We went to the airport for our 45 minute flight in a prop plane over to Aitutaki. One wheels the luggage on a cart and then leaves it in the line until the counter opens up (whenever it does). When it did we were not asked for any identification whatsoever, no carry ons were examined - except for their weight), and we could bring our full water bottles on the plane.

We stayed at Samade Beach Resort in a delightful wooden cottage near the beach. We were mesmerized by the tranquil blue and green shimmering waters. We’d never seen anything this breathtaking before anywhere we’d traveled. Although we couldn’t snorkel out of the door (or rather see abundant life in the waters), we swam in the largest “pool” we’ve ever been in. We were able to take out the kayaks and paddle boards as often as we liked so we had a lot of fun doing this. Suzan tried paddle boarding for the first time and never fell off!

The lagoon is 3-4 times larger than the island!

We rented a motor scooter to explore the island (including unpaved back roads) and had a blast! On Sunday we attended a Church service at The Cook Island Christian Church from about 1840 (a replica of an Anglican Church) where a large set imposing man with a real “presence” stood on an elevated platform (above the other platform) to share the message in 2 languages (English for the benefit of the travelers) and their own native tongue. We were warmly welcomed into their community. The locals were dressed in all white (from their hats to their white lace dresses or suits) and during the service what stands out the most is the singing. From childhood the congregation learns the hymns and songs whilst perfecting the harmony (the men and women each had parts as well as groups in different parts of the large room). They sounded like a well-practiced choir or more like angels with exquisite voices. Such an uplifting experience.After service we met a couple of Aussie women (throughout the entire trip we enjoyed so many Aussie people - delightful senses of humour). They were friends who had left their husbands at home so the women could celebrate their 60th birthdays with a week on the islands! We saw them many times during our stay and they kept us laughing.

We ventured out on a snorkel cruise in a rain storm (knowing we’d get wet anyway so not a big deal). With the Captain steering the wheel while also playing a ukulele, and the other crew playing a guitar, bongo, and singing, how could we not enjoy this experience! We snorkeled amongst huge fish (Trevallys) and one of them, named George, had big lips and likes to eat cameras. He had recently downed a Go-Pro when someone left it floating in the water. These fish were half Suzan’s size, large enough to get one’s attention! We were told they are attracted to metal and may think it’s bait. Everyone was warned to remove all jewelry. Poor Jim cannot ever take his wedding ring off. It literally is stuck on his finger! Suzan thought the Travele would go right for it. Fortunately he did not.

We snorkeled amongst beautiful mounds of coral and interesting sea life including baby eels (looked like black and white baby snakes).

We then went to One Foot Island where the rain pelted down sideways. We all walked a sandbar with water sometimes waist and then knee deep for 20 minutest o get onto the island. Other than feeling cold and very wet, it did seem like we were walking on water, such a unique experience. Once there the crew joined us and prepared a feast for us in a Cabana including the Cassava Fruit  (like eating Tapioca Pudding).They also seared fresh Tuna for us. Pure Heaven!

After lunch the rain stopped and the bright sun reappeared just in time for our final snorkel. Jim and I opted to swim around a rocky outcropping and were rewarded with some interesting fish. We timed it to return to the boat for our 3:00 pm departure except it didn’t actually leave until 3:30 pm (island time). The crew continued to entertain with music and also sharing island legends on our way back.

Afterward we went on a long walk on the road next to the airport so we could confirm our flight for the next day (Jim always likes a “walk with a purpose”) and later had dinner at the Boat Shed again. Wouldn’t you know it we ran into our Aussie friends again as we were seated next to them for dinner (didn’t know they’d show up). A rain storm kicked up out of nowhere and none of us had brought an umbrella so we had to wait it out, and then ran back to our cottages before the next downfall.

We hiked up a very steep hill to the summit of mount Maungapu, braving the heat and humidity for an unsurpassed view of the crystalline blue and green waters of the lagoon. It took about an hour yet so worth it!