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Mysterious moai top draw on Easter Island

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Q: What kind of accommodations are available on Easter Island? We're interested in staying at a remote place.

-- P. Shears, Toronto

A: Accommodations on Easter Island -- a Polynesian island belonging to Chile -- are limited. What is available runs the gamut from hotels to cabins.

Most hotels are on the island's west side but there is an eco-lodge -- Rapa Nui -- in the centre, away from the hotel cluster. Rapa Nui, which takes its name from the island's original moniker, is run by the luxury resort company Explora. It's located on a hill in the Te Miro Oone area and offers guests more than 15 activities including cycling, trekking and water sports.

For instance, guests can take an 18-km bike ride (about three hours) to the top of Te Miro Oone for a panoramic view then return along the coast past forests and archaeological sites. Hikers can traverse a 9.5-km route known as Te Pito o Te Henu ("naval of the world") to the spectacular Ovahe Beach on the island's north coast.

Of course, the incredible moai statues remain Easter Island's favourite draw and more is being learned about them all the time. The Easter Island Statue Project has recently excavated two 7-metre tall statues, revealing bodies with petroglyphs on their backs.

For more on the moai project, visit eisp.org. For more on the eco-lodge, see explora.com/explora-rapa-nui.

Q: I will be travelling to Quebec City by train and have already booked my VIA Rail Canada ticket. Are there any transfers?

-- W. Bing, Richmond Hill

A: Yes, you must change trains in Montreal. Porters are on-site to assist with luggage, etc. For further details, contact VIA Rail Canada toll-free at 1-888-842-7245.

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