Port Douglas is less then 1 hour drive north of Cairns airport. The journey from Cairns to Port Douglas is a beautiful one, with breath taking views of deserted beaches, coral sea and tropical mountains.

Scheduled local and insterstate services operate from (and between) Cairns and Port Douglas. Two of the main bus companies are

www.coralreefcoaches.com.au

www.sunpalmtransport.com

Alternatively you may wish to hire a car, most car hire companies are at the Cairns airport, companies include

Avis, Thrifty, Budget, Europcar and many more.

Road Safety

If you are planning on a self-drive holiday, here are a few tips about driving in Australia:

• In Australia, all vehicles travel on the left side of the road. This may be different to the side on which you normally drive. Ask passengers to remind you to drive on the left side of the road each
• If you wish to drive in Australia you must hold a current, valid driving licence issued in the country in which you live. Carry it with you at all times when driving.
• All occupants of a vehicle must wear seatbelts at all times, as required by Australian laws.
• Always travel no faster than the signed maximum speed limit.
• Avoid drinking alcohol before driving. Australia has strict laws on ‘drink-driving’ and police actively enforce them.
• When planning a long drive have a good night’s sleep before the trip, share the driving with your companions and stop for a rest at least every two hours.
• The driver of the vehicle is not permitted to use a hand-held mobile telephone whilst driving in Australia.
• In country areas road conditions can vary from bitumen surfaces to gravel and dirt. Be careful of potholes, soft road edges, narrow bridges and dusty roads. Be careful of crossing over a road covered in water - cross slowly only if the road surface is firm, and stay in the middle of the road.
• Allow plenty of room before you overtake road trains (large vehicles that can be more than the length of 10 cars!) and be prepared for them to sway a little as you overtake. Also be prepared for the ‘windrush’ when passing as it can pull you towards the road train.
• Do not hitchhike or pick up hitchhikers.