We caught up with Pat and took a minute out of his hectic schedule to ask him about his experiences of our region, and how he thinks Port is perceived by the rest of the country.

The Newsport: Pat, you're obviously well-travelled thanks to a stellar tennis career. What are some of your favourite destinations around the world?

Pat Rafter: Tahiti was amazing and hard to pick stand outs in Europe as there are so many.

TN: How does Port Douglas and the surrounding region compare as a holiday destination?

PR: Very hard to compare Australia with other destinations around the world.  There are some fantastic places in the world that I have been fortunate enough to visit - places that just can't be experienced in Australia. 

But saying that, up in Mossman Gorge this week I said to my kids "This is one of the most beautiful places in the world you will ever visit."  The light, the colours, the spectacular water holes and the indigenous culture of that region are really magic. 

TN: Where are you living these days?

PR: I live on the Sunshine Coast, another great Aussie tourism destination and much like Port Douglas, a great place for families.

TN: How do you think Australians perceive Port Douglas?

PR: This is my first time to the region would you believe, but I had heard it was great for families so that is the perception I came here with and that has certainly been the case. My kids have loved it. 

All the attractions and activities we've experienced in our time here have been within an hour or so from the Mantra resorts we've been staying at and that just makes it so easy.

We've had a mix of outdoor, beach and educational activities that will really give our kids some great holiday memories.

TN: Speaking of Mantra, you're an ambassador for them. How do you decide which companies to work with?

PR: I've always said I couldn't endorse something I wouldn't use myself and that's always worked for me.  So with Mantra, I loved the fact they were an Australian based operation and really championing the Aussie holiday experience. 

And after a surfing holiday staying at the Mantra in Kingscliff I knew I could work with these guys.  So as Ambassador, I'm happy to add my name to a growing brand that values their customers and supports the tourism industry across Australia.
 
TN: What is the strangest product you’ve been asked to endorse?

PR: Ham

TN: You're a certified SCUBA diver. What’s your top tip for first timers?

PR: Breathe...slowly! And remember your underwater camera!

Pictured: Seeing double. Pat Rafter with his kids at Mantra PortSea.