I missed this thread when I was only lurking.
I can't wait to go. One more week!
We are going to fly to one of Robert Wan's private atolls, Marutea, 1,000 miles from Papeete, Tahiti and overnight there. You can see it here:
http://www.oceandots.com/pacific/tua...arutea-sud.htm
We also visit Eyris Blue Pearls in Southern New Zealand. I found this great 2004 article by visiting Pala's site:
http://www.australiangemmologist.com...one_pearls.pdf
Last, we go to Paspaley in Darwin, Australia - home of the luscious white South Sea Pearl.
Packing has been tough because we have to carry our own bags, plus the temp in NZ is 45 degrees cooler than Tahiti and Australia.
Next year they are going to Japan and China on part two. I hear they are in negotiations to add the Philippines. Heck, why not add Indonesia and complete the set?
I might as well spend my entire retirement account while I'm at it.
I guess it's worth it, because I am a pearl-obsessed gem geek
Blaire