It’s hard to put into words what arrival feels like after such a long time at sea… and even harder when you’re welcomed with such genuine friendliness and kindness.

This place is truly something special. To give you just a small glimpse, here’s a short video for you.

The local kids couldn’t be more welcoming, and the adults show a kind of warmth we’ve almost forgotten exists. When Nino found a rather large XPF note that someone had unknowingly dropped at the local supermarket, he immediately ran after the man to return it. Not only was he met with gratitude, but also with heartfelt praise for his honesty—and even a smaller note as a reward.

Nino’s takeaway? “I will always return things I find—it’s so worth it!” And in that moment, it truly felt like this is the kind of place where a whole village raises honest, kind-hearted kids—who welcome ours like long-lost friends, look past any language barrier, and cheer each other (and our boys) on in even the smallest victories.