A Special Treat: Barbie Takes the Mic!
Hey everyone, Big Doug here.
As Barbie and I cross the incredible milestone of 10 years traveling the world together on this wild, continuous journey, I realized something was missing from the blog. You’re always getting my perspective on the food, the lay-flat business class seats, the visa hacks, and my authentic perspective for each destination we have visited. But today, I managed to convince the absolute love of my life, my favorite travel partner, and the co-captain of this crazy adventure to take the driver’s seat.
I asked Barbie to write a special guest post because we are talking about a destination that holds a massive piece of her heart. Out of all the oceans we’ve swum in, beaches we’ve chilled on, and private villas we’ve called home, this one is her absolute number-one tropical island in the world.
Without further ado, I’m handing the mic over to Barbie to share the magic of Mo’orea through her eyes. Take it away, Barbie!
Guest Post: by Barbie
Why Mo’orea is My Ultimate Island Sanctuary
It is hard to put into words exactly what makes Mo’orea so incredibly special. If I had to pin it down, it’s a combination of a wild landscape, the absence of commercial billboards, and the stunning blue ocean. There are no major supply chains or advertisements here—and strangely, that immediately puts my mind at ease.
Mo’orea feels secluded from the world as we know it. Every time we land, I feel like I’ve arrived on my idea of the old TV show, Fantasy Island. It is the raw nature that I love most. With the right, comfortable accommodation to call home, I could easily stay here for months at a time.
The Soul of the Island: True Polynesian Living
The Tahitian people are so beautiful, both inside and out. I love everything about their aesthetic and culture—the beautiful skin, gorgeous hair, intricate tribal tattoos, and effortlessly simple style.
They truly live off the land and the sea. Most of their homes sit on beautiful plots of land that have been passed down through generations. This is true, authentic island living. Somehow, against all odds, Mo’orea has managed to withstand the test of time and resist the waves of mass commercial tourism.
The Art of Being Still
I think what I love most about Mo’orea is the unique environment it creates to just be still and do absolutely nothing. The island naturally shifts me entirely mindful of the now.
Because it is such a remote island, I try to consciously pause and take in every single sight, sound, and smell. It’s too incredible to take for granted.
“Nems,: and French-Polynesian Fusion
Surprisingly, there is also outstanding Chinese food on Mo’orea. The local egg rolls, known here as “nems,” are stuffed with vermicelli noodles and minced chicken or fish. You can find these sold in most gas stations and grocery stores across the island. I never pass up a nem when one is presented. I’ve tried almost all of them on the island and officially have my absolute favorite secret spots locked down.
For me, Mo’orea isn’t just a destination on our journey—it’s a connection to nature and peace. And it’s a feeling I never want to leave behind.
Big Doug & Barbie Drop Out of Society 