A to Z Travel Blog - Tahiti
Updated: Jan 21, 2022
The Islands of Tahiti are located in the South Pacific, consisting of 118 islands and atolls, made up of the well-known Society Islands including Tahiti and Bora Bora, Tuamotu Islands, Gambier Islands, Austral Islands, and the Marquesas Islands. Known for being an artist’s residence to the likes of Gauguin and Matisse, The Islands of Tahiti are the birthplace of Polynesian culture. The locals are warm and welcoming, whilst exuding a humble spirit and proudly sharing their traditions and heritage with visitors. Tahiti is a diverse destination, bringing to life the duality of seclusion, adventure, connecting all islands. Have you experienced the spirit of Mana or the spirit of The Islands of Tahiti? Some Tahitian words inspire feelings of warmth and positivity. Words such as 'Ia Ora Na’, the national greeting, and ‘Mahana’, meaning sunshine are amongst many being used.
I loved my brief but amazing stay in beautiful Tahiti as part of my gap year a few years ago;) Traveling with Air New Zealand on an around the world air ticket. Flying from the Cook Islands to Papeete then taking a taxi to the ferry terminal and boarding the boat to Moorea. Today, one of the best ways to reach the islands from the UK is usually via Paris or Los Angeles with connections from Air Tahiti Nui. Sadly, it was pre-digital but I still have the memories. Where better to create memories than beautiful Tahiti. Here is more on the incredible Tahitian Islands.
A to Z Travel Blog - Tahiti
The largest Tahitian Island - Tahiti is shaped like a figure eight, it has two extinct volcanos, lined with black sand beaches, waterfalls and lagoons. The Capital Papeete is great for shopping especially to buy a Tahitian pearl. Don't miss the Robert Wan Pearl Museum and the large Marché de Papeete market.
Moorea
Smaller than Tahiti, it is said to be the pride and joy of the Tahitian Islands. Great for walking with hikes up the slopes of Mount Tohivea, through the rainforest, and don't miss The Belvedere Lookout with panoramic views. You might also like to explore the three-kilometre stretch of Cook's Bay (named after Captain James Cook where he first landed to witness the transit of Venus) one of the twin bay's. The other Opunohu Bay, where Captain James Cook landed in September 1777. After all the activities it is also a great island for relaxing, with its beautiful white-sand beaches. Yoga anyone?
The boat journey between Papeete and Moorea takes approx 40 minutes onboard a 500 seater 272ft catamaran. A one-way/single ticket costs $15 US Dollars.
I stayed at a hostel that had both private wooden chalets/bungalows with en-suite facilities and open dorm rooms. It was a hive of activity, with games nights including one with frogs. It could have been Le Village Faimano (a lovely lady owned it and offered a private boat back to the mainland)? The wooden chalet was right opposite the beach with incredible sunsets. Tahiti is known for being a luxury destination but you can have luxury at affordable prices!
Island hopping around The Marquesas Islands
The Marquesas Islands are located 932 miles northeast of Tahiti and spread out over 12 islands, of which only six are inhabited. The largest island of the southeastern group is Hiva Oa, the burial place of the French artist Paul Gauguin. The islands are home to many archaeological sites, including stone temples, giant tiki statues, and ancient petroglyphs. See our pick of these three gorgeous islands perfect for your next island-hopping adventure.
