Some shopping plazas such as The Pier are open later and trade 7 days a week, and there are many convenience stores dotted around the Far North that are open late hours. Many other stores offer duty free prices to overseas visitors upon presentation of passports and travel documents. There are the pubs and bars where the locals will have a drink and a yarn with you, clubs where you can play the pokies and enjoy terrific live entertainment, or step inside the exciting world of the new Reef Casino and try your luck on the tables. For real life entertainment there are street buskers and a variety of performing artists in and around the taverns, clubs and bars where you can relax with the locals, who after all, are the best people to ask about what's on at night. Naturally, the tropical environment lends itself to a wealth of traditional outdoor pursuits such as golf, fishing, and all kind of water sports.
Many visitors find themselves taking up new interests.
The North is a birdwatcher's delight, with many species of indigenous and migratory birds congregating at different seasons. The Cairns Esplanade and the area north of Mossman named Julatten are well known bird-watching venues. Further details are easily available from your hotel concierge or accommodation reception. Cairns is well represented with medical services, with major hospitals capable of administering advanced and specialised medical care. Winter, or the 'Dry' season, as the locals call it, typically begins in May and ends in October and usually means idyllic weather - sunshine, fresh breezes and not too much humidity.