| As we set out that first day, my daughter was convinced we were in a travel commercial. Under blue skies we paddled through clear warm tropical waters with spectacular views of the coral and sea life below. There were mangroves and palms to the waters edge, an occasional idyllic sandy beach and hardly a soul around. And even when the heavens opened that afternoon, we were delighted. Paddling in warm rain!
We camped in tents on a tiny uninhabited island that first night then visited local lodges for the next two. We explored islands and villages, clambered to a waterfall, shared an impromptu evening of music and had a brief insight into local culture and history. This is a beautiful and undeveloped region and kayaks are such a gentle, peaceful way to explore it.
Back at Uepi we sadly returned our boats and settled in for days of exploring the local reefs. The dive from the resort jetty was amazing; school fish, giant clams, reef sharks and a scorpion fish. And then there were scores of other snorkelling sites a short boat ride away; big drop offs, coral gardens, sea snakes and crayfish and an extraordinary diverse range of fish. On one special pre-breakfast snorkel our family had exclusive water time with a school of Manta Rays.
By good fortune our visit coincided with the Festival of Pacific Arts and Honiara was host to a superb mix of neighbouring peoples. For a few fascinating nights we soaked up the singing and dancing, traditional arts, short film festival, photo exhibition, and fireworks. Good fun.
We loved the Solomons and would happily return. We took the usual enteric precautions, took antimalarials and stayed well."
... Prepared by patient of Chromis Travel Medicine Service
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