North Queensland

For those of you that have traveled to far North Queensland, I am sure you will agree with me that this special area of Australia has plenty of appeal. The black misty mountains around Cairns and the profuse tropical vegetation of the landscaped boulevards makes a visual botanical treat.

On a visit to Cairns and areas north, we enjoyed the laid back vibe of this vibrant city. Bustling with tourists and backpackers, one gets the impression this is a very international community.  Cairns restaurants cater for every taste and budget with an extensive variety of ‘ethnic’ flavours.  

With over 150 restaurants in Cairns you really need to do your homework and 'check with the locals' for the best food experiences. The fresh food markets are a must see with a fabulous array of  tropical fruit to choose from. We enjoyed the modern Hanuman restaurant at the Hilton Hotel (the jungle curry is delicious) and Mojo's in Mossman. Ganbaranba,  a very authentic Japanese restaurant where delicious dumplings are made fresh every day was a great find. The best coffee was found at Caffiene and our best breakfast experience was the busy Perrotta’s at the Art Gallery where the apple crepes are a standout.

Our best 'tourist' experiences were the small but delightful Cairns Art Gallery,  early morning walks along the Esplanade boardwalk where you can check out the latest super boat to arrive in Port, the train and sky rail to Kuranda and discovering the delightful organic  Mungalli Creek (Bio-Dynamic) Dairy & Out Of The Whey Cheesery & Teahouse in the Atherton Tablelands.

 

Curiosity made us follow a sign to the Silky Oaks Lodge near Mossman where we discovered a delightful spa resort hidden in the rain forest high above the Mossman River. Peace and tranquility exude from this beautiful location.

In Port Douglas we stayed at a delightful Courthouse Apartments at a great location on Macrossan Street with easy walking access to shopping and the ocean. Coffee was seriously good at Origin and the book cafe While a Way. The Returned Servicemen's Club on the inlet aptly named The Tin Shed, served a very cold Peroni off the tap and great pub food on the verandah out over the water.

Port Douglas highlights were swimming in the river pool with the Jungle Perch at Mossman Gorge and walking through the rain forest inside the gorge. A day trip to Cape Tribulation encompassed a visit to the Wildlife Heritage Centre where the aerial walkways get you up into the canopy of the rain forest and being chased by a Cassowary in the adjacent forest. For a Great Barrier Reef experience I suggest you take a day trip on the beautiful catamaran Aquarius for a high quality outer reef experience.

With the mango season not far away my Mango Salsa will get you in the mood for a tropical holiday or just bring a little tropical holiday flavour into your home.

Dice one ripe mango and one ripe avocado, mix with half a finely diced red onion and finely chopped red chili, a handful of finely chopped coriander. Sprinkle with fresh lime juice.  Delicious served as an accompaniment to prawns.