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Today’s Tour Guide: Musclebunny Tired of the daily grind? Well then pack
your bags for an exotic trip to French Polynesia! But
first, here’s a little bit about each of the
Moorea: This island is less than 20 km North West of the capital of Papeete. It is the sister island of Tahiti, and has often been thought to be the mythical island “Bali Hai” described by writer James Michener. You can explore the majestic volcanic peaks at mount Rotui’s crater, or go through the stone temples before reaching the panorama of the belvedere which offers a spectacular view of the two famous bays.
Raiatea & Tahaa: Want to experience the roots of Polynesian culture and the natural beauty that inspired it? Raiatea is revered by the Tahitians as the birthplace of their religion and culture. According to legend, it was from these shores that ancient Polynesian explorers set off for Hawaii and New Zealand. You can venture up the Faaroa, the only navigable river in French Polynesia. Or take a climb up Mount Temehani for a rare glimpse of the Tiare Apetahi, a flower which grows no where else on earth. Tahaa, is a short speedboat hop away, and is almost untouched by the 20th century, with spectacular bays carved from green hills. Rangiroa & Manihi: 200 miles northeast of Tahiti lies the Tuamotu Archipelago, composed of the largest collection of coral atolls in the world. The waters of the Tuamotus are a scuba diver’s dream. Whether you opt for shallow, ocean or drift dives, the underwater scenery is guaranteed to be some of the most spectacular you’ve ever seen. Rangiroa, largest of the atolls, offers the adventurous traveler the rare opportunity to live amid the wild beauty of the Tuamotus. You’ll find an array of daily aquatic excursions and activities from which to choose. Windsurf on the clear waters of the great lagoon, or snorkel beneath them, letting the tidal currents propel you amidst the fabulous variety of aquatic life. Manihi is a small atoll located north of Rangiroa, 330 miles from Tahitim, with a population of just 300 inhabitants. A trip to the black pearl farm is a must.
So, what’s the weather like? French Polynesia averages a comfortable 80 degrees throughout the year so dress casual. During the day, shorts & bathing suits are common. In the evenings, many hotels ask the men to wear long pants and shirt and not go barefooted. Casual shoes, thongs, jeans or slacks and a Polynesian shirt are quite acceptable for the men and a light sun dress, slacks or shorts for the ladies. Between June and September evenings may be cool, so bring a sweater. And even though tropical rain showers are refreshing rather than chilling, a light weight rain coat that folds to fit into a pocket or purse may come in handy. Meals prices in here are comparable to those in other resort destinations such as Kauai, or Maui. Most restaurants have a la carte menus. Meal plans are available with most travel packages and will generally represent a cost savings, so check with your travel agent. Remember, there are no sales taxes or other hidden service charges in French Polynesia. This one part of the world where you do not tip-Polynesia hospitality simply does not allow it. Colors in the tropics seem brighter than at home and the nights seem darker. This is particularly true on the "low islands", and a good pair of dark glasses and a small pocket flashlight for everyone in your party is a good idea. I would strongly suggest you don't forget your camera, film or favorite sun screen. If you do find yourself needing more of anything, always try the local products. They are every bit as good and are considerable less expensive than the imported products. Looking to get married? The
picturesque Tiki Village, a replica of an ancient
Tahitian Village nestled under coconut palms at the edge
of the Haapiti lagoon on Moorea will arrange a wedding
ceremony performed by their village "chief" and
"high Priest" complete with musicians,
beautiful coral crowns and traditional Tahitian dress.
Photographs of this beautiful ceremony and a certificate
are included in their price. Although ceremonies are not
legally binding this can be a perfect time and place to
repeat your vows. |
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Bora Bora:
Known as “the most beautiful island in the
world”, you’ll love this island’s white
sand beaches. Surrounding the small island is the most
stunning lagoon in all of the Pacific. And Mount Otemanu
stands often draped in white clouds. You can explore the
entire coastline on foot, the island is only 20 miles
around.
Tahiti:
There’s plenty to do on the big island - from a game
of golf on French Polynesia’s only course (72-par
with views of the island and outer reed), to a helicopter
ride to Mount Aorai. Or you can try big
game fishing, water skiing, scuba diving, sailing or wind
surfing. Then, if you aren’t too tired. try a tour
to Matavai Bay, Cook’s Monument at the Point Venus,
the Gauguin Museum, the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands,
or the fascinating Lagoonarium. 
Huahine:
This island is the last of the Society Islands reached by
tourism, it has remained virtually unknown to tourists
until recently. The tiny port of Fare really comes to
life on shipping day. That’s when many of
Huahine’s 4,000 inhabitants travel to town by
“le truck” (an open air bus) to see old
friends, swap news, sell their pigs, copra and melons,
and buy goods from the incoming supply ships. Make sure
to visit the sleepy village of Parea that has barely
changed over the generations. There, you can hire horses
for a long ride through tropical mountain trails. Or,
stop by a vanilla plantation for a handful of aromatic
beans. If surfing’s your thing, don’t miss the
renowned waves of Avamoa Pass. Unlike the other islands,
with more than thirty miles of roads to explore, Huahine
can take several days to discover completely. 