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 122 Kickin' Back

SAMOA | Monday, 2 July 2007 | Views [591]

Days have passed without much ado during our stay back in Samoa. We have spent much of our time on quintessential tropical beaches allowing us to take in even more sun :). It has been relaxing and we have had lovely weather, some spectacular thunderstorms at night, and some good star-watching opportunities.

After a few days in Apia, we split our time back between two 'resorts' (very basic, not flash beach fales that have communal facilities and a restaurant). The first one was on the Southwest coast of Upolu where we stayed in a traditional fale lit by kerosene lantern. It was rustic and had lots of mosquitos but also a wooden swing over the lagoon that was just (picture) perfect. After a few days there we headed for the Southeast coast and had an even better time. For a fair price, we had a fale right on the beach where we slept with the breeze blowing through and the surf lulling us to sleep. As relaxing and lovely as it has been, we are very much ready to move on to Tonga where we hope to find a home for our more adventurous spirits. If Tonga does not deliver, we will fast-track out of there back to Fiji.

Tags: Relaxation