Polynesian culture

Today we are in Raiatea, French Polynesia, and had the most insightful and probably educational tour we have ever had, by Chief Tihoti.

The Chief, who can trace his direct ancestors back over 1000 years, explained the importance of man being in harmony with nature, as well as having respect for the environment. He tied this in with peace and inner harmony and how today too many people are slaves to phones, iPads, laptops etc, which leads to stress and anxiety (I was thinking of low battery stress, that I and so many others now seem to suffer from!). It’s not about career and money it appears … 

Thankfully now, the Polynesian culture is having a resurgence, despite the best efforts of Captain Cook (who arrived in 1769) and his subsequent colonial pals, who thought that it would be better if the Polynesians dumped their culture and became more like them (wear nice suits and dresses and go to church every Sunday!).

Again, these islands continue to impress, and not just because of their outstanding natural environment.

Relax and be happy.