In the South Pacific Eons ago, volcanos erupted at sea, forming islands. Coral reefs were being born in shallow waters off shore. In time, the islands started to return to the sea, while their barrier reefs continued to grow, broke the surface and formed their own islands called Motu (in Polynesian). They are usually separated from their island mother by a turquoise lagoon.
Eventually the mother island sunk (or will sink) all together into the sea leaving a ring of low lying Motus known as an Atoll. Picture a necklace of pearls separating turquoise and sapphire waters, and surrounding the place where their mom was born. (The Island Above is Bora Bora in the Society Islands of French Polynesia.)
There are numerous atolls at different stages of evolution throughout the South Pacific. I had the opportunity to stand on a few motu and found that upon leaving, your heart never does. As in the lyrics of the B’way show “South Pacific” .. “It’s calling”, it’s always calling for your return. (Although the song spoke of Bali Hai, in actuality Michener was referring to Bora Bora)
Iti means little, hence Little Island. Motu Iti is the name I took home with me when I left Polynesia to be the name of my boat(s). Always a reminder of my visit to that part of the world.
Today practicality must dictate, so you’ll find me not in the South Pacific but closer to home. If you’d like to know where that is, and willing to forgo discos, gambling, shopping or jet skis and still want to know more about this special place,
Click Here
