What clothes should we bring?

The tropical north is a relaxed casual affair.
So smart casual clothes are ideal.
In winter, it is advisable to pack a light jacket for the cooler evenings.
Don't forget a hat, sunscreen and your swimmers (bathers).

 

What type of credit cards are acceptable?

All major international credit cards are accepted.
Travellers cheques may also be used at most hotels and some stores.
There are numerous teller machines available for withdrawing cash.

 

What is the water like? Is it safe to drink?

Australia has an excellent water supply for most of its towns and cities and the far north is no exception.
An exception may be the small outback towns that rely on bore water and tank water. It is advisable to boil any water sourced from lakes and rivers.
If you happen to be travelling out west, you can always buy bottled water to take with you.

 

What is the climate like?

There are really only 2 seasons in the tropical North.
One is what we now term the "green season" and the other is the dry season.
The green season usually begins late November with the onset of the monsoons and ends around May. Being monsoonal, the rain usually falls overnight and brings warm humid days. This is the time of year when the waterfalls are in their full glory, the rainforests are alive with activity and the reef is still beautiful. 
Highest temperatures are usually in January/February. 
The dry months are very mild, with temperature averages ranging from 9 to 24 degrees Celsius. The tablelands can be much cooler, so it is advisable to bring a sweater/jumper if you plan on venturing into the lush mountain regions.

 

What accommodation types are available?

You will find a myriad of styles to choose from.
Luxury hotels, backpacker hostels, bed and breakfast, motels, resorts
holiday parks and guest houses. Everything is covered from those on the tightest budget to those with a gold credit card!

 

Is it advisable to book in advance?

Most definitely! If you plan on visiting during the busy season (April - November and Christmas - New Year) it is recommended to book as far in advance as you can to obtain the accommodation property of your choice.
Overnight stays can be done on very short notice, but you may need to make several enquiries to find a suitable vacancy.

 

What is the voltage of the electricity supply?

Throughout Australia, the voltage is 230/240 volts 50Hz. 
The power point sockets are 3 pin flat. which can accommodation 2 pin flat.
Some larger hotels may provide 110volt outlets suitable for an electric razor.

 

Is it advisable to come in summer?

Summer is our "Green" season and with the season brings dramatic changes to the region after the dry. Waterfalls are spectacular, the flora and fauna are abundant in the tropical rainforests. We may occasionally experience "LOW PRESSURE" systems that may develop into cyclones, however all local authorities and accredited tour operators are well versed in procedures for dealing with any such event. The summer rain does not adversely affect any of the great barrier reef adventures you can experience, such as snorkelling and scuba diving.

 

What about the Box jelly fish?

All our major beaches have large stinger proof nets in place with qualified surf life savers on patrol. The box jelly fish are only a problem on the coastal fringes and do not pose a threat out on the reef. The stinger season is from November to May.

 

Do you have horse rails?

Well, um, back in the early 1900's perhaps! 
But if you are thinking of horse trails, then there are many opportunities to jump on a pony and ride through the rainforests and other great places to explore.

 

Are there any activities for children?

Children are well catered for. There are numerous picture theatres (16) to catch the latest blockbuster, a skating rink, snorkelling, 10 pin bowling and so many other exciting things, makes me wish I was a kid again!

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