Upon arriving at Club Med Ishigaki Island, the first thing that will surprise you is the vast expanse of nature beyond the reception. Beyond the on-site pool lies the expanse of blue ocean, making you want to run straight out into the sea.

■Enjoy a variety of marine sports on the private beach

There are five activities you can enjoy on the private beach. Even beginners can try out "clear kayaking," which lets you see the ocean floor through a transparent kayak, regular kayaking, windsurfing, snorkeling boat trips, and stand-up paddleboarding. (This may change depending on the season and weather.)

This is because Club Med staff, known as "G.O." "G.O." stands for "gentle organizer." Each G.O. utilizes their qualifications and special skills to work in activities, restaurants, childcare, and more. In addition, some G.Os perform as entertainers at night, performing in dance and theater shows. Becoming friends with them during the day is a great way to enjoy their different side at night.

While being able to swim to a certain extent is a prerequisite for enjoying marine activities, even confident swimmers can feel anxious at first. However, G.Os' gentle smiles and clear instructions will dispel any worries. Not only will they teach you how to paddle before you set out, but they'll also give you constant guidance while you're floating on the waves, like "Next time, paddle right!" or "More left!" By the way, if you ever lose control of your boat and are swept away by the waves, G.Os will come and pick you up on a jet ski, so don't worry.

■ Exercise with G.Os in the on-site pool

If you're not a confident swimmer, we recommend enjoying the on-site pool. In addition to enjoying the leisurely float, G.O. periodically stands by the pool and teaches dances and exercises. You can also learn to move your body in the water and slim down by imitating his movements. The "dances" aren't difficult at all, and the staff, sometimes referred to as "comedians," gently guide you while performing their signature monkey dance. The Club Med style is full of smiles on guests' faces in the pool. Incidentally, the monkey dance is performed by Malaysian-born G.O. Lim. "I used to work as a school teacher, but a friend recommended I join Club Med. Since I've stayed at Club Meds in many countries besides Ishigaki Island, my parents initially muttered, 'I wish you'd come back soon,' but when I invited them to a Club Med in Malaysia, they fully understood the value of my job and have been supporting me ever since!" Lim's definition of the "wonderful thing about this job" is "being able to bring a smile to everyone's face." It's precisely because she feels this joy that she values the heartfelt connection with her guests. Outside of the activities she is in charge of, she also provides services such as having the G.O. sit at the same table as guests and enjoy meals together. "Once, I was seated at a table with some elderly Japanese guests, and they scolded me for putting my elbows on the table. But they treated me so sincerely, and I was so happy that I learned something about Japanese culture." It's precisely because she accepts each experience with sincerity, learns, and grows that she is always able to maintain her beautiful, genuine smile.

■ Enjoy mountain biking, trapeze, and archery as many times as you like!

Mountain biking, led by Lim, who is also the sports manager, is a little more challenging than the other all-inclusive land sports. Those who aren't particularly fit might be out of breath just running up the hill in front of the hotel, but the breathtaking view from the top will make all that effort disappear. "I'm so glad I came here!" you'll be sure to feel that way from the bottom of your heart. If you visit Club Med Ishigaki Island, you should definitely try archery and the flying trapeze (available only from May to late October). Both activities are hard to find anywhere else. Archery requires a surprising amount of strength, so it might seem difficult at first, but don't worry, our guide, Mizo, will provide thorough instruction. The exhilaration of hitting your target is unmatched. And if you're not particularly afraid of heights, the flying trapeze is a must! The towering equipment may make you dread the challenge, but trusting the guide's words, "Anyone can fly if they time it right. Even a 90-year-old woman could do it," will naturally build up your courage. Of course, you'll be wearing a safety belt to avoid injury in case you miss the jump, so you can soar into the sky with the feeling of being on a big ship.

>"Vol. 3" introduces ways to enjoy it at night