by Mat Churchill

Port Douglas has been named one of the countries best spots to be, whether you're a local or a visitor, by ranking in the top 10 of two lists compiled by Australian Traveller magazine.

Our town was ranked third in Australia's 100 Best Towns behind Esperance (WA) which came in second, and Yamba (NSW) which topped the list.

The magazine's website states "It has a number of excellent restaurants (AT’s pick is Harrisons), bars and nightlife for the young at heart, as well as activities for the kids. Trips to the reef can be less hectic and crowded than from Cairns, and nearby Mossman Gorge, Daintree rainforest and other activities mean most wishes of holidaymakers are met…"

And to prove that the result was no fluke, Port Douglas was also ranked in the top 10 of the for holiday makers in Australian Traveller magazine's Hot Destination 2011 list.

Kangaroo Island off the coast of South Australia was top of the tree coming in at number one.

A couple with a foot in both camps is Scott Howard and Ella Bennett-Howard who moved to Port Douglas in 2004, and who will further their careers when they move to Kangaroo Island's stunning Southern Ocean Lodge next week.

Ella said there are so many reasons to love Port Douglas, whether you're here for a weekend, or here to stay.

"It's such a laid-back lifestyle and when I moved here there were so many opportunities to work in the tourism industry. The great climate and environment are also big draw cards," she said.

Scott said that although he could see himself moving back to Port Douglas, he is looking forward to his southern adventure.

"It's really remote and rugged down there. It's know as the Galapagos of Australia because of it's plentiful and unique wildlife."

Tell us why you love Port Douglas.