Day 17, August 23rd, Rarotonga

It's different to arrive at an international airport that is about the size of the two RNZ broadcast studios, and where there's a man singing, complete with guitar and sound system. This is Rarotonga which looks set to be the highlight of my trip.

Let me try and describe this place - paradise.

I have only ever once attempted a "lounge on the beach" type holiday before and that was in Honolulu where it was so crowded that I never actually once sat on the beach - no room! I'm not really a "lie about and do nothing" sort of person - just get bored. So I only booked three days here - thought I might just get over itg if I had say a week.

But I can honestly say this is the nicest place I have ever been to.

My hotel room is about 10 steps away from this beautiful beach. Gorgeous yellow sands, a deep blue sea with nothing to look out at other than sea and the occasional fishing boat. The beach has a few sort of lie-back type chairs but is deserted other than the dozen or so guests who are soaking up the sun. Right beside us a restaurant nested in sand which produces beautiful food - by a distance the best meal I have had on this trip was last night's - and specialises in cocktails. Not really a spirits drinker but as I'm here I have tried a couple - what a lovely way to ease myself off to sleep.

And it's so peaceful. I write this at 1015am local time (the next day) and all I can hear is a few birds and animals in the distance. I've just been listening tgo some comedy via my computer and reflecting on whether anything could be better - the wit of Paul Merton and Graham Norton, a cocktail and this idyllic spot.

I did go into town, mainly to convert currency. It's a town that is less than the size of Johnsonville. Yet it does the business - all the things you would want are here and the people are so nice and friendly.

I am sending a message to Don Rood to tell him I would be happy to stay on and cover all the major stories that are going on here.

I can't remember being as relaxed in my life.

By the way if anyone thinks I am getting slow at updates - I am actually 22 hours behind New Zealand time at the moment. So my birthday is still to come. I couldn't think of a better place to spend it.

Only two more days here though.