I visited Port Douglas a few years ago on a small cruise ship. It was a jumping-off point for the Quicksilver to the Barrier Reef. My recollection of Port Douglas, was that it was a sweet, small town; one not especially given to luxury hotels. Perhaps, some of us have to lower expectations when we go to small towns and redefine "luxury."I am not being critical. Just an observation that all destinations and Starwoods are not necessarily equal. I would not expect the same level of service or accommodations in Port Douglas, that I would expect in VCE.(for example)