Night down at Kia Ora Village

After the first night at Pension Teina, we have checked ourselves in at the Kia Ora Village, which obviously made Mike a very happy hubby throughout the trip. Although I have to admit that being pampered like the Hollywood equivalent of "the rich and famous" is every woman's dream from her man. I was at the same time saddened by the fact that the adventurous spirit is gone to be the "lonely planteer" as a traveler. At best, the experience at Kia Ora Village over-water-bungalow, was a "once-in-a-life-time" experience. We will perhaps never have the luxury combination of both time and money to be here again.

At night, cozy and comfortable in my pareo, our energy is restored with a hearty, morning-fresh seafood dinner served at Kia Ora Village's only signature open-air restaurant. At Rangiroa, one has to get use to the ultra quietness, even ushering into the nights. There are no wild parties and live pool side band for entertainment. This is what one pays for in the French Polynesian islands. Occasionally, the Tahitian string quartet will entertain the hotel guests with soothing Tahitian music. More often, the young group loves to plug a few Eric Clapton signature songs and Eagles' famous tunes. I realized this: I find American tourists most appalling at times with their rowdy nature. There again, their amiable nature is still unbeatable in the western culture, just like Florida Gary and his girl friend we acquainted during our dives. Compared to the snobbish French and cheeky Italians around. There is hardly any Asian that travels to this part of the globe. Other than groups of high-purchasing-power Japanese divers that drive every single minute occupied, with three daily dives like baptism ritual that is not to be missed during their five-short-day stay.