Yesterday was a pretty busy day. Well, busy for travelers! We got up early and went to the Pananga Nui Market. This is the local Saturday market where islanders sell their wares and fresh vegetables and other foods. We did some shopping then headed home for breakfast and to stock the fridge for the week.

After this we went back into town to watch the launching of the local trials for the International Canoe Races which begin here on the 19th of November. There are paddlers from all over the Pacific that will converge on Rarotonga for a series of races around he island in canoes that resemble the dragon boats used for the Rose Festival in Portland, but these have outriggers for balance. Unfortunately our timing won't allow us to be here for the real races, but we wanted to at least see the local trials. Apparently there are teams from Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti and other island nations.

After this we headed to the Rarotonga Sailing Club to watch the sailing races. This was the scene of our now pretty famous capsize adventure last week. Seems many of the club members had heard about it when we arrived:) The races were fun to watch, but frankly, parts of it are like watching paint dry when the boats are so far in the distance that you can't tell if they're coming towards you or still moving away. It did give us time to chat with the locals some more.

After a quick shower, and a nap for Val, we headed into town again for Raro Idol Part 2. (see 10-30-05 jounral entry for more) This week the contestants sang duets, and the five finalists were announced. Val, Mark and I had a pool to see who could guess the correct contestants. Val won by picking 4 of 5. Mark and I each had 3. Her prize, we each bought her a drink. Good thing I was driving! The duets were all really great, and a good time was had by all. I'm not posting any photos of this, but I have some great video footage that I can probably get on disk to anyone interested when we get back (as if you'll remember:)

Today is Sunday and other than a call home, it's laundry day and some serious sun time!

Until next time, Happy Trails,

Eric