Queensland

Visit Queensland

• To see

  Port Douglas Carnivale
  The small seaside town of Port Douglas puts on its own carnival every year at the end of May. The neighbouring communities of Mossman, Cape Tribulation and Daintree all join in as well. For 11 days, the locals and visitors celebrate the joy of living and the culture of the region. Numerous events are organised for the occasion, including a big procession. Everyone gets involved and parades down the streets on floats that they personally make. The carnival peaks on the last night with a huge supper beside the beach, under the lights of incredible fireworks.
  The little town of Cooktown
  This little town in the north is usually a stopping point during visits to the region. It is the departure point for tours to the Cape York region. There aren't many hotels here but the welcome ambiance you will be greeted with makes it worth the visit, not to mention the James Cook Historical Museum.
  The Outback and its caves
  This red stretch of land is definitely capable of making you lose your mind! It is possible to drive for hours without encountering a single living soul. Nevertheless, it holds 20 national parks. Especially interesting are the superb Chillagoe Caves.
  The seaside resort town of Palm Cove
  Just 30 minutes from Cairns, this small seaside resort town is just starting to really grow. You only need about 20 minutes to go from one end of its seafront promenade to the other, but it is home to many quality hotels, and restaurants that serve delicious food! You will also find the Pandanus Gallery, which exhibits a collection of quality Aboriginal works.
  Australia's tropical forests
  Estimated to be 125 million years old, you may feel a little small next to this vastness! North of Cairns, Daintree National Park is home to the most varied flora and fauna in the whole world. It brings together long sandy beaches, precipitous mountains, and rocky summits.

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  To do

  The Great Barrier Reef
  With visibility that can sometimes reach 60m deep, it is inevitable that you would want to come dive into these crystal clear waters. At least 400 species of coral and 1,500 species of fish reside here peacefully. There are many diving companies that organise daily outings, including the Poseidon group. The latter is made up of first class professionals who will provide you with everything you need to discover this underwater world. The company allows you to discover 3 of the 45 authorised dive sites every day.
  Snorkelling in the river
  It's true that there aren't nearly as many animal species to be seen as in the reefs, but it is a fun experience nevertheless. The water isn't very hot, about 17°C, but letting yourself be carried by the current is pretty awesome. It's hard to get a grasp of exactly how strong the current is, until you try to swim against it! This excursion is called 'River drift snorkelling' and is organised at Mossman Gorge National Park.
  A date with Willie Gordon
  Here's an experience that you should definitely not miss out on for any reason! The 'Guurrbi Tour' is organised by an exceptional man. In fact, Willie is more than incredible. This man has chosen to introduce visitors to the Aboriginal culture. He opens up his knowledge to those interested during a long spiritual hike in the forest, which includes medicinal secrets from the bush, the healing properties of its plants, and personal family stories... Before this encounter though, you will experience some unforgettable moments, such as crab fishing with a spear... The 3-day circuit is called 'Bama Way'.
  Cairns Tropical Zoo
  A true paradise for those who have always dreamed of feeding a kangaroo or holding a koala in their arms! All sorts of animals live here, including the famous cassowary. This zoo covers an area of 16 acres, filled with 1,100 different species.

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  To think about

  As everyone knows, there is a slight time difference between Great Britain and Australia... If you arrive in the morning, you must try to avoid going to sleep at all costs, so that you can get used to the local time as quickly as possible. Plus, with the journey being so long, it is recommended that you stay for as long as possible!

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• To avoid

  Swimming in the ocean outside of authorised areas in general, and between October and June in particular. Unfortunately, the Queensland coast harbours dangerous jellyfish whose stings can be deadly.
  In terms of climate, Queensland is divided into two zones. The north boasts a tropical climate while the south is subtropical. The best time to go then is during the local winter, seeing as how the rest of the year the region very often falls victim to torrential rains.

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  To try

  In Australia, there is one dish that you absolutely must try, because it would be a real shame to leave without trying our cousin's version of fish & chips!
  If you are going to be passing through Port Douglas, make a booking at the Salsa Bar & Grill. You will be able to try kangaroo, or alternatively, the chef's specialities are to die for!
  An address for coffee fans in Queensland: the Skybury Coffee Plantation. As well as boasting a superb location, the coffee produced here is sold nearly everywhere in the world. It is considered to be an upscale product.

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  To bring back

  Aboriginal works of art, including sculptures and paintings, as well as opals. Indeed, Australia is one of the main producers of this gem.

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Australia Travel guide