MilliOnAir Magazine Dec 2018 - Jan 2019 | Page 161

just below the surface. In the distance we could hear the crashing of the ocean waves as they found themselves at the mercy of the reef. For most, this could be somewhat frightening, however, the magic that Tikehau possessed made this scene all the more transfixing and an experience we wouldn’t forget. Diving in Tikehau is a must. The high-visibility waters around the coral reefs host an astonishing variety of marine life. The manta rays are huge, the fish so colourful they look superimposed and the reef sharks plentiful. However, the real expedition is the Tuheiva pass, an underwater coral playground for eagle rays, turtles, dolphins, tuna, barracudas, sharks and smaller technicolour fish. The volume of fish is so much that Jacques Cousteau’s research crew dubbed it “the most fish abundant Tuamotu atoll.” So naturally, this is where I would be doing my second dive, and my first ocean dive. This tranquil world of both peace and plentiful above and below the water is a personal playground. We found nothing but absolute serenity on the calm and graceful shores. However, if you find yourself craving more you can also take a boat to the centre of the lagoon to visit Motu Puarua at the northeastern end. This small islet, known as ‘bird island’ is a natural avery for numerous colonies of sea birds. You also have the option to venture to the main village of Tuherahera on the Southern side. Tuherahera is been labelled as one of the most attractive villages in the Atolls. We found ourselves far too engulfed in the gifts of Tikehau that we didn’t drift further afield this time. It was the perfect end to a profoundly extraordinary trip and I felt incredibly lucky to have been able to experience even a slice of the magnificence the French Polynesia has to offer. Next Stop - The French Alps where I will learn to Snow Board! You can follow all of our adventures on Instagram @samanthajoannewilson