Time for what has now become a monthly blog post and unfortunately, I have to brag about yet another vacation! This past week I was in Tahiti with the 5 other exchange students from my District and our awesome chaperones, Rotarian Ron and his wife Sharon.
We left a very rainy cold Auckland to arrive in hot, humid Papeete, Tahiti; greeted by several Rotarians who presented us with flower necklaces. There were 2 things that felt very strange about being in Tahiti; the first was speaking French after a year of neglecting my studies and the second was driving on the right side of the road again! I have to admit, I am very worried about driving and crossing the street when I get back to Canada, as driving on the left has become natural to me.
Being Welcomed, the Tahitian way!
We were hosted by Rotarians during our stay; my host Claude and Monique were French and had a very impressive house with an even more impressive view! We spent our days touring the island, eating tropical fruit from the side of the road, snorkelling and swimming in crystal clear water. We also attended the District Conference with the Rotarians and had the opportunity to speak about the Youth Exchange Program. (Emphasizing that any program that brings you to Tahiti for a week, has to be incredible!) We learned about all the Rotary projects, and I have to tell you, there are SO many more than you think!
The view from Claude & Monique's: Moorea in the distance
Solene enjoying an ice cold coconut
The week went by far too quickly; as has my Exchange Year. Time flies when you're having fun! I now have less than a month and a half left in New Zealand and the reality of coming home is starting to sink in... Someone asked me what colour my room back home is the other day, and I was shocked when I had to think about it for a minute!
I'm with my 4th and final host family, Don and Elrose (they have 3 grown sons and 2 grandchildren). They are absolutely lovely and so welcoming, as is their extended family. I feel bad that I haven't spent a full week at home with them since I moved in as my final months have been
so busy!! Well that's all for now Canada, see you in 44 days!
My new host parents, Don & Elrose, enjoying a mini pumpkin pie
(it has become my specialty over the year, as so many Kiwis want to try it!)
woah - when you were in Tahiti I was in Easter Island! So far away from our host-countries and closer to each other! Looks beautiful!
ReplyDeleteThe Toronto Hentschels were looking forward to posting a fittingly teasing comment about your starring role in the Chinese media but alas more pictures of beach adventures and not a yumchi noodle in sight! Eagerly awaiting your return, which we know you are SO looking forward to......
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