Weekend in Cairns

December 27th

Today we went snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef. We took a two hour boat ride to a small island. The weather was horrible on the way out, with rainy and chopping weather. Our captain told us that ‘statistically’, it gets calmer as we go out, so we forged ahead. I think he just didn’t want to refund us the tour price. I thought of Ahab chasing the white whale as we drove straight into dark clouds. However, it did clear up after a bit, and it was absolutely sunny at the island.
At the reef, we did a semi-submersible submarine ride, and then had a biologist took us on a snorkeling tour of the reef. There were hundreds of big colorful fish that would gather around you as you toured. The reef was incredible with all the different shapes and textures.

That evening, we ate at a great local seafood restaurant. I had east coral trout, which is some of the best fish I’ve ever had. It was called Splash. We also have been experiencing the Australian wine. We tried a Shaw and Smith Sauvignon Blanc our first night and a Red Claw Chardonnay this evening. We always drink good bottles & forget the next day, so this will hopefully help with recollection of our bottle choices.

December 28th
Today was a multi-tour that took us into the rainforest near Cairns. We took a quick hike around rainforests, and did a river cruise in Daintree. Unfortunately, there were no crocodiles. (though lots of ‘log-odiles’ as the guides call them) We then ate at restaurant in the forest, and sampled local fruits. The owner came out to give us a description of the different fruits, how they were harvested, where they are found & what they are called around the world. In the afternoon, we went to a wildlife preserve. We were able to walk around with kangaroos and kolas. Sam felt better to her animal fix since she misses the cats and dogs. There were tons of birds, which we did not care for, and also lots of bats, which were pretty nasty. They were screechy the whole time, and evoked a scene from a bad horror movie. After the habitat, we spend the rest of the afternoon in Port Douglas & then back to the hotel. The weather has been pretty cloudy and rainy. We had not realized, when we booked the trip, but this is Australia’s rainy season.
We ate at a great restaurant that our guide recommended, and had some of the best Italian food we’ve ever had. It was called La Fettuccina. I know that sounds odd that our best Italian food was in Australia, but the place was excellent. We also enjoyed a Stonier Pinot Noir with the meal.