Cairns - So Far

So far in Cairns we have enjoyed a walk along the Esplanade that involved playing in no less than 4 playgrounds , one water park and one lagoon.  The lagoon was decorated in various six packs and scantily dressed backpackers.  We also watched the emergency helicopter make a landing and afterwards Pete and the Kids went up close to investigate the chopper.

We have also made use of the pool at the park we are staying in.  The pool has a pirate ship with a slide down into the pool.  The bears had a most enjoyable time and Grace and James practiced their water saving techniques on the Bears.  You will be pleased to know that all bears are alive and well and as an added bonus are a little bit cleaner.

Today we took a ride on the Kuranda Train up to,yep, you guessed it Kuranda.  The train was a lovely old timber train with 15 carriages.  We chugged chugged over many bridges and through tunnels past the beautiful Barren Falls.  I was looking forward to the Kuranda markets but I must say was very disappointed.  Our very own Hall Markets in Canberra are much better for homemade arts and crafts and produce.  Kuranda just seems to be hippie, australian souvenirs and others bits and bobs you could buy at any old shop.  Speaking to other people at the Skyrail they where also disappointed by the markets.

Barron Falls

So we caught the Skyrail back down the mountain.  What a great experience.  There we are in our own little bubble floating along up above the rainforest canopy.  We also had a fantastic view back to cairns and the coastline.  Looking down we could see how big the ferns are and the stag horns growing n the tree tops.  Just beautiful.  I would highly recommend the Skyrail and the Train.

Hmm Cairns itself is just not a Red Elephant type of place.  We have gotten used to staying in quiet sleepy little towns and villages.  Cairns is big and bustling and we can hear traffic and sirens.  Apparently the park we have chosen is in a bad part of town and people have had things stolen out of their cars and vans.  So I do not feel entirely relaxed and comfortable here.  There are gigantic bats that fly in at night it is not unusual to see Red Elephants making their way to the toilets swinging brooms and towels around their heads to ward of the low flying bats.  The good news is I have caught up on my washing of sheets and towels and clothes.  The car has had a service and tomorrow we are doing the much anticipated reef.  Tune in tomorrow night for a full report.