In Cairns we are staying at Palm Cove, one of the Northern beaches about 20k from the centre of Cairns. This area is chock full of 5 star resorts, day spa’s and restaurants where those flush with $ can enjoy a luxury holiday on this beautiful beach – BUT, tucked right next to these stately complexes snuggles a small quaint council operated camp ground on absolute beachfront. (I have no doubt the developers would be constantly harassing council to get hold of this parcel of land). So here we are rubbing elbows with the rich and famous for $17 a night!!!! We can sit under the palm trees surrounding our tent, sipping something cool, playing guitar, and watching the waves roll into the shore – bliss!
From our base here at Palm cove we are exploring the surrounds of Cairns. We have spent time with friends at the township of Kuranda (a vibrant little villiage filled with artists and musicians high on the range in dense rainforest. – The kuranda markets are colorful, noisy and exciting, and the organic foods and wines are wonderful).
Last night we had a spectacular dinner with new friends Kylie and Bruno - and their beautiful seal point siamese boys. We were all filled fit to burst with wonderful food, wine and great conversation - I now understand when our guests at home groan at the thought of trying to fit in more food!
Explored Mareeba (Big coffee growing area!!!!), the Atherton Tablelands, visited the Tolga woodworks which has the most amazing hand made timber artwork, and visited the Daintree Rainforest. The Daintree rainforest is thought to be the oldest continuous rainforest in the world at between 150 and 200 million years old, and its diverse plant and animal life is amazing. (In comparison the Amazon is merely a spring chicken at about 7 million years.) Still having a ball but the end of this trip is growing ominously nearer…… Wonder if I can extend my leave?????
