google.com.au Google maps] and read [http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Driving_in_Australia this WiKi] carefully!

If you are from overseas it is useful to read about driving in Australia with an [http://www.austroads.com.au/overseas.html overseas drivers licence]

If you’re a visitor and hold a valid driver’s licence (in English) from your own country, fine, you’re allowed to drive throughout all of Australia. (But an international driver's permit, if you have one, does not by itself give you the right to drive in Australia.)

If you do not choose to obtain an International Driving Permit and your "home" driver's licence [http://www.timewing.com.sg/ aircon service] is not in English, a translation may be necessary and you may also need to have an international driver's licence.

If you come from a country where motorists drive on the left-hand side of the road, there’s not much more to know, and you should easily adjust to driving in Australia by following local driving customs and laws.

If you come from the US, or from another country where people [http://www.timewing.com.sg/ac_service.html ac repair] drive on the right-hand side of the road, there’ll be a [http://www.timewing.com.sg/refrg_service.html refrigerator repair] bit to get used to, the main thing being that [http://jamumassagesingapore.com/services/dejamu/post-natal jamu postnatal massage] you drive on the left-hand side of the road in Australia; and that if you turn left or right, you must remember to go, as you complete your turn, into the left-hand side of the road you are turning into, instead of to the right as you’re used to.

==== Buying a Car ====
The first thing to do when buying a car is to do a [http://www.revs.nsw.gov.au/ REVS check], if you buy a car with money still owing on it, then you become responsible for that debt! A REVS check will tell you if a car you are considering buying carries debt!

All cars require registration & third party insurance(rego) which has to be renewed every six months or yearly. Cars can be registered in any Australian state or territory - however there are different rules and prices accroding to the state (Generally NSW and VIC are more expensive). Try to buy a car with as much rego as [http://jamumassagesingapore.com massage centres in singapore] possible because it's less hassle for you and don't buy a car with expired rego, not only do you have to re-register it, but there may be extra safety checks you will have to get a mechanic to perform if it has been unregistered for a while. Note that in New South Wales, all motor vehicles over 3 years old are required to pass an annual roadworthiness inspection ("pink slip") in order to be re-registered.

Check out the different road, rego and licencing authorities for each state below:
* [http://www.transport.tas.gov.au/ DIER] (TAS)
* [http://www.dpi.wa.gov.au/licensing/566.asp Licencing Services] (WA)
* [http://www.nt.gov.au/transport/mvr/index.shtml NT Transport] (NT)
* [http://www.rego.act.gov.au/ Rego ACT] (ACT)
* [http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/ Roads and Traffic Authority] (NSW)
* [http://www.transport.qld.gov.au/ Transport QLD] (QLD)
* [http://www.transport.sa.gov.au/ Transport SA] (SA)
* [http://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/ Vic Roads] (VIC)

==== Driver safety ====
Driver fatigue is a major killer in Australia. This is a big flat country, so take breaks every two or three hours and swap drivers if you can. Rest every 2 to 3 hours for 15 or more minutes. You may come across [http://www.driverreviver.com.au/ Driver Reviver] stations during school holidays. Projects such as [http://thepartyhub.com/contact-us/ party places] this aim to reduce driver fatigue by encouraging frequent breaks. Stop off and get a free coffee and biscuit.

If you are driving in areas likely to have Australian animals nearby, be aware that a lot of activity and feeding happens at dawn, dusk or at night. Animals such as wombats, koalas and possums are very active at night and kangaroos feed around dusk or dawn. If you are not aware then don't drive - you may hit an animal or seriously injure yourself by swerving into a [http://jamumassagesingapore.com/services/pre-natal prenatal massage in singapore] tree at high speed. The [http://www.rspca.org.au/animal/emergency_injured.asp RSPCA] is a great charity that has useful links about animal first aid. If you kill an animal (that is safe to approach) and if it is safe to do so, drag it off the road and check any pouches for babies. If you find a baby call the RSPCA or try and get it to a [http://vihan.vn thiet ke web] vet and keep it warm and dark if you have to move it.

When [http://www.desertaccess.com.au/outback_safety.html driving in the outback], be aware of heavy transport [http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/d/df/Road_Train_Australia.jpg/800px-Road_Train_Australia.jpg road trains]. Road trains are trucks that carry two or more trailers. Driving such heavy trucks are only possible over really flat and straight areas. Road trains travel at very high speeds and they can be up to 200 tonnes, driving around or stopping for your car is not possible. It is dangerous to overtake them, if you are unsure, pull over to the side of the road and let the road trains pass you by.

==== Other people's cars ====
Hitch-hiking is not commonplace in Australia any more, but still a viable means of transport that can expose you to the (secret) lives of real Australians while getting you around. Moreover it is the automotive equivalent of couch surfing!

There are some things to consider before setting [http://www.miiny.com deals singapore] out by thumb cross country, but none would be so crucial as to maintain some sense of independence against the elements: take a good wide brimmed sun hat, warm and cool clothing, rain gear (if only an umbrella), a water bottle and keep some food on you in case you get hungry. That's the basic minimum that ought not be forgotten when waiting by the roadside in Australia.

Hitchhiking is illegal in Victoria and Queensland. It is also illegal to stand on the verge of motorways in all states (even though many are now permitting pedestrians and cyclists on them). If you are going to hitchhike, be careful of main roads and if in a state where it is illegal, be discreet. You are unlikely to [http://physioactive.sg/services/massage/sports-massage.html sports massage singapore] draw police attention as long as you're not a danger to traffic (standing in the roadway).

Consider you safety - road safety and being safe around strangers. Like many other activities while traveling, there are indisputable risks involved in meeting new and unknown people in [http://physioactive.sg/services/sports-therapy.html sports injury singapore] relatively private confines. If that frightens you, you would be ill advised to hitch-hike. If it excites you, then hitch-hiking Australia has a great many rewards to offer.

Google will point you at any number of resources and travel tales about hitch-hiking Australia. Try these for starters:

* [http://www.outback-australia-travel-secrets.com/hitchhiking-in-australia.html Outback Australia Travel Guide]
* [http://hitchwiki.org/en/index.php?title=Australia Australia on Hitchwiki]
* [http://www.bugaustralia.com/transport/hitch.html The Backpacker's Ultimate Guide]
* [http://www.jayride.com.au/ Jayride Rideshare and Hitchhike]
* [http://bernd.wechner.info/Hitchhiking/Memories/chapter4.html Anywhere But Here: The Memories of a Hitch-hiker]

[[File:Crux.jpg|frame|The Southern Cross]]

=== By Plane ===
Australian Customs places restrictions on plant and animal goods entering and leaving Australia. You can find a [http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/travel/entering-australia/cant-take useful list] here of things you should be aware of. Australia is an island, it has a fragile ecosystem [http://www.seoagency.com.vn/seo.php dich vu seo] and needs to be protected. We certainly don't need more rabbits, cane toads, cane beetles and so on! Please leave your native plants, animals and unprocessed foods at home!

==== Cheap Domestic Flights ====
Not everyone is aware of the cheap domestic carriers in Australia, see our list below (note there is a rural service which is not listed here. More information will be available soon!)
* [http://www.virginblue.com.au/ Virgin Blue]
* [http://www.jetstar.com.au/ JetStar]
* [http://www.tigerairways.com/ Tiger Airways]
* [http://www.webjet.com.au WebJet] - Use this to find the best deal from the cheap airlines, but book through the airline website (otherwise you will be hit with the WebJet "finders fee")
* [http://www.cheapflights.com.au/ CheapFlights] - Offers a booking engine where you can search by date and choose the best flights with specific partners.

If you do not get your flight seats on sale, or you are buying your ticket last minute [http://www.seoagency.com.vn cong ty seo] you should always compare with [http://www.qantas.com.au QANTAS]. While QANTAS is often the more expensive carrier, they include food on most flights, offer frequent flyer miles and serve a much larger range of destinations.

=== By Train ===
If travelling by train is your thing, find below a list of state train companies. If you prefer to travel in style why not consider [http://www.gsr.com.au/our-trains/the-ghan/the-journey.php The Ghan] (Adelaide-Alice Springs-Darwin), [http://www.gsr.com.au/our-trains/indian-pacific/the-journey.php Indian Pacific] (Sydney-Adelaide-Perth) or [http://www.gsr.com.au/our-trains/the-overland/the-journey.php The Overland] (Melbourne-Adelaide)!
* [http://www.qr.com.au/ Queensland Rail] (QLD - Brisbane)
* [http://www.countrylink.info/ Countrylink] (NSW - Interstate or regional train travel)
* [http://www.cityrail.info/ Cityrail] (NSW - Sydney and meteropolitan train travel)
* [http://www.vline.com.au/index.aspx?sid=0# V-line] (VIC - Interstate and regional train travel)
* [http://www.gsr.com.au/ Northern Terriory]

== Working, Studying and Volunteering ==
Most travelers come here with a one year working visa, if you want to see the options available to you see the [http://www.immi.gov.au Department of Immigration] website which is quite useful in describing visa types. If you are interested in studying in Australia take a look at the [http://www.australian-universities.com/ Complete guide to Australian universities and colleges]. If you are interested in volunteering in Australia have a look at the national network [http://www.govolunteer.com.au Go Volunteer] or for specific volunteering like WOOFING just search the internet.

=== Getting money back when you leave ===
There is a tourist refund scheme that refunds the Australian Goods and Services Tax (GST) which is included in most products, for more information see the [http://www.customs.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=4643 Australian Customs] website. You can also claim back your superannuation as a visitor, you can [https://applicant.tr.super.ato.gov.au/applicants/default.aspx?pid=1 APPLY ONLINE] or see the [http://ato.gov.au/super/pathway.asp?pc=001/007/126 Australian Taxation Office] website.
For general information about tax for international visitors can be found at the [http://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/pathway.asp?pc=001/002/012&mfp=001&mnu=29565#001_002_012 Australian Taxation Office] website.

=== Working in Australia ===
You will require a [http://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/content.asp?doc=/content/64067.htm&pc=001/002/012/014/004&mnu=29565&mfp=001&st=&cy=1 Tax File Number (TFN)] or you will be taxed a lot of money. You can work without a TFN and when you finally get your TFN you can tell your employer and claim back the extra tax you paid at the end of the financial year. A bank account will also come in handy, you will need your passport or driving licence (not sure if an overseas driver's license is accepted though) and proof of an address in Australia.

Below is quite a comprehensive list of links that will help you look for employment from office jobs to following the fruit-picking trail:

* [http://www.seek.com.au/ Seek Australia], search for jobs online
* [http://mycareer.com.au/ My Career], search for jobs online
* [http://www.careerjet.com.au Careerjet.com.au] Australian job search engine
* [https://jobsearch.gov.au/Login/Login.aspx?WHCode=0 Australian Job Search]
* [http://www.outbackinternational.com.au/ For work on farms and stations]
* [https://jobsearch.gov.au/harvesttrail/default.aspx?WHCode=0 Fruit Picking Trail]
* [http://www.seasonalwork.com.au/index.bsp Seasonal Work In Australia]

== Mobile Phones ==
If you have a GSM phone, you can get a prepaid SIM card in Australia. If you plan on traveling to remote areas please ask your provider about the coverage. You might need a special phone for very remote areas.
For safety reasons you might consider to add an [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/In_case_of_emergency "In Case of Emergency"] entry to your mobile phone!'''

== Animals and Wildlife ==
Australia has many unique and interesting animals that live in our delicate environment. Tread lightly when you travel Australia, don't leave your rubbish behind, don't touch wild animals or try to feed them and be very careful when using fire in the bush.
* [http://www.australianfauna.com/ Australian animals]
* [http://birdsinbackyards.net/finder/birdlist.cfm Australian birds]
* [http://marinebio.org/Oceans/Creatures.asp Australian marine life]

=== Lions and tigers and bears. Oh My! ===
Contrary to popular belief dangerous Australian animals will not be waiting to get you at the airport, in your bed, in the dunny or lying in wait in other places thought up by your paranoia! Most Australian animals are happy to be left alone and you will find unless you are forcing your finger in an animal's face they are happy to [http://physioactive.sg/ massage therapy singapore] stay out of your way. Of course there are aggressive and poisonous animals out there so research before you get back to nature. Most likely you will find our insects will be your number one irritation.

Most snakes and spiders do their best to stay out of your way. If you come across a snake, you have probably caught it by surprise sunning itself on a [http://www.inleds.com/products/?cid=2 led downlight singapore] rock or a bushtrack. Back away immediately until you are out of sight of the snake, wait a minute or so then carefully peer around the corner and see if it's gone. Chances are it will be so continue on your walk, unless it is a brown snake, in which case run like hell.

What you're most likely to come across as far as dangerous critters are concerned is a Redback spider. These guys will be found in dark places low to the ground. If you're staying in the bush check your shoes each day before putting them on. Redbacks are very dangerous and do live in urban areas - if you see one you [http://diendanseopanda.forumvi.com dien dan seo]
[http://www.fxdialogue.com/vi/ forex]
[http://www.fxdialogue.com forex]
[http://www.dichvuseo.n.nu Dich vu seo]
[http://www.dichvuseo.n.nu/bang-gia-seo Bang gia seo]
[http://www.dichvuseo.n.nu/cong-ty-seo Cong ty seo]
[http://www.dichvuseo.n.nu/seo-services seo services]
[http://www.dichvuseo.n.nu/cong-cu-seo cong cu seo]
[http://www.thietkewebsite.n.nu Thiet ke website]
[http://360xu.blogspot.com/2011/03/cach-tao-blog.html cach tao blog]
[http://360xu.blogspot.com/p/download-film.html download film hd]
[http://augustijncommunity.blogspot.com free backlinks]
[http://timeshare360xu.blogspot.com timeshare]
[http://raovat3d.forumvi.com rao vat]
[http://saigontechforum.ucoz.com Saigontech forum]
[http://www.inleds.com/ singapore led lighting] should let someone know, and hopefully that person will hit it with their shoe. This doesn't go for most spiders who should be left alone to go about their businesses, but Redbacks you do need to get rid of as they have been responsible for deaths in the past.

* All about [http://www.amonline.net.au/spiders/ Australian Spiders]
* Check out [http://www.amonline.net.au/spiders/ Australian Insects]
* Check out [http://www.usyd.edu.au/anaes/venom/snakebite.html Australian Snakes]

[http://members.ozemail.com.au/~enigman/dropbear.html WARNING - DROPBEARS] (These mythical creatures will make you look foolish if you believe in them.)

== Sun, surf and sand ==
Australia is famous for it's sun, surf and sand! If you are from Europe you will learn quite quickly [http://www.premier-football.net soccer jersey store] that the sun is very strong here, you can begin to burn within 10-15 minutes. In general during summer the high-UV periods are between 10am and 4pm though this varies from day to day so check [http://www.bom.gov.au weather reports].

Our beaches can be dangerous to swim in if you don't know the area. We have rips and undertows which can drag you out to sea, the best advice is to swim between the flags set up by the local [http://www.slsa.com.au/default.aspx?s=home Surf Lifesaving Australia] club. If you feel afraid you can signal a [http://thepartyhub.com/Partners-in-Fun party magician] lifesaver by waving in water. If the distinctive red and yellow lifesaving flags are not on display, this means the beach is not being patrolled by lifesavers and if you get into trouble there may not experienced lifesavers to rescue you.

A menace to the beaches of northern Australia are box jellyfish or 'Portuguese Man of War'. These are seriously dangerous if they sting you. They have very long tentacles which are hair thin, but if they get wrapped around you they can sting you severely enough to kill you. Blue bottles are the other common jellyfish you'll see washed upon the [http://thepartyhub.com/Showcase party artists] beach all over Australia - these guys are small, and though they'll give you a bit of a [http://thepartyhub.com/ event planners singapore] sting if they touch you they're not dangerous. Their sting can be treated with vinegar or ice to help stop the stinging. In general read about the beaches you are going to visit to check if there are any dangerous animals in the water, and if you don't know what it is, don't touch it (including shell fish).

== Links ==
* The [[Australian CS Safety]] wiki
* [[Australian CouchSurfing Ambassadors]]
* [[Australia New Ambassadors Welcome Kit]]
* [[Australian Tips Hints and links to better CouchSurfing]]
* [http://www.aboriginalaustralia.com/ Aboriginal Australia]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia Australia on Wikipedia]
* [https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Australia Australia on Wikivoyage]
* [http://au.easyroommate.com Share accommodation] listings in Australia
* [http://www.nestoria.com.au/ Search for Accommodation in Australia]
* [http://www.dest.gov.au/portfolio_department/calendar_dates/school_term_dates_2007.htm Australian School holidays.] Avoid School Holidays and you may pay the cheaper off-peak prices.
* [http://www.immi.gov.au/ Department of Immigration and Citizenship]
* [http://www.australia.com/ Tourism Australia] (Official tourism website)
* [[Cairns]] - gateway to the Great Barrier Reef

[[Category:Australia]]
[[trash:Australia]]
[[share:Australia]]
[[hitch:Australia]]

Cairns

2013-09-29T05:43:30Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

(Most of the information for this page is from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)

Cairns

2013-09-29T05:40:30Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

(Most of the information for this page came from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)

Cairns

2013-09-29T05:40:06Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

(Most of the information for this page came from the couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)

Cairns

2013-09-29T05:19:35Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

Cairns

2013-09-29T03:58:11Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K
Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au

For road conditions, go to the RACQ website: www.racq.com.au

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

Cairns

2013-09-29T03:56:55Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K
Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around. Supermarkets in the city centre are open until 9pm every day (except public holidays), but banks and post offices are generally open on weekdays only (except public holidays).

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au
For road conditions go to RACQ website.

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

Cairns

2013-09-29T03:54:10Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K
Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around.

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au
For road conditions go to RACQ website.

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

Cairns

2013-09-29T03:52:39Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K
Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies.

For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around.

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au For road conditions go to RACQ website.

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

Cairns

2013-09-29T03:50:16Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach (including Paronella Park), north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

'''Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K
Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies. For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around.

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au For road conditions go to RACQ website.

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

Cairns

2013-09-29T03:41:24Z

Sarongrainbow:

'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach, north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

'''Aboriginal Culture'''

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.
'''
Sightseeing'''

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

'''The Great Barrier Reef''' can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K
Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies. For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

'''Shopping and Logistics'''

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around.

'''Climate'''

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au For road conditions go to RACQ website.

'''Public Transport'''

http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Cairns Taxis: 131 008

'''Emergency Information'''

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4226 0000.

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is good value.

CAIRNS POLICE: (07) 4030 7000

STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500

Cairns

2013-09-29T03:26:14Z

Sarongrainbow: Created page with "Cairns city and surrounds Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists beca..."

Cairns city and surrounds

Cairns is located about 1,700 km from Brisbane, and about 2,420 km from Sydney by road. It is a popular travel destination for foreign tourists because of its tropical climate and proximity to many attractions. The city is rapidly expanding, with a population of around 147,100 in 2010. Tourism is the largest income producer for the region, followed closely by the sugar industry. Cairns city is nice enough if you just want to eat, drink, party or chill by the lagoon. But the best parts are all in the surrounding areas: the Atherton Tableland, south towards Mission Beach, north towards Cape Tribulation and of course out to the Great Barrier Reef. The must-do activities in the city are a walk along the Esplanade and a look at the hundreds of flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) that hang out in the huge fig trees next to the library (corner Abbott and Aplin St).

A notable feature of the Cairns Esplanade is the swimming lagoon with adjoining barbecue areas. This is a free outdoor pool with shade areas, artificial beach, water fountains and shower facilities. In May 2003, the then Cairns Mayor Kevin Byrne declared that topless sunbathing is permitted here, as the area is a gathering point for people from around the world. A boardwalk along the Esplanade allows pedestrians and cyclists to move north along the foreshore, or south to the Marina, from the lagoon.

The Edge Hill botanical garden precinct (a 30-minute walk or 10-minute bus ride north from city centre) includes: Flecker Gardens, Red Arrow & Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.

The nearest beach to Cairns is Machans Beach (15min), but it’s better to go a little further to Holloways or Yorkey's Knob if you want some sand, or Palm Cove (1hr) if you want whiter sand (but more tourists!). Buses are available to all these beaches. Catch buses from the bus terminal right next to City Place, the pedestrian square on Shields St. If you have wheels then Ellis Beach to the north and Bramston beach to the south are also local favourites.

If you prefer freshwater swimming there are a number of beautiful creeks and rivers close to the city, including Lake Placid, Crystal Cascades and Stoney Creek. Further afield, spectacular water holes include Mossman Gorge to the north, and Behana Gorge, the Boulders and Josephine Falls to the south. Be aware that heavy rains in the mountains can cause flash flooding and please pay attention to any danger signs.

There are many excellent hotels and hostels in Cairns in various locations. As usual, make sure you check the location is close to the city centre or the hotel or hostel offers a free, regular shuttle service.

You can check the Cairns adventure group on Facebook as they sometimes have upcoming adventurous events planned! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=31975969568

Aboriginal Culture

The local Aboriginal culture is fascinating and offers something very different for visitors to enjoy. Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park at the base of the Skyrail to Kuranda.

The Mamu Rainforest Canopy walkway (on the Palmerston Highway, near Innisfail) includes elevated walkways, a cantilever and observation tower. It offers visitors an exhilarating experience of being high in the rainforest canopy and provides spectacular panoramic views of World Heritage rainforest landscapes. The Mamu rainforest is the homeland of the Ma:Mu Aboriginal people. Many generations of Ma:Mu people have lived here—they have a strong and enduring connection with their rainforest country.

Sightseeing

Various parks and attractions take advantage of Cairns city's natural surroundings. Among them are Rainforestation Nature Park (5 mins from Kuranda and 30min bus from Cairns), Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, and Kuranda Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, which extends for 7.5 km over World Heritage rainforest.

The best way to see the beautiful areas surrounding Cairns is to hire a car; if you don't have anyone to share the costs with why not put a note up asking for people to join you? Most hostels have a signboard and there are also some public signboards in Lake St and Abbott St; just ask a couple of tourist shops for the exact location. You might even find other people offering lifts down the coast or to Darwin etc.

CSs often post to the Cairns group looking to share hire car costs usually for trips to Cape Tribulation or the Atherton Tableland. This allows you to avoid expensive tours, travel at your own place, and visit some of the areas that are less touristy.

Daintree National Park and Cape Tribulation, about 130 km north of Cairns, are popular areas for experiencing a tropical rainforest. Various tours operate in this area, but it’s recommended that you stay at least overnight to get the full benefit of this beautiful part of Queensland’s far north.

The Great Barrier Reef can be reached in less than an hour by boat. A wide variety of cruises from a range of operators are available which can include snorkelling, scuba diving, lunches and island visits. However, consider how many people are taken on each boat, the locations that the boat will visit and try to pick the best day weatherwise to maximize your experience. Couchsurfers often post in the Cairns group looking for diving recommendations so it might be worth checking what others report. For the best deals on Reef trips, walk around Lake St, Shields St and Grafton St and check tour places and specials on signboards; the best offers may be available for trips leaving the next day.

Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K
Cairns is the Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. Its international airport and its proximity to beautiful reefs, islands and sand cays have spawned a thriving and competitive diving industry in Far North Queensland. Although the Reef is closer to land here than along other parts of the Queensland coast, you will still need to take a boat to see its beauty; and there are dozen of companies that are more than happy to take you. The following is a broad overview of the variety of trips offered in the region.

First of all, when deciding on a trip, be aware that the saying holds true “You get what you pay for”; and there´s nothing wrong with that. There are so many operators in Cairns that there is a trip that best suits the needs of everybody. If you are a snorkeler who would like to also try a first time scuba dive, or a diver with limited time, I would recommend that you choose a day boat (departs in the morning and returns in the evening). From here, you need to decide on the level of service and quality of reef systems you desire. If the excursion is cheaper, one or both of two things probably exist: many people on a small boat and/or the money is saved on the distance travelled. Many companies brag that they visit three sites in one day. In my opinion, this is not always a good thing. I feel that these trips can be quite rushed for customers, especially during high occupancy times.

Generally I would recommend www.tusadive.com.au because they maintain a high level of quality, service, and safety. Certified divers have the freedom to plan and follow their own dive plan independently with a buddy, or they can relax and chose to simply follow a certified dive master. Snorkelers with very little previous experiences in the water, as well as nervous first time divers, will feel secure and receive patient instruction from the crew.

It is also important to check weather conditions. You will be travelling through open sea, so don´t expect a smooth trip to the Reef. If you are somebody who gets motion sickness easily, don´t think about it – take a sea sickness preventative before you board the boat! If you are somebody who is terrified of water but still would like to see the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, I would recommend that you try one of the floating pontoons. Try www.greatadventures.com.au, where, from their stable pontoon, you have more options of looking at the Reef in glass bottom boats or semi-submersibles. Be prepared for many people, but for those terrified of water, or who succumb to motion sickness easily, this is a more enjoyable option.

For those who would like to learn how to scuba dive, I recommend that you do your Open Water Course. It is the foundation for all recreational diving, allows you to dive independently with a buddy anywhere in the world, and it never expires. In Cairns you have several options. For these courses I would definitely suggest live-aboard vessels. You will have more fun, have the option of going on an exciting night dive, and will finish the adventure with some new friends and lifelong diving buddies. For high quality and good reef systems, I would recommend www.prodivecairns.com.au or www.diversden.com. They both offer PADI Open Water Courses, offer courses in English and German, and have good boats and equipment. If I had a choice, however, I would lean toward Pro Dive Cairns. The main reason is that you stay with your team for the entire 5 days and you will have an after-party with the whole boat at the end. It really makes for a well rounded trip and allows for some real bonding between fellow passengers and crew. They also have a strong foundation of permanent instructors which facilitates a good learning environment resulting in the development of good competent divers.

For cheaper options, try Cairns Dive Centre. They also offer live-aboard trips at middle-of-the-road prices. The cheapest option for Open Water Course in Cairns is Down Under Dive. It is not a live-aboard trip, but you would do two or three day trips to complete your training and possibly at the same locations. Remember that you get what you pay for, and this is often what people want, but keep in mind that with live-aboard trips, your accommodation and food is included; as well, as you will do more diving as well as a night dive on the live-aboards.

For those serious divers with money and experience, I would recommend that you strongly consider one of the three operators who will take you north to the Coral Sea. The quality of the diving and reefs are far superior to those out of Cairns. These trips will take you through the ribbon reefs up to Lizard Island and to the Cod Hole where you can dive with the giant Potato Cods and grey reef sharks. After you can go to Osprey Reef, a reef that drops down thousands of meters on all sides, you can witness the whirlwind of sharks and groupers during the shark feed. www.mikeball.com and www.spiritoffreedom.com.au are the two more expensive ones and www.takadive.com.au is a little more economical.

Now there is one last recommendation I would like to leave with you couchsurfers. I feel that this trip is what many of you are looking for. It’s a two-day one-night live-aboard boat that is not as widely advertised as some of the other trips, therefore it is often overlooked. There will never be more than 16 passengers so be prepared to know everybody´s life story by time the evening goon gets passed around. On this boat, do not expect luxury cabins, or gourmet food; but what you will get is an intimate environment with others who share similar interests. The boat is called www.rumrunnercairns.com.au and I believe it is the most value for your money out to the Great Barrier Reef. The day is relaxing and it includes a free introductory to scuba dive with the possibility to do four or more dives at the cheapest rates in Cairns. Certified divers have the options of a guide and generally will be in small groups. They also offer three-day open water courses, advanced courses, rescue and Dive Master internships. If you are interested in this one, I recommend visiting the website as they often have web promotions.

Shopping and Logistics

You can buy anything you need from Cairns Central shopping centre, which is at the other end of Shields St from the lagoon, just a few blocks away. Bi-Lo upstairs at the north end is the cheapest supermarket. Fresh fruit, veg, bread, cheese, coffee etc. is best from Rusty's Market, which is open Friday-Sunday. The closest supermarket to the Esplanade and city centre is Woolworths on Abbott/Lake St. It is probably a little more expensive but convenient if you don’t want to lug shopping around.

Climate

Cairns experiences a warm tropical climate, specifically a Tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification. A wet season with tropical monsoons runs from November to May, with a relatively dry season from June to October, though showers may be frequent for most of this period. Mean rainfall of Cairns is 1,992.8 millimetres. It has hot, humid summers and milder temperatures in winter. Mean temperatures vary from 25.7 °C (78.3 °F) in July to 31.4 °C (88.5 °F) in January. Monsoonal activity during the wet season occasionally causes major flooding of the Barron and Mulgrave Rivers, cutting off road and rail access to the city.

Like most of North and Far North Queensland, Cairns is prone to tropical cyclones, usually forming between November and May. Notable cyclones that have affected the Cairns region include: Cyclone Yasi, 2011; Cyclone Larry, 2006; Cyclone Abigail, 2001; Cyclone Steve, 2000; Cyclone Rona, 1999; and Cyclone Justin, 1997.

For up-to-date weather and flood information go to www.bom.gov.au For road conditions go to RACQ website.

Public Transport
http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

Emergency Information

Emergency number is 000. The hospital is located on the Esplanade, about 15min walk north of the lagoon. The hospital number is (07) 4050 6333
STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES): 132500

Short notice doctor’s appointments are available at the 24hr medical centre on corner of Florence and Grafton Streets. The Chemist Warehouse on McLeod St opposite Cairns Central shopping centre is cheap.

Category:Queensland

2013-09-29T03:10:24Z

Sarongrainbow:

[[Category:Australia]] [[Cairns]]