Cairns & Port Douglas
Travelling with children can sometimes be a little “testing”, however a recent trip to Cairns and Port Douglas was a fantastic getaway for all of us!
My 3 daughters and I spent 2 weeks in tropical Far North Queensland and for me it was also a bit of a nostalgic trip to the past - as I had lived and worked there 20 years earlier (has all that time really passed by?).
I was pleasantly surprised to find that Cairns had been upgraded and beautified with the waterfront lagoon and new shops. However the laid-back lifestyle was still there along with plenty of international visitors, making it a hot-pot of culture and diversity. Throughout our stay, my daughters enjoyed listening to and meeting people from all over the world, along with helping an Italian lady who couldn’t speak English - so the girls’ Italian language classes in primary school had paid off!
When travelling with kids I find they are more patient and happy if you involve them in your plans for the time away, and on a day by day basis - as it gives them an opportunity to be involved in the timing of the day, along with getting excited about the adventures ahead.
The first week while based in Cairns we did most of our day tours - to Kuranda, riding the Skyrail, Hartleys Crocodile Farm, and a Great Barrier Reef cruise. Most of these tours were organised through Downunder Tours and it was such an easy way to get around and enjoy the experiences on offer.
The second week was time for us to relax and have that tropical beachside getaway at Port Douglas. Our accommodation at the Mandalay Apartments was truly an amazing luxurious stay. Modern well appointed apartments that were quiet and directly across the road from the beach (trees do obscure the view, but its only a short stroll across a boardwalk and you are there!). There are 2 gorgeous pools, one of which we often had to ourselves.
Combining these relaxing days with walking into town, looking at the shops, going to the Sunday markets, and dining in lovely restaurants - it truly was a wonderful time away. It was a successful holiday for all of us because we had time to sightsee, time to relax, and most importantly for teenage girls - time to shop!
If you are looking for a tropical holiday within Australia, and want a beach holiday along with seeing the World Heritage Listed Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest - call me so I can assist in your holiday planning.