A place called Kuranda
Up in the hills near Cairns in northern Australia is a placed called Kuranda.
It’s a bit touristy.
A bit kitschy.
And totally magical.
First off, it’s got koalas. Like this one, whose name is Pavlova.
There’s nothing in the world like holding and petting a koala.
Second, it’s in the rainforest, so the kingfisher decided to stop in and say hello despite the fact that he’s not really supposed to be around here all that much at this time of year.
Third, it’s got all kinds of neat exhibits, such as a year-old dingo pup…
And a lace monitor …
In addition to the obligatory kangaroo with joey…
Not to mention the butterfly sanctuary…
Yes, it really is that brilliantly colored. If anything, the photo doesn’t do it justice. (It’s a Hercules correction: Ulysses butterfly. (Hey, it’s all Greek to me…) )
And did I mention the kingfishers that maybe really aren’t supposed to be around all that much at this time of year?
And a ride in a canopy-high gondola over the rainforest is simply not to be missed.
Judy,
The pictures, and your descriptions of New Zealand and Australia, are so outstanding that I cannot find enough superlatives to tell you how much joy they are bringing me every day.
Thank you.
I consider myself a pretty good amateur photographer and I must compliment you on your photographs. I am extremely impressed. They are outstanding.
Thanks so much for the kind words.
I’m glad you’re enjoying your trip to Australia. I’m certainly enjoying your photos! I think you’ll find that the magnificent blue butterfly is the Ulysses (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Papilio_ulysses). My sister lives in North Queensland, and we often see these in her garden.
You’re absolutely right and I’ve corrected the post — sigh — it really is all Greek to me! 🙂
(chuckle) Well said.
It’s been interesting reading your recent posts, as we’ve been in Cairns, too.
Loved the Skyrail ride, too.
Oh my gosh … Australia is so lucky to have such a fabulous photographer capturing the beauty of it. Your photos are STUNNING!!