Mia with the heart of palm in Royale Taikitumu Villas, Rarotonga May 2011 (photo author) My last few months have been complemented by food. Firstly, I had my companion visiting me on his annual trip from Switzerland. He loves my cooking and so I was able to try out my favourite and new recipes with an appreciative audience. Tasmanian salmon with aioli (photo author) Then to my arrival in Rarotonga where I scoured the markets for some beautiful fresh produce, and where I encountered for the first time the wonderment of real “heart of palm” which can only be extracted when a coconut palm tree has to be cut down…a tragedy perhaps but a privilege to be able to eat its heart with a light vinegar dressing in which to dip it before welcoming its texture and exquisite taste….a true taste sensation. And enjoying such a morsel while at the same time winning, with my companion as my partner, the boules competition at the Royale ...