Isles of Oceania by Michael Anderson

Thursday, 22nd October 2009

Isles of Oceania

by Michael Anderson

One of my favorite authors, Paul Theroux spent a year kayaking and camping around the islands of the South Pacific. One of his favorite memories of the year was a night on Maina motu. Inspired by his experience, we went to this remote motu in Aitutaki lagoon and camped on the beach under a full moon. This was sunset that evening. I fell asleep staring out at the southern cross and a billion other stars and listened to the warm breeze rustle the palms and the low rhythmic thunder of the surf crashing on the reef. We survived on a bottle of rum with candlelight and ate a few local bananas. It was one of the most magical nights in all of my travels.

Michael Anderson

Photos

15 Comments

Anurag Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 6:57 am
The image bears all the marks of a master craftsman.
Su Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 7:54 am
What a beautiful shot, love the texture of the sand leading you in, it sure looks like paradise. Also love the magical description when I cant sleep I will try and picture those words Congrats :0
Pauline Jones Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 8:21 am
Wow what an experience; I am so jealous.
Malta Photography Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 10:07 am
a definite great shot and description over all. It is very interesting that you got inspired by a previous experience of another adventurer.
G. Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 10:20 am
Thanks for sharing. Nice shot, interesting experience.
planet lover Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 1:03 pm
It was such a pleasure to open EarthShots this morning! Thanks for the gorgeous scenery and expressive write up. I’m on my way
Marie Dunphy Harding Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 1:29 pm
The area looks so untouched, but obviously a Paradise for lucky you.
Renee Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 2:17 pm
Wow Michael, what a incredible story and shot, it look’s so peaceful! congrats and thank you for sharing it to all of us!
Ellen Empson Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Michael,
I can’t imagine how “once in a lifetime” experience that was for you! Thanks for sharing that with us….great image, it gives me a feeling of what it may have been like for you.
Dianne Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 3:54 pm
Like a bouquet of palms, quite intriguing. Good eye and wonderful pose. I can imagine the magic.
Thanks.
Miriam Says:
October 22nd, 2009 at 4:10 pm
Beautiful photo. Thank you for sharing your experience!
Katherine Lee Strassburg Says:
October 23rd, 2009 at 1:27 am
Even the rivulets on the beach lead directly to paradise! I even like the darkening clouds–much imagery and a lovely story. Very well done, as usual, Michael!
mike Says:
October 23rd, 2009 at 1:46 am
What a nice scene and place to visit.
Photos by Nik Says:
October 23rd, 2009 at 4:24 am
Wow that is great shot
Grete Says:
October 23rd, 2009 at 6:52 pm
It’s a wonderful photography and what a great experience. I like very much the point of view!!! Congrats Michael.