The Polynesian beauty can be found everywhere. In the smile of a local, in the fresh scent of the tiere bloom, in the sparkle of a pearl, and in the setting of the sun. It just seems to abound from every nook and cranny in this country.
Over the last two years we have accumulated several “imperfect pearls.” Birthdays, trade, thank you gifts, etc… An imperfect pearl can be one that is not particularly colorful or full of luster. Or maybe it is marked or odd shaped. Either way, there are loads of them around. Technically, they cannot be sold.
One day I decided to see if I could put together a unique design using small pearls from my little collection. I was super pleased to find 28 pearls of the same size. I approached a local jeweler and asked her to drill them, and create a stunning necklace. In the states this would most likely cost well over $2k, but here it cost me about $90. I am super happy with this striking, one-of-a-kind necklace.
Polynesian Pearl Necklace
Sunrise and Sunsets
We are usually blessed with either a gorgeous sunrise or sunset. We try to stop what we are doing to enjoy these magnificent opportunities. Sometimes we sleep through the sunrise, but most times we get lucky.
This is a sunrise over Aukena. We captured it from the Rikitea main village anchorage.
Sunset behind Aukena
Matt has such a good eye when it comes to photos. He captured the same sunrise from the bow with our sail bag and solar panels.
Sunrise over Aukena
At anchor in Puaumau, we have an unobstructed view of the sunset. One night we captured a big storm cloud on the horizon just as the sun was setting.
Storm cloud on the horizon
The full moon rose to its glory of the motu of Puaumu.
Moonrise over Puaumu
Puaumu is a gorgeous anchorage that many cruisers don’t visit (for whatever reason). However, it is one of our favorite anchorages with crystal clear turquoise waters, great snorkeling, fun exploring, and privacy.
INSERT 2 COLLAG OF PUAUMU
We had a break in the rain on a particular stormy day. It was the “calm after the storm.” Which created this beautiful Polynesian scenery with calm seas and fluffy clouds.
Polynesian Beauty: Taravai Anchorage
Lots of pretty tide pools around low tide that reflect the puffy clouds and showcase the young sea life.
Beautiful friends, new and old.
Me, Ruby, Eve
Our beautiful Polynesian friend Valerie, her new puppy PoPo and Roxy. Roxy wanted in because Valerie was showering Popo with love.
Events from this blog post occurred during the last few weeks of February 2021. Our blog posts run 8-10 weeks behind our adventures.