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What should I bring?
Remember to limit the effects of the tropical sun with
sunscreen and hats. Pack loose comfortable clothing,
walking shoes, swim wear and sunglasses. All venues
accept a good standard of dress and you may care to pack
a light jacket for evening wear in winter. Don't forget
your camera / video camera.
What is the weather like?
With loads of sunshine, warm seas, refreshing sea
breezes and a warm climate all year round, Tropical
North Queensland weather is hard to beat. The region has
two distinct seasons; a winter period of warm
temperatures and low rainfall, and a summer period of
balmy temperatures and higher rainfall. Winter, or the
'Dry' season, begins in May and ends in October offering
sunshine, fresh breezes and low humidity. Summer, or the
'Wet' season, extends from November to April and
refreshes the region with tropical downpours of an
afternoon and occasional dramatic electrical storms. (Visit
the Weather Page)
Is it safe to swim in the ocean all year?
During our Wet Season, large swimming enclosures are
employed at popular swimming beaches, which afford
protection against dangerous jellyfish stings. These are
staffed by qualified Queensland Lifesavers who can
provide any information you may require on the spot. The
jellyfish are only present on coastal beaches during a
limited, defined season and do not interfere with Great
Barrier Reef activities such as snorkelling or diving as
these take place a distance from the coast and
completely out of the habitat of the marine stingers.
Remember: When swimming in Australia it is recommended
you swim at beaches patrolled by Lifesavers and to swim
between the flags. When in the sun apply a good quality
sunscreen, wear a hat and avoid dehydration by drinking
plenty of water!
Is the water safe to drink?
Port Douglas & Cairns has excellent water supplies and
in most cases tap water is fresh and safe to drink.
Water from a bore in rural areas is generally safe to
drink but has a mineral taste to it as it comes direct
from the water table underground. Water sourced directly
from rivers and lakes should be boiled, chemically
treated or filtered before drinking to avoid stomach
upsets.
How do I get around?
For those who prefer to make their own way around, most
roads are sealed but travelers venturing off these must
check road conditions before they leave, and make sure
to let someone know where you are going and how long you
expect to be gone. Pre-Booking of rental cars is
recommended. 4WD travelers should take extra care in
these more remote areas. Remember that creek causeways
can quickly become impassable with heavy rain so don’t
cross unless you are sure that it is safe. A little
patience spent waiting for the water to go down, usually
at low tide, could prevent an accident. Always treat the
road with the respect that prevailing conditions
warrant.
What medical facilities are available in case of
emergency?
Cairns & Mossman both have hospitals and emergency care
services capable of administering advanced and
specialised medical care.. Port Douglas has medical
clinics that are generally staffed 6 days a week with an
emergency # for Sundays. The region also has ambulance,
fire and police services. Traveller's insurance is
recommended. (Visit
the Shopping Page)
What are the shopping hours?
Shops are usually open 7 days a week, with banks
operating Monday to Friday. There are 24 hour automatic
teller machines available outside of these hours, and
currency exchange facilities at hotels and tour desks.
All major credit cards are accepted as well as
traveller's cheques. Please check the International
Currency Converter website for exchange rates and
budgeting for your trip.
Are there banking facilities?
Tropical North Queensland is home to most major banks
that offer a wide range of services including currency
exchange. Electronic banking machines operate 24 hours a
day at selected locations.
Banking hours
9.30am till 4.00pm Monday to Thursday
9.30am till 5.00pm Friday
9.00am till 1.00pm Saturday (Selected banks only)
Traveller's cheques and credit cards are welcomed at
most establishments. Foreign currencies can be exchanged
at various Bureau de Change outlets around the city or
at the airport. Suitable identification may be required
for financial transactions.
What is the electricity voltage in Australia?
Electricity is supplied throughout Australia at 230/240
volts (50 hertz), although most hotels and motels
provide 110 volt AC sockets (rated at 20 watts) for
electric razors only. For all other equipment, an
adapter/converter is necessary, unless the item has a
multi-voltage option. Please note that power outlets
only accept flat three or two-pin plugs, depending on
whether an earth connection is fitted.
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