INDONESIA

BANDA ISLANDS
The forgotten Islands

Banda Islands, only 400 nautical miles away from Darwin, were the most sought after islands centuries ago. The East Indies of the 15th century attracted sailors and merchants. Portuguese and Dutch fought for them. They were the Spice Islands. And still are. The smell of nutmeg and cinnamon is overpowering, only the Spice Islands are too far from the main trade route nowadays. That is not such a bad thing, well maybe economically it is for the local population, but the islands are so unique and rarely visited that, their main beauty is being away from the tourist track. And the people seem to be happy. They welcome the few visitors and are eager to show ever-present history.

The Bandas are enchanting and the remnants of their trade value and European settlement still present. The locals live among the ruins of Portuguese and Dutch forts. Their enthusiasm in sharing the history, guiding visitors through the forts, markets and town streets is amazing. The history of colonial rule is ripe starting with Portuguese in the 1500s, Dutch in 1600s and British in 1800. The only benefit of the popularity of the Bandas for centuries is that most of the local population can communicate in English. Many of Portuguese and Dutch words intertwine with the Indonesian language spoken here.

The islands have experienced religious trouble in 1990s with Ambon passing on problems between Christians and Muslims. Today, however, the atmosphere is easy going and relaxed with everybody living in harmony. 

The history is reflected in the architecture on Banda Neira. Some is well preserved some has only ruins to show.

Banda Islands are part of Indonesia but they seem to be forgotten and easily maintain their independence.

Gunung Api, the life volcano, dominates the landscape. The climb is difficult and exhausting but the views from the top are rewarding. Steam is evaporating from between the rocks and the smoke from the top of the volcano is ever present.

A visit to Banda Islands is an unforgettable experience for those that love nature, history and architecture. Visiting a life volcano, thick jungle, open spaces offering the views of the harbor and Banda Islands is a satisfying encounter.

Snorkeling on the reefs of Banda is unique with unspoiled reefs, colorful fish and crystal clear water. There is history, architecture and the cuisine incorporating European delights with Indonesian spice. The remote and forgotten Bandas are a real treat.

NEW ZEALAND

Northland
New Zealand

Aotearoa, The Land of a Long White Cloud, resembles just that on a map, a cloud but in shape only. The country has rich green vegetation. The name is Maori and Maori is an official language in New Zealand, next to English. The two islands, North and South, could not differ more is landscape and climate. The South Island with its tall peaks and lakes resembles some Scandinavian or European scenery while the North Island is unique and incomparable. Northland, being the most northern part of the North Island and covering the territory north of Auckland, has a diversity of landscapes and flora.   

While South Island experiences severe winters the climate of North Island is more moderate. Northland has a mild climate allowing for exploring of many walking tracks in comfort. Northland can be proud of the native kauri forest Waipoua Forest and some 2000 years old Tane Mahuta or Lord of the Forest.

The scenery, freshness of air, well-assigned tracks and mild climate make Northland a perfect place to enjoy nature at its finest. Hiking is definitely one of the best and most enjoyable activities of Northland. So is sailing, fishing and all water related activities. The coastline of Northland is breathtaking. 

Waiheke Island is a only a short trip away from Auckland but further north one can find many less populated islands. Kawau Island is a nice option or Coromandel Peninsula, both in Hauraki Gulf. Great Barrier Island is an absolute gem for hiking, fishing and swimming. Cavalli Islands further north have excellent fishing grounds. 

Northland has abundance of bays land small natural harbors like Mimiwhangota just passed Rimiriki Islands, Whangaruru or Whangamumu Harbor that used to serve as whaling stations in the years gone by. There are remnants of history and settlements among the coastal wilderness. 

The coastal scenery is ragged and not easily accessible but once you manage to get there the oysters and mussels are an absolute delight. Northland is a paradise on Earth.

NEW CALEDONIA

Bonjour Novuelle Caledonie

New Caledonia represents France in the South Pacific but it also has its unique charm and scenery found only here. The aquamarine colors of the South Pacific and many lagoons surrounding New Caledonia cannot compare to the North coast of France or even its Mediterranean coast.

The main island of New Caledonia is surrounded by groups of islands like Loyalty Islands with Ovuea, Lifu and Mare being the main areas where the local population lives. Only turtles and birds populate the uninhabited cays of Huon and Chesterfield Reefs. Ile de Pine is the major natural display of Pine Colonaire, the tall pine species that is unique to New Caledonia.

The big island, Grande Terre, has dramatic scenery of red soil rich in bauxite and iron, tall mountains and inaccessible by road coasts. La Cote Ublie – The Forgotten Coast is a natural beauty of the eastern part of the island. Back in mid 1800s the decision was made by the French in regard to which coast would provide a better harbor for the maritime trade, Noumea, known back then as Port-de-France, on the West Coast or Napoleonville on the East Coast. Now Napoleonville, renamed Canala, is a village while Noumea is the bustling capital often called Paris of the South Pacific.

The Port Mosselle Markets offer fresh fruits and bakery delights like baguettes and croissants. There are many shops displaying French fashions, cosmetics and perfume in the center of Noumea in contrast with local souvenir shops where prices are much cheaper.

It is essential to remember French road rules while driving around the big island. The landscapes are breathtaking, the villages and towns fascinating, the people, both local and French escaping European turmoil and living and working here are friendly, kind and helpful. Internet access on the east cost can be tricky. Arriving in Thio my first question to Joachim, I only just met, was where it was possible to find internet cafe. “My home” said Joachim. He and his wife have moved to New Caledonia from France and enjoyed excellent government wage, free accommodation, a free 4-wheel drive and tranquility they were seeking.

New Caledonia has both, sophistication of Noumea and peaceful natural environment. Long stretches of white sandy beaches and aquamarine waters are as inviting as the ragged, dramatic, mountainous scenery with its hiking trails.

New Caledonia is expensive, like all French Territories in the Pacific. However, French wine, French cheese, baguettes and croissants are more than affordable and delicious. So why not change the diet if you are on a budget and enjoy all that New Caledonia has to offer.

JOHOR BAHRU

JOHOR BAHRU
The Gem of Malaysia

Johor Bahru, the capital of Johor State, was known back in 1500 as the Gem or Jewel based on translation from Arabic. It was a major center on route of all trade. Today, it still is a commercial center. Its proximity to Singapore brings visitors eager to compare retail outlets, goods and their cost, as well as experience Malaysia. 

Johor Bahru has both, colonial and oriental architecture. The Fortress represents the colonial era.

The old fortress, used as command center during World War II, was also used as a State Secretariat. Only a couple of years ago a new Secretariat has been built, Kota Iskandar.

Kota Iskandar is fast becoming the administrative center of JB. The new Secretariat with its spacious and well-lit Debating Chamber is modern and built in an oriental style.

The ceiling of the Debating Chamber brings in natural light and makes the building echo friendly. The concept saves electricity and ads special charm to the Chamber. This is where the Sultan oversees the debate.

Johor Bahru has many historical buildings. Royal Abu Bakar Mosque built in 1866 is considered the best mosque in Malaysia. Grand Palace, Istana Besar, has a rich history of Royal and Heads of State visits. 

The architecture is impressive, royal, rich and unique to Malaysia. 

However, JB is not just for those interested in history and architecture. Many visitors to Singapore are attracted by a quick causeway trip to JB to check out the goods on offer and their prices. There are many IT and electronic shops in JB with the newest staff on the market. The goods sold at local currency – MYR (Malaysian ringgit) prices are almost identical in value to SGD (Singapore dollar) prices in Singapore. That makes the cost of goods about half price with SGD equaling 2.4 MYR at the moment. Similarly, hotel accommodation and restaurants are cheaper in JB.

JB has parks and gardens as well as some 20 kilometers of waterfront. A view of Singapore across Straight of Johor is available to those strolling along the JB waterfront. Danga Bay is a waterfront district offering leisure activities and entertainment. It is gaily and colorfully lit at night. There are bars, restaurants offering local and international cuisine and music.

It is easy to stumble upon dancing performances of groups wearing national costumes. The motto “1 Malaysia” depicting the conglomerate of nations living in harmony can be found in JB.

Many say JB is trendy and the place to be. Check it out for yourself.

MAURITIUS

MAURITIUS
The Pearl of the Indian Ocean

The mysterious and intriguing island of Mauritius is a treasure of the Indian Ocean. It is surrounded by protective reefs, which create a turquoise lagoon. The same reefs can become treacherous traps for shipping in bad weather.   There have been a number of ships stranded on the reefs during destructive cyclones of 1931 when Port Louis was demolished and 1972 when many ships were shipwrecked. In fact, the first thing I noticed while visiting Poudre d’ Ore was a ship high up on the reef on the horizon. MV Angel I, registered in Panama, has been on the reef since August having its cargo unloaded to be toed to Port Louis for repairs once afloat on high tide.

The main reason for visiting Poudre d’Ore was not just mere sightseeing but a search for a statue of Paul and Virginie. I found the romantic legend fascinating although sad since Virgenie’s ship got stranded on the reef of Poudre d’Ore and she has never returned to her beloved Mauritius and Paul. Virgine decided to leave France for two reasons – her love for Paul and her love for Mauritius. I was determined to explore the later – her love for Mauritius and simple life in harmony with nature. I have not been disappointed so far; the beauty of the island is undisputed. Finding the statue of Paul and Virginie proved to be more difficult. I managed to find a monument in honor of Paul and Virginie on the shores of Poudre d’Ore, but no statue.

My search for the statue of Paul and Virginie took me to Pampelmousses Gardens. I found a Paul and Virginie Avenue that led to a pedestal dedicated to Paul and Virginie – but no statue. However, there was no disappointment. Pampelmousses Gardens are a tribute to flora and fauna of Mauritius. There are varieties of palms, water lilies and giant tortoises. 

The Gardens are a mine of botanic wealth, conglomerate of plant species, some unique only to Mauritius. The freshens of nature and its colors are overwhelming. A visit to the Gardens satisfies all senses and the relaxation is complete listening to the bird song and breathing the sent of flowers.

I have to admit I have eventually found the illusive statue of Paul and Virginie. Searching for it took me to places I probably would not have visited otherwise. Searching has been so much fun that I will not spoil your fun by revealing its location. Like recommending a movie you just have to see does not involve telling the story. Search Mauritius for its secrets – you will not be disillusioned. 

Virginie’s love for the island is fully justified. The beauty of nature is striking. Mauritius attracts the lovers of nature, harmony and beauty.

VANUATU

VANUATU
NATURAL PARADISE

Vanuatu, still known to many as New Hebrides, is a conglomerate of some 80 islands of volcanic origin stretching over 700 nautical miles of the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago has a number of islands with active volcanoes. Tana and Ambrym light up at night and the red mist from the eruptions is well visible. A black cloud of volcanic ash clearly indicates the volcano location during the day.  

Port Vila, the capital, located on Eafate is a good point to start a visit. There are many modern duty free shops sharply contrasting with local markets.

One is always close to nature in Port Vila. Irririki Island has a resort and many walking tracks on the island and can be reached by ferry operating on demand by lifting a flag, nearby Mele Waterfalls are easily accessible by local transport. Both Irririki Island and the waterfalls are only a short distance away. A trip around Efate shows a display of local flora. The sub-tropical climate allows the flora to grow lush. Buildings, restaurants, resorts, villages, airport and other amenities interrupt the beauty of nature. The islands of Vanuatu are close to each other so it is never far to move on to Epi, Ambrym, Pentecost, Maevo heading North or Erromango, Tana, Aneytium heading South.  

Unspoiled nature however, can be seen on outer islands. Rich rainforest and sandalwood trees cover Erromango. Aneytium has no roads. Traffic between villages is by boat as the walking track is rough and the distances great. 

Vanuatu is a unique destination. Every island offers closeness to nature. There are rivers on Erromango, waterfalls on Maevo. Aneytium has a wild, unexplored interior. Vanuatu is a place where one can be one on one with nature.

Treasures of North Sumatra

Samosir Island & Lake Toba

Samosir was a fisherman. One day he caught a goldfish. Once he kissed her, as most fishermen do, she turned into a beautiful girl. “ Samosir,” she said, “ I will marry you only if you promise not to ever tell our son that I used to be a fish.” However, Samosir had an angry moment and forgot his promise. So that is how the story of creation of Samosir Island goes, told by the Batak people. The beautiful girl turned back to being a fish and Samosir became an island on the lake, Lake Toba.

The eruption of Mt Toba some 75 000 years ago is a more scientific explanation of the creation of Lake Toba and Samosir Island. Both are the result of the eruption. But that story is nowhere near as romantic as Samosir’s fishing adventure.

The fact is, that Lake Toba, being the world’s largest and deepest crater lake and Samosir Island are considered to be the most scenic and unique natural wonder of Sumatra and maybe of all South East Asia. Both are hidden in the wilderness of North Sumatra, accessible from Medan, mere 190 km away, by four to five hour road trip to Parapat and then 40 minutes ferry trip to Tuktuk.

The not too comfortable road trip (roads and potholes are synonymous words in Sumatra) is a small price to pay to reach absolute paradise of natural beauty. The warm water of the lake invites for a swim after the ordeal. 

The best way to explore Samosir Island is by bike. It can be a painful experience though since long stretches of roads are rough. However, the magnificent views of the lake soothe all discomfort. A dip in the Hot Springs, Kolamerang Air Panas near Pangururan, is also a great way to smooth all travel on a bike inflicted discomfort.

Samosir Island has its characteristic Batak architecture, lots of history dating back to the 11th century, Stone Chairs at the King’s Meeting Place in Ambarita, Execution Stone, King’s grave in Tomok. 

However, it is not just history that captures visitor’s attention. The local people still live in Batak style houses. They are kind and friendly. Some speak English. “Horas“ is a universal Batak word that has many meanings and is used to this day. “ Horas “can mean good morning, hello, thank you, good bye. One will never go wrong using “horas” as a greeting. It certainly puts a smile on all the faces.

“Horas” from Lake Toba and Samosir Island.

FIJI ISLANDS OF SMILES

Fiji, some 500 islands in the South Pacific Ocean, is a true island paradise. There are two large islands Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. Both offer amazing scenery, warm crystal clear waters and sandy beaches fringed by romantic palms. Vanua Levu is the lesser-visited island, with its mountainous interior covered with rain-forest, it presents undistorted wilderness. Viti Levu has major airports in Suva and Nandi. Many islands, Mamanutha and Yasawa groups, connected by ferry services surround it.

Captain Cook met Fijian people in his explorations of the Pacific. At the time they were a nation of warriors and cannibals. Now Fijians are the kindest and friendliest nation very generous with their smiles. Fijians are famous for their hospitality and excellent humor, laughter is heard around villages, markets, and shops. The laughter is contagious and puts everyone around into a happy frame of mind.

Fiji has excellent cruising grounds. Short ferry trips take you to secluded islands, unspoiled beaches and coral reefs full of fish, rays, turtles where snorkeling is amazing. The waters are turquoise and warm. The underwater world is easy to explore and enjoy.  In fact, the coral reefs are one of the best in the Pacific. The marine life is abundant.

Fiji is an amazing and unforgettable experience. The beauty of the islands, scenery on land and under the water is astonishing. The warm and sunny climate is inviting. Always smiling and friendly people are helpful.The exotic fruits are bountiful.

A visit to Fiji and its memories will leave a permanent smile on your face.

FRENCH POLYNESIA - BORA BORA

BORA BORA

The flight on Air Tahiti is not only means of transport. It is a scenic flight offering some amazing aerial views of islands like Moorea, Raiatea, Tahaa, Huahine, Maupiti and Bora Bora. The colors of reefs, lagoons, ocean and mountainous islands are breathtaking.

 The arrival at Motu Mute - the airport of Bora Bora is not the end of the journey. There is a boat trip to Vaitape, the main town on the island, which becomes a part of spectacular sightseeing through the lagoon. 

Another centre is Matira  with a number of resorts and pensions and beautiful white sand beaches that are so rare in most of Polynesia. While the resorts offer car or scooter hire at an additional cost, the pensions have free bicycles. They are the same as the locals use, old fashioned, pedal back breaks but it is easy to get adjusted and enjoy a trip around the island on a bike stopping for a swim and enjoying the sights. Another way of circumnavigating the island is to do it by boat. The ever changing lagoon colors are incredible and the snorkel stops very enjoyable, although some a bit scary. Swimming with sharks has proven to be safe though, rays, turtles and colorful fish plentiful and the water warm and clear. 

FRENCH POLYNESIA

TAHITI

The first thing one will notice arriving in Tahiti is the overpowering smell of Tiare. There are many varieties of prettier flowers like hibiscus in all its colors of red and pink, shades of yellow to orange and white; graceful heliconias and bromeliads, Flamingo flowers and a colorful variety of orchids. They all are pleasing to the eye but it is Tiare and frangipani that are used for flower headdresses, necklaces  or a simple flower behind everybody’s ear.
Tahiti is really two connected islands looking a bit like a turtle on a map - Tahiti Nui being the body and Tahiti Iti the head of the turtle. Tahiti is much more then just Papeete. Tahiti Nui - the big island - has some historical sites that should not be missed. Some date back to the pre European time, some are the landmarks of first European arrivals followed by the missionaries. There is also a wild interior of waterfalls, volcano crater, lakes and rich vegetation. The road through the heart of Tahiti has to be explored in a 4x4 drive and it is the best to take a safari tour to see all the attractions.


Tahiti Iti - the small island - has only 15 kilometers of road on its East Side and 18 on its West Side so a round trip is possible only by boat. Tahiti Iti is a quiet location with magic scenery offering walks, hikes, surf beaches and very affordable pensions.
Both Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Iti offer relaxation and adventure, excellent hiking, swimming and surf. There are grottos, blow holes and waterfalls to explore. There is history and customs to learn about. But Tahiti is only a small part of French Polynesia. There are many islands to see and enjoy. Some are close like Moorea, some are distant and off the bitten tourist track. They all offer varied and unique landscapes, turquoise lagoons and friendly local people. Some archipelagos like Tuamotus, Marqueses, Australes or Gambier are far away and preserve their own languages and culture.

XIN CHAO TU VIETNAM or GOOD MORNING VIETNAM

Vietnam is fast becoming a top tourist destination. There are many reasons why. Shopping is definitely a major reason for many. However, there is a growing number of visitors that appreciate the history, scenery, culture, cuisine and local people. A small effort to learn a few phrases in Vietnamese allows for making friends, brings smiles to their faces and sometimes laughter – it is a difficult, tonal language like Chinese. Xin chao could mean “hello” or “give me a bowl of soup”, so it is easy to have lots of fun practicing Vietnamese and it is amazing to observe happiness radiating from those one addresses.  

The climate is hot. Thus the locals start their day early and have a siesta during the hottest part of the day. The mornings start with walking to the nearest park or riverbank. Everybody seems to be walking and exercising at 5 am. Parks and riverfronts are full of people doing keep fit exercises, even the seniors do the slow motion Tai Chi. It is the only time of day cool enough to be energetic. A spectacular sunrise is an extra bonus. 

The history of Vietnam is reflected in the architecture dating from the 10th century on. Luckily those treasures have not been destroyed by war. The citadels, temples and pagodas scattered through the landscape are impressive and pleasing to the eyes. The history behind them shows constant foreign presence – Chinese, French, American although the last one caused only distraction. 

The scenery in Vietnam is varied and stunning. From vast waterways and vibrant life on the rivers of Mekong Delta, through scenic Hai Van Pass to Halong Bay in the North of the country, the landscapes are enchanting. The life in Mekong Delta is as busy as in any city. People live and shop on the river and the boat traffic matches car traffic anywhere in the world. Well, except Vietnam itself. The main road traffic here is still a scooter. Scooters are so plentiful that one needs assistance in crossing a road. Or if you brave the crossing by yourself here is a bit of a local advise: ”Never hesitate when crossing a road, just keep on going, the scooters will avoid you! If you turn back an accident is inevitable.”

Vietnam is a destination that can fascinate a variety of interest groups: social study, linguistic, photography, cuisine – most hotels have cooking classes, lovers of history and lovers. There are resorts made for honeymoon, like Pilgrimage Village in Hue or Victoria Hotel in Hoi An. A visit to Vietnam is a memorable experience. And a very important feature of a visit to Vietnam is excellent shopping. Value for money is the motto and superb shopping spots are Binh Tay Markets in Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An Markets and the merchants’ homes of the old Town scattered among pagodas and temples, souvenir shops of the Old Quarter in Hanoi and its markets. Vietnam will not disappoint a visitor disregarding what is the reason for the visit. 

NIUE A Time Warp

Traveling in time usually brings to mind future. However, traveling to Niue is actually traveling into the past. Niue preserved the days gone by. Its scenery is unusual and dramatic; the caves, chasms and coral gardens are unique.

Niue is built of coral and has the most unusual coral forests covered by lush vegetation. The landscape on some parts of the island is almost moonlike. The climate is tropical so the rain forest has a selection of stunning plants and flowers. Quite a few of those are eatable. Luku is a tasty green veg and can be served like spinach, sauté with onion and garlic.

Forest walks are the obvious attraction especially when uga – the coconut crab can be spotted. There are additional surprises at the end of each walking track. It can be a sandy beach with palms – Togo Chasm, fresh water pool – Anapala Chasm, coral arches – Talava Arches or one of many caves. Most caves have pools of coral where snorkeling is spectacular. 

The population of Niue is 1200 and that includes the visitors. There is only one flight a week arriving on Niue. If there is a problem with a generator and power supply becomes limited one must wait for a flight to bring a spare part and most likely somebody that knows how to install it. We had a power cut from 6 am – 12 noon. That meant that there is no water as well since an electric pump does not work at that time. None of the visitors to the island did mind, they just started they day early. If the power cut was scheduled for an evening it just meant a romantic candle light dinner cooked with the help of a small, resort generator.  The visitors were from far away – Finland, Brazil and not so far away – New Zealand. They all had one thing in common – the unusual charm and beauty of Niue fascinated them. They did not mind small and unimportant inconveniences.

Niue is not for everybody. It is a destination that attracts only the adventurous type of traveler. And those come from far away. The accommodation does not offer every comfort. It is just pleasant and clean. The restaurant choice is limited. Jenny’s is opened only on Tuesdays – delicious seafood buffet. Washaway Café in Avatele serves delicious fish foccacia with salad only on Sundays. Matavai Resort prepares the evening menu at 5 pm to start ordering at 6 pm. If you are booked for the Discover Uga evening Tour that departs at 6 pm you missed out on dinning. None of that matters though. Niue’s special charm and amazing experiences of swimming with dolphins and whales, diving or snorkeling on coral and reef walking make one forget and forgive small imperfections that many tourists expect. Do not have any expectations. Just enjoy the beauty and unique charm of Niue. And remember you are traveling into the past. There is an Internet service available on the island, obviously only when the power is on. Even then it is so slow that it would be a shame to waste the valuable time of being in Niue in front of a computer. Travel light, bring your snorkel and leave the computer behind. Everything about Niue is special, different and unimaginable until you see it.  There are no sandy beaches, so do not be disappointed. But there are the most stunning swimming pools around the island.

Niue is a world apart from any destination. Its beauty can be explored for free. There are no entry fees to the stunning attractions the Island has to offer. Hiking, swimming and snorkeling are all free. There are guided bush walks were one can learn about the flora and fauna of Niue and site a rare uga, there are also diving trips but both are very reasonably priced.

The locals are friendly and it is fun to join them swimming at Matapa Chasm, at Matavi Resort to watch the sunset or at Washaway Café to keep a lookout for passing whales and dolphins. It is easy to develop friendships and get invited to local celebrations and become part of the island population. Most visitors pledge to return to the island and it is not surprising. There are very few places left in this world that offer unrestricted freedom of exploring the magnificent sites and allow for true one on one experience with nature.

AITUTAKI, COOK ISLANDS

AITUTAKI
ESCAPE TO PARADISE

Aitutaki is one of the 15 islands in the Cook Islands group. Well, it really is a shining pearl of Cook Islands. It is much more than just a tropical island with its fragrant and colorful flowers, sandy beaches, swaying palms and crystal clear and warm waters. Aitutaki, meaning ‘to keep the fire going’, gives her name to a lagoon of all shades of turquoise and azure waters and islets and reefs surrounding the lagoon. 

Aitutaki has a rich history starting with first Polynesian settlers arriving in canoes, then Captain Bligh sighting the atoll in 1789 on board of ‘Bounty’ to be followed in 1821 by the first missionaries bringing Christianity to the local population. Charles Darwin visited in 1835 on board of ‘Beagle’ and 1850s brought whaling ships. Aitutaki was first to receive an airstrip built by Americans in 1942. It was the longest runway in the Cook Islands till 1974 when the airport in Rarotonga was completed. 

TEAL - Tasman Empire Airways Limited – has used, picture pretty from the air Aitutaki, as a fueling stop on its ‘Coral Route’ for refueling their flying boats in the 1950s. Some passengers had to spend a night on Akaiami motu, where the flying boats landed, when the weather prevented the flying boats from further travel to Tahiti. The stranded passengers were well looked after. Canoes brought supplies so that the passengers could experience a culinary feast and entertainment from local dancers and musicians. The stranded passengers were delighted to have the unexpected extended stay in the most magical transit point on route. 

TEAL carried Queen Elizabeth in 1954, Graham Greene, Cary Grant, Gary Cooper, and John Wayne to name a few famous names. When a flying boat once had to return to Tahiti for engine repairs and left some 40 passengers for a number of days on Akaiami motu they simply did not want to carry on their journey when the flying boat returned with the engine fixed. Today, TEAL services have been replaced by regular flights on Air Rarotonga and Aitutaki is the next after Rarotonga, most visited island in the group. Air Rarotonga airfares from Rarotonga are not cheap but some special fares of $109.00 each way can be found in the off peak time. Outside of the off peak specials it is a double of that price each way. In spite of the expense a trip to Aitutaki is a rewarding experience.

It is possible to walk around the island and hike up to a 120 meters tall Maungapu for a 360 view. Maungapu, according to the legend, has been cut from the top of Raemaru Mountain on Rarotonga and brought to Aitutaki in canoes. It is the only hill here so it is effortless to bike around the island. A stop in Arutanga is a must; it is the town and harbour of Aitutaki. However, the lagoon boat tours depart from O’out Beach. And the lagoon and its motu are the main attraction of Aitutaki. 

A Lagoon tour is an absolute must. The color of the water changes with depth and sunlight angle from turquoise to deep blue and the underwater life is spectacular. There are reefs, colorful fish and giant clams. The underwater visibility is crystal clear. In fact, one of the diving sites of the outer reef is called ‘Paradise’. But it is not only marine environment that can be described as paradise. Aitutaki has the most relaxing atmosphere. A lagoon tour is about discovering the amazing beauty of nature spiced up by lunch of fish, salads and fruit and a tune of ukulele and guitars.

There is a great range of accommodation on Aitutaki. Nature disregards the expanse involved and gives the same amazing performance of heavenly beauty to those that pay $1000.00 per night or $100.00 per night. It is also possible to visit Aitutaki on a Day Tour including Air Rarotonga airfare, island sightseeing bus tour and a boat tour of the lagoon on board of the Polynesian Titi-ai-Tonga catamaran. Those that choose the day tour promise to return to paradise. Those that spend some time on Aitutaki whish they could stay longer. Aitutaki has been charming its visitors for centuries and has been described as ‘Paradise on Earth’ in its legends, in the reports of the greatest air journeys of ‘Coral Route’ and by contemporary visitors.

ANGKOR WAT A WONDER OF THE ANCIENT WORLD

“I need to pick you up at 5 am! It will be still dark,” said Billy, my tuk tuk driver. OK, so there is no sleeping in this holiday. I only just got back from the sunset at Phnom Bakheng. The trick is to get to Angkor Wat entrance by 4.30pm and queue up to get a day pass for the next day. That entitles you to sunset entry at no extra cost. Phnom Bakheng is a fair walk up the hill followed by a steep climb to the top of the well-preserved ruins. In fact, the steps are original 11th century, worn out and narrow. Only in some places the steps were replaced with much easier to climb a modern, wooden version.

Billy was right to his word. We were on the way to Angkor Wat at 5 am, still dark but the traffic building up towards the ancient site. Few other visitors had the same idea. Most people congregate by the Sacred Lake to take the reflection photos; thus it is good to explore the eastern part of the site in virtual seclusion. The real crowd enters after breakfast, time to move on to Angkor Thom.

Billy has stopped at the breakfast café with the view of The Elephant Terraces at Bayon, which we entered through the South Gate. The walk through Bayon is best attempted early, before the heat of the day kicks in.
       
Angkor Wat and Bayon are the most visited sites and can get crowded at times, even in the monsoon, off pick season. However, it is possible to experience further away sites on your own as well as enjoy the ride through the local villages and countryside.
Banteay Samre and Banteay Srey are some 15km away along a rural road with local people tending to the rice fields. “We have to stop at Ta Prohm”, said Billy. Ta Prohm has been overgrown by jungle, now parts of it cleared with tree roots winding through the ancient stones.

There are many ways to explore the ancient complexes. There are air-conditioned buses bringing some 40 people at a time to a complex or it can be done by bicycle, but that requires time and a 3-day pass would be necessary. I found that a tuk tuk trip was an excellent option and the local knowledge that Billy offered was very helpful. Speaking good English, Billy is not only a tuk tuk driver but also a guide.

MAGNIFICENT MAURITIUS

The first glimpse of magnificent Mauritius is available from the air, as Air Mauritius lands just after sunrise. And what a view it is! Enough to tantalize the curiosity for more spectacular views and inquisitiveness as to what else the island has to offer. Here goes a plan for a relaxing, on the beach holiday and an adventure packed exploration of the island begins.
Luxury coaches are awaiting arriving passengers at the airport to whisk them to their hotels by the most direct route. I decided to take a slow road (or so I thought before I experienced the local bus driving technique) and do some sightseeing on the way. Travelling on a local bus allows for a discovery of villages and towns on route and meeting the locals. If you speak French, that is. English is the official language of Mauritius but everybody speaks French and Creole. Only some of the local population speaks English.
“We are in 16 eme Mille,” said Mina. Mina was sitting next to me on a local bus. She was on her way to work in Curepipe and working in retail she spoke English. 16th Mile is a little town we have just passed. By 8 am I have also already visited Rose Belle and Nouvelle France on my way from Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam airport to Port Louis.
Local bus ride is quite an experience. There is no place for amusement parks with scary rides on Mauritius. They would not do well at all. Anybody wanting to encounter a scary ride, near death collision, adrenaline pumped to its limits only needs to hop on a local bus and hold on tight. The driving speed on narrow roads is unlimited, overtaking or passing within an inch of a car or another bus quite common. It is easy to get used to this way of driving though. I found it an exciting and enjoyable part of my sightseeing. I visited most of Mauritius traveling on a local bus.

The diversity of landscapes is astonishing. Mauritius is not just a beach destination. Surely the ocean, its golden beaches, islands scattered off the shores of Mauritius play a major role. Sailing, diving, snorkeling and water sports are the definite part of the holiday. However, Mauritius offers also some unique scenery of natural wonders. Chamarel is a small village and a definite highlight of the visit with Seven Colors Earth on its footstep. The Seven Colors Earth is an unbelievable collection of colors - from pink, red, purple to gold, orange & brown depending on the iron content of the volcanic eruptions and different temperatures the lava was cooling at. The Chamarel Waterfall springing from lush green jungle is an invigorating scene.



Irrespective of the entire natural wonders and dramatic scenery the ocean and its beaches are a major part of enjoyment. Flic en Flack is on route from Chamarel to Port Louis. It has an amazing sandy beach to swim of, crystal clear water and is the spot to enjoy a spectacular sun set from.Mauritius has many natural treasures but the best treasure it can be proud of is its people. They are friendly, helpful and always smiling. “This is ourite,” said Mme Lise serving a delicious octopus dish, a Creole delicacy. Mme Lise is an expert on Creole cuisine. We were having a picnic on Ile aux Cerfes accompanied by Sega singing and dancing.

Mauritius leaves a memory of constant happiness. The sunrises and sunsets are spectacular. The nature, scenery and people enchanted me.
Many call Mauritius A Paradise Island and they are not wrong.