Yes, finally arrived in Australia, it's no longer a gaping gap in my countries visited. It's hot here, similar temp to the Philippines but no where near as humid.

Already had a chance to explore some of the town (whilst I was trying to find my way to the nearest laundrette from the hotel to give all my clothes a good machine wash!).

One quietish day relaxing at the lagoon, then it was day trip to the reef and snorkelling, fish, one turtle, one barracuda (nicknamed Barry by the crew), a sandbank as the tide started to drop and much more........

Can definitely recommend Ocean Freedom for the trip!

The next day I headed in land to the skyrail (cable car up into the rainforest, mountains and gorge) and train back along old railway. The cable car and stops along the route were great - Baron Falls waterfall (although not much water at moment). The town at the end of it though is not much to write home about, a load of market stalls selling tourist tat and it seemed every other one was selling 'genuine' Australian opals. Train journey back was good though, cutting its way back down the mountain and gorge.

Next stop - whitsundays