Tahiti Travel Guide

Overview
French Polynesia, better known as the Tahiti Islands after its largest and most populated island, ius the epitomy of Polynesia - rugged rain forest clad mounatin peaks tumbling into stunning lagoons, an abundance of tropical fruits and a people so graceful you might think you had arrived in heaven. The islands lie to the west of Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and the Cook Islands with 35 islands and 83 atolls in all dotted amongst over 5 million sq. km of ocean. Tahiti travel was first made famous by Captain Bligh and the Mutiny of the Bounty and along with its enchanting scenery, beautiful people and the vivid colours of French painter Paul Gauguin, French Polynesia has become one of the icons of the South Pacific.


Tahiti Travel Guide

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Quick Guide

Highlights	Facts
Fantastic lagoons eg Bora Bora Dramatic coastal scenery Colourful nightlife in Papeete Sailing to remote coral atolls Tiki and archaeological sights Fine handicrafts and village life	land mass: 1360 sq. miles population: 220,000 tourists: 230,000 total islands: 118 # of hotels (approx.): 80 language: Tahitian, French temp 0C : Jan 32 ; Jun 29 currency: CFP100 = US$0.65

Encompassing five vast archipelagos, Tahiti is the largest island in the most populated archipelago - the Society Islands. Tahiti has only a few nice swimming beaches although there is excellent beach surfing off the attractive black sand beaches on the north and south coasts. The main attraction of the island, which many pass by in haste for the flashier wonders of Bora Bora, is the incredibly beautiful and often dramatic tropical scenery with its hiking trails through tropical forest to refreshing and remote waterfalls.

Neighbouring Moorea also has some of the most attractive tropical scenery in the South Pacific with the added attraction of some fine golden sand beaches. The famous lagoon of Bora Bora, with its picturesque setting and picture postcard white palm fringed beaches, lies in the western portion of the Society Islands about a 45 minute flight from Papeete. Almost 80% of the tourist traffic never ventures farther than these three enchanting islands. However, for thse looking to get off the beaten track and explore the rich culture of the islands, or to dive in some of the best aquatic lagoons, there are other even better places to visit

Huahine has rich archaelogical sites and a living culture along its meandering coastline. Tahaa and Raiatea offer excellent sailing and on Mauopiti you will find the Tahiti of old.

The Tuamotu Islands, a sprawling mass of coral atolls, lie to the east and south east of Papeete and offer secluded beach resorts with excellent snorkelling and scuba diving.

The remote Marquesas Islands in the north, and Austral Islands in the south are both rich in culture and archaeological sights and offer splendid and dramatic coastal scenery.

Overall, French Polynesia is an exceptional place to take in the stunning beauty of the South Pacific, and with a little spoken French and a healthy monetary budget, you'll find your expectations surpassed.

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