February 14, 2026
This is my third time in CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA and I really enjoy how walkable, clean and charming it is. The waterfront esplanade and lagoon area is a nice walk day or night. We had 2 nights here in the waterfront Shangri La Marina Hotel while waiting for the Ship to arrive and then 2 additional days in Port.
We used the four days to get lots of errands and shopping done. I got a mani, pedi and facial as a nice treat. I also had a dermatology skin check review ( all good, just wanted to make sure my protection working in these hot climates) and a dental review and teeth cleaning. I also picked up some new balconny furniture and a blackout roller shade I can't wait to get installed in my cabin. All of these items took major coordination and tracking skills, to hunt down availability in our limited days. I was so happy to get it all done!
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Just off the coast of Townsville, Australia is a special little island (that used to be part of mainland, hundreds of thousands years ago). The island was formed by molten granite that was pushed to the earth's surface with volcanic force.Over time the volcanic overlay weathered away leaving an extraordinary landscape of rounded domes and boulders, many as big as a house and spectcularly perched. Over Seventy Percent of the center of the Island is a National Park. There is lots of wildlife here too - koalas, rock wallabies, snakes & birds.
While snorkeling in Matafonua Resort I was seeking out two creatures unique to this area. Both eluded me despite several attempts!
Who doesn't love a spectacular sunset?!? We were treated to many in this gorgeous retreat. Below is a sampling.