February 2004
When traveling with kids to any destination, it's always good to know what kid-friendly activities there are for the time when you're not touring interesting landmarks or watching locals run around recreating ancient rituals. I think our son would be happy anyplace in the world where we could find a playground, a swimming pool, and a soccer field. It seems as though wherever you are in the world, and wherever you find kids, you can find opportunities to play. It's also a great way to meet local people and see how kids in other cultures are so much like kids in the US.
Our hotel, the Tahatai, had a small swimming pool, but Alex was entranced with the idea of swimming in the ocean after our day at Anakena Beach, one of the most gorgeous spots on the island. We forgot his swimsuit that day, but swimming au naturel (for a three year old, at least) was not a problem.
We were able to satisfy his wish by going to a walled-off swimming hole near the hotel, right along the coastline. There were retaining walls around the area, keeping the waves to a minimum and the water fairly shallow. Alexander loved splashing around in the cold Pacific waters. Local kids took swimming lessons in this spot, so it definitely had the local stamp of approval for kids.
During our walks around Hanga Roa, we came upon several groups of kids, teens, and adults playing soccer, wherever there was a patch of grass to play on. A group of pre-teens were playing one evening, and Alexander desperately wanted to get into the action. They let him in, and seemed to be amused by the tiny boy trying to keep up with them. The kids were friendly and welcoming, and didn't seem at all bothered by letting a little guy kick the ball around with them.
Near the hotel, we found a small playground with a wooden playscape. There were never any kids around when we were there, possibly because they were in school. Alexander enjoyed having the playscape to himself, but it would have been nice to meet some other kids his age. One thing to note: trees on Easter Island are few and far between, so shade is not exactly plentiful. Be sure to bring along the strongest sunscreen you can find and apply it liberally throughout the day. Hats and SPF clothing will also help. On the day Frank and Alexander went to the playground, Frank was nearly roasted after about an hour in the relentless sun.
