Easter Island

Having to add quickly. On dial-up in Samoa and limited time.
Easter Island was FABULOUS! Our guide was Patricia Vargas, one of the prominent archeologists responsible for reseraching and restoring the aku and moai (pronounced moe I) all over the island. We saw many of the restored sites as well as the quarry, which really makes you think and contemplate - how did they do this?! The island is small and has little vegetation, although much more than 100 years ago. There are now about 3000 residents, up from 1877 when there were only 141 or so. They get approximately 40 - 50,000 visitors per year now and are in the process of building a 5 star hotel which will change the whole feel of the island. I'm very glad we were able to come when it is still quiet and not so crowded. Going to Easter Island has been a dream of mine since high school. I just wish there had been more time to wander and contemplate the moai and all that they represent.
We are stopping over in Samoa - breaking up a 15 hour + journey frm Easter Island to Australia. Easter Island is the most secluded land on the planet - farther away from anything than anywhere else. There is a 2 1/2 hour window for any plane coming into the island, meaning they have to leave the runway available for 2 1/2 hrs on either side of a flight.
Anyway, we've had problems uploading pictures so those will have to wait until later.
Hope all is well stateside.
It's now 7:30 am Nov 2. We will lose a day today as we cross the international dateline.
Don't forget to vote on Tuesday. WE're counting on you!

Betsey & Doug