Day Three (August 27th)

We woke up in the morning to heaven. Or at least I hope mine would look similar anyway! Just like the postcards and online photo galleries. Blue skies, clear aquamarine water, white sand, light foamy waves, islands in the distance, and a quiet shore. Not many people were awake yet because it was early. We had a delicious potluck breakfast of crispy toast, poached eggs, oatmeal, papaya slices, hotcake stacks, as well as bacon to fill our waking bellies. Later we took naps on the beach and did a little snorkeling. The reef was beautiful, very vivid and alive. I’ve been fortunate enough to see many in my lifetime, however this was one of my favorites; I must say! Blue starfish, large lazy sea cucumbers, and frolicking schools of fish filled my goggle frames! There were fish covered in stripes, animal print, fluro (neon) patterns, and even ones that looked as if they were wearing makeup. Later that night, we watched a Fia Fia (the tribal Samoan dancing) as well as the fire show and even had the opportunity to test some of the moves ourselves towards the end of the show. The girls’ dancing is much similar to the hula; very buoyant and smooth, whereas the men’s is much bumpier and hip. The Fia Fia was awesome! Kids apparently learn to twirl the fire batons in school. Imagine that for a sport. The rest of the night we drank and hung out with the melting pot crew on the outer deck.