NOTHING SAYS SATURDAY QUITE AS MUCH AS STROLLING THROUGH A MARKET… I like to arrive as stallholders are just completing setup – before the hoards arrive.  Kaleidoscope of colours spilling from fresh produce stalls; first pick of vintage finds; and a prime seat at the cafe. There is always a treasure to be found and people to watch.

One of my favourite venues is the Airlie Beach Markets – the foreshore comes alive every Saturday from 8.00am – until about 1200noon. Leaving plenty of time to explore in the afternoon – a Cruise Whitsundays trip to the Islands or a walk in one of the Whitsunday Islands National Parks.

A more picturesque backdrop would be hard to find – water laps at the sandy shore; palm trees sway; and boats bob in the bay. An eclectic mix of visitors meander – families’ locals; yachties; and musicians – no-one is in a hurry.  Even in the heat of summer a gentle tropical breeze blows through.