In many ways, the Ramada Resort Port Douglas is the quintessential far north Queensland hotel. From the palm trees at the entrance and the rainforest gardens (look out for the barramundi swimming in the lily ponds) to the bright-and-breezy lobby with its cane furniture and whirring ceiling fans, everything has an authentic tropical feel. It's not fancy, but for the families and Ramada members who visit in droves, it offers an affordable escape.

Like many of the accommodations in Port Douglas, the Ramada Resort is situated on Port Douglas Road, a relatively busy thoroughfare that connects the heart of the town with the Captain Cook Highway. The town's main shopping strip, Macrossan Street, is about two miles farther down the road. The most popular stretch of Four Mile Beach is about a mile away, although a quieter, less scenic strip of beach is within a five-minute walk from the hotel. The quickest way to reach the town's main sights is by car, but guests can also catch one of the regular shuttle buses (which stop at several hotels along Port Douglas Road). The Cairns airport is about an hour's drive away.

There are four main room types: The Standard and Deluxe Rooms, which are serviced, and the Standard and Deluxe Apartments, which are not. The decor in all rooms is plain but pleasant -- think dark-gray carpet, gray couches, and light-wood furniture -- and the interiors are in good shape. All rooms and apartments include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and mini-fridges. The apartments include full kitchens (Deluxe Apartment kitchens feature stainless-steel appliances), and some apartments also have laundry facilities. Bathrooms are small, with just showers in the Standard Rooms and shower/tub combinations in the others. Toiletries are the hotel's own brand. There is in-room Wi-Fi, but it comes with a fairly hefty fee.

Active types will appreciate the Ramada's on-site fitness facility: The machines aren't exactly state-of-the-art, but everything works and there are plenty of fresh towels. For those wishing to explore the surrounding area, bicycles can be rented from the front desk. The saltwater swimming pool is large and well-maintained, with a waterfall and swim-up bar. Less impressive are the indoor kids' play area, which is small and bare, and the communal computers, which could use an upgrade. 

The hotel's restaurant, Tree Bar and Grill, is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and also provides room service. The on-site day spa is moderately priced and offers a wide range of massages, facials, and other beauty treatments. Reception is staffed 24/7, and a tour desk operates during business hours.