International tourists are throwing off the economic shackles of the last few years and taking to the skies with Port Douglas accommodation in their sights according to ARAMA president and Peninsula Boutique Hotel's Sheryn Blundstone.

Ms Blundstone said there was much reason for optimism, describing this peak tourist season as the best for four years.

"People are coming back and Port Douglas and Daintree are certainly back on the radar.

"Domestically, the airfare enticements are reflecting that. Internationally, I believe people are over the doom and gloom they've had for the last three years and they really want to go on their dream holiday.

"Everyone is noticing a marked improvement in their occupancy levels, and the willingness of people to pay a rate that is reflective of the destination they're coming to."

She said while occupancy rates in Port Douglas hotels and resorts are similar to that of last year there is a level of positivity in the industry that levels in the coming months will exceed 2011.

Interestingly, Ms Blundstone indicated that lead booking times have reduced dramatically this year averaging around two to three weeks, down from eight to twelve weeks in previous years.

"It's very significant and I do believe that a lot of this is from the airlines. We're noticing what waves we're having is reflective of the airline prices coming in to Cairns."