Moorea
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Our second morning in Moorea was the day I had been anticipating most of all. The InterContinental Resort Moorea had arranged for me to participate in their Dolphin Center sanctuary program. After meeting the superb trainers and learning about the background and health of the rescue dolphins we were lead to the lagoon to begin our encounter in the water with two of the four dolphins on site. This was an overwhelming and joyful experience to say the least. Our instructor led the dolphins through some spectacular exercises all designed to display the power, skill and grace of these amazing beings. It was particularly exhilarating to watch under water with our goggles and see the speed of their movement, yet as they approached us they stopped on a dime and came to a complete stand still. Of course, the moment that will remain in my heart forever was being able to touch them and to be kissed goodbye at the end of our encounter. They are incredibly intelligent beings and a very strong emotion of delight in sharing our company is definitely communicated. I can only say that this is a must experience and well worth a visit to Moorea and an added reason to stay at the InterContinental Resort Moorea.
I think I still had tears in my eyes when we met our host, Eric Molle, the Assistant General Manager at the resort. He led us on a site inspection of the impeccable property. The serene and understated Polynesia styled bungalows and hotel accommodations are very tastefully appointed with references to the art and archeology of the islands. The beach and the gardens of the grounds are equally inviting and easy to explore. Away from the main area of the resort is a rescue sanctuary for sea turtles. It is the kind of setting where you simply feel you must be in a dream. An added touch to the many beach activities is an art area where you can paint your own pareo. We enjoyed a fabulous poolside lunch buffet in the Fare Hana Restaurant with Eric and would recommend checking out the ocean-view Fare Nui Restaurant in the evening for a five star gourmet dining experience.
Continuing on to our discovery of the smaller pension properties, we were thrilled to find there are some wonderful alternatives for travelers who would like to stay in a category that allows the enjoyment of the beauty of the islands with out breaking their budget. Each had well groomed grounds with fruit trees and fragrant flowering plants, inviting beaches and an assortment of water activities and some had bicycles for rent and on site restaurants.
Highlight of the day: Swimming with the Dolphins