Cairns Clue-In

Cairns is a great city in a beautiful location, the heart of tropical Queensland. Here's what you need to know to appreciate it properly:
· It is pronounced Cannes, like the French film place.
· If you are American, say the ‘r’. If you can’t say ‘r,’ come see me at work.
· The palm trees are not byproducts of In-N-Out, but real local vegetation.
· 5 kilometers of ocean front and all the people sunbathe on the grass by a public pool. The pool does have a fake sandy beach and a cool fountain and overlooks the ocean, which is almost the same as getting in the ocean.
· The Cairns Queenslander is 80 meters from the beach. However, it is 600 meters from the water. Note the mud-flat difference.
· Wind is an issue on certain afternoons. Skirts should be worn with caution.
· The night market opens at 4:30. For great shopping deals, go straight there. Every souvenier known to man, plus a great massage, await you.
· Wendy and I are on the judging panel for the new Best Australian Biscuit Award. The current frontrunner is the Carmel Toffee TimTams. (just typing the words overcame my self control and I had to jump up for another!) Chocolate TimTams, Mango Kisses, and Mint Slices are all strong contestants. Judging will be open for another week.
· Just because a map says “spa” does not mean that the water is heated. Cold “spas” do not have the same effect as their soothing warmer counterparts.
· Kangaroo tastes something like medium tough steak. Crocodile is a lean white meat, closest to pork in texture and with a mild taste. Australian beef tastes like beef. Yes, I ate them all in one meal!