Cairns - Revision history

Sarongrainbow at 05:00, 6 November 2016

2016-11-06T05:00:31Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:00, 6 November 2016
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	Cairns Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K		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.		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.		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.

Midsch at 13:46, 16 July 2016

2016-07-16T13:46:20Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:46, 16 July 2016
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			{{Australia}}
			{{Cairns}}

	'''Cairns city and surrounds'''		'''Cairns city and surrounds'''

Sarongrainbow at 04:08, 14 July 2016

2016-07-14T04:08:01Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:08, 14 July 2016
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	'''Airport Shuttle'''		'''Airport Shuttle'''

	http://www.~~sunpalm~~.com.au		http://www.sunpalmtransport.com.au

	Cairns Taxis: 131 008		Cairns Taxis: 131 008

Sarongrainbow at 04:06, 14 July 2016

2016-07-14T04:06:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:06, 14 July 2016
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	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).		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.		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 Arrow &~~ Blue Arrow rainforest walks, Tanks Arts Centre, and wetland boardwalk through to Centenary Lakes.		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.		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.
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	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.		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'''		'''Aboriginal Culture'''
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	'''Sightseeing'''		'''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.		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.		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.
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	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.		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.		'''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!		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		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 Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K
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	http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm		http://www.sunbus.com.au/sit_cairns.htm

			'''Airport Shuttle'''

			http://www.sunpalm.com.au

	Cairns Taxis: 131 008		Cairns Taxis: 131 008

Robyt: adding interfamily links

2015-07-21T23:42:44Z

adding interfamily links

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:42, 21 July 2015
Line 89:		Line 89:
	(Most of the information for this page is from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)		(Most of the information for this page is from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)
	[[hitch:Cairns]]		[[hitch:Cairns]]
			[[nomad:Cairns]]

Sarongrainbow at 22:41, 16 September 2014

2014-09-16T22:41:35Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:41, 16 September 2014
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	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.		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 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 ~~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.		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.		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.
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	'''Sightseeing'''		'''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.		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 ~~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.		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.		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.
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	'''Shopping and Logistics'''		'''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).		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'''		'''Climate'''

Sarongrainbow at 07:44, 11 March 2014

2014-03-11T07:44:24Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 07:44, 11 March 2014
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	'''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.		'''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 Diving Advice from Allan Woo http://www.couchsurfing.org/profile.html?id=4JMXH2K

Robyt: adding interfamily links

2013-10-22T11:51:52Z

adding interfamily links

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:51, 22 October 2013
Line 84:		Line 84:

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

Sarongrainbow at 05:43, 29 September 2013

2013-09-29T05:43:30Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:43, 29 September 2013
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	STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500		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.)		(Most of the information for this page is from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)

Sarongrainbow at 05:40, 29 September 2013

2013-09-29T05:40:30Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:40, 29 September 2013
Line 83:		Line 83:
	STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE (SES) for natural disasters such as cyclones: 132 500		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.)		(Most of the information for this page came from the Cairns couchsurfing wiki, which has now been deleted.)