Rangiroa Remembered

Thanks for the wonderful article about my favorite Tuamotu Island of Rangiroa by Lisa Marlowe (Aug. 21). I have visited the island four times and plan to make another trip in November.

This splendidly written article, with beautiful photos, truly conveyed that special feeling of total solitude and peace that one experiences on this magnificent atoll. I have taken the excursion to Taeoo (Blue Lagoon) and drifted through the Tiputa Pass several times and I can only say that Rangiroa prides itself for having the most superb marine life I have ever seen.

My only regret is that there is so little publicity about this beautiful hideaway, and not many American tourists visit Rangiroa while in French Polynesia. The island is extremely popular with Europeans, especially Italians.

“Rangi” (short for Rangiroa by the locals) is well worth the extra air fare of about $250 from Papeete. I have stayed at the Kia Ora Hotel and I find it very charming, comfortable, and the employees warm and friendly.

PETRA DORRIS

Los Angeles