Countless times on this trip, we’ve declared that a spot was “the most beautiful thing” we’ve ever seen. Only minutes after getting off the plane on Easter Island, we realized that this really is the most unique and remarkable place we’ve ever been. This is going to be a tough one to beat.
Here are just some of the reasons why:
It is the most remote place on earth
The closest inhabited island is just under 1,300 miles away. We can feel how quiet and relaxed this place is. The sky at night is stunning – by far the most stars we’ve ever seen. It’s a testament to the lack of overwhelming city lights or tall buildings.
We can experience pure island culture
Even though tourism is the main source of income on Easter Island, nothing is too commercial. There are no chain restaurants or hotels and all the businesses are locally owned. Just a couple minutes from our hotel, we can find impromptu soccer games near the wharf or surfers hanging ten at the beach.
The Moai
We’ll go into depth about these ancient archaeological structures in later posts, but they are scattered throughout the island and represent the burial ground of notable figures from each of the villages. The technology and creativity used to create and transport the Moai is fascinating considering they weigh several tons.
The scenery
Lush, green mountains can be found everywhere. Sea battered caves and rocky cliffs line many costal regions. Dormant but breathtaking volcanos lie on various points of the triangular island. The majority of the island is part of Rapa Nui National Park and is protected from over exploitation.
Best beer….ever
.. check back later for the complete love story