www.2explore.net. On February 16, 2007 we will leave behind the comforts of our home in Seattle to travel through the South Pacific. On this site you can follow along with us, read about our experiences and view some of the photos we have taken en route. Our insatiable urge to explore, sparked the idea for this adventure. In October of 2005, we had a taste of the South Pacific on a 3-week trip to the Cook Islands and have ever since wanted to go back to immerse ourselves in the South Pacific way of life and record our experiences. With many ecosystems at risk from pollution, global warming and climate change, this is now especially critical. We aim to capture the true character of the idyllic South Pacific through photographs and words in a way that makes any observer of our work feel a connection to this special place and in turn, join us in making simple choices in everyday life that can have positive, lasting effects on the world around us. For a year we will be living as modern nomads – traveling only with what we can carry in our packs, living amongst the locals on the islands we visit, spending time sharing stories and experiences and taking in the captivating underwater world on the occasional dive. We hope to help others along the way and keep a vivid record of this adventure to share with you, and keep at the forefront of our memory. Follow along with us and learn about far away places of natural beauty and rich cultures. Experience with us the big world we call home.

DAY 7 An Unwelcome Guest

FRENCH POLYNESIA | Saturday, 3 March 2007 | Views [485]

We had a rough first week here in French Polynesia, but the peak was definitely waking up to find a stranger entering our room at 2am!

We were sleeping in our room at a pension on Maupiti when I awoke to a shuffling noise and saw a man entering our room through a window. I bolted upright, threw back the curtain, and swore loudly at the intruder who, luckily, turned and went out the window without any of our things. I didn't sleep much after that!!

In the morning, after breakfast, we explained to the owner of the pension that we could not stay our intended 4 days because of the incident and not feeling safe. She understood and said it was a somewhat common occurrance by a certain local person who has mental problems. Yikes! She set off to tell the local authorities (uh, what authorities?!) and to talk to the suspected intruder's parents as it is a small island. We set off to get off the island.

After a few calls, we were able to arrange to be picked up and taken to a motu Tiapaa, just a short boatride away, in search of some peace and relaxation!

Tags: Misadventures