Raivavae is a neat, small island that only covers 17.5 square kilometers. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for with its charm. This applies to both, the people who live here and to nature.

Life is simple here. The residents have the most important things they need to live, on the island or in the sea. There are plenty of tropical fruits, Papaya and Mango trees, coconut palms and banana trees grow; and taro roots grow in the ground, which taste similar to potatoes. The sea supplies fish and seafood. Poisson cru, (raw fish), usually Tuna, accompanied by rice, chicken and vegetables, enrich the table. What does not occur is imported. Twice a month the Tuhaa Pae IV docks at the small harbor. It brings fuel, but also ice cream, beer, wine and milk – for my morning Ovaltine! And cigarettes! For emergencies there is Air Tahiti, which flies to the island three times a week.

A partly concrete, narrow road 25 kilometers in length, leads around the island. This is the best way to explore the island. We did that a few days ago with bicycles. From the houses we passed and the few cars we encountered; we received a friendly wave.

PS. You don’t see many tourists here – and in times of Covid 19 even fewer than usual. «Bienvenue à Raivavae!»