Visit this place before leaving Australia
Pre-trip Preparation
- Visa: Apply for an Australian individual tourist visa 14 working days in advance, requiring materials like a bank deposit certificate of over 50,000 CNY.
- Flights: Book direct flights from Shanghai to Brisbane or Cairns, such as China Eastern Airlines MU715 to Brisbane. Check China Eastern's member discount days 3 months prior for possible deals.
- Accommodation: In Cairns, consider Crystalbrook Riley with ocean and pool views, or Jack & Newell Holiday Apartments featuring stunning scenery and fully-equipped kitchen. For the Whitsunday Islands, InterContinental Hayman Island Resort is ideal for family vacations.
- Others: Pack high-SPF sunscreen, sun-protective clothing, snorkeling/diving suits, waterproof cameras, and motion sickness pills if prone to seasickness.
Itinerary
- Day1: Shanghai - Brisbane. Arrive via international flight, adjust to time difference, rest or explore the city.
- Day2: Brisbane - Cairns. Morning flight to Cairns, check-in at hotel. Visit Cairns Night Market in the afternoon for local cuisine and souvenirs.
- Day3: Cairns - Great Barrier Reef. Cruise aboard Sunlover Reef Cruises. Options include snorkeling with tropical fish/turtles, glass-bottom boat tours, or paid helicopter rides to see Heart Reef from above.
- Day4: Cairns. Morning Skyrail Rainforest Cableway over ancient rainforests. Afternoon at Rainforestation Nature Park for Aboriginal performances and potential koala sightings.
- Day5: Cairns - Whitsunday Islands (optional). Fly to the islands if chosen, enjoy Airlie Beach's coastal views in the afternoon.
- Day6: Whitsunday Islands. Half-day helicopter tour to view Heart Reef, then visit Whitehaven Beach's powdery sands for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
- Day7: Whitsunday Islands - Brisbane (or Cairns). Return flight with time for city shopping and souvenir hunting.
- Day8: Brisbane (or Cairns) - Shanghai. Depart via international flight, concluding the trip.
Dining Recommendations
- Dundee’s Restaurant: Modern Australian cuisine with harbor views.
- OCHRE RESTAURANT: Renowned for Australian fare, try their seafood platter.
- Prawn Star Cairns: Boat restaurant offering sunset ocean views and seafood feasts.
This itinerary can be adjusted per preferences. Book Great Barrier Reef tours and hotels early during peak season for smooth arrangements.