In London it took me anywhere between 45 minutes and an hour to get to work and the same to get back again. When the tube ground to a halt this could stretch to 90 minutes or more. Being stuck underground between tunnels on an antiquated railway with no air con was never my idea of fun. Don't get me started on the tube strike days!

In Cairns I push my bicycle out of my driveway shortly after sunrise and am at my desk 10 minutes later. If I get really held up, usually by an interesting bird or a beautiful photo opportunity, I might take 15 minutes.

I cycle a slightly less than direct route so I can take in the stunning Cairns Esplanade before arriving in Abbott Street. 

The focus of the city since the mangrove swamps were cleared in the late 1800s, this 2.5km stretch of boardwalk looks out over Trinity Bay to the Coral Sea beyond. It's stunning. Early mornings there is usually a smattering of cyclists, joggers and walkers taking the air. The numerous palms are packed with excited parrots gearing up for another carefree day on the wing. 

Certainly makes a refreshing change from being squeezed into a carriage alongside thousands of commuters, with elbows or armpits in my face...