What a lovely lovely family!
Bill and Paula looked after us beautifully, and their children and extended family really made us feel so welcome.
The property is very typical for these very friendly islanders who live in basic open room huts/shacks with outside basic facilities. The solar power only came in about three months ago! If you are looking for creature comforts, you're looking in the wrong place, but if you want an authentic relationship and village stay, you're on the money with these guys!
There is no shop, and no motorised or wheeled transport to be seen - you walk on a narrow track or along the beach, or get in a boat to go anywhere!
We *loved* the private shark swim (bring snorkel and mask if you have them), a hike up the island, and doing alot of lying around, or swimming at a nearby beach. We also spent quite a bit of time just playing/hanging around with the local kids who wander past the open hut back and forth all day.
The food is abundant (and you can always ask for more if you want) and very carb heavy (if you care about that). Bill and Paula (and the rest of the islanders) grow most of their own food - so expect plenty of fresh eggs, papaya, coconut, spinach, breadfruit and other local produce - a bit of chicken and fish. They really only bring in flour, rice and pasta from the mainland (oh - and peanut butter, vegemite and jam for us westerners!). Coffee and regular tea always available - the water doesn't taste great on it's own, so maybe bring cordial or herbal tea to drink. Paula's coconut milk scones are absolutely delicious!
Bill showed us how to cut and serve a coconut, including making your own reed straw, and yes, we got to meet the village chief and share some kava.
Village etiquette: no hats in the village, and modest dress (long skirt/sarong and shoulders covered) please.
If you can join in with a church service or village event, take the opportunity - you won't regret it! Such awesome singing!
If you can bring some school supplies or other sustainable gifts for the children, they would be well appreciated!