Cairns is located in Australia’s tropical north and is considered the capital city of Far North Queensland. Cairns, and the surrounding  region ,is one of the world’s most desired destination as it is the only place on earth where two World Heritage listed sites live side by side. These World Heritage listed areas are the Great Barrier Reef and Australia’s Tropical Rainforests, both are easily accessed from Cairns city.

• Attractions:

Although Cairns is situated 1750km north of the state capital, Brisbane, it is conveniently situated close to the many attractions of Far North Queensland. Some of the regions popular attractions, located within easy driving distance of Cairns, include:
The Great Barrier Reef - running along the coast for 1000 kilometres, the reef is an outstanding natural wonder. Access from Cairns is easy.
Links to useful websites for more information on the Great Barrier Reef:
http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/
http://www.reef.crc.org.au/discover/coralreefs/facts_gbrwha.htm
http://www.barrierreefaustralia.com/
http://www.divethereef.com/DiveSelection.asp
Palm Cove  - Approx. 20 mins driving north of Cairns, Palm cove and its special beach is a popular place to stop for a well earned break.
Daintree and Cape Tribulation Rainforest Wilderness - (approx. 2 hours driving north of Cairns, the wilderness area has world reknown stature and is the only place in Australia where the rainforest runs to the beach and coral)
Links to useful websites for more information on Palm Cove and surrounding areas;
http://www.cairnsgreatbarrierreef.org.au/
http://www.cairns.aust.com/
http://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/include/IA/index_pages/aboutOurRegion/tourismInfo.html
http://www.palmcoveaustralia.com/content/sightseeing.html
http://www.tourismpalmcove.com/home
http://www.cairns.com.au/visitor-information/destinations/palm-cove-guide.html
http://www.australiangetaway.com/australia/travel/palm-cove.html
http://www.cairnseguide.com/
http://www.ksr.com.au/

Please visit the Cairns Visitor Center website which provides information on an extensive range of attractions and activities.

•  Climate:

The ideal weather in Cairns for most is between May and October which is the dry season, making August one of the best months of the year to be visiting Cairns. The average daily temperature in August is 21 degrees Celsius or 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 7.4 hours of daily sunshine.

• Entertainment:

The city of Cairns has a nightlife that caters to everyone, from those who like to party to those looking for a relaxing getaway. Popular night time activities in Cairns including visiting the local nightclubs, dining at the many amazing restaurants, or just sitting back on the Esplanade and admiring the view.
Vibrant nightlife venues are available in Cairns- please click here for information on the best bars and clubs to visit.

Cairns is also home to the Sofitel Reef Casino. The Casino is open Monday to Thursday from 10:00am to 4:00am and from 10:00am Friday until 4:00am Monday the doors are open continuously.

• Restaurants:

Dining out is an important part of the Cairns experience as the city is home to some of Australia’s finest restaurants. Restaurants can be found on the waterfront along the Esplanade, The Pier Marketplace and throughout the CBD are. A visit to The Cairns Dining website is worthwhile as it provides restaurant recommendations and reviews. If you head in the direction of The Esplanade you are bound to find something to suit every taste.

• Local Markets:

Night Markets - The Cairns Night Markets are situated on the Esplanade. You will find everything from souvenirs to fashion and toys. Near by is also the Nite Market Food Court offering a wide variety of food. The market is open all week from 6pm.
Mud Markets - The Mud Markets are held at the Pier Marketplace. They are held every Saturday and Sunday and offer souvenirs and novelty items. Whilst at the markets you can also visit the permanent stores that are also at the Pier Marketplace.
Rusty’s Markets - Rusty’s Market is located between Grafton and Sheridan Streets. Most locals do there food shopping here as Rusty’s offer a large assortment of locally grown produce and exotic fruits. Other arts and crafts are also available. The market is open Friday 6am-6pm, Saturday 6am-5pm and Sunday 6am-3pm.
Esplanade Markets - As the name suggests the Esplanade Markets are held at the Esplanade every Saturday from 8am-4pm offering a selection of souvenirs, gift ideas and food.

• Other Useful Information:

Banking - Most banks are open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Friday. There are Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) located around the city which can be used after hours. Most banks are able to cash travellers cheques.
Currency Exchange - Cashex is located at 63 Abbott Street, Cairns.
Goods & Services Tax (GST) - A 10% tax is applied to most goods and services in Australia. All displayed prices for Goods and Services are required to include the GST.

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