We started with the Dutch colonialists in the Spice islands so it’s a little strange that we are ending this journey with a visit to an island which still bears the name of the former Dutch capital. Its new name, in smaller print is the one which should surely replace it.

The welcome to this little island, largely uninhabited was warm and friendly with dancers and a welcoming group meeting us on the beach. A bowl was presented to the Captain and we had water flicked in our face.

The fun part was being offered betel nut to try. This is a hard nut, you bite the exterior to reveal the softer seed inside.

You pop the inner seed in your mouth and dip a pepper into some lime, and chew away. Salivary glands working ten to the dozen, your mouth turns gradually red and your spit is red too. You see people with very red mouths and rotting teeth. The betel numbs the mouth and gives those who chew it a bit of a buzz. Out of 10 for me just barely a 2!

Some of the group were taken off to plant coconut palms which was great while others took a walk in the forest to a monument built by missionaries.

Some bird calls, some butterflies along the way and beautiful big trees.

The monument built some 2kms from the shore was rather quaint. A boat bearing a ginormous cross. Unseaworthy I would say but very symbolic.

The image which I want to leave you with is this formidable female Bonaparte !

I loved her smiling face and larger than life headdress.

This is my last blog of the trip !