Travel to Tahiti, Fiji, Cook Islands & Galapagos

Really Adventurous Surfing in Fiji

2007-08-10T02:40:00.000-07:00

The Lau Islands

If you are an adventurous soul, Fiji is the place to indulge. An archipelago of about 322 islands, of which 106 are permanently inhabited, and 522 islets, Fiji has an unspoiled, unique environment of utmost beauty and pure repose. If you're a surfer, you must have known already that the Fiji Islands in the South Pacific is the personification for Surfing. Frequented by uncrowded Waves, Fiji has some of the finest and most consistent breaks on the planet.

For the really, really adventurous at heart, head to the south of Fiji. On the south east are a group of islands called the Lau group. They are known as the forbidden isles and it takes a lot to be able to venture into these islands for a proper permission is required. These Islands have a rich resource of wave potential but mainly for the experienced surfers who know their limitations. Most reefs can only be surfed at high tide and are open to extreme weather patterns that can provide a very challenging experience.

The Lau Islands (also called the Lau Group, the Eastern Group, the Eastern Archipelago) of Fiji are situated in the southern Pacific Ocean, just east of the Koro Sea. Of this chain of about one hundred islands and islets, about thirty are inhabited. The Lau Group covers a land area of 188 square miles (487 square km). While most of the northern Lau Group are high islands of volcanic origin, those of the south are mostly carbonate low islands.

Urban City in Costa Rica

2007-07-29T23:27:00.000-07:00

San Pedro in the San Jose Province

Costa Rica is known for it's beaches, forestation and wildlife. But contrary to the popular belief, in the midst of this paradise lies a vibrant and bustling metropolis. San Pedro, which is located in San Jose province, is known for its top-notch commercial development, numerous universities and centers of higher education, and its active night life. It is one of the most urbanized and busy places in Costa Rica.

San Pedro is known in Costa Rica as the Cradle of Higher Education as it is home to the University of Costa Rica as well as other university-level centers, such as the Universidad Latina and the Universidad Americana. The canton can boast of 99% literacy, compared with 95% in Costa Rica at large. One good reason for staying here is that this is a great place to learn Spanish. With numerous language schools that even provide accommodations, these places are a great help for those who plan on working or staying for an extended period of time.

Also at the heart of the place is the Mall San Pedro, a shopping center with tattoo parlors, movie theaters, food courts, video game shops and clothing stores that all flairs with the authentic latin appeal that only Costa Rica can give. Near the mall is the Fuente de la Hispanidad, a large fountain in a major street intersection that caters to the country's cultural heritage. An important landmark in the area, the place is also adjacent to lines of intricate cave-like rock formations facade of the Mall San Pedro.

Another known feature of the San Pedro metropolitan area is Calle de la Amargura, a four block long street near the University of Costa Rica, which is the hot spot for partying. La Calle, as it is often called, is a home to many bars, restaurants, nightclubs and discos like Terra U, La Villa, Tavarua, Caccio's and Mosaikos, which are known for being very active everyday (except Sundays). Its proximity to the university and its young, economical inactive students makes this area offer food and drinks for relatively low prices.

Despite the hustle and bustle apparent, San Pedro nestles at the heart of Costa Rica's lush valleys surrounded by verdant green volcanic mountain ranges. If the downtown city gets too busy, then San Pedro's beautiful suburbs offer the perfect peaceful and quiet rest you needs to get away from the urban humdrum. It has a lot of accommodations to suit every budget ranging from luxurious hotels to reasonably priced villas or apartels. The soothing suburban air and the green succulent backdrop provides a very suitable place to go and relax.

A Latin American city boosting with culture and spirit, the climate here is near perfect with a spring-like temperature throughout the year. Located just a few miles away from San Jose, where a bus to anywhere in the country is always available, it boasts wonderful, warm and friendly people, surreal adventure that awaits and scenic environment ready to awe. Offering stunning and picturesque panoramas of nature and countryside, San Pedro is the perfect place to savor a travel to Costa Rica.

Planned Trip to Guanacaste

2007-07-18T00:56:00.000-07:00

Planned Trip to Guanacaste
With stunning beach shoreline, breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, wonderful mountain ranges and chain of volcanoes and lush, dense forests which play host to a fabulous array of exotic plant and wildlife, Guanacaste is the perfect destination for the active soul who is looking for an adventure. With several tasks in mind, like trekking, hiking, horseback riding, surfing, snorkeling and windsurfing, I came up with a planned trip to Guanacaste—a guide on how to spend my vacation. Mostly, my planned trip is a crash between a quiet time out from the hustle and bustle of city life and the eagerness to explore nature at it's finest.

Daniel Oduber International Airport will be my entry point since Liberia is my first stop. Liberia is also home to an expo that takes place in the month July, celebrating the Annexation of Guanacaste on July 25, 1824, and I want to witness this event. Since the event is taking place in the plaza in front of the church, restaurants are at reach. I also choose Liberia as the first stop because the place is en route to such beaches as Playa del Coco, Playa Hermosa, or the Papagayo peninsula, and that American fast food restaurants in the food mall located at the city's main crossroads and the 24-hour Subway sandwich shop located down the roads are at hand.

Next stop will be in Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park is located just to the northwest of Liberia. Located along the park's many kilometers of hiking trails are such volcanic wonders as hot springs and bubbling clay pots as well as numerous waterfalls and rivers, this scenary is something i look forward to. Though the Nicoya Peninsula is home to a lot of beautiful beaches and one of the most popular tourist destinations, during the rainy season from April to November most of the roads can get quite impassable due to rivers washing them out. So the plans of going out and spending time again on a beach will have to wait for a venue which entails less hassles.

I am madly drawn to wildlife and nature—hiking, trekking and the like. And since Rincon de la Vieja, an eco-adventure hotspot is only hours of car drive away from Liberia, it is my next destination. The dense lush forestation and plethora of wildlife and insect species is simply irresistable. I might do a round robin on Costa Rica’s most stunning national parks; the Parque Nacional Rincon de la Vieja, the Parque Nacional Santa Rosa, the Parque Nacional Guanacaste and the Zona Protectra Miravalles. Horseback riding trails in the country is definitely on my list, as well as a canopy tour, for visiting Rincon de la Vieja entails an exploration of the largest and last remaining tropical dry forest in Central America. Another attraction would be the active volcanoes, with its stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape, boiling mud pots and fresh water volcanic lagoon. Of course, I wouldn't want to miss the white water tubing or relaxing dip in the therapeutic sulfur hot springs near the Volcan Rincon de la Vieja.

Nature trip will be continued in Monteverde, which boasts to be Costa Rica’s most beautiful cloud forests. In addition to that, the area showcases a plethora of unique and exotic animals and plants. It is home to resplendent quetzal, ruby red poison dart frogs, over 300 species of orchids and the rare and endemic golden toad. With an almost mystical environment due to the cloud cover in the area, the region's lush and dense place with unparallel greenery is very inviting.

Other must see stops I would stop at would be the Isla Santa Catalina, Playas del Coco or Playa Ocotal, where an abundane of marine life is apparent and the Marino las Baulas National Park, where every year hundreds of leatherback turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.

To Tamarindo Airport is the last flight. The place attracted me because it is busy and energetic town. I'd settle for the cheaper and more crowded hotels, because I want to learn as much as I can, about the culture and the way of life in every place that I visit. Since Tamarindo is a crowded place, it would be fun watching people enjoy their time out, basking in the sun. And then i would try and experiment on water based activities—swimming, sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, sea kayaking and surfing. The more people I would encounter, the more strangers I meet, the more varied outlook and ideas I will encounter, the more understanding of the culture i would get.

The idea of spending time in Guanacaste coast is to stretch along the warm waters of the beaches while enjoying a gorgeous sunset, to witness nature in its purest form while exploiting the warmth of basking in the wilderness, to learn about culture and another country. With this in mind, and the places on a target schedule, the trip would be definitely worth it.

Galapagos Travel with Children – Fun for the whole family!

2007-06-22T06:27:00.000-07:00

Galapagos Travel with Children – Fun for the whole family!

Traveling to the Galapagos can be fun for kids as well as adults. An incredible vacation destination, here you get the chance to meet some of the world’s most rare and endangered animal and bird species up close and personal. These islands are a great place to take children as they can get to learn a lot about nature from a young age and appreciate these islands for their incredible habitat.

Galapagos Travel with Children – Cruise tours

The best way to see and experience all that the Galapagos Islands has to offer is via a cruise tour. These tours take place aboard a cruise ship, which takes you and your children to the various Galapagos Islands to see the unique animals and birds that live there. These tours also let you enjoy a whole host of activities as well as provide comfortable sleeping arrangements and meals. Children under 7 are not allowed on most cruises.

Galapagos Travel with Children – Activities to enjoy

As you and your children travel the Galapagos you can enjoy a whole host of activities including diving, snorkeling, trekking and bird watching. Most cruise tours provide their guests with activities to enjoy on each island. These activities correspond with the particular attractions on that island. For example on Isla Floreana you can explore the lava fields, while Isla Genovesa, the bird watching is excellent. Gardner Bay on Isla Espanola is known for its great swimming and snorkeling opportunities.

Galapagos Travel with Children – What to carry

When traveling to the Galapagos with children it is important to bring a few things along with you so that you can help you child enjoy this wonderful national park even more. Snacks are important to carry when you tour an island as kids often get hungry quite easily and on many of the Galapagos Islands there are no food stalls around. Do carry a swimsuit that offers protection from the sun and make sure you child has on plenty of sun block. Also make sure they wear their life jackets at all times on board the cruise ship. Bring your child’s snorkeling gear along with you as in many cases snorkeling equipment is no available for smaller children.

A camera is also a good idea so that you can capture those special moments to share of your trip. Binoculars are a good idea as well for kids, so that they can spot penguins, dolphins and whales swimming alongside the boat as well as catch sight of the many different bird species that live in the Galapagos.

Books, pencils for coloring and drawing, journals and travel games are some other suggestions to prevent boredom as you and your children sail from one island to the next. Also carry any medication your child needs as well as some over the counter drugs in case of seasickness or headaches.

Tahiti Surf – A Super Place for Surfing

2007-06-21T05:43:00.000-07:00

Tahiti Surf – A Super Place for Surfing

A fantastic vacation destination, Tahiti is a superb place to visit especially if you enjoy water based activities. Aside from some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in the world, Tahiti is also renowned for its excellent surfing. One of the most common beach activities, the surf breaks and swells in Tahiti are top class and entice surfers from all over the globe. A great experience for all to enjoy, surfing in Tahiti is fun for everyone.

Tahiti Surf Destinations

There are several places to go surfing on Tahiti Nui. These Tahiti surf destinations are known for their first-rate swells and breaks. On the northern coast you can find some good surfing at Point Venus and Matavai Point, while in southern Tahiti the best breaks are located at Fisherman’s Point and Papara. All easily accessible, the waves here attract surfers from all over. For the more keen surfing enthusiast, a good idea would be to head out to Tahiti Iti. On the southern coast here some excellent breaks can be found at the Big and the Small Pass.

Tahiti Surf Schools

For those who do not know how to surf or need to brush up on their surfing skills and techniques, there are a number of Tahiti surf schools, in which you can enroll. The surf instructors here are seasoned local surfers with plenty of experience, and who understand the waves and conditions here well. Several surf schools can be found all across town in the capital of Papeete. These schools are an excellent resource and usually have their own surf shops as well from where you can rent out a surfboard and other surf gear like wet suits, board wax, etc.

Tahiti Surf Season

For the enthusiastic surfer, there are two surf seasons in Tahiti. The first surf season is from October to March, while the second surf season lasts from April to September. During the October to March season the waves are smaller but are more consistent, while in the April to September period the surfing is world class with powerful hollow waves to ride. This is the best time to come here, if you are an experienced surfer.

Tahiti Surf ChampionshipsThe ideal destination for the competitive surfer, Tahiti offers some truly world class surfing at Teuhupo'o. Meant for professionals only, this beach plays host to the Billabong Pro Championships in May here annually. An international event, with pro surfers attending from the world over, the waves on Teuhupo'o are the biggest and toughest on Tahiti to ride!

Rarotonga – Cook Islands

2007-06-20T05:35:00.000-07:00

Rarotonga

Rarotonga derives its name from the words ‘raro’ which means down and ‘tonga’ which means south, as this island is the second southern most of the Cooks. A historically important Polynesian island, Rarotonga today, is home to the Cook Islands capital of Avarua. The most developed of all the islands, banks, ATMs, internet cafes and a hospital can all be found here. Avarua is the best place to stay on the island, with Muri Beach on the eastern coast acting as the activities hub.

Viti Levu

2007-06-19T02:07:00.000-07:00

Viti Levu

Covering an area of 10,400 sq km, Viti Levu or Great Fiji is the largest of the Fijian islands. Viti Levu is also the administrative, political and industrial hub of the country. The fifth largest island in Oceania, around 75% of Fiji’s population can be found living here.

On Viti Levu you can also go kayaking or rafting through the Namosi Highlands, or if you prefer, just head out to Natadola Beach along the Coral Coast to spend a relaxing day at the seashore.

The great thing about staying on this island is that plenty of hotels and resorts can be found all over the place.

Galapagos Islands weather – When to visit

2007-06-18T04:52:00.000-07:00

Galapagos Islands weather – When to visit the Galapagos

An incredible vacation destination, the Galapagos Islands is a must visit for anyone who loves nature. These islands are often referred to as the ‘living laboratory of evolution’ and are home to some of the most rare and endangered wildlife species on the planet. Here you can swim with sharks, dolphins and whales; walk side by side with giant tortoises and come face to face with the world’s only equatorial penguins.

What is so unique about the Galapagos is that here you will find birds and animals roaming free and unafraid. In many cases, most of the animals here are as curious about you, as you are of them. Beautiful and rugged, the Galapagos takes you back in time with its haunting beauty and surreal landscapes.

Galapagos Islands weather

You can visit the Galapagos Islands any time of the years as there is no real tourist season here. However, many people consider February as one of the best times to visit as during this month much of the Galapagos is green and beautiful, with many animals and birds beginning their reproductive cycles. The snorkeling and diving around this time is also the best, with excellent underwater visibility and warm water temperatures.

In February many interesting events occur that you are unlikely to see the rest of the year. Marine iguanas changing their skin color, the mating tactics of the frigatebirds and the clownish courtship methods of the cute blue-footed boobies. This is also the best time to spot a waved albatross in the Galapagos as the rest of the year they are usually at sea.

Galapagos Islands weather - June to December

While peak tourist season is mainly from June to August, a lot people also come to the Galapagos Islands for vacations during the Easter season and at Christmas. There are two distinct seasons here. June to December is the dry season, when the skies are blue and there is little chance of showers. South tradewinds during this time bring colder currents up north to the Galapagos.

Galapagos Islands weather – December to May

December to May is considered as the warm season in the Galapagos and the weather during this period is more tropical. The skies are cloudier around this time and the chances for daily showers are frequent during the day. However, the ocean temperature is also warmer during this period and is ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

The month between June and November are known as garua because a fine mist constantly falls, keeping the vegetation on the islands lush and green.

Tahiti Vacations - An exotic tropical paradise

2007-06-15T04:58:00.000-07:00

Tahiti Vacations

Inspiring the likes of painter Paul Gauguin and author Herman Melville, Tahiti is often referred to by many as the Isle of Love. Palm fringed beaches, azure waters, verdant tree covered peaks and crystal clear lagoons, all make Tahiti a true vacation paradise. Part of the Society Islands, Tahiti is also the largest island in French Polynesia. Exotic and beautiful, Tahiti offers tourists an incredible getaway to vacation in.

The most important island in the country as it is home to the capital Papeete and the only international airport in French Polynesia, Tahiti today is modern and buzzing with all the perks and advantages of city life. Offering a unique blend of modernity and primitiveness, Tahiti makes for an exciting vacation destination.

Tahiti Vacations in Papeete

While your vacations in Tahiti, you can enjoy a whole host of activities ranging from surfing and diving to hiking and sailing. For those who are more adventurous, you can explore the interior regions of the island which are a lush, green and rugged, with a number of soaring peaks and gorgeous valleys. Wild and uninhabited, this part of the island is ideal for those who want a more natural vacation.

If you are a creature of modern comforts, then the capital Papeete has it all. Fantastic resorts, top notch hotel, budget accommodations, excellent restaurants, a throbbing nightlife, lively bars and an effusive waterfront, all make this city the Las Vegas of the Pacific. From championships golf courses to horseback riding, tennis, and a wealth of museums and art galleries to discover, Papeete has plenty to offer. The perfect place if your Tahiti vacation includes music, dancing and a whole lot of fun; this city is the spot to head for if you are looking to have a good time. Casinos, cinemas, Polynesian dance performances and plenty of shopping, all add to excitement of vacationing here.

Tahiti Vacations outside Papeete

Outside Papeete, there is plenty more of Tahiti to see as well. Papenoo is a popular surf break along the northern coast, while along the southern coast of the Tahiti is the Jardin Botanique and the Gauguin Museum. Located just outside Papeete is the Museum of Tahiti and its Islands, which is a great place to discover the rich history and culture of French Polynesia.

Survivor - The Cook Islands

2007-06-14T04:48:00.000-07:00

Survivor - The Cook Islands

Survivor: Cook Islands as the show is known, has been shot on the gorgeous atoll of Aitutaki, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful islands in the S o uthern Pacific Ocean today. Known for its stunningly breathtaking lagoon, Aitutaki is famous the world over for the incredible diving and snorkeling opportunities it has to offer.

Fiji Weddings: Get married in one of the most romantic places in the world

2007-06-13T00:07:00.000-07:00

Fiji Weddings: Get married in one of the most romantic places in the world

Fiji is one of the most romantic destinations in the world to get married in. With the countless gorgeous beaches found here and incredible warm tropical weather, this island paradise is for many, the ultimate place to get married. Numerous couples from all over the world choose Fiji as their wedding destination of choice with its wonderful secluded resorts and plenty of privacy, which means that you can share your special day with just the people you love around you.

Fiji Weddings: Traditional or Exotic

If are considering getting married in Fiji, you have a myriad superb locations to choose from. You can also decide whether to have a simple traditional wedding ceremony, or you can choose a more exotic ceremony on the beach. There are many lovely churches in Fiji where you can get married. If you wish to have a Catholic wedding, however, you will need a Letter of Freedom from your church, along with your baptism certificate. These need to be given to the Fijian priest who will marry you at least 2 to 3 months in advance.

If you like, you can go for a more exotic Fiji wedding ceremony on the beach complete with costumes and tribal motifs. Dressed in traditional Fijian outfits you will be lead to an altar decorated with palm leaves and tropical flowers. Here a Fijian tribal elder will marry you as a beautiful village choir sings on.

Fiji Wedding Resorts and Planners

What is also so wonderful and unique about getting married in Fiji is that your entire wedding can be planned out for you from start to finish. By staying at a Fiji wedding resort, you can let the resort plan out your entire day for you as you and your partner the most magical day of your lives surrounded by your friends and family.

Wedding planners are also on hand in Fiji to help you get married. Mostly found in places like Suva, Nadi and Lautoka, these planners assist you in arranging every detail of your wedding day just as you want it.

Fiji Wedding Requirements

If you wish to get married in Fiji here is what you require;- Your original birth certificates, for both you and your husband to be. - Your original passports.

A letter confirming your marital status. You are exempt from this letter if you are a citizen of New Zealand, Australia, UK, USA and Canada.
A Decree Nisi/Absolute, if you are a divorcee.
Your spouse’s death certificate if you are widowed.
If you are under 21, you will need an officially witnessed parental consent.

The license fee to get married is just FJD $20, which is small price to pay for the most special day of you life!

Animals on Galapagos Islands

2007-06-12T03:22:00.000-07:00

Galapagos Islands’ Animals

Home to many unique and endemic animals, the Galapagos Islands is a fantastic destination to vacation in. What makes this archipelago so unique and special is the lack of fear in the animals that live here. In the Galapagos, you can literally walk along side giant tortoises, swim with dolphins and penguins, feed hammerhead sharks and spot some of the most rare birds on the planet. A wonderful place to come up close and personal with nature, the Galapagos Islands is a true nature wonderland.

The ideal location for a wildlife adventure, the animals of the Galapagos Islands are incredible to watch. Completely at home even around human visitors, these islands make vacationing here really something extraordinary. The main reason why the animals of the Galapagos have no fear is because of the lack of natural predators found here. In fact, it can be said that the animals on the Galapagos Islands are often more curious about their visitors than vice versa. Birds, tortoises, turtles, seals, iguanas, lizards, whales and dolphins are the most common animals in the Galapagos Islands.

Land based Galapagos Islands Animals

A number of animals on the Galapagos Islands are land based. One of the best examples is the Galapagos Tortoise. Although there have been fourteen species of the Galapagos Tortoise discovered, today only eleven species remain. One more species of tortoise is in danger of dying out if Lonesome George, the last surviving tortoises from Isla Pinzon does not mate soon. Weighing up to 250kgs, the Galapagos tortoises are gentle giants that you can’t help but fall in love with.

Another popular land based animal is the Galapagos land iguana. Found on the islands of Isabela, Seymour, South Plaza, Santa Cruz and Fernandina, these iguanas are endemic to the Galapagos. The Santa Fe land iguana is another iguana species, and is indigenous to Santa Fe.

Some other terrestrial animal in the Galapagos include seven lava lizard species, geckos, the Galapagos snake, rats and two bat species.

Water based Galapagos Islands Animals

Besides the plethora of fish that live in the waters around the Galapagos, sea lions, dolphins, whales, turtles, penguins, seals and marine iguanas are among the famous water based Galapagos Islands’ animals. The Galapagos sea lion and the Galapagos fur seal are endemic to this area, as are marine iguanas, which can be found no where else in the world but here. Hammerhead sharks, humpback whales, sperm whales and bottle-nosed dolphins can also be spotted in the Galapagos, along with the Galapagos penguins, the only penguins that can be found near the equator.

Galapagos Islands Animals

BirdsThe Galapagos is also home to a number of bird species as well. The flightless cormorant, Darwin’s finches, frigatebirds, blue and red footed boobies, the Galapagos hawk, and the waved albatross are some of the many birds that live here.

Food in Tahiti - Delicious Delights

2007-06-11T02:15:00.000-07:00

Delicious Delights - Food in Tahiti

Exotic and beautiful, Tahiti is for many, the most idyllic destination in the world. Tropical weather, palm fringed white sand beaches, clear blue skies, and azure lagoons, make this tiny island in the South Pacific, the perfect getaway. If you are looking for a stress-free retreat, come to Tahiti and enjoy a vacation like no other!

While in Tahiti, one of the best ways to experience French Polynesian culture is through the food here. Delicious and tasty, the food in Tahiti gives fine dining a whole new meaning. Fish and seafood reign supreme in the kitchens out here, however, do not be deceived. Tahiti offers plenty of natural produce for the vegetarian and even meat-lovers can find some of the most succulent steaks prepared to perfection. If you wish to sample traditional Polynesian cuisine or maa’a tahiti as it is known, your best bet is to visit the capital Papeete, reputed to have some of the finest restaurants in the world.

Food in Tahiti – Papeete

Papeete is Tahiti’s food capital and is home to a wide variety of gourmet restaurants and first class eateries. Here you can sample everything from fine French cuisine to Chinese, Malay, Vietnamese, Italian and Continental cooking. And though eating out can be quite pricey, you are treated to some truly sublime dishes. A great way to enjoy your an evenings is to try a dinner and dance show, with a buffet fit for a king!

Food in Tahiti – Traditional Fare

When in Tahiti don’t forget to sample the delicious local cuisine which is an amazing experience. Here each mouthful of food is a burst of flavor and freshness, making eating here an experience to truly savor! The food in Tahiti is generally eaten with your fingers, however, you may request for a fork and spoon if you are eating at a food stall. Most dining establishments in Tahiti have western table settings, complete with a fork, spoon and knife.

In Tahiti, food is traditionally cooked in an ahimaa or oven, which is a hole dug into the ground. In here the food is placed, usually wrapped in banana leaves, and the hole is then covered with sand to make it airtight. The cooking process can take up to several hours, but it is worth the wait, as the food comes out soft and tender, in many cases literally falling off the bone.

Food in Tahiti – Exotic Fruits

Fruits and vegetables are available easily throughout Tahiti. Some excellent fruits to enjoy here include mangoes, melons, pineapples, watermelons, grapefruits and bananas. Sold in most markets and by vendors all over the island, you will find many locals indulging in a mid-morning fruit snack. Also don’t forget to try out some rambutans, while you are here. They are incredibly delicious. November to April is the best time to buy fresh fruits as it is the summer season.

Food in Tahiti – Must try delicacies

Of all the foods in Tahiti, some must try items on the menu are; poisson cru or raw fish and casse-croute, which is a local sandwich. Both these items can be found on the menu of any food stall and snack bar, and should definitely be given a try.
Faraoa coco or coconut bread is a mouth-watering dessert worth tasting as is firifiri or donuts, which are shaped like the number eight. A yummy treat, firifiri is best had when dipped with coffee. Poe is perhaps the most famous dessert on the island and is a baked papaya dish wrapped in banana leaves.

The Islands of Cook Islands

2007-06-08T00:38:00.000-07:00

The Cook Islands

Formed from underwater volcanic activity millions of years ago, the Cook Islands are divided into two groups, the Northern Cook Islands and the Southern Cook Islands. The Southern Islands are volcanic in nature, while the Northern Islands are old coral atolls.

Aitutaki, ‘Atiu, Mitiaro, Mangaia, Takutea, Mauke, Rarotonga and Manuae are all Southern Islands, while Manihiki, Palmerston, Penrhyn, Nassau, Pukapuka, Suwarrow and Rakahanga are all part of the Northern Island Group.

Fijian Culture – A unique blend of traditions

2007-06-07T01:57:00.000-07:00

Fijian Culture – A unique blend of traditions

Fiji is known throughout the world for its fascinating culture and friendly natives. In fact, it is often said that Fiji is reputed to be one of the friendliest places on earth. Located in the South Pacific, Fiji is a group of over 300 islands, some 5,100 km southwest of Hawaii and 3,160 km northeast of Australia. Stretched over an area of roughly 1.3 million sq km, this island group is rated as one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

What makes Fiji so special aside from its gorgeous beaches and stunning lagoons is the unique blend of cultures found here. Indigenous Polynesian traditions meld seamlessly with Indian and European cultures, to create a distinct and wonderful culture that welcomes you with open arms and warm smiles. The culture in Fiji is communal in nature and great importance is given to family, the village and the clan to which you belong to.

Fiji Culture – Rituals

Rituals and customs also hold great importance in Fijian culture and this can be seen in the various ceremonies that are conducted throughout the many islands. The yaqona ceremony is a key ritual in Fiji today. A very important social observance, there are strict protocols to drinking it. Yaqona is also Fiji’s national drink and is believe to have medicinal qualities.

Fiji Culture – Dance

Dance is also a vital part of Fijian culture. Meke is a dance performance which incorporates music and dance to tell Polynesian legends and stories. Often preformed for tourists and guests, meke are also done on important occasions such as births, deaths, and marriages. Men, women and children all participate in a meke, with men usually performing with clubs and spears, while women perform graceful fan dances.

Fiji Culture – What not to do when visiting a village

If you are interested in visiting a Fijian village, here are some things you need to keep in mind.

Dress modestly and do not wear revealing clothes such as shorts or halter/strapless tops.
Do not wear a hat as it is a sign of disrespect to cover your head.
Always remove your footwear before you enter any Fijian home or building.
Speak in a soft gentle tone. A raised voice is interpreted as a sign of anger.
It is also important that you stay with your assigned host and eat and drink what they offer you. Any refusal to do so is again treated as a mark of disrespect.
If you spend a night in Fiji at someone’s home, it is customary to give your host something in return for his generosity. A small gift is fine; however, cash gifts should be avoided.
Although nearly everyone in Fiji speaks English, learning a few Fijian words will greatly please your host.

Birds of Galapagos Islands

2007-06-06T02:38:00.000-07:00

Galapagos Birds

Located some 1000 km from the coast of Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands are a fascinating group of tiny islands to explore. Pristine and remote, these islands are perfect for nature lovers who get to see some of the most rare and endangered wildlife species on the planet, roam free and unafraid amidst the rugged volcanic landscape here. The wildlife in the Galapagos is indeed unique as most of the animals here wander without fear even around human visitors because of the lack of natural predators.

Birds are the most common residents of the Galapagos, with over 58 species of birds found here. While 28 of the Galapagos’ birds are endemic, the other 30 are migratory species that visit the islands at different times during the year. If you are an avid bird enthusiast, or enjoy bird watching then the Galapagos Islands is a great place to come and see birds fly uninhibited in their natural habitat. If you are a keen observer, you can note up 40 bird species as you tour the Galapagos.

Galapagos Birds – Sea

A wide variety of sea birds can be found in the Galapagos Islands, the most magnificent of which is the Waved Albatross. The largest bird in the archipelago, the waved albatross has a wingspan of 2.4 meters. A joy to watch while it is flying, the courtship of this bird is also something special.

The Flightless Cormorant is endemic to the Galapagos Islands and is the only flightless seabird in the world. Found on Islas Isabel and Fernandina, these birds have small wings and strong powerful legs.

Boobies are the most common birds in the Galapagos though they are not endemic to these islands. The blue footed booby, the red footed booby and the masked booby can all be seen on Isla San Cristobel.

The Magnificent Frigatebird and the Great Frigatebird are a treat to watch with their incredible acrobatic flying. With their huge wingspan, both these birds can be easily spotted by their red skin that hangs under their necks.

The Galapagos penguins are the only equatorial penguins in the world. As you dive and snorkel near Islas Fernandina and Isabel, you can spot them gracefully swimming buy. Some other popular sea birds in the Galapagos are the red-billed tropicbird, the swallow-tailed gull, the lava gull, the brown pelican, Audubon’s shearwater and storm petrels.

Galapagos Birds – Wetlands

The Great Blue Heron is the largest heron in the Galapagos. You can spot this huge bird on almost all of the Galapagos Islands. The lava heron is the only endemic bird of this species in the Galapagos and can usually be spotted hunting along the lava shorelines. Flamingoes, American oystercatchers, stilts and sandpipers are some of the other common wetland birds found here.

Galapagos Birds – Land

The most famous land birds in the Galapagos have to be Darwin’s finches. With 13 species, these finches are credited to have helped Darwin formulate his theory of evolution. The Galapagos hawk is another endemic land bird. Extremely fearless, unfortunately this hawk is now an endangered species, with just a few hundred remaining in the wild.

The Galapagos Flycatcher, the barn owl, the Galapagos mockingbirds and the dark-billed cuckoo are some other well known land birds in the Galapagos.

Tahiti Cutlture - Rich and Vibrant Multiethnic Culture

2007-06-05T00:46:00.000-07:00

Culture in Tahiti

Tahiti has a rich and vibrant multiethnic culture, with some of the friendliest people in the South Pacific. The population of Tahiti is made up of mainly Polynesians, with Europeans and Chinese comprising around 12% and 5 % of the general populace respectively. While not much is known about the exact history of this gorgeous French Polynesian island, what is known is that Tahiti was formed roughly 3 million years ago by a series of volcanic eruptions.

Historians believe that the other smaller islands of French Polynesia such as Raiatea and the Marquesas were initially settled on by Polynesians from Tonga and Samoa in 300 AD. Till now, no historical documents or logs have been found to help prove when Tahiti was first inhabited. It is thought that people from Raiatea migrated to Tahiti and its surrounding islands around 800 AD, 500 years after they settled in this region. The first European to discover Tahiti was an Englishman by the name of Captain Samuel Wallis in 1767.

A warm and friendly people, you can see the rich culture of Tahiti in its music, dance, handicrafts and traditional festivals. Influenced by their Maohi ancestors, Tahitians today take a great deal of pride in maintaining their ancient heritage especially through the passing down of legends and gods. Visit a traditional marae, which is similar to a temple to see how Tahitians of ancient times would worship, celebrate and commemorate important times in their lives.

Culture in Tahiti – Music and Dance

Music and dance both play a very significant role in the lives of Tahitians. Preformed since ancient times most of the dances tell legends and stories of the past. Dance is an important part of Tahitian culture and is a way of expressing joy, happiness, greetings, war, peace, prayer and seduction. Tahitian music uses a lot of percussion style instruments like drums, shells and flutes. Thoroughly enjoyable, the music is hypnotic and is often accompanied with graceful and nimble dance movements.

Culture in Tahiti- Handicrafts

Throughout French Polynesia and in Tahiti as well, the sculpture and wood carving are superb. Tikis, bowls, pestles and mortars and spears are usually carved by hand from wood and stone with beautiful and intricate designs. Basket and hat weaving is also a popular handicrafts here, as are the making of colorful blankets known as tifaifai, fragrant oils known as monoi, tapas and hand made pareus or sarongs.

Culture in Tahiti – Tattoos

Tattoos are a vital part of a Tahitians life with both men and women, the young and the old, having numerous tattoos adorning their bodies. In fact the word tattoo has its origins in Tahiti. In Tahitian culture tattoos symbolize community, social status, beauty and bravery, while warriors tattooed themselves to terrify their enemies. Still practiced today, when you visit Tahiti you will find many Polynesians men and women sporting intricate and magnificent tattoos all over their bodies.

To see the paradise on Earth Visit Tahiti, Fiji, Cook Islands and Galapagos Islands

2007-06-04T01:01:00.000-07:00

Tahiti, Fiji, Cook Islands and the Galapagos islands

This travel blog is a collection of travel journals, diaries and photos from some of the most beautiful places on this planet. Designed for travellers, this blog and the suggested sites include all the travel information that you may need.

Tahiti & French Polynesia

Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia. Tahiti today is modern and buzzing with all the perks and advantages of city life. Offering a unique blend of modernity and primitiveness, Tahiti makes for an exciting vacation destination.

Fiji

Fiji is known throughout the world for its fascinating culture and friendly natives. The culture in Fiji is communal in nature and great importance is given to family, the village and the clan to which you belong to.

The Galapagos Islands

Traveling to the Galapagos is fun for kids as well as adults. Galapagos Islands is a great place to take children as they can get to learn a lot about nature from a young age and appreciate these islands for their incredible habitat. Great things come in little packages. This very popular saying is one of the best ways to describe what the Galapagos Islands has to offer.

The Cook Islands

Gorgeous white-sand beaches fringed by palm trees, stunning coral reefs, turquoise blue lagoons and tranquil waters, all make the Cook Islands one of the most beautiful places in the world to visit. A collection of 15 islands located in the heart of the Southern Pacific Ocean near New Zealand, this region is an idyllic paradise; the perfect retreat to kickback in and unwind.