Dancers, Solomon Islands.
DANCES, SPIRIT HOUSES & RITES: ENDURING CULTURES OF THE PACIFIC ISLES By Tom Ritchie Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic is returning to the TOM RITCHIE is a professional naturalist and expedition leader who has worked with Lindblad Expeditions since the pioneering days of LarsEric Lindblad. Growing up near the Everglades allowed him to spend his youth exploring the swamps, marshes, forests, and reef systems of South Florida, a perfect training ground. Benefit from Tom’s expertise in these islands on two upcoming expeditions: Under the Southern Cross: New Zealand to Melanesia (page 92) and Rites & Relics: From the Solomon Islands to Fiji (page 93).
islands of the South Pacific. We think we are familiar with the cultural aspects of the people who live here from what we have seen on television and in films—primarily centred in just two island groups in Polynesia: the Hawaiian Islands and the Society Islands, both of which have had long associations with westerners— missionaries, whalers, traders, colonisers, and international tourists. However, there are many other islands throughout the South Seas with which most of us are not familiar—particularly in the regions known as Melanesia and Micronesia, as well as the more remote Polynesian islands. These islands have a mild climate throughout the year. Much of their food comes from trees that require little, if any, maintenance, and can be enjoyed throughout the year. Fish from the local waters, domesticated pigs and chickens, and a few crops, such as taro, yams, sweet potatoes, and manioc, make up additional staples. The forests supply building materials for traditional thatched house construction. Therefore, conditions afford people plenty of time for artistic and social pursuits—gathering around a bonfire on the shore, eating and drinking, telling stories, laughing, and of course, it usually includes singing and dancing.
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