Private Air New York

www.privateairny.com Private Air New York | Fall 2015 87 Instead, the focus is on nature, outdoor beauty, and adventure activities like hiking, biking and diving. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, Rapa Nui is the place to be. e three volcanoes on the island make for wonderful hiking opportunities. In addition to the rugged, craggy coastline (lively foam- top crystal blue waves crash against the black volcanic rock making it a sensory overload for sight and sound), hiking trails often lead past the moai, their large oversize faces and bodies guarding the island. Surfing here is also some of the best in the world, as is diving (due to the water's clarity). Of course, at the center of it all—and the overriding reason to come—is to see the moai. Reaching over 13 feet in height and weighting over 14 tons these statues spark the imagination: Where did the native people learn to carve and move these massive statues? How did this isolated island, a speck in the Pacific Ocean, create wonders of the world? A must is seeing the moai at sunrise and sunset, these giant heads standing tall and proud as the sun paints the sky pink and orange hues. While most of the day is spent outside exploring the island, finding the right place to lay your hat at night is equally important. e five-star Hangaroa Eco Village & Spa resort is at once luxurious and yet sensitive to the fragile ecosystem on which it is built. e resort was designed to pay homage to the ancient village of Orongo, which can be visited on top of the Rano Kau volcano, on the western part of the island. Just like the old settlement, the grass-covered roof at Hangaroa resort and the slate-colored design blends beautifully with the surroundings; local materials were used in the creation of the hotel. But arguably the best feature of the property is the location. It sits right on the coast; the ocean is literally steps outside the front door. It's the perfect spot for enjoying a morning cup of cappuccino (when I was visiting, sunrise was not until 8:30) and also a fabulous place for watching the sunset (which took place around 8:00pm in May). All the meals can be eaten outside with the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean against the black volcanic stones as your view. You'll see fishing boats, surfers and swimmers in the water and bikers and walkers making their way along the coast. e property is also a short walk (or bike ride) to town, a great way to interact with the locals as well as experience the food and drink of the Rapa Nui people. All excursions booked through hotel are carried out by Mahinatur, a local ground operator. So, be one of the few well-seasoned travelers to cross off Easter Island from your bucket list. You won't be disappointed; there's no place like it in the world. ESCAPE

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