Exploring the Natural Wonders of Cairns: A Solo Adventure

A Cultural Finale in Cairns

As my solo adventure in Cairns draws to a close, I wanted to soak in the city's cultural offerings before heading back to Kelowna. Today was all about exploring the heritage and art that Cairns has to offer, a fitting end to a trip filled with natural wonders. I was eager to delve into the heart of the city and uncover its hidden gems, reflecting on the incredible experiences I've had over the past week.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Bagus Cafe. I opted for the Nasi Goreng with chicken satay skewers. It was the perfect fuel for a day of walking and exploration. The cafe had a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and the owners were incredibly welcoming. It reminded me of some of the small family-run restaurants back in Kimberley, South Africa, where the sense of community is just as important as the food.


Experience authentic Indonesian cuisine at Bagus Cafe in Cairns - where flavor meets tradition in a welcoming atmosphere.

Travel is more than seeing sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

With a full stomach, I set out on the Cairns Self-Guided Heritage Walk. The walk was well-marked and took me through some of the city's most historic locations. I started at the Cairns Post Office, admiring its colonial architecture. The walk was a mix of old and new, with the stunning colonial buildings contrasting against the modern city landscape. It was fascinating to learn about the city's evolution from a humble port to a bustling tourist hub. The audio commentary on the self-guided tour was informative and engaging, providing insights into the history and significance of each landmark.


Uncover the rich history of Cairns with a self-guided heritage walk, exploring the city's heritage at your own pace.

One of the highlights of the heritage walk was the Cairns Esplanade. The boardwalk stretched along the picturesque coast, offering stunning views of the water. I took my time strolling along the Esplanade, enjoying the sea breeze and soaking in the natural beauty of the palm-fringed waterfront. The human-made saltwater swimming lagoon was a popular spot, with families enjoying a refreshing dip in the cool water. It was a perfect place to unwind and people-watch, observing the mix of locals and tourists enjoying the Cairns lifestyle.

After the heritage walk, I made my way to the Cairns Art Gallery. The gallery had a diverse range of exhibitions, from contemporary art to traditional Indigenous works. I was particularly drawn to the "Looking Out, Looking In: Exploring the Self-Portrait" exhibition, which featured a collection of self-portraits by local artists. It was interesting to see how each artist interpreted themselves through their work, reflecting on their identity and experiences. There was also an exhibition of war quilts, which was a poignant reminder of the impact of conflict on communities.


Explore the vibrant Cairns Art Gallery, a cultural gem showcasing contemporary and traditional Australian art in the heart of Cairns.

The Cairns Art Gallery also had a collection of headdresses on display, titled "To Dance, To Sing: Headdresses from the Gallery Collection." The intricate designs and vibrant colors of the headdresses were captivating, showcasing the rich cultural traditions of the region. I also enjoyed the "Christopher Bassi: Notes for a Palm Sermon" exhibition, which explored themes of nature, spirituality, and identity through a series of thought-provoking artworks.

After immersing myself in the art gallery, I decided to do some shopping at the Oceana Walk Arcade. It was a vibrant and eclectic mix of fashion, vintage, and food providores. I found a unique piece of jewelry at Jules Collins Jewellery, a local artisan shop. I also stopped by Bush Medijina, an Indigenous-owned store selling skincare and other products made with traditional bush medicines. It was great to support local businesses and discover unique souvenirs to take back home to Olivia and Thando.


Explore the vibrant Oceana Walk Arcade in Cairns - a shopping haven with unique boutiques, delightful eateries, and a lively atmosphere.

For lunch, I treated myself to some authentic Thai cuisine at Iyara By Sakare Thai cuisine. The restaurant had a stylish space with vibrant cushions, and I opted to sit on the veranda to enjoy the panoramic ocean views. I ordered the Pad See Ew, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were perfectly balanced, and the ingredients were fresh and locally sourced. It was a delightful culinary experience, and I savored every bite while taking in the stunning scenery.


Experience authentic Thai flavors at Iyara By Sakare in Cairns - perfect for vegans and vegetarians!

As the day drew to a close, I made my way to the Signature Restaurant at the Hilton Cairns for a special farewell dinner. The restaurant had a relaxed, luxurious setting overlooking the Trinity Inlet. I ordered the Barramundi, a local seafood delicacy, and it was cooked to perfection. The meal was a fitting end to my culinary adventures in Cairns, and I savored every moment, reflecting on the incredible experiences I've had throughout the week.


Experience culinary excellence at Signature Restaurant in Hilton Cairns with stunning Esplanade views and a menu inspired by local flavors.

After dinner, I took a final stroll along the Cairns Esplanade, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the twinkling lights of the city. I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful part of the world. Traveling solo had allowed me to fully immerse myself in the local culture and connect with the natural environment on a deeper level. I thought of Olivia and Thando back in Kelowna and knew I would have so many stories to share with them.

As I prepared to leave Cairns tomorrow, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I had conquered my fears, embraced the unknown, and discovered a new sense of self-reliance. This solo adventure had been a transformative experience, and I knew it would stay with me long after I returned home. While there is no itinerary for tomorrow, as this is the end of the trip, I know I will be taking with me the memories and experiences I've had in Cairns, and I'm already looking forward to planning my next adventure with Olivia and Thando. It's time to head back to my family and share all the stories from this amazing adventure.

Perhaps next time, we can explore more of Australia together. I know Thando would love to see the kangaroos and koalas, and Olivia would appreciate the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture just as much as I have. Until then, I'll cherish the memories I've made in Cairns and continue to seek out new adventures, both near and far.

This trip has reinforced the importance of stepping outside of my comfort zone and embracing new experiences. As someone who grew up in Kimberley, South Africa, and now lives in Kelowna, Canada, I've always been drawn to exploring different cultures and landscapes. Traveling solo has allowed me to fully immerse myself in these experiences and connect with the world in a more meaningful way. I'm excited to continue this journey of self-discovery and share my adventures with others, inspiring them to step outside of their own comfort zones and explore the world around them.