French Polynesia is known for its beautiful beaches and tropical landscape, but there is also a piece of paradise waiting beneath the clear waters of the islands.
When I put on my snorkel gear, I had no idea I was about to enter an entirely different world filled with coral forests and white sand.
Coral. Watch out, it bites!
Photo by: c.b.w. 2001
Of course, I learned the hard way that coral “bites.” For about five years, I had a scar on my foot to remind me to watch where I’m going. One small touch is enough to open up quite a gash!
Aside from coral, there is an abundance of wildlife lurking in the lagoons. Fish of all colors, shapes, and sizes happily swim by and give a great show!
A school fish swim a maze of coral
Photo by: c.b.w. 2001
One fish, two fish, yellow fish, zebra fish . . .
Photo by: c.b.w. 2001
Among the fish are stingrays and sharks. Yes, I really did swim alongside sharks! They are such graceful creatures and so misunderstood. They deserve our respect rather than our fear.
Swimming with the rays!
Photo by: c.b.w. 2001
The sharks are here, but never fear!
Photo by: c.b.w. 2001
While the vivid color of blue and the wonder of wildlife make the journey underwater worthwhile, my favorite part of this adventure was the experience of absolute silence. The waters of the lagoon are often still and it’s easy to find a spot away from other divers, leaving nothing but the sound of stillness.
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Part of the A to Z Challenge!
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c.b.w. 2013
C.B. Wentworth 