FRENCH POLYNESIA

TAHITI

The first thing one will notice arriving in Tahiti is the overpowering smell of Tiare. There are many varieties of prettier flowers like hibiscus in all its colors of red and pink, shades of yellow to orange and white; graceful heliconias and bromeliads, Flamingo flowers and a colorful variety of orchids. They all are pleasing to the eye but it is Tiare and frangipani that are used for flower headdresses, necklaces  or a simple flower behind everybody’s ear.
Tahiti is really two connected islands looking a bit like a turtle on a map - Tahiti Nui being the body and Tahiti Iti the head of the turtle. Tahiti is much more then just Papeete. Tahiti Nui - the big island - has some historical sites that should not be missed. Some date back to the pre European time, some are the landmarks of first European arrivals followed by the missionaries. There is also a wild interior of waterfalls, volcano crater, lakes and rich vegetation. The road through the heart of Tahiti has to be explored in a 4x4 drive and it is the best to take a safari tour to see all the attractions.


Tahiti Iti - the small island - has only 15 kilometers of road on its East Side and 18 on its West Side so a round trip is possible only by boat. Tahiti Iti is a quiet location with magic scenery offering walks, hikes, surf beaches and very affordable pensions.
Both Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Iti offer relaxation and adventure, excellent hiking, swimming and surf. There are grottos, blow holes and waterfalls to explore. There is history and customs to learn about. But Tahiti is only a small part of French Polynesia. There are many islands to see and enjoy. Some are close like Moorea, some are distant and off the bitten tourist track. They all offer varied and unique landscapes, turquoise lagoons and friendly local people. Some archipelagos like Tuamotus, Marqueses, Australes or Gambier are far away and preserve their own languages and culture.