Hello everyone!
It has been exactly one year since I’ve been to Rangiroa, a magical atoll in the French Polynesia. I miss that blue paradise so much. Therefore, I invite you all to dive with me in one of the most amazing places that I have had the privilege of exploring.
Rangiroa is 350 kilometers from Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia. Arriving on the island by plane, besides being the easiest way, is unbelievable. The atoll is one of the largest in the world. Gigantic! It is formed by 241 islets that seen from above appear to form a large pearl necklace. In the midst of this atoll, there is a lake full of colorful fish, dolphins, manta rays and sharks. For those who love the sea, it is a true delight. Only two thousand people live on the atoll. They focus especially on the islands Tiputa and Avatoru, where there are passages that connect the sea with the inside of the lake. In the lobby, a kiosk at the Hotel Kia Ora welcomes guests with a flower necklace and cold scented towels. From then on, you don’t have to worry about anything else besides enjoying every minute.
Kia Ora was a nice surprise. It is known as the best hotel in Rangiroa and I totally recommend it! I chose a beautiful bungalow, with is carefully decorated, luxurious, has a private swimming pool and surrounded by coconut trees. You can also opt for bungalows on the water (but they are much smaller). On arrival, take a bike trip through the village to explore. If you are lucky, you can follow the entry of dolphins in the lagoon, at the end of the day. I couldn’t see. Ahhh!!!! Be also sure to dine at the Relais de Josephine, a French restaurant that is worth a reservation.
The high point of Rangiroa is at sea. Snorkel in riffles of Tiputa pass, you will never forget it! Thousands of colorful fish will swim around you. It is impressive. Just look at the pictures above and you will understand what I am talking about. I have never seen so many small fishes gathered in my life. Another unforgettable place is the Blue Lagoon. Imagine that inside the lagoon of the atoll, there is another lagoon, and this one is an unbelievable blue. It is far from the hotel, you have to cross a stretch of an hour by boat. And when the boat engages, you will be amazed with the amount of sharks! It was tense, but the very experienced sailor was the first to jump in the water, and he was not eaten by sharks. Phew! I gained courage and had a wonderful experience swimming with the largest sharks I had seen in French Polynesia. In an inflatable lifeboat, I followed a few more meters until I reached an indescribable place where I spent the day. My God! Crystal clear waters up to the knees, coconut trees, baby sharks, white sand, and the most bluest sea in the face of the earth and heaven blessed by God! Need anything else? Of course. A good company to enjoy this paradise in style, for at least five days.
I hope this blue inspires your week ahead!
XoXo and see you all next Tuesday!
