eco-cultural experiences at home and abroad

Volume 1, Issue 1

SOUTH PACIFIC TRIP FOCUSES ON POLYNESIA AND MELANESIA

Four intrepid travelers joined Stan for the October, 1998 trip to the South Pacific.  One of our members served on a submarine in the Pacific during World War II!  We had the opportunity to visit two island countries in two major Pacific areas, Melanesia (Fiji) and Polynesia (Western Samoa).  In Fiji, we enjoyed the the diversity and friendliness of the main island of Fiji, Viti Levu.  We were fortunate to be in Suva (Fijiís capital) on Fijiís Independence Day, with the parades, music, and celebrations.  A boat trip up the Navua River to a Fijian village resulted in music, food, and an opportunity to view local customs.  The diverse and stunning Suva market was a favorite.  The lovely Fijian island of Taveuni afforded opportunities to snorkel, walk in Tavora National Park and swim under Bourma Falls, and hike the Lavena Coastal Walk.

A central focus of Western Samoa was the delightful capital of Apia.  The Aggie Grey Hotel reminded us of James Mitchnerís character "Bloody Mary," patterned after Aggie Grey.  We spent a week on the big island of Savaii and were taken care of at Moelagi Jacksonís Safua Hotel and joined tours with the dynamic and knowledgeable Warren Jopling.  Highlights included the Tafua Rainforest Preserve (flying foxes), lava fields, Pulemelei Mound, Cape Mulinuu, the Alofaaga blowholes, tapa-making, and a meal in a traditional Samoan home.  The friendliness of the people, the stark beauty of the setting, and the unique customs of the country impressed all of us.

When asked about favorite experiences, some the the things mentioned were:  the Fifi Independence Day,  the river trip in Fiji, the police marching band in Apia, the flying foxes, and the meal in a Samoan home.  The trip had a lasting impression on all of us!

BELIZE 2001

Enthusiastic travelers participated in the March Belize trip.  Wildlife encountered included dolphins, iguanas, bats, howler monkeys, a crocodile, and many unusual birds.  At the Jaguar Preserve we saw jaguar, peccary, and tapir tracks.  We were surprised by the condition of the reefs after the hurricane.  But the beauty was still there and we were thrilled by the variety of underwater life we found.  Other highlights included a visit to the Cayo district, which included a canoe trip down the Makal River and Caracol.  We also enjoyed eating meals with fish and chicken cooked by the mother of our guide, Clive, in Monkey River Town and by Rolando Oh.  As usual, the local food was a treat, especially for seafood lovers.  After eight very full days we were tired but happy and returned to our indoor occupations with many vivid memories.

OTHER TRIPS

We are taking other trips soon - details on this site.  Join us for the adventure and fun!  We will try to stay in touch with you and give you reports on the excursions.