Our flight from Lima to Easter Island
was wonderful – of course, it didn't hurt to be flying Premium
Business! Ohhhh, those 'lie flat' beds are so comfortable. I am
going to have a hard time returning to the “back of the bus!”
Thank you, LAN, for the upgrade.
There are many unusual features about
Easter Island, but one that I noticed immediately when we landed was
that at 7am it was still pitch black, and , even though they are
located in the exact middle of the Pacific Ocean, they are on the
same time zone as Austin!! And sunset isn't until about 8:15pm at
the end of October. The photos was taken at the airport as I received a lei welcome.
Bare with me while I fill you in on a
few details regarding this mysterious island. Although 2500 miles west of Chile and about 3000 miles east of Tahiti, it is politically linked
to Chile but much more Polynesian than the rest of South America. It
is believed that the original inhabitants arrived from Polynesia somewhere 900 BC to 1000 AD; however, as with most questionss regarding Easter Island; there are no definite answers.. One fact is known for sure -- everyone recognizes the moai as the unique statues of Easter Island.
The first permanent settlements were
established in the mid-18th century and the Chilean government established their authority over the island in the early
19th century.
Our hotel, the Hanga Roa has just
completed a major restoration giving it a lovely polynesian flare
with beautiful ocean views from the rooms and lovely amenities..
Full board (3meals/day
with wine) is included and, much to my surprise, the food is truly
gourmet. Especially delicious is the fresh fish caught locally.
After lunch we went on a small tour of nearby Rapa Nui, the major town (and I use the term loosely) on the island and drove over to Rano Kau, a water-filled volcanic crate and one of the most unforgettable sights on the island.
Descending into the crater is no longer permitted, but we walked around the top and took numerous photos of the beautiful views from the rim. Local women used to walk down into the crater to wash clothes and then walk back out with their wet clothes! And we complain about having to take clothes out of the washer and dryer!!
Our other stop on this short introduction to the island was the Ahu Tahai located within walking distance of our hotel. It is actually a complex of three ahus (stone platforms). This photo shows the one with a restored topknot and ceramic eyes.
The ceramic eyes were added due to a request from the brutal Chilean dictator Pinochet when he visited the island. They were not part of the original moai.
We were beginning to dwindle by this time and ready for the promised Happy Hour at our hotel.
Heading straight to the deck of the hotel, we sipped Pisco Sours and toasted the sunset and a wonderful first day on Easter Island!
More tomorrow from Easter Island!
Linda
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