Port Douglas and around.

Ok, now we're finally back to civilisation here is the blog i wrote ages ago but never had an internet connection to post it to you. I'll send an update on what we've done in that time in a few days.

We’ve just spent the past five days in and around Port Douglas, just north of Cairns. After Ayers Rock we were almost used to hot climates but not humid ones so it was a bit of a shock to the system. We had luckily found a place right in the centre of town and it had good air-conditioning so at least whenever it got a bit too much we could just pop home for a chill out.

On one of the days here we went out to the Great Barrier Reef which was amazing. We got to do 3 stops at different parts of the outer reef, where we snorkelled. I’m sure you’ll agree (if you’ve seen the photos) the stinger suits we wore were something quite special!! We didn’t actually see any jellyfish which they’re designed to protect against, but at least they stopped us turning lobster-coloured so I’m all for them. We did see some gorgeous fish and corals too. We hired an underwater digital camera, hence all the amazing photos.

We hired a car and took a day trip to up the coast. Our first stop was at Mossman Gorge where we did a lovely walk through the rain forest. Within 5 minutes we were soaked but it was worth it. Then we drove up to the Daintree river where we went crocodile spotting. Another animal species ticked off the list. We got to see a few adults and an infant. We also got a free pie (beef not croc) at the end so we were all happy. Later on we went to Cape Tribulation, an incredibly small place with a beautiful beach where we spent a bit of time before going to do some jungle surfing. Basically this involves being strapped in a body harness and being winched up onto a platform of a tree house deep in the forest. From there we zip-lined down wires to further platforms, while finding out rainforesty facts. Very good fun, especially upside-down.

Today we had another easy day, shopping, going to the local market etc. Even though it’s only 2130hrs here we are going to bed as we have to be up at 0215hrs for our transfer back to Cairns. Ouch! From there we are heading to Airlie Beach where we are heading out on a sailing cruise around the Whitsunday Islands which look like picture-postcard tropical islands. You may not here from us for a while!!!!