tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35588789823440077042024-03-14T16:52:08.733+12:00Tui Tai ExpeditionsGemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.comBlogger154125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-3526696055410260262012-04-09T09:59:00.000+12:002012-04-09T09:59:11.400+12:00Remote Island Exploration in Fiji on the Tui Tai<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Tui Tai Charters!</div>
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We have just come back from an incredible charter trip into the remote and beautiful Lau group. We sailed into new waters, visiting unique areas of Fiji. The Bay of Islands on Vanua Balavu were stunning, we kayaked through ocean passages and between cliff faces, went stand up paddle boarding in secluded lagoons and had chance encounters with manta rays on the outer reefs. We also spent a day in the crystal clear water of wailagilala, a small but beautiful coconut island in Northern Lau, it had some great fishing, beautiful diving and stunning white sand beaches.</div>
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We also visited some of our favorite islands Kioa, Rabi, Taveuni and Cobia. With a great mix of adventure, culture and plenty of water action it was a great week.</div>
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The Tui Tai is available for charters. We can cater for all types of groups, with two Zodic boats we can do various activities whether scuba diving, surfing, snorkeling or just beaching at the same time!</div>
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Get in touch reservtion@tuitai.com +679 885 3032</div>
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One of the many highlights of a Tui Tai Expeditition Cruise is the chance to experience the rich diversity of the South Pacific Islands.</div>
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Fiji has a very rich culture that has been passed down through the generations with dance and song called "Mece". To experience it first hand we visit Wi Wi village on Taveuni as guests of there"Mece" and traditional kava ceremony. See the powerful warrior dances, gentle dance of the women and even taste kava!</div>
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Nestled in the northern Fijian Islands are two unique groups of people who left their homelands many years back and have adopted as Fiji their new home. A quality that these island people share with the locals is that they hold on to their traditions and tell their history through performance and music.<br />
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Above we see a "Fatele" in Kioa in full swing with powerful Polynesian drumming, singing and dancing. The people originally from the atoll of Tuvalu share their story and history with us whilst continuing their culture into the modern day.<br />
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Completing the pacific triangle we have a taste of Micronesian culture on the island of Rabi, performed by excited primary school children. The banaban people originated from ocean island in Kiribas and seeing this unique style of dance we are happy to see that their culture is very much alive as well.<br />
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After full days of diving, hiking and exploring the Fijian Islands with the Tui Tai Adventures the entire experience is enriched by sharing firsthand these amazing and diverse cultures that make up our pacific triangle.<br />
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<a href="http://www.tuitai.com/">http://www.tuitai.com/</a>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-58644233288866391172011-10-03T13:58:00.001+12:002011-10-03T13:58:50.868+12:00Manta Ray of Hope<br />
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Life on board the Tui Tai Expeditions Cruises lets you get up close and personal with the beauty and unpredictability of the ocean. Manta Rays are incredibly illusive and breathtaking, and when they grace you with their presence it is an experience you will not soon forget. </div>
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Our site where we encounter Manta Rays is a plankton rich feeding area. They swim close to the surface with their wingtips piercing the surface, this is how we spot them as it is also a area with lots of water movement and intense currents. Over time we have narrowed down the tide times, moon phases and conditions that the Manta Rays like but still at the end of the day its still down to chance as a lot is unknown about these magnificent creatures.</div>
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Manta Ray of Hope is an organisation that is trying to study more about Manta Rays all over the world. Their site also brings to light the terrible up and coming industry of manta fishing in Asia for "medical purposes". Have a look at the video to learn more.. <a href="http://mantarayofhope.com/">Manta Ray of Hope</a></div>
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On board the Tui Tai we have decided to use our unique encounters to learn more about these amazing creatures by creating detailed logs of conditions,times, amount of rays and their behaviour. A Photo ID log of the Mantas belly will identify each individual manta like a finger print so we can see how many of the same animals return each time and use this information to further our knowledge about these creatures.</div>
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Education and tourism will hopefully go along way in protecting the Mantas in Fiji and all over the world. They are such an awe inspiring, peaceful giant of the sea and an encounter is a privilege that every one should hope for...</div>
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I will keep you posted on our progress...</div>
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Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-69829243042115170152011-09-12T14:52:00.000+12:002011-09-12T14:52:37.217+12:00Open water course on the Tui TaiSCUBA SCUBA SCUBA!<br />
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Fiji is world renown for its incredible reefs and corals, so what better place to learn than on the Tui Tai!<br />
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We introduce you to scuba diving on the beautiful island of Rabi in a small cove called Dolphin bay, here there is plenty to see with hard corals, nudibranchs and plenty of reef fish. We then tour some of Fijis finest dive sites and even explore some of the outer island reefs where there is seldom another boat out there and the fish are curious to check you out! And what better way to finish off your certification than on the great white wall, considered one of the worlds top dive sites... Not bad for your 4th dive ever!<br />
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All of our expeditions have a PADI scuba instructor on board and we are able to fit in all the classes, skill sessions and open water dives around the trip so you don't miss out on any of our other awesome activities! We also offer the padi advance and rescue course. For more info please call on +679.885.3032 or email at reservations@tuitai.com.<br />
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A few skills.<br />
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First dive!<br />
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The great white wall...Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-71943333068758542832011-04-29T17:41:00.000+12:002011-04-29T17:41:45.764+12:00Teva House winners sail around Fiji on amazing Tui Tai Expedition!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Py4LhnrjlnQ/TbpOwxAdzWI/AAAAAAAAARA/J_p5Ydmvd0A/s1600/frontboatjump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Py4LhnrjlnQ/TbpOwxAdzWI/AAAAAAAAARA/J_p5Ydmvd0A/s400/frontboatjump.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Every Year Teva house has a competition and a few lucky adventures head off for a trip of a life time to some incredible part of the world. The 2011 Teva house team set sail in Fiji on 140ft sailboat The Tui Tai for seven days filled adventure and exploration in Fiji's remote northern islands.<br />
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The expedition was a trip of a lifetime! We woke up everyday to discover a different remote island and then made the most of each moment with amazing activities. Evey one was equipt with Teva shoes which were perfect for all our adventures in and out of the water. We snorkeled and dived pristine reefs, hiked to the top of an extinct volcano, kayaked through the crater, jumped off waterfalls, visited remote schools and villages, drunk kava with the locals, swam with majestic manta rays, surfed epic waves, did sunrise yoga sessions and then enjoyed cocktails under the night stars.<br />
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Teva also brought boxes of shoes as gifts to donate to kids we met in living in the outer islands.We had some fantastic smiles and for some it was their first pair of shoes!<br />
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The Tui Tai expedition was a truly a trip of a lifetime! Great people, great places and even greater stories....<br />
More photos/videos and stories on the way!<br />
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To donate to the Tui Tai Charitable Fund or join us for your own Expedition contact us on<br />
http://www.tuitai.com/<br />
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For more on Teva and Teva House <br />
http://www.teva.com/<br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Photos by-to see more</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">http://www.gemmamolinaro.com/</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">http://www.facebook.com/GemmaMolinaroPhotography</div>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-23511179437373412302011-03-27T19:33:00.000+12:002011-03-27T19:33:02.498+12:00Dive Fiji onboard Tui Tai<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/EIb9k5LyI0g?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="bodyFont" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Fiji is one of the world’s most popular tropical dive destinations and much of this interest is due to the superb diving in the north around Taveuni, the Ringgold Atolls, Rabi and Kioa’s acclaimed reefs. Here we find reefs ablaze with every colour of the rainbow, as multi-hued soft corals and fish feed in the tidal currents. Add to this clear, warm tropical waters and you have truly world-class diving. Tui Tai Expedition Cruises is a PADI IRRA International Dive Boat. Our instructors onboard can take you on a "Discover Scuba Dive" without any prior dive experience, or you can further your skills by completing the Advanced Openwater Course. </span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">We are setting off on a new expedition on the </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tui</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Tai</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> tomorrow and as always we are excited to see what this week's adventure will bring.</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">More Photo and Video to follow but in the meantime check out some new diving footage to get an idea of the amazing life under the surface...enjoy.</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">For more information contact us</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.tuitai.com/</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photos and Video</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.gemmamolinaro.com/</span></span></div>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-91448873620745269482011-03-27T19:18:00.000+12:002011-03-27T19:18:07.602+12:00Quiksilver father/son Surf Trip onboard Tui Tai<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-in_m5bkypTU/TY7hB6mz5PI/AAAAAAAAAQI/PswUuq1-D7Y/s1600/Resturaunts22-March.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-in_m5bkypTU/TY7hB6mz5PI/AAAAAAAAAQI/PswUuq1-D7Y/s400/Resturaunts22-March.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><!--StartFragment--> <br />
<div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">The Tui Tai Steamed down to the western side of Fiji, awaiting the arrival of the Quiksilver team ( which also was a father/son surf trip). </span></span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Departing Denarau we headed straight out to reefs surrounding Tavarua and Numoto Islands and began the day with surf at Cloudbreak. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Conditions were fun and glassy and everyone got some waves and got over the jet lag and into holiday mode. As bellies grumbled we headed back to the boat to lunch on the top deck followed by small siesta on the sun lounges. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Before getting to settled into the Fiji relax time we loaded the two naids with boards and jumped in to go check out Wilks. Even though the wind had picked up since the morning the right was firing! With only ourselves out to contend with there were plenty of waves to go round. The water was crystal clear and you could see the beautiful tropical fish swimming over the reef below. This made for some beautiful underwater surf shots too. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BsfBCL87mbs/TY7jIcmhzvI/AAAAAAAAAQU/-Jb7UTd6NuA/s1600/quik3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BsfBCL87mbs/TY7jIcmhzvI/AAAAAAAAAQU/-Jb7UTd6NuA/s320/quik3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">As we went back to the boat all eyes were checking out swell forecasts for the next few days. Everyone was trying to work out the best place to explore to find some remote waves. After various debates and phone calls to connections locations we decided to head south and explore the islands of Kandavu. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">There was a big swell on its way, but unfortunately it also came with strong winds too. Then came the marine forecast that a cyclone was heading straight to Fiji. Even though the weather was fine for the moment we were unable to head out for our big exploration expedition and we needed to stay in the Mamacuas .</span></span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d9If4p4KX2I/TY7jHSMsHeI/AAAAAAAAAQM/VBnIU3c5tEw/s1600/Quik1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d9If4p4KX2I/TY7jHSMsHeI/AAAAAAAAAQM/VBnIU3c5tEw/s320/Quik1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Spirits were dampened a little, airline tickets were booked to Australia, but we decided to make the most of the day and go surfing. The wind had picked up a little and we checked out desperation's. Its was sheltered and had nice sets coming in, some right, some left, it almost felt like a beach break. A fun session was had by all but again food was calling and returned to the Tui Tai for lunch and fresh fruit. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">We had boat jumping session, even a flip off the very top deck, but I think the landing hurt. Another boat went out and a few of the guys went to check out the below the waves with some free diving. There were some talks of catching dinner but the fish got away…</span></span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left: 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">One last surf out at desperation's with the waves all to ourselves. Everyone was relaxing, catching waves with friends, in balmy tropical waters, until a storm front came over and the sky's opened. Waves were still ridden in the downpour until beers and dinner sounded like a good idea. We had a sunset cruise back to the dock, out trip cut short, but the waves are still there waiting to be explored, so we will leave it till next time. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JOpgmtAqa5w/TY7jHzX86wI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/KW9ojOq2V_E/s1600/quik2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JOpgmtAqa5w/TY7jHzX86wI/AAAAAAAAAQQ/KW9ojOq2V_E/s320/quik2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list: none; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list: none; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US">For more info on Surf Charters on the Tui Tai</span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list: none; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US">http://www.tuitai.com/</span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list: none; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US">Photos by</span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px;">http://www.gemmamolinaro.com/</span></span></div><div class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list: none; tab-stops: 36.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
</span></div><!--EndFragment-->Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-9609927261701025202011-01-31T15:03:00.004+13:002011-01-31T15:10:31.383+13:00Life is An Adventure on the Tui Tai<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TUYXqX0R9EI/AAAAAAAAANQ/tSEsBu3qV8A/s1600/DSC_0066.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TUYXqX0R9EI/AAAAAAAAANQ/tSEsBu3qV8A/s320/DSC_0066.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568164006005437506" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TUYUWiaHj1I/AAAAAAAAANI/DLTGExqs2dE/s1600/DSC_0758.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TUYUWiaHj1I/AAAAAAAAANI/DLTGExqs2dE/s320/DSC_0758.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568160366716227410" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TUYS_FHErhI/AAAAAAAAAM4/FDyU5pZQMFE/s1600/DSC_0191.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TUYS_FHErhI/AAAAAAAAAM4/FDyU5pZQMFE/s320/DSC_0191.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568158864203099666" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TUYSZXwwODI/AAAAAAAAAMw/r6_NCfbhLco/s1600/DSC_0825.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TUYSZXwwODI/AAAAAAAAAMw/r6_NCfbhLco/s320/DSC_0825.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568158216374728754" /></a><br />What a fantastic week we have just had on the Tui Tai. Apart from a couple of rainy<img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TUYTXtf-0fI/AAAAAAAAANA/MMZPagoW4V4/s320/DSC_0531.jpg" style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5568159287361851890" /><div> days we had gorgeous weather and managed to enjoy a whole host of activities. For many of the guests it was a chance to try something new - be it scuba diving ( Congratlations Ayesha and Max!), jumping off/sliding down a waterfall or hiking a volcanic crater. When a hurricane warning altered our plans we decamped to a secluded beach and played volleyball, golf and a lot of us learned to paddleboard (John turned out to have a great sense of balance). The divers were lucky enough to see a Manta Ray on the White Wall - something none of us will forget. In the evenings we were fully entertained by Matt singing and playing guitar, and Steve showing us a whole new style of dancing. Bob showed us how watersliding was done and the honeymooners Kurt and Susan pursued their mission of finding heart-shaped seashells and coral at every opportunity. The Tui Tai is all about adventure, so whether it's already in your blood or you'd like to unleash your inner action-man/woman, come onboard and immerse yourself in a whole host of new experiences.<br /><br /></div>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-82355824709544145322011-01-10T14:46:00.005+13:002011-01-10T15:07:25.828+13:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSppsbYsE1I/AAAAAAAAAMo/5PRbeRyNt8I/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSppsbYsE1I/AAAAAAAAAMo/5PRbeRyNt8I/s320/DSC_0009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560372901928768338" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSppOj0SBNI/AAAAAAAAAMg/LnXBF-YWP1E/s1600/DSC_0039.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSppOj0SBNI/AAAAAAAAAMg/LnXBF-YWP1E/s320/DSC_0039.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560372388795909330" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSppH-E-I8I/AAAAAAAAAMY/zbOdAm39_f4/s1600/DSC_0352.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSppH-E-I8I/AAAAAAAAAMY/zbOdAm39_f4/s320/DSC_0352.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560372275586147266" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSpo3-yV0DI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/xEI2UH-GPr4/s1600/DSC_0395.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSpo3-yV0DI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/xEI2UH-GPr4/s320/DSC_0395.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560372000898535474" /></a><br />This week we had some great island visits, with some pilot whales making an appearance on our way to the first one, which was the island of Rabi, where we were entertained by the school children. These islanders are originally from Kiribati, but after their island was devastated in World War II and phosphate mining, the British relocated them on Rabi, which is a volcanic island in northern Fiji.Their costumes are stunning and everyone was enthralled by the dancing and their warm hospitality - especially by one little boy who really got into character and left us all with a big smile on our faces! We next went to Wiwi village in the island of Taveuni, and the guests had a fantastic time joining in the fun by showing them how dancing is done in England!<br /><br />Hiking on Cobia Island, which is a sunken volcanic crater in the Ringgold atoll, we managed to find some of the wild goats which are the only inhabitants of the island! They are very wary of humans though so we were lucky to spot a few and even get a rare photograph. Not put off by a bit of "liquid sunshine" we enjoyed the stunning views once reaching the top - and one guest commented that the opportunity to do this hike had inspired her to book the trip!Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-48370772282002742742011-01-03T10:40:00.005+13:002011-01-03T10:59:12.534+13:00A Wedding in Kioa<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSD1GzPXbwI/AAAAAAAAAMI/4EjkzJ8WDTE/s1600/DSC_0640.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSD1GzPXbwI/AAAAAAAAAMI/4EjkzJ8WDTE/s320/DSC_0640.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557711437357870850" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSD051jKsXI/AAAAAAAAAMA/x49TrBimqyw/s1600/DSC_0195.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSD051jKsXI/AAAAAAAAAMA/x49TrBimqyw/s320/DSC_0195.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557711214639493490" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSD0w-Yy8hI/AAAAAAAAAL4/TR-fUsAbpFE/s1600/DSC_0189.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TSD0w-Yy8hI/AAAAAAAAAL4/TR-fUsAbpFE/s320/DSC_0189.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557711062393090578" /></a><br />This week was not only special because it was the end of the year, we also had 2 couples feeling the romance of Fiji and the Tui Tai with a wedding and a proposal!<br /><br />One couple decided they wanted to get married on the beautiful island of Kioa, which Tui Tai promptly arranged, and a fantastic day was had by all, followed by their singing ceremony, or fatele. The residents of Kioa were originally from the Polynesian island of Tuvalu, but due to rising sea levels they needed to relocate and have now been here for over seventy years. They have kept their traditions alive and it made for some spectacular photos with an American style wedding dress set amongst a Polynesian/Fijian backdrop.<br /><br />Another guest decided that he would propose to his girlfriend - not so unusual in Fiji - but what made it special is that he did it underwater! He had brought the rings with him and carefully arranged it with the crew beforehand so that everything went according to plan - the question (and answer!) was written on an underwater slate - she accepted thankfully and now Fiji and the Tui Tai will always hold a special place in their hearts.<br /><br />With the end of the year comes the start of a new one - Happy New Year to all past and future Tui Tai guests!Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-21928521086237437122010-12-27T10:51:00.001+13:002010-12-27T10:56:17.498+13:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe5lkTfR0I/AAAAAAAAALw/tKf-0Ytin3c/s1600/DSC_0478.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe5lkTfR0I/AAAAAAAAALw/tKf-0Ytin3c/s320/DSC_0478.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555112720436512578" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe4spyEHpI/AAAAAAAAALo/aQstNjwB-ws/s1600/DSC_0314.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe4spyEHpI/AAAAAAAAALo/aQstNjwB-ws/s320/DSC_0314.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555111742654389906" /></a><meta charset="utf-8"><b>Festive Fiji!</b><div>
<br /></div><div>We had a great group of guests to share the holiday season with us this week. As a special gift we even had a group of spinner dolphins appear for us on christmas day and swim alongside the boat. For Christmas Eve a local choir from Taveuni came on board with a priest and we had a sermon, singing and then of course, the traditional kava ceremony.</div><div>
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<br /></div><div>Kava is made from the powder of the Kava root and is then mixed with water. It is drunk for almost all social occasions and is much the same as a 'peace pipe' in other cultures - offering an opportunity for social interaction in a relaxed setting. Both men and women are able to drink kava in Fiji, but if you want to participate you must join the 'circle' and clap once before accepting a bowl, and three times after.</div><div>
<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe3_AnbL8I/AAAAAAAAALg/HsW8ZC9kYvA/s1600/DSC_0432.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe3_AnbL8I/AAAAAAAAALg/HsW8ZC9kYvA/s320/DSC_0432.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555110958509797314" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe27KJQBfI/AAAAAAAAALY/UR-yoNlS4y4/s1600/DSC_0007.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe27KJQBfI/AAAAAAAAALY/UR-yoNlS4y4/s320/DSC_0007.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555109792836486642" /></a>
<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe1h0ai6wI/AAAAAAAAALQ/0D3wCQf0QhQ/s1600/DSC_0442.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TRe1h0ai6wI/AAAAAAAAALQ/0D3wCQf0QhQ/s320/DSC_0442.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5555108257995090690" /></a>
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<br /></b></div><div>In the week we had fresh fish, caught by one of the crew members (but helped by Erika, one of our guests!)</div><div>
<br /></div><div>Our Christmas day activities included a hike on the Lavena coastal walk to a beautiful waterfall (one of two we visited during the week, where everyone simulated the locals diving skills! </div><div>
<br /></div><div>We are now looking forward to celebrating the New Year with a new group and lots of fun and festivities.</div>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-34450600707220508972010-12-20T11:18:00.007+13:002010-12-20T12:30:44.828+13:00Snorkelling and Sharks!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TQ6NR7fLEvI/AAAAAAAAALE/gfL676ts0fg/s1600/DSC_4386%2Bcopy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TQ6NR7fLEvI/AAAAAAAAALE/gfL676ts0fg/s400/DSC_4386%2Bcopy.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552530729760133874" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span">The weather was definitely on our side this week and we had clear skies and on most days a beautiful cool breeze to make ideal conditions for all our activities. Snorkelling was high on the agenda and the crystal clear water made for some fantastic trips, where everyone got really comfortable with their free-diving skills and up close and personal looking at the marine life - especially two white tip reef sharks who kept us entertained for ages.</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TQ6FW62_lMI/AAAAAAAAAK8/mUrhYM3ulP8/s1600/DSC_4167%2Bcopy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 281px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TQ6FW62_lMI/AAAAAAAAAK8/mUrhYM3ulP8/s400/DSC_4167%2Bcopy.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552522019397932226" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span">One of the dives turned out to be extra special as we had a Leopard Shark make an appearance - it even let the onboard paparazzi take lots of footage and then slowly and very gracefully swam away. Leopard sharks are easily distinguishable by their big spot markings and long tail - they are very docile to humans and this makes them easily approachable. They also like to lie on the bottom for long periods of time so we often keep an eye on the sand as well as all the beautiful coral reef, just in case! This also happened to be one of our guests first ever dives - which has set a precedent now for his future scuba experiences - we are keeping in touch to see what he will discover next time!</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">All in all, with great marine life, great activities and great weather an awesome time was had by all and the crew are all looking forward to some festive fun next week! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; "><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: verdana; "> </span></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div></div>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-13061118582319483172010-12-13T08:18:00.004+13:002010-12-13T08:57:34.570+13:00Starboard SUP Surf Charter in Fiji<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "></span><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 306px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TQUhuRuFi2I/AAAAAAAAAKU/IF6qwiXoFuM/s400/GEM_2406.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549879194718407522" /><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">The Starboard SUP Team joined us last week to check out Fiji’s amazing waves onboard the Tui Tai.The weather gods were working with us as the bad weather from last weeks passing cyclone disappeared for the first day of the trip. </span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">The waves were really fun, glassy, uncrowded and provided the perfect playground to test different boards, equipment and catch some good waves. We roamed around and surfed numerous spots seeing which were working best with the conditions and to mix things up.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">Making the most of the elements a windsurf sail was rigged up to a SUP board transforming it’s versatility when the wind picked up one afternoon, Scott Mckercher demonstrated that wind Sups were not only for flat water fun as he pulled into some decent sized waves at Cloudbreak and Numoto Lefts.</span></span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Georgia, fantasy; font-size: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: -webkit-xxx-large; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); "></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">After huge days of surf and too much sun everyone made the most of the boat’s sundeck, lounging with an ice cold Fiji Bitter (or Coopers) watching the sun </span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">set into the ocean. We also received a few invitations to some small islands and had some random adventures including meeting locals, bad dance moves in sulu’s and group karaoke performances (which almost had everyone kicked off the island).</span></span></p><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TQUhug2x-KI/AAAAAAAAAKc/AHd18kXs4xw/s400/GEM_2616.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549879198781405346" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px; " /><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: -webkit-xxx-large; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Georgia, fantasy; font-size: 16px; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TQUhvq1y5dI/AAAAAAAAAKs/flgYmfDHr_o/s400/GEM_2501.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549879218641495506" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 268px; " /></span></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Georgia, fantasy; font-size: 16px; "></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">In typical irony after the biggest night also came the biggest day, but when everyone saw the conditions we were straight out in the water. Cloudbreak delivered some waves of epic proportions with double overhead barrels coming through. They were a solid 8ft of glassy perfection but the reef was shallow and soon the numbers dwindled until Scott McKenner and Dave Muir where the only ones left in the lineup. They both scored some amazing waves so hopefully the photos do it justice.</span></span></p><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TQUhuykoE6I/AAAAAAAAAKk/hKyUDYDrObk/s400/GEM_2883.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5549879203537097634" /> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Georgia, fantasy; font-size: 16px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; "></span></span></span><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The mix of great people, abundance of fun waves, snorkeling, diving, amazing food cold beer, kava, island experiences and relaxed Fijian atmosphere made it a fantastic week overall. Starboard left us with a few paddleboards and pretty soon some of the crew were mastering the art of riding small waves, falling off and having lots of laughs.</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">For more info on Starboards different SUP,surf and windsurf gear contact their team or check out their site</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.starboard.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">www.star-board-sup.com</span></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">If your keen on organizing or joining Tui Tai surf charter let us know…</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.tuitai.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small; ">www.tuitai.com</span></a></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">To see more of my photo and video</span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">www.gemmamolinaro.com</span></span></p> <!--EndFragment--> </span>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-55139888833215818032010-11-29T10:51:00.005+13:002010-11-29T11:53:14.613+13:00Night diving on the Tui Tai<div><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLST1zA1PI/AAAAAAAAAJU/qjOj8smru_0/s320/DSC_3956%2Bcopyd.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544725329546892530" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 202px; " /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSq41zGmI/AAAAAAAAAJs/I7YKrwbK1Sg/s1600/DSC_3983%2Bcopyd.jpg"></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "> Have you ever wondered about what goes on underwater long after the sun goes over the horizon? If you loving diving in the daytime you will love the transformation of discovering the reef at night by torchlight. Aquatic life takes on a whole new <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">appearancein</span> the dark, colours appear more vibrant when illuminated against a dark backdrop. </span></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSqNDUbEI/AAAAAAAAAJc/HvBUAlyvNrM/s320/DSC_3944%2Bcopy.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544725713746422850" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 234px; " /></span><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSq41zGmI/AAAAAAAAAJs/I7YKrwbK1Sg/s1600/DSC_3983%2Bcopyd.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 233px; " src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSq41zGmI/AAAAAAAAAJs/I7YKrwbK1Sg/s320/DSC_3983%2Bcopyd.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544725725500873314" /></a>Some fish that are active in daylight hours go into hiding, find safe places in the coral to sleep, while others come into their element hunting and feeding in the dark. If you cover your light you may also be able to see tiny living <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">partlicles</span> of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">bioluminescencelight</span> up the water <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">colum</span>. <div><br /></div><div>Come join us at Night and explore Fiji's amazing reefs by night.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSqNDUbEI/AAAAAAAAAJc/HvBUAlyvNrM/s1600/DSC_3944%2Bcopy.jpg" style="text-decoration: none; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><br /></span></a></div><div><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSqCZYu7I/AAAAAAAAAJk/yfk-nbMF5kI/s1600/DSC_3963%2Bcopyd.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 222px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSqCZYu7I/AAAAAAAAAJk/yfk-nbMF5kI/s320/DSC_3963%2Bcopyd.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544725710886190002" /></a></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSqNDUbEI/AAAAAAAAAJc/HvBUAlyvNrM/s1600/DSC_3944%2Bcopy.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: none;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSqNDUbEI/AAAAAAAAAJc/HvBUAlyvNrM/s1600/DSC_3944%2Bcopy.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;text-decoration: underline; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#000000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TPLSqNDUbEI/AAAAAAAAAJc/HvBUAlyvNrM/s1600/DSC_3944%2Bcopy.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-8389173948258129462010-11-21T14:45:00.005+13:002010-11-21T16:37:48.103+13:00Dive the World Capital of Soft Coral with Tui Tai<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSFgJLdnI/AAAAAAAAAGI/6bDcvqG7ykI/s1600/DSC_2465.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSFgJLdnI/AAAAAAAAAGI/6bDcvqG7ykI/s320/DSC_2465.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541839964704831090" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSE0t2bCI/AAAAAAAAAGA/nKMtQYjIwBg/s1600/DSC_2783.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 211px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSE0t2bCI/AAAAAAAAAGA/nKMtQYjIwBg/s320/DSC_2783.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541839953047481378" /></a><div style="text-align: left;">Situated on the Somosomo straight off Taveuni, the 32 km Rainbow Reef is home to countless varieties of fish and invertebrate but what makes it so unique for divers is the amazing soft coral.</div> <p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left:0cm;text-indent:0cm"><span lang="EN-US"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left:0cm;text-indent:0cm"><span lang="EN-US">Soft Corals are soft-bodied polyps that lack limestone skeletons of their hard coral relatives. They retract into the reef so they appear invisible but when tides and water movement is running correctly, they<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>inflate with water, extending their polyps into the current to feed. Their swaying bodies move like jelly in the current, and when they are in full bloom rich array of colors are truly spectacular. </span></p> <p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left:0cm;text-indent:0cm"><span lang="EN-US"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSGf3U63I/AAAAAAAAAGQ/J8VfKtyXfjU/s320/DSC_3115.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541839981809822578" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 227px; " /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSFgJLdnI/AAAAAAAAAGI/6bDcvqG7ykI/s1600/DSC_2465.jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSFgJLdnI/AAAAAAAAAGI/6bDcvqG7ykI/s1600/DSC_2465.jpg"></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSFgJLdnI/AAAAAAAAAGI/6bDcvqG7ykI/s1600/DSC_2465.jpg"></a><p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left:0cm;text-indent:0cm"><br /></p><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiPnUQEVeI/AAAAAAAAAFo/TVWrqmDVXVY/s320/DSC_2394-2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541837247093167586" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 221px; " /><p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left:0cm;text-indent:0cm"><span lang="EN-US">When the current increases so does the amount of plantivores such as antheas and other beautiful schools of reef fish. When you dive the Somosomo straight at the right time and the coral and fish life are at their best is easy to understand why Jacques Cousteau coined it the Soft Coral Capital of the World.</span></p> <p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="margin-left:0cm;text-indent:0cm"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>On the Tui Tai we dive a variety of site all dependent on the tides, current and conditions. One of our many favorites is the Great White Wall. This is a wall dive with lots of colorful soft corals, marine life and swim throughs but when the conditions work with us we descend down the wall and at about 20m/60 ft a beautiful white iridescent coral comes out and covers the wall. It is difficult to describe this breathtaking display so I have a few photographs to give you a better idea. </span></p> <p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list:none;tab-stops:36.0pt"><span lang="EN-US"> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiPl0OmSyI/AAAAAAAAAFY/QkacXTVjG8E/s320/DSC_3037.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541837221317200674" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></span><p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list:none;tab-stops:36.0pt"><br /></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSDqzBZbI/AAAAAAAAAF4/BmoxEAfHPqU/s320/DSC_3029.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541839933204948402" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></span><p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list:none;tab-stops:36.0pt"><span lang="EN-US">The Rainbow reef is only one of our many dive/snorkeling highlights as we sail around remote islands in Fiji’s North. The different islands provide a large amount of diversity both above and below the water. Underwater we have greatly varying topography, marine and coral life every place we visit. </span></p> <p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list:none;tab-stops:36.0pt"><span lang="EN-US">Come join us on the Tui Tai<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>to experience firsthand the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>amazing natural <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>phenomenon Jack Cousteau coined as "The Soft Coral Capital of the World".</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family:ArialMT;"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></span></p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOiSC_CSqMI/AAAAAAAAAFw/NcVrz47ISWk/s320/DSC_2387.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541839921457834178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " /></span><p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list:none;tab-stops:36.0pt"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:ArialMT, -webkit-fantasy;">www.tuitai.com</span></p><p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list:none;tab-stops:36.0pt"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:ArialMT, -webkit-fantasy;">photos & words</span></p><p class="MsoNoteLevel1" style="mso-list:none;tab-stops:36.0pt"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:ArialMT, -webkit-fantasy;">www.gemmamolinaro.com</span></p> <!--EndFragment-->Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-4834128555259449082010-11-20T13:53:00.000+13:002010-11-20T13:53:20.112+13:00Tui Tai Expeditions<iframe width="480" height="295" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dJCtUoU2eYw?fs=1" frameborder="0"></iframe>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-52532010818429957442010-11-16T09:52:00.015+13:002010-11-16T17:24:15.011+13:00Join Chris McLennan for his intrepid photo expedition, exploring Fijian Islands on the Tui Tai.<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOGuEnHwT5I/AAAAAAAAAFI/gGE3DJ_VAdQ/s1600/Ttai08-020.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539900410886639506" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOGuEnHwT5I/AAAAAAAAAFI/gGE3DJ_VAdQ/s320/Ttai08-020.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 213px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #4b0e55;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Join Chris McLennan, world renowned travel photographer on his unique Photo Tour on the 9-14 May 2011. This photographic tour is based off a 140 foot yacht TUI TAI, that explores the remote Northern islands of Fiji.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539882693802044018" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOGd9V1nqnI/AAAAAAAAAEw/7NdwmNCX-M8/s320/banner3.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 119px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #4b0e55;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Experience and photograph Fiji on this 5 night/ 6 day</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">luxury ,expedition cruise. The Tui Tai explores islands and places not commonly visited by tourists, to discover spectacular scenery including waterfalls, rain forest, beaches, marine life and interact with the wonderful local cultures.</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #4b0e55;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Chris will be on hand to offer practical advise, tutorial and</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">assistance throughout the trip, ensuring you are not only getting the images you are after from your tour but you come away with new knowledge and techniques to make you a better photographer in the future.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539894393834579106" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOGomX2wJKI/AAAAAAAAAE4/bFbYBr99jig/s320/zFiji_G11_10MP-014.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 240px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /> <br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #4b0e55;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Take this opportunity to have an amazing travel and photographic opportunities in a small group( maximum 10 people), and to learn first-hand from one of the world's most experienced and award winning travel photographer. Limited spaces are still available on this Photos Tour so take this opportunity to hone and develop you photography skills with Chris in the amazing islands of Fiji.</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b0e55;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br />
</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b0e55;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Contact us for more information on joining the photographic expedition.</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b0e55;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">www.tuitai.com</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.cmphoto.co.nz/" style="color: #0000cc;" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">http://www.cmphoto.co.nz</span></span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b0e55;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b0e55; font-family: ArialMT, -webkit-fantasy;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b0e55; font-family: ArialMT, -webkit-fantasy;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Chris.McLennan.Photography"><span style="color: #0015c9;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">http://www.facebook.com/Chris.McLennan.Photography</span></span></span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #4b0e55; font-family: ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b0e55; font-family: ArialMT, -webkit-fantasy;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: ArialMT;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span><br />
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</span></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b0e55; font-family: ArialMT, -webkit-fantasy;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black; font-family: Georgia, fantasy;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539900601407286034" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOGuPs3aqxI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/RcrUa_Jt1UU/s320/TTai10-13%2B2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 213px;" /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOGuEnHwT5I/AAAAAAAAAFI/gGE3DJ_VAdQ/s1600/Ttai08-020.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></span><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOGuEnHwT5I/AAAAAAAAAFI/gGE3DJ_VAdQ/s1600/Ttai08-020.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TOGuEnHwT5I/AAAAAAAAAFI/gGE3DJ_VAdQ/s1600/Ttai08-020.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"></a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4b0e55; font-family: ArialMT, -webkit-fantasy; font-size: 180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br />
</span></span></div>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-27333919612228919512010-07-27T13:59:00.003+12:002010-07-27T14:15:52.300+12:00Shark watch!<p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Diving in one of the most diverse oceans in the world means that onboard the Tui Tai we see more than our share of amazing under water creatures, mid June was no exception with the sharks stealing the spot light.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">We started our week with some awesome encounters of white tip reef sharks, they were incredibly curious and hung around for most of the dive. Then mid week we dived a beautiful site called champions rock on the Tasman straight, half way though the dive, from the blue, came a 3.5 meters hammer head shark an incredible encounter for all the divers. On one of our final dives, at a site called still waters, at the very end of the dive a 2.5-meter bull shark cruised under our boat. Just to have one encounter with these animals is amazing but to have all three in a week is unbelievable.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Have a look at the video of the white tips and the hammer head.</span></p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxfYGvn3rsOoHoUDKl3Ag1AQci55_qFyp739wgmuQLz2N-OEUafTWl0kgHGywHovEcmWJ_02iXiVGUmBmgiBw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 154px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE4-WUdJZrI/AAAAAAAAAD8/_06dsSl_tnM/s320/hammer+head+jeff.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498400748234958514" /><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE4-V43suEI/AAAAAAAAAD0/C4FJ1am_d1w/s320/hammer+head+jeff+1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498400740830132290" />Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-89406078899098013252010-07-27T13:55:00.001+12:002010-07-27T13:58:34.126+12:00Tui Tai Charitable Fund<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE49N2FxuOI/AAAAAAAAADs/f7-NsSL2jCw/s1600/GEM_6801.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE49N2FxuOI/AAAAAAAAADs/f7-NsSL2jCw/s320/GEM_6801.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498399503133292770" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE49NuNpAMI/AAAAAAAAADk/Xuwh5uMJSW4/s1600/GEM_5278.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE49NuNpAMI/AAAAAAAAADk/Xuwh5uMJSW4/s320/GEM_5278.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498399501018792130" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE49NTmw9WI/AAAAAAAAADc/Plr3pQo8UEM/s1600/GEM_5165.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE49NTmw9WI/AAAAAAAAADc/Plr3pQo8UEM/s320/GEM_5165.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498399493876413794" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE49MxA5BSI/AAAAAAAAADU/95rFBS55Qe8/s1600/GEM_4883.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE49MxA5BSI/AAAAAAAAADU/95rFBS55Qe8/s320/GEM_4883.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498399484590753058" /></a><br /><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><br /></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">The Tui Tai regularly visits remote locations in Fiji where the necessities that are often taken for granted in western countries are not easily found. The Tui Tai Charitable fund has provided medical support, education, housing, building repairs and emergency transport for many small and self-reliant villages.</span></p><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">The Tui Tai charitable fund raises money through three main channels. A portion of the initial cruise fare, donations and the profit from any Photo/Video product purchased on board, all three contribute to the Tui Tai charitable. These three methods of fund raising make a significant difference to the lives of so many people, take a look at some of the photos to see the recent work we have been doing within the remote communities of Fiji.</span></p>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-21727383077331542352010-07-27T13:42:00.003+12:002010-07-27T13:55:02.716+12:00Whale Season is upon us!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE47WCnmEvI/AAAAAAAAADM/oA3dbs0oOvg/s1600/Whale.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE47WCnmEvI/AAAAAAAAADM/oA3dbs0oOvg/s320/Whale.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498397444912059122" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE47VXX_mhI/AAAAAAAAADE/Qi7WW-vOrXQ/s1600/GEM_9576.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 211px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE47VXX_mhI/AAAAAAAAADE/Qi7WW-vOrXQ/s320/GEM_9576.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498397433303898642" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE47VKzQMFI/AAAAAAAAAC8/LmQLyuEpKT8/s1600/GEM_9575.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 193px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE47VKzQMFI/AAAAAAAAAC8/LmQLyuEpKT8/s320/GEM_9575.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498397429928570962" /></a><br /><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman">Bula,<br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">The water temperature has slowly been dropping over the past few months! and with that temperature change brings with it some new marine life… Whales.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Whilst docked at rainbow reef we have been lucky enough to encounter humpback whales, 3 times! This week one of the guest’s spotted the whales from the top deck and in a matter of minuets every one was on the rib and out to see the whales. We had an amazing encounter and got within meters of the whales, one guest Jeff, was quick enough to jump into the water and snap a shot. Have a look.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">It is quite breath taking to see these animals in the wild and we hope that they will be sticking around for the next couple of months.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Vinaka!</span></p>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-2552227616275645002010-07-27T13:38:00.003+12:002010-07-27T13:42:50.714+12:00Teva expedition<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45Xx1M88I/AAAAAAAAAC0/b3qTG0bKQc4/s1600/GEM_5155.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45Xx1M88I/AAAAAAAAAC0/b3qTG0bKQc4/s320/GEM_5155.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498395275742213058" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45XqHbgXI/AAAAAAAAACs/ZevJqH3jMq0/s1600/GEM_4961.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45XqHbgXI/AAAAAAAAACs/ZevJqH3jMq0/s320/GEM_4961.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498395273671180658" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45XDS0BSI/AAAAAAAAACk/uvzHxrX2HC4/s1600/GEM_4883.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45XDS0BSI/AAAAAAAAACk/uvzHxrX2HC4/s320/GEM_4883.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498395263249941794" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45W8kzRdI/AAAAAAAAACc/p-evVWg1g5c/s1600/GEM_4880.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45W8kzRdI/AAAAAAAAACc/p-evVWg1g5c/s320/GEM_4880.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498395261446342098" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45WYtENXI/AAAAAAAAACU/uBNaEuocvLI/s1600/GEM_4742.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TE45WYtENXI/AAAAAAAAACU/uBNaEuocvLI/s320/GEM_4742.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5498395251817330034" /></a><br /><p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman">During mid May Teva came aboard to do a photo shoot for their new catalogue. Teva produce innovative and exciting outdoor footwear for both the adventurer and beach bum and needed a location that captured both… Where better than on an adventure live-aboard in Fiji!<br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span></span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Teva had a large number of shots they wanted to achieve and working with the Tui Tai proved a to be the perfect match. We went from location to location visiting stunning waterfalls, pristine surf breaks, untouched beaches, and deep canyons all for the perfect shot. Keep an eye out for Teva’s up and coming catalogue to see the hard work pay off.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">In between the photo shoots Teva spent time with the Tui Tai staff visiting remote villages. Teva provided some lucky children with new shoes and a lot fun. All the villages were extremely grateful for Teva’s donations and would like to send there thank.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Vinaka to the crew from Teva for a fantastic week and their kind donations, we hope to see you again soon.</span></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman; min-height: 15.0px"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px"></span><br /></p> <p style="margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Times New Roman"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px">Tui Tai</span></p>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-71956701001340075242010-07-03T19:47:00.001+12:002010-07-03T19:50:35.034+12:00The illusive Manta ray<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TC7rsaAeJGI/AAAAAAAAABk/1_HWNeANXbY/s1600/DSC_0569.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TC7rsaAeJGI/AAAAAAAAABk/1_HWNeANXbY/s320/DSC_0569.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489584143939282018" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TC7rsCW2kpI/AAAAAAAAABc/XKhznab4D58/s1600/DSC_0568.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_H7HFNg_YmLs/TC7rsCW2kpI/AAAAAAAAABc/XKhznab4D58/s320/DSC_0568.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5489584137590706834" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Manta rays are one of the most stunning and inspiring creatures in the ocean. Even today very little is known or understood about manta rays, their breeding habits, migrations and even behavior are still somewhat of a mystery to us. On board the Tui Tai we have been lucky enough to of had some incredible encounters with these creatures, at some points there have been over 10 mantas circling and diving with the guests on board and made a truly unforgettable memory.</span> <span style="font-family:arial;">Have a look at some of our pictures.</span>Gemma Molinarohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04315128147540423466noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-28936796072863347702010-05-25T16:06:00.002+12:002010-05-25T16:16:02.212+12:00Tui Tai Feature in The Australiangreat article recently in The Australian, the only nationwide newspaper in Australia.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/travel/world/all-aboard-the-tui-tai/story-fn30269g-1225866060686">http://www.theaustralian.com.au/travel/world/all-aboard-the-tui-tai/story-fn30269g-1225866060686<br /></a><br /><br />Here's a few excerpts:<br /><br />"We hear the crew singing before we reach the Tui Tai, welcoming us with a traditional Fijian song. It is strange to think that in only seven days the children will shed tears at leaving their new-found kingdom on the sea. This is where our adventure really begins."<br /><br />"With 18 crew dedicated to 21 passengers, we are well looked after. When we hike, food and chilled drinks appear on schedule, mountain bikes and kayaks materialise in the remotest locations and disappear where we leave. It is the ultimate indulgence not to have to worry about anything."<br /><br />"Cultural exchange is one of our favourite parts of this adventure. Tui Tai calls its unique blend of philanthropic travel "contributionism". Its charitable fund assists the far-flung communities we visit to deliver medicine to the hospital and present much-needed stationery and books to schools. Instead of parading through a village like curious tourists we feel involved. The residents appreciate the support and welcome us like new friends."<br /><br />"We all ... end up loving this holiday and the camaraderie of our adventures. By the time it comes to leave, the crew have become our good friends. So have our children."<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/travel/world/all-aboard-the-tui-tai/story-fn30269g-1225866060686">Read the whole article<br /></a>Tige Younghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05301195414220580459noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-51812001994164054492010-05-13T13:08:00.006+12:002010-05-16T20:58:40.974+12:00Photos by Norm VexlerCheck out these great photos taken by Norm Vexler, during his trip on Tui Tai. You can also see Norm's photo gallery of photos from all over the world on this site.<br /><a href="http://www.faroutphotos.com/">www.faroutphotos.com</a><br><br><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tPqnPAFyI/AAAAAAAAA04/Q7hYMIpqTbs/s1600/Image+45-a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 246px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tPqnPAFyI/AAAAAAAAA04/Q7hYMIpqTbs/s320/Image+45-a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470553765876602658" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tPzOm4fjI/AAAAAAAAA1A/IDPTwET7Oik/s1600/Image+63-a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tPzOm4fjI/AAAAAAAAA1A/IDPTwET7Oik/s320/Image+63-a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470553913884704306" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tP6j7uLXI/AAAAAAAAA1I/OFBCLjU83Ok/s1600/Image+70-a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tP6j7uLXI/AAAAAAAAA1I/OFBCLjU83Ok/s320/Image+70-a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470554039868337522" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tPTWrgUEI/AAAAAAAAA0w/wYeXoj81NbA/s1600/Image+38.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tPTWrgUEI/AAAAAAAAA0w/wYeXoj81NbA/s320/Image+38.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470553366295760962" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tQC9pfnCI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/Nsh6asQ-Eqc/s1600/Image+80-a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 215px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tQC9pfnCI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/Nsh6asQ-Eqc/s320/Image+80-a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470554184210160674" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tQJ9Ga7GI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/XDrhWMtb1fs/s1600/Image+112-a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tQJ9Ga7GI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/XDrhWMtb1fs/s320/Image+112-a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470554304322137186" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tQQfwu7oI/AAAAAAAAA1g/j0ZQaLkJpU8/s1600/Image+126-a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S-tQQfwu7oI/AAAAAAAAA1g/j0ZQaLkJpU8/s320/Image+126-a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5470554416705629826" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--y5CW0sUI/AAAAAAAAA1o/2wxmJlZeN14/s1600/Image+43.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 215px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--y5CW0sUI/AAAAAAAAA1o/2wxmJlZeN14/s320/Image+43.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471788765233328450" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--zQudskyI/AAAAAAAAA2I/I5-rKuzqVks/s1600/Image+218.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 208px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--zQudskyI/AAAAAAAAA2I/I5-rKuzqVks/s320/Image+218.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471789172210307874" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--zL2p8iuI/AAAAAAAAA2A/plTBiPnds9o/s1600/Image+173.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--zL2p8iuI/AAAAAAAAA2A/plTBiPnds9o/s320/Image+173.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471789088509823714" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--zHX4gRNI/AAAAAAAAA14/pYC0RsYwPpE/s1600/Image+171.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 218px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--zHX4gRNI/AAAAAAAAA14/pYC0RsYwPpE/s320/Image+171.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471789011529909458" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--zDKmzNGI/AAAAAAAAA1w/rCTw45r9YVc/s1600/Image+98.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 218px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_-z-DDgL5b8g/S--zDKmzNGI/AAAAAAAAA1w/rCTw45r9YVc/s320/Image+98.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5471788939246515298" /></a>Tige Younghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05301195414220580459noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3558878982344007704.post-10779979144247739982010-04-07T14:57:00.003+12:002010-04-07T15:24:56.915+12:00Relief Effort<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uPpg9lPumLI/S7v68c24heI/AAAAAAAAAB8/EGsgyx0efOA/s1600/albert%27s+cove+002.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_uPpg9lPumLI/S7v68c24heI/AAAAAAAAAB8/EGsgyx0efOA/s320/albert%27s+cove+002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457231289934972386" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uPpg9lPumLI/S7v6wZq2R4I/AAAAAAAAAB0/axWUhOXffKs/s1600/Day+1and2+091.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_uPpg9lPumLI/S7v6wZq2R4I/AAAAAAAAAB0/axWUhOXffKs/s320/Day+1and2+091.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5457231082920757122" border="0" /></a><br />Tui Tai's Charitable fund has allowed us to be able to deliver many needed supplies to remote villages in Fiji suffering after the wake of Hurricane Tomas. Some of the items seen here that we are bringing to help these villages include Water tank, Fiji bottled water, PVC piping, digging fork and spade, nails, hammers, metal siding, solar panels, lanterns, soap, seeds to replant crops, and other various items.<br /><br />It has been very interesting hearing the first hand accounts of many of these villagers as we interview them about their experience during the cyclone and how bad it damaged their houses, roads, crops, trees, and in some unfortunate cases lives were lost.<br /><br />The amazing resilience and spirit of the Fiji people has kept them going and working to rebuild what was lost in this natural disaster. Thank you to all that have helped donate to the charity. For those that have been here, you know that the Fijians are some of the most friendly and kind people in the world, never asking for much other than a returned "Bula!" when you see them. It is for this reason and many more that we gladly can extend our hand in help to them during this time of need.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0