Cairns, Australia, Travel Video Guide

Cairns Australia was settled by Europeans in 1876, during the Australian gold rush. Due to harsh, unpredictable weather, and teeming wildlife, the area had previously been deemed by settlers as dangerous and uninhabitable. Today, the city of Cairns is modern Australia's gateway to one of the planet's most diverse rain forests, the Daintree Rainforest. The city center is called the Esplanade, and is a meeting place for locals and tourists alike. In addition to wildlife, Cairns Australia is known for deep sea fishing, scuba diving, adventure tours and activities, as well as The Great Barrier Reef, a collection of coral off the coast of Cairns that is truly unparalleled anywhere else in the world.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most popular Cairns attractions. The reef stretches more then 2000 km along the northeast coast of Queensland, and can be in enjoyed in a number of different ways. Travelers can take a ride on a boat with an underwater observatory; take a helicopter ride to view the beauty of the islands from above, or even jump in and scuba dive through sections of the reef. Cairns Australia diving is one of the most popular things to do in the city. Whether you have been diving for a long time, or are brand new to swimming, most Cairns diving schools will offer options to cater to your skill level. An experience viewing the multitude of fish and wildlife that are unique to the Cairns Australia Great Barrier Reef is one of the many reasons Cairns diving is such a memorable activity.

Yet another of the things to do in Cairns Australia is to visit the Daintree Rainforest. Touted as the world's safest rain forest, and home to the highest number of plant and animal species that are rare, or threatened with extinction, anywhere in the world, the Daintree Rain forest is a must see for anyone traveling to Cairns.

After spending the day in Daintree, you may want to stop by the Rainforest Market in Cairns, to pick up a souvenir. For more shopping and things to do in Cairns, the nearby Port Douglas Market is a must see. Most patrons at the Port Douglas Market are locals, but travelers will have no trouble fitting in and finding excellent deals. If night shopping is more your style, check out the Chinese Night Market. The market is closed during the day but open all night long. Here, you'll find gifts, souvenirs, as well as some unique desserts and foods.

If all of this shopping and touring hasn't tired you out too much, there are still plenty of things to do in Cairns Australia. One more of the many popular Cairns attractions is the Champagne Balloon Flight, which flies guests high above the city of Cairns, as well as the Great Barrier Reef. This is a great trip to take late afternoon or at sunset.

Another great activity during sunset is eating. Dining in Cairns will likely take you along the Esplanade, where most of Cairns' premier eating establishments can be found. Food in Cairns is a delightful mix of fresh world class seafood, international favorites, and local fare. Some restaurants even serve emu, crocodile, and kangaroo as local treats.

However you plan to spend your time in Cairns, you are sure to have a vacation filled with sun, fun, and plenty of diverse surroundings.