Arrival

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Here I am in Cairns, Queensland. I had prepared myself for an ordeal with the flights, and was nicely surprised at how easy it all was. Customs wasn't as bad as I imagined, but I have already been told to be careful in the sun, I don't suppose they get many of the pallid type around here.

The landscape around Cairns seems to be mostly flat coastal wetlands, with steep forested mountains on the opposite side. The first thing I noticed on leaving the airport was the unbearable heat - not something I think I'll be able to get used to. It think it was best for me to start in this though, and work my way down south.
The city of Cairns is very geared up towards tourists, with travel shops and hostels on every corner. I am staying in a hostel for $19 per night (about 9 pounds).
During my first day here I have seen pelicans, doves, something that looked like a heron, tiny crabs with one bright red claw, and flying foxes at night the size of gulls.
I've already booked myself in for a two-day tour up to Cape Tribulation, Daintree National Park, starting first thing tomorrow morning. Hopefully I will be able to take some good photographs there.

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Photos

The esplanade, Cairns
The view from my hostel

Comments

[snorkie]

lovely
I like the beach in the dark picture best. What was the food like on the plane? And these arty shots are all very well, but where are the karki shorts? I hope you are wearing your sunscrene, I feel your pain, Im the only person I know whos been to Crete in the hight of summer and come back exsactly the same colour, because I had to wear factor 60 the whole time I was there! x

[snorkie]

horseys
you have to do this!! http://www.statravel.co.uk/cps/rde/xchg/SID-0A536D8D-F312D13C/uk_division_web_live/hs.xsl/15432.htm