Easter Island Travel

There is much to see relating to the moai, starting with the quarry where they were all extracted and carved at Rano Raraku. Here is clear evidence of the tools used to carve the heads - simple stone chisels – and also a vast number of moai that never left the quarry. In fact, only one quarter of those carved ever made it to installation and it is estimated that it took six men a year to carve each monument.

The main grape here is cabernet sauvignon, and the climate is ideal for a rich bold wine that deserves its international reputation.  Make sure that you visit at least one vineyard and winery, because these are well worth tasting. The Maipo Valley is close enough for you to visit and be back in time for dinner in the evening.

Easter Island's moderate climate and scant vegetation make for easy cross country hiking, and you won't find yourself blocked by fences and private property signs very often. You could also tour the island by mountain bike, available from several locations at US$10 a day. If you surf or scuba dive, there are many opportunities here. A minimum of five days are needed to see the main sights of Easter Island, and two weeks would be far better.

The Island is also famous for scuba diving. But, the diving off Easter Island is not for beginners as one must dive in the open sea and the water is cool (Nov.-April is warmest). On the plus side are the unique caves, walls, corals, and fish. Two dive shops opposite the small boat harbor at Caleta Hanga Roa run trips.

Scotland saw a big winter freeze over the Easter holiday weekend. Many Scots booked flights to warmer locales to escape the freezing weather for the weekend. Some of the most popular destinations for Scots escaping unfavourable weather were Dubai, Alicante and Tenerife. Those who decided to stay home for the Easter weekend were advised to bundle up and stay warm.

However, this does not mean that you can not find central London hotel accommodation for affordable prices. There are a number of smaller franchises who provide luxury 4 star accommodation at very good rates. Many even have special offers which are always worth looking out for.

Invite your extended family members to split the costs of the trip. Of course, end any family feuds before you go. Also, plan the itinerary before you leave, so everyone is happy.

Before you take off, eat everything in your cupboards and pantry. Reduce your grocery shopping trips, eating out, and junk food runs a few months before leaving for vacation.

Mountain biking in a variety of terrains and long drives which took us to over 13,000ft where remote lakes reflected the ever changing colours of the surrounding peaks. The local village of San Pedro de Atacama is a back packer haven and consequently little cafés had sprung up serving delicious cheap food. In the evenings we were taken out to the salt lake to watch the sun transform the mountains from rich red to deep purple and, as the last rays flickered, so the flamingos glided in silently to begin their nocturnal feed.