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Expat Exchange - Discovering the Best of Cairns
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Discovering the Best of Cairns

By Betsy Burlingame

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Summary: Our Guide to Cairns: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities

Welcome to Cairns! If you're planning to move to Cairns, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Cairns has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Cairns.

Cairns is a vibrant city that offers a plethora of attractions for both tourists and locals. The Great Barrier Reef, one of the seven wonders of the natural world, is the city's most famous attraction. Visitors can explore this underwater paradise through snorkeling, diving, or a glass-bottom boat tour. The Daintree Rainforest, the oldest rainforest in the world, is another must-visit site. It offers stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and the opportunity to learn about the indigenous culture. The Cairns Esplanade, with its lagoon, boardwalk, and numerous restaurants and shops, is a popular spot for relaxation and entertainment. The Cairns Botanic Gardens, showcasing the diverse flora of the tropics, and the Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, offering an insight into the rich history and culture of the indigenous people, are other notable attractions.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Cairns is vibrant and diverse, catering to a wide range of tastes. Ochre Restaurant is one of the city's most popular dining spots, known for its innovative menu that incorporates native Australian ingredients. For seafood lovers, Prawn Star offers fresh, locally caught seafood served on a boat in the marina. The Salt House is another popular choice, offering stunning waterfront views and a menu that combines local and international flavors. Cairns nightlife is equally exciting, with a range of bars and clubs offering everything from live music to DJ sets. The Pier Bar, with its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. For those looking for a more lively night out, Gilligan's is a popular nightclub that often hosts international DJs and live bands.

Recreational activities in Cairns are largely centered around its natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Water sports are particularly popular, with the Great Barrier Reef offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. Companies like Pro Dive Cairns and Reef Magic Cruises offer tours and lessons. For those who prefer to stay on land, hiking in the Daintree Rainforest is a popular activity. The Mossman Gorge Centre offers guided walks that allow visitors to learn about the rainforest's unique ecosystem and indigenous culture. Adventure sports are also popular in Cairns, with AJ Hackett Cairns offering bungee jumping and Minjin Swing for adrenaline junkies. For a more relaxed activity, bird watching at the Cattana Wetlands or fishing at Trinity Inlet are excellent choices. Finally, for those who enjoy golf, the Cairns Golf Club offers a beautiful course that is open to both members and visitors.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Cairns: Making the Most of Life and Connections

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Get Quote

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
Get Quote

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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