Easter Island soil is apparently the source of a compound used by scientists to create a “wonder pill” which will extend lifespans by up to 23 years. A miscrobe living in the ground of this remote, historic Pacific island is responsible; without drowning in science, it blocks damaging proteins entering cells.
The compound is called rapamycin, named after the island’s Polynesian name Rapa Nui.
The Traveller’s 13-day tour is guided by Jo Anne Van Tilburg, the Director of the Easter Island Statue Project and the world’s leading expert on Easter Island. Following in the footsteps of pioneering Victorian explorer Katherine Routledge, Jo Anne is about to publish work detailing a new official tally of the famous Moai statues on Rapa Nui, and is looking into the Moai’s conservation.
On this tour, guests can learn from Jo Anne how Easter Island, isolated and alone in the South Pacific, was settled by East Polynesians in AD 300-400, how it came to be covered in more than 1000 mysterious stone moai statues, how the Birdman cult ritual was performed and discover the mystery and traditions of a remote island outpost.
Departing 13 November, prices are from £3395 per person including flights (Heathrow), all taxes, transfers, two nights’ B&B in Santiago and eight nights’ full board on Easter Island (all in 3-4 star hotels) and the services of Jo Anne Van Tilburg and a tour manager. Call The Traveller on 020 7436 9343 (www.the-traveller.co.uk)
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