 However you are travelling and whoever you are travelling with, Cairns is a destination which really delivers. There is so much variety – rainforests, beaches, tropical islands, green tablelands and of course The Great Barrier Reef – your biggest dilemma will be trying to fit everything in. Here are our five “must do’s” for visiting Cairns. 1. Hang Out Downtown – just wander around this tropical city and take in the relaxed vibe. Visit Rusty’s Market and pick up some tasty local produce or a unique souvenir, take a stroll along the Cairns Esplanade and stop off for something to eat at one of the many bars or restaurants, or explore the boutique shopping on offer – everything is close and easy to get to.
3. Drive to Atherton Tablelands – An easy day trip from Cairns, jump in the car and head out to the Atherton Tablelands. Sitting at over 700m above sea level the landscape changes dramatically from the tropical beaches of Cairns. Visit cascading waterfalls, volcanic craters, and a variety of produce farms. Plenty of beautiful places to visit for a day, or for an extended trip.  4. Port Douglas – Need we say more! A beautiful destination in itself, Port Douglas is only an hour or so north of Cairns and offers beautiful beaches and a relaxed tropical resort town vibe. Drive yourself and stop off at the many amazing beaches along the way including Palm Cove, Trinity Beach and Ellis Beach. Fantastic scenery and a wonderful place to beach/bar hop!  5. The Great Barrier Reef – You can’t come this close to the Great Barrier Reef and not visit Australia’s own natural wonder of the world. There are a multitude of options here, whether you want to snorkel, scuba dive, sail, hot air balloon, helicopter or take a glass bottom boat there is a tour and price point for everyone. Make sure you choose a high standard tourism operator and explore this amazing area – you will not be disappointed.  Have a “must do” recommendation for visiting Cairns? Share it via the comments section and don’t forget to like and share our Facebook and Instagram pages – links below
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 Ho Chi Minh City (commonly known as Saigon) is a vibrant place to visit. Full of all the things that make travelling in South East Asia so exciting, this city is full of interesting places, friendly people and fantastic food. Ho Chi Minh is also a great place to launch a visit to the rest of Vietnam from – but if you are spending a few days in this bustling city here are a few of our favourite things to do: Explore Ben Thanh Market This is a destination with everything! Get a local souvenir, buy branded clothing or pick up something to eat. A great selection for those who love to shop – be prepared to bargain.  Crabs at Ben Thanh Market Take a Cu Chi Tunnel Tour This sprawling underground wartime tunnel complex is around an hour out of the city. Take a tour to ensure you get information on the history of the area and the Vietnam war.  Cu Chi Tunnels  Notre Dame Cathedral Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral This cathedral, located downtown in Ho Chi Minh City was first opened in 1880. Admire the beautiful Romanesque architecture from one of the nearby restaurants or markets, or time your visit to take a look inside. Eat Pho Ask the locals what their favourite street food is and you will almost always get a reply of “Pho”. This Vietnamese soup consists of broth, rice noodles, herbs and meat (generally beef or chicken). Eaten for breakfast, lunch or dinner – you can’t leave this city before trying at least one bowl of Pho.  Restaurant serving Pho |
