We will be visiting Australia in early part of November. We plan to spend 5 nights in Sydney and then on to Cairns to dive(we will be on live-a-board boat for 4 days). How many days do we need in Cairns to see the sights, Rainforest, Cape Tribulation, etc. Where can we go from there? After Cairns we will go on to Fiji for a week. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Sheila, if your plans aren't finalised for Cairns, check out Port Douglas just north of there. Our favourite holiday place. a good site to have a look at is http://www.internetnorth.com.au/gazette/ you could also find some more info, if you go to www.travel.com.au have a great holiday. Peg.

Dont stay in Cairns, stay in Port Douglas, it is about a 30 minute drive north of Cairns and has direct access to both the rainforest and reef and inland highlands. It is a beautiful town, not over populated with accommodation from 1 star to probably one of the best resorts in the world in the Sheraton Mirage. So fly into Cairns and go directly north - you won't regret it.

Follow their advice. I stayed in Cairns. Ho Hum. Not much to do or see in Cairns although they do have a nice casino. The beauty and convenience to the sites is in Port Douglas. Spend as much time as you can. There is a lot to do and see. Have a good trip.

Sheila <BR>Another Aussie voice adding to the chorus for Port Douglas! It is a much better place to stay. The Aussie dollar is at record lows at the moment, so if your budget allows splurge and stay at the Sheraton Mirage - it is wonderful. There are acres of pools for swimming and with some rooms you can step off your balcony straight into the pool. There are quite a few restaurants to choose from too, from a casual pub-type one up to the tres elegante and expensive variety. A day trip to the Daintree is a must do. <BR>You'll have a great time! <BR>Michelle