Friday 11th April - Saturday 12th April - Day 68 - Day 69

Cairns is where it all happens, apparently. The number of tourists, backpackers and visitors is huge. I don't think I'll be meeting many native Australians here. Arguably, it's not really because of the the city of Cairns itself, but there are a number of attractions, 'The Great Barrier Reef' being the most famous of these, are all within easy reach. Having said that, Cairns is a really nice place. Walking up to the sea, similar to the south bank in Brisbane, there is an huge outdoor swimming pool. The grassy park area right next to it has people playing games like throwing frisbees. And I think they have barbecues for general use by the public as they appear to be permanent features. I haven't seen anything like this before on my travels. It's really far from what I'm use to in 'normality.'

Over these two days I try not too spend too much money, without success. The cost of living here is high. There is a local market very near my hostel (called Bohemia Central). For the first time in a long while, I actually cook for myself: chicken curry and rice. It turns out quite nice. It's far better then heating up noodles, which is what most people seem to eat in hostels. The chillies are a little hot though.

Incidentally, this is what I found out about the meaning of 'Bohemain':

"The following question has been asked to determine whether one is a Bohemian: You have enough money to buy either art supplies or a meal, but not enough money to buy both. Which would you buy? If you chose art supplies, you qualify as a Bohemian."

I'm not sure this hostel has any Bohemian credentials, but I wouldn't count out staying here again.

I've mapped out the rest of my trip at a travel agents and have to shell out a fair bit money, gulp. I may be living on bread and water for a while.