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bubba | 05/17/2012
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Learned To Scuba Dive Finally!

Following the Whitsundays Cairns must be one of the best destinations to have fun in Australia. It was so good I even went there three times in the space of my travels. The Great Barrier Reef from Cairns appeared to be just a bonus.

That’s where I completed my SSI Advanced Open water dive course. I achieved it with Cairns Dive Centre on a 6 day liveaboard scuba dive training course which was certainly wonderful. I actually at first checked out going with a business known as Down Under Dive but these guys sounded very up themselves and I’d heard many a good thing about their dive training. Additionally after a little bit more digging I discovered that they had possibly pretty much the finest dive pools .

Their particular liveaboard scuba dive boat has been recently entirely rebuilt and has all the better technology fitted. It’s got very nice air conditioned cabins which cater for 2-4 people, has a huge saloon, lounge and its own bar. Of course it even has a small spa on the front deck to sit in and chill out . The actual meals was fantastic and created in a very well built galley, among the best foods they prepared was Barbecue Coral Trout . Yummy .

The actual boat is usually based at the diving site but would shift every day to other sections of the reef, which would either be performed over night if some distance or early in the morning if closeby . This was pretty good as you are free to experience a variety of reefs and have a truly unique diving experience . This company had a quick transfer boat that takes you there and back again which also permits you to spend as many days and nights on-board as you wish.

I absolutely would not recommend anybody else to instruct you to Learn to Dive in Cairns however if you decide to look somewhere else please be diligent when selecting a dive course in Cairns as some dive schools utilize fixed platforms at sea which you stay on and travel by means of boat for the diving, not quite the live aboard you would expect!

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bubba | 04/20/2012
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Naked Scuba Diving – Is It For Real?

Well, for a lot of, the actual sensation of scuba diving in the wild with nothing on is enjoyable. For that reason, you can expect to find numerous naked scuba diving groups consisting of individuals who love to be totally free while in the water. Diving in the nude is very invigorating, allowing water to caress the body the natural way. The number of individuals who seem to get pleasure from naked scuba diving would probably surprise you.

In addition to the wonderful experience you get while scuba diving naked, you will also discover the safety considerations. For instance, a number of subtropical and tropical seas are afflicted with sea lice which become caught under clothes. The issue is that sea lice bite and it hurts. However, sea lice usually do not cling to exposed skin, which implies individuals can scuba dive nude while not having to worry about these kinds of annoying critters. Keep at heart that it’s recommended body hair be trimmed or perhaps shaved right off.

Furthermore, bare scuba diving can also help the actual scuba diver in becoming far better aware of the actual marine ecosystem, which basically shows you greater diving expertise. Such as, under the water, you will discover rocks, cliffs, coral formations, along with other things which when brushed up against with a wetsuit can do destruction of pricey equipment or even develop a safety risk. By feeling the earth on the body, you are a lot more aware of your diving as well as the environment, this means becoming far more careful.

Just like there are lots of benefits associated with naked scuba, you will find dangers too. In this particular case, male scuba divers should steer clear of the process of feeding reef fish. The motive is that some fish won’t be able to tell food items from the guy’s appendage, thus creating a somewhat unpleasant taste. In addition, men really should shield themselves in larger schools of fish. While this might seem humorous, it could be an issue and attacks happen. Therefore, you need to be conscious of the environment when diving with no diving suit or swimwear so that you take the right protective methods.

Curiously, a lot of scuba divers are actually trying out nude scuba diving and finding they enjoy it. The following are a handful of destinations that will agree to naked diving for those who decide to try it yourself:

Mexico
* St. Barts

Honduras
* Half Moon Bay

Bonaire
* Sorobon Beach Resort

Bahamas
* Cat Island (Cutlass Bay)

Florida
* Key Largo (Jules Undersea Lodge)

Jamaica
* Braco (Grand Lido)

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bubba | 04/16/2012
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Our Day at The Great Barrier Reef on Reef Quest

Thursday , 22nd October, and what a perfect Cairns day to go to the Great Barrier Reef… and we made a great choice to go on “Reef Quest“, from Cairns which gave us an absolutely fantastic day cruise.
After flying in from Sydney this morning I was looking forward to some tropical weather. It was a little cooler than I’d planned and I was glad I had brought along pants and a jumper!
I’ve been holidaying in Cairns for almost 12 years and have been out on my share of Reef Trips and let’s admit it, they all do basically the same trip: 2 different dive sites, snorkelling gear, lunch and coffee & tea – so it’s the reef destinations and little extras that make the difference.

From the time you get on the boat to the moment you get off, the service and crew are impressive. The crew to passenger numbers are high, as there was always someone around to help with any queries or problems. The crew seem genuinely content and their service and attention were great.

Reef Quest provide a wetsuit for everyone which is usually an extra (usually $6.00 hire) on other cruises. As a snorkeller a wetsuit offers you with sun protection and also buoyancy which makes snorkelling simpler and more fun.

Reef Quest have a choice of 17 different scuba diving sites and select the best 2 reefs based on the days conditions. A guided snorkelling tour is also on offer at both sites and this is a real plus for first time snorkelers or anyone wanting to learn a little bit more about the Great Barrier Reef. The snorkel guide dives down and picks up things like sea cucumbers and shells and brings them up so you can all have a close look. They also know where the best coral is, so it does add a bit to the days experience.

Lunch was yummy with heaps of variety including pasta salad, bean salad, Greek salad, local fruits, cold meats, bread rolls and prawns. There was tea and coffee and soft drinks from the bar available throughout the day.

All in all it was a fantastic day out.

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bubba | 04/13/2012
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The Results Of A Recent Study Into Backpacker’s Sexual Habits

Young backpackers who head to Australia, get drunk and have unprotected sexual intercourse will likely be zeroed in on by health regulators in an effort to deal with increasing rates of sexually transferred infections.

New statistics reveal young global trekkers are more inclined to binge-drink, have numerous sexual partners as well as never bother with condoms compared to the Australian citizens.

A nine-year study of around 5500 young travellers, who attended the Queensland Reproductive Health Centre, demonstrates a custom of love-making, alcohol and partying is developing a STI disaster. Also they are spreading conditions such as chlamydia, genital warts along with herpes into the remaining portion of the population.

The study – which will be revealed inside the worldwide journal Sexually Transported Diseases – figured that “backpackers” must be a high priority population regarding sexual health advertising and also the means to access services”.

Experts found that almost all backpackers were aged in their early-20s and originate from England or From Ireland.

Girl backpackers ended up being two times as prone to binge-drink, while their male rivals were thrice more inclined than Aussies to consume dangerous quantities of booze.

Most of the males and 40 per cent of girls that journeyed to Australia additionally admitted to having in excess of two sexual partners in the previous 90 days.

Both backpackers and Aussie citizens had reduced rates of condom use.

“International holidaymakers certainly are a potential risk population regarding either getting or transmitting STIs to other holidaymakers or local residents,” researchers from New south wales Health and the University of NSW stated.

“Many backpackers australia wide assemble in hostels and entertainment sites which are especially focused their way. With these situations, short-term connections are more inclined to grow and condom use could become sporadic.”

12 percent of backpackers admitted to having sexual intercourse when in Thailand in the previous 12 months.

They have a tendency to seek help for STIs at Aussie general public sexual health hospitals as these are free.

In accordance with the study, nearly half of individuals will have sexual intercourse with a new companion once they travel to a different country.

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bubba | 04/11/2012
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Sydney’s Top 5 Free Things

1. Sydney Harbor
This ought to be the main stop on any Sydney itinerary. A visit to the harbor can take in many of Sydney’s preeminent attractions such as the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge. Enjoy a Sunset Dinner trip on the harbour in order to enjoy the location from the water.

2. The Sydney Opera House
Check out this iconic building from each and every possible point of view! Take a tour to get a greater understanding of the day-to-day workings of the Opera House after which you can enjoy a show (it isn’t just about all Opera you realize!).

3. Sydney Harbor Bridge
This amazing bridge presided above Sydney Harbor way before the Opera House was even a shimmer in the builders eye. You’ll be able to take a look at the actual bridge on foot, go up inside the pylon or go on a well guided walk over the top (if you dare!).

4. The Royal Botanic Gardens & the Domain
This particular green-colored retreat has one of Sydney’s most breathtaking outlooks across the city along with Sydney Harbor. Founded in 1815, the gardens are where you can a first-rate variety of flowers and plants from Australia and in foreign countries. The Domain envelopes the actual Royal Botanic Garden and is a popular exercising and party location.

5. The Rocks
The Rocks is actually a shopping and food location directly west of Sydney harbor that features an intriguing and special heritage. It marks the place where Australia’s Western european settlement began and features numerous ancient properties and locations that provide glimpses directly into Australia’s colonial history

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bubba | 04/11/2012
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No Beds for Budget Travellers in Perth

Perth’s backpacker hostels have achieved bursting level, with tourism bodies anxious at the proliferation of non-accredited operators owing to unprecedented substantial demand.

Every single bed in Perth’s hostel lodging was booked out last Friday night, in accordance to well-liked backpacker booking internet site hostelworld.com.

An investigation by The West Australian last week found West Perth backpacker hostel Planet Inn was enabling guests to sleep on the couch for $16 a night.

When asked regarding the lodging choice, a supervisor at the hostel said they didn’t offer you the couch as being a sleeping arrangement due to the fact it will breach their accommodation licence.

Town of Vincent chief govt John Giorgi stated the council would check out operations with the house for virtually any breach of neighborhood regulations and motion can be taken if required.

Tourism Council chief government Evan Corridor explained most WA backpacker lodging providers have been performing a terrific job but some “rogue operators” have been profiting from tourists.

He stated backpacker hostels housing more friends than they have been certified to carry could possibly be in breach of developing codes and hearth basic safety expectations.

Grievances in opposition to operators who ended up accredited through the Tourism Council could possibly be investigated but those who ended up not, for example Planet Inn, could only be investigated by the State Government’s client affairs division if a buyer complained.

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bubba | 04/10/2012
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The Best Cairns Travel Tips.

As a booking agent located in Cairns, I decided I might share a few ideas with you.These are my favourite Cairns activities. I trust they can assist you if you’re planning to travel there.

Quicksilver day cruise to the Great Barrier Reef. The reef that Quicksilver visit is the most northern of the reefs patronised by day cruises. As one of the original reef operators they have been taking people to this underwater wonderland for over 30 years. Top quality equipment and attention to detail should make this day trip to Quicksilver’s pontoon a memorable component of everyones vacation to Cairns.

Kuranda Scenic Railway, with some stunning scenic views of the rainforest . This train trip has always been popular with travellers and locals as well. Why not go one way on the Kuranda Scenic Railway and return on the Skyrail cablecar.

Mareeba Rodeo Drive In Cinema. Sample movies under the stars at one of the country’s 12 surviving drive in cinemas.

Green Island with Big Cat Cruises. A locally run boat, not too big to remember that you matter. They offer full and half day transfers to Green Island with as much or as little as you want. Very popular with locals.

Flames of the Forest, Experience some indigenous ingredients in a 5 star menu, set in a romantic world heritage rainforest location.

Tandem Skydive from 14000 feet, Whle you can do a skydive anywhere in Australia, not many places offer a tropical beach landing and those awe inspiring views of the great barrier reef. It’s lucky you’re strapped to someone or you may forget to deploy the chute.

Bungee Jump with AJ Hackett. Australia’s first purpose constructed bungee tower located in a spectacular jungle location.

Go scuba diving with Silversonic. This brand new custom designed dive boat is the perfect dive platform to explore the reef. With a brand new refit and impressive customer to crew numbers you won’t be dissappointed.

Spend a day at the Boulders with a packed lunch and a chilled bottle of wine. Some day tours will take you there but why not hire a car and make the most of it.

Visit Tjapukai by Night, for a glimpse of about indigenous Australia. The dinner is also quite good quality.

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bubba | 04/07/2012
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Check Out A Week in Cairns

Monday

For day 1 of our Cairns backpacker package we thought we would get the adrenaline flowing by going white water rafting on the Russell river in two person sports rafts. Although the Russell River isn’t as high a grade as the Tully this is still an adrenaline ride. As you are in 2 man sports rafts there is no guide in the kayak with you. They are paddling their own kayak with you.

Tuesday

Today we thought we might to have an easy day lying around the pool. Some cold drinks and mudcrab for lunch made it a great day.

Wednesday

On Wednesday we finally got to go to the Great Barrier Reef. We went to the reef with Quicksilver cruises. They have an artificial island permanently moored at the outer reef. The snorkelling was amazing with literally hundreds of fish of all shapes and sizes swimming with you. The coral was fantastic and was so close you could virtually touch it.

That night we went out for a meal and a few beers and watched some Cane Toad racing. They are ugly lumpy creatures.

Thursday

Today we went to Kuranda on our package. It’s a quiet little town in the mountains behind Cairns. You can get a bus there, but we travelled via the Skyrail Cablecar. The Skyrail took about an hour with 2 stations on the way. Kuranda’s an interesting place but a little too tacky for me. Just about every second shop is selling didgeridoo’s and the ones in between are selling souveneirs. A must see is the Kuranda Village Markets, with more didgeridoo’s for sale as well as lots of local handmade knick knacks, as well as more didgeridoo’s. We returned by the Scenic Train with more beautiful scenery.

Friday

Friday was another lay day of sorts. We took the opportunity to spend the day at the lagoon. For a place with deadly crocodiles and stinging jellyfish, the lagoon is the ultimate idea.

Friday night we went on a boat cruise on the Cairns Inlet, the food was of a high standard and the singer was top quality. Finishing by 9.40pm, it wasn’t too bad.

Saturday

Today we cruised to the Great Barrier Reef again. This time we went with Pro Dive on a diving cruise. However we only did the snorkelling, as none of us are trained scuba divers. The reef was even better than the first day. The lack or crowds makes it a much different experience than on the big boat trips.

Sunday

On Sunday we took a tour to the Daintree Rainforest . The Daintree is the worlds oldest rainforest, and it’s quite spectacular. They market it as “where the rainforest meets the reef” and thats what happens. The rainforest runs right down to the white sandy beaches.

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bubba | 03/25/2012
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It’s Not Truly Hard To Learn How To Scuba Dive

I’ve truly wanted to learn to scuba dive my whole lifetime. And with a holiday fast drawing near to Cairns Australia I guessed I’d better learn fast.

I contacted a few nearby scuba dive centres and they made the idea all appear really difficult and scary in addition to being high-priced. Therefore a little bit disappointed I did a search on the internet for “Cairns Scuba Diving” . And what an excellent plan that has been. I was provided literally Dozens and dozens of possibilities involving Cairns dive schools along with local travel companies only too willing to aid us discover how to scuba dive.

Subsequently mailing a few email messages with numerous concerns I was excited to learn that doing it had not been as distressing, difficult or not cheap as I had until now ascertained. Generally in Cairns you’re able to do a dive course in four, five or even six days and nights. Four days is the mimimum required to acquire the PADI certificate. A PADI accreditation is the planets largest and most accepted.The five and six day programs provide you with extra dives and you also are able to do a liveaboard at the Cairns Great Barrier Reef.

Upon a bit of hard decision time I chose to do a 5 day liveaboard scuba dive course. Fistly I needed to get a scuba dive checkup done. This should not worry anyone that is moderately fit and healthy. For people with no significant illnesses or respiratory system complications you should be Right. The particular largest issue is Asthma We beleive.

Days one and two are usually spent in the Pool and Classroom. At this stage , you learn the theory behind scuba diving and some straightforward skills. The actual hardest part about it ended up being having to tread water for 15 minutes. And rather unfairly the fattest customers float much better than the trim types. Those beers after work paydays ultimately have assisted me.

The third day you leave for the great barrier reef. You will be taken out to your charter boat on the reef by the transfer boat filled with day guests, but the instant you reach one’s destination they will ensure you get into the water. You start the training dives straightaway. The actual initial four dives are a component of the training, where you practice a number of additional skills. Then you are able to complete five more dives with absolutely no lessons incorporated. You are now a qualified scuba diver. And I got a chance to get it done in the Great Barrier Reef, definitely not in some brown turbid city water.

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bubba | 03/21/2012
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They Gave Us A Day Off

All of us did the Great Barrier Reef snorkelling cruise in Cairns . The initial location was the Green Island at which you actually got roughly two hrs to explore. Insufficient time really because there were lots of people around. Be sure and carry bug repellant seeing as there are a great deal of mosquitos around. Snorkelling from the actual shoreline was acceptable, even though we’ve seen better.

Following that it’s on to the outer reef (Norman Reef) as well as their pontoon. As others have noted, it is actually appropriate for the quantity of visitors on the cruise. The supposed underwater viewing area was a disappointment – I have seen a lot better within the aquariums in Melbourne or even Perth . They haven’t yet got around to cleaning the actual glass as a result it was very difficult to view nearly anything through the windows. My child stated identical things with regards to their semi-submarine trip which I didn’t get to do because we just simply ran out of time.

If perhaps there’s something that you definately should do, it is the Scuba-doo, particularly if you’re not the best swimmer. It’s an incredible way for you to enjoy the reef. Most of us even saw a turtle and another of the crew showed us a star fish which my toddler loved. It’s not too cheap however i believe it is really worthwhile.

Following your scuba-doo, We went for a scuba dive. It was probobly since it had been the monsoon time of year but the waters wasn’t as clear as I had expected . Possibly it’s better once you do a specialist dive trip although with this specific tour, you don’t get to dive any additional destinations. Corals ended up being more of the uninteresting and brownish colours. Fish, although there initially were lots, had been nothing at all special. Then to top if off, my divemaster merely kept swimming around and around, not really going out of her way to show the wonders of the reef.

The moment the scuba dive was finished, I’d just adequate time to eat and change (if my wife had not put aside a plate for me, there was clearly none left) – consequently, I skipped the semi-sub experience. If it wasn’t for the scuba-doo, this may have been a really forgettable trip.

I’d personally join in a dive specific cruise next time. You can find tons of additional options to experience the reef.

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