Monday, July 25, 2011

Day Six - Bora Bora

Monday, July 25th

We had initially planned on a lagoon tour that involved snorkeling with sharks and Manta Rays but seeing as how we were lucky enough to dive with both just the day prior and in the interest of conserving pennies, we decided to lay low and do what we don't do often enough - relax.  We went back into town and learned a lot more about Bora Bora from Sergio at Nyco's, a Spanish native with an evident love of travel as displayed in his resume of international addresses that included London, Columbia, and Bora Bora just to name a few.  Tahitian locals pay the same prices as the tourists and are actually not among those in the world who distaste Americans.  Nope, they save their distaste for the French.  However, it is easier for a European to become a resident of French Polynesia than an American or Canadian.  Note: damn.  We were happy to learn that none of the property occupied by the various hotels are actually owned by the hotels themselves.  Almost every inch of property on the island is owned by local Tahitians.  Which may explain how they themselves afford these god awful prices.

A fifteen minute kayak ride, turned into an hour and a half adventure when Amanda discovered crabs all over the rocks surrounding the Hilton.  Fascinating little creatures.  Rick insisted on adding French commentary to the entire exploration.  Followed kayaking with the best snorkeling to date.  More fish than ever and in new shapes, sizes and colors.  Rick's attempt to follow a giant fish ended quickly.  Felt a few nibbles on our arms and legs as the fish hunted for the bread.  Absolutely breathtaking experience.  Fish as far as the eye could see.  We're afraid snorkeling will never be the same.  We do not ever want to leave this place.  Made sure to watch the sunset in full.  Learned that the Hilton is the only resort with a direct view.  Continued our nightly visit to Tamure.  Tried feeding large, nocturnal blue fish and buddies sausage.  Still nothing.  Experiment failed.  What do these curious fish eat?!  Both afraid to snorkel at night even with the under villa light lit, we attempted to lean over our dock and hang our snorkel mask in such a way to gain a clear view of these elusive fish.  The lapping water, which is so peaceful to listen to, causes some trouble when trying to balance a snorkel mask.  Mission not accomplished.  These fish will remain a mystery to us.  We end the night laying on our deck staring at a sky full of stars.

Myth Confirmed:  Fish are better, faster swimmers than Rick.

No comments:

Post a Comment