🌴 Cairns, Australia: A Hidden Gem of Slow Living

Cairns, a coastal city in northern Australia, may seem unassuming at first glance—lacking the tropical flair of Southeast Asia or the modernity of Sydney. Locals say it was livelier before the pandemic, but even with quieter streets, I found myself falling for its charm by day four. 🏙️ The City Main Street: A single bustling strip with restaurants, night markets, and bars, facing a serene waterfront. Must-try: Villa Romana (stellar Italian cuisine!). Convenience: Large supermarkets and a shopping mall make supplies easy. 🌊 Must-Do Experiences 1️⃣ Great Barrier Reef Why I came: The reef’s magic! I chose Quicksilver—the only outer reef platform with pristine coral. Activities: Snorkeling, scuba, helicopter rides—a full day of aquatic adventure. 2️⃣ Kuranda Rainforest Morning: Skyrail cableway to the village (visit the zoo, butterfly sanctuary, and cuddle a koala!). Afternoon: Army Duck tour + market browsing. Evening: Scenic train back (2hrs of lush views, vintage charm). ⏳ The Real Magic: Slow Down Save 1-2 days to just be. Sunrise walks along the esplanade (joggers, yoga, basketball). Breakfast at Muddy’s Cafe with ocean views and curious seabirds. No spots—just peace, quiet, and the art of doing nothing. Gear: Sony A7C2 + Tamron 28-200mm #AustraliaTravel #Cairns #GreatBarrierReef