January 15th - Tabuaeran, Fanning Island

Today we stopped at Fanning Island in the Republic of Kiribati, a scattering
of 32 coral atolls and one basalt rock island. Fanning Island is one of the
Line Islands of the central Pacific Ocean. There is no running water or
electricity here, yet there are about 2,000 residents. I went ashore this
morning via tender. We walked around the island (as you can guess it is very
primitive - but everyone seems very happy) exploring the seaweed operation,
school and living quarters. The population consists mostly of women and
children, the men often go to Australia to work and send money home, it was
amazing how many children there were. Everyone was very friendly and
welcoming - it is a big event when a cruise ship comes (which only happens 3
or 4 times a year). They had tables set up selling various items they had
made - I bought two very lovely necklaces for $1.00 each.

It was an interesting place to visit. As long as you caught a breeze you
were fine, but when the winds were blocked it was extremely hot. It was so
hot that it was a three shower day. And since we are heading south it should
continue to get even warmer.

This evening was another formal night and we had a birthday at our table.
Geri was 70 today (or tomorrow if you use the US calendar). It was a very
nice celebration.

We left Fanning Island about 4:30 and should arrive in the Cook Islands in
three days.