Fiji Snapshot

Before:

Fumbling my way across the slippery surface of the blipping and blobbing inflatable, I make my way over to the highest point, the mountain, the place where only few dared to go. Well not really. I slid down from the top, flipping and flailing my arms, until I split the surface of the water, getting deeper and deeper. I bob along the top of the turquoise water with my life jacket keeping me afloat.

During

Climbing back on, the obstacle doesn’t even flinch under my weight. I scramble up to the second highest point, and before I jump, I notice the faint shape of a navy blue starfish, creeping along the sandy floor, underneath the layers of crystal clear liquid. Pointing and shouting, I call for charlotte.

After:

She takes a glance, hypnotised by its astonishing dark blue beauty. Slipping, I drag us both down. We laughed, gasping for air. Floating just meters above the magical sea creature, we gaze once more, and then splash across the surface of the warm bath. Then roll and flop back on, heading once again, to the top.