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French Polynesia is a French overseas collectivity, composed of over a hundred islands grouped into five large archipelagos. It’s famous for its dazzling beaches, luxurious resorts and world-famous lagoons. While the main highlights of the country appeal mostly to sand and sea lovers, this South Pacific gem also abounds with rich history and culture, as well as staggering volcanic peaks resting in the shadows of the pristine beaches. A French Polynesia cruise is a “vacation made in paradise,” an idyllic journey taking you from Tahiti to Moorea, Bora Bora and many more sought-after ports!
Every sailing to French Polynesia would often call at Papeete on Tahiti — the capital dubbed the “Queen of the Pacific.” Follow the footsteps of British explorer Captain James Cook in the 18th century and trace the island’s boasts black-sand beaches, sparkling lagoons and gorgeous waterfalls. Next is Tahiti’s little sister, Moorea — well-known for its fruit plantations and volcanic peaks, which are reflected in the waters of Cooke’s Bay and Ophu-nohu Bay. Climb the Belvedere Lookout for panoramic views of the island’s mountains and Tahiti beyond. The luxurious island of Bora Bora is a bucket-list destination, even nicknamed as “The Jewel of the South Seas” for its unparalleled beauty! Immerse yourself in the fascinating history in Niki Huva, the largest of the Marquesas Islands and home to stone “tiki” statues hidden in mango-covered forests.
Life on these picture-perfect islands is quiet, peaceful and what many people visualise when imagining a tropical paradise. Experience the epitome of a slow-paced island holiday, from lazing on the beaches and getting cosy in iconic overwater retreats to admiring the mountainous terrains and sampling local French Polynesian specialities!
A haven for nature enthusiasts and green thumbs, Water Gardens of Vaipahi is a dense nature area filled with tropical flowers and vegetation. Strolling around the verdant mountainside oasis, you’ll discover over 70 plant species, diverse flowers, a gorgeous waterfall and a lily pond. It’s the perfect setting for taking a break from the beaches and completely disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of the city. Besides being a natural hotspot, the botanical garden was also considered a sacred site in ancient times, with its waterway playing a vital role as “the path of purification of souls.”
Romance and sophistication fills the air in Bora Bora, with the cloud-scraping Mount Otemanu looming over the island’s skyline. At 727 metres high, this majestic mountain is the highest point of the island and is visible almost everywhere you lay your eyes. From the renowned Matira Beach, you’ll catch sight of this volcanic peak, set against the backdrop of the white-sand beach. Whether you want to climb the summit for dramatic views or simply marvel at the imposing sight at a distance, Mount Otemanu oozes endless charm and beauty!
Follow the footsteps of James Captain in Pointe Venus, where the British explorer and navigator built an observatory to study Venus’ trajectory. Set on the northernmost part of Tahiti, this historic site is wonderfully surrounded by black-sand beaches with an iconic lighthouse as a centrepiece. The lighthouse is still in operation today, representing the perfect symbiosis between Europe and Polynesia. Once you’ve soaked in enough history, wander around the landscaped lawns with shady trees or pop into a souvenir shop for some memorabilia!
When it comes to a slow-paced islander living with ultimate ocean views, settling in the luxury of an overwater bungalow is one of the unmissable experiences in French Polynesia! Wherever you are in the French collectivity, you’ll find these romantic hideaways on stilts, dotting the azure waters and punctuated by clear and sunny skies. These suspended retreats also offer direct access to lagoons, so you can conveniently take a relaxing dip whenever the waters calls for you. Bora Bora, Moorea and Tahiti are among the top islands that provide the best overwater bungalow experience!
French Polynesia is a place bounded by heavenly beaches, so you’ll be spoilt for choice with sand and sea galore! Bora Bora’s Matira Beach is arguably the most popular and the busiest, drawing thousands of visitors from all around the world. Thrill seekers and water sports adventurers will find Anau Beach in Moorea an excellent spot, offering exciting water activities like snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding! And for those looking for an escape away from the crowds, the beaches of Fakarava radiate a soothing and tranquil ambience.
Nuku Hiva is the largest of the Marquesas Islands, with a wonderful blend of breathtaking scenery and fascinating ancestral culture. This rugged volcanic isle is home to mountains topping 3,700 feet high! Wandering around the isle, you’ll walk past tohua, petroglyphs, and tiki statues. The tiki sculptures are volcanic stone treasures sculpted by local craftsmen, embodying a mythical creature who created human beings. Hatiheu is a quaint village in the island, steeped with a troubled past and rich in archeological remains.
The high season runs between May and October when the weather is balmy and dry. If you don’t mind little rain, you can opt for the shoulder season in April or November to enjoy lower prices and fewer crowds.
The French Pacific Franc is the official and best currency to use in French Polynesia, but US Dollars, European euro notes and Australian Dollars are widely accepted.
Tipping is not always expected in most hotels and restaurants. However, if you’re feeling a little generous, offering a small gratuity to hotel staff, cab drivers and tour guides will be greatly appreciated. A service charge is often included in your bill.
The most popular islands, especially for first-timers, are Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea. Tahiti is the largest and where the capital Papeete is located, complete with impressive black sand beaches, calm lagoons, waterfalls and extinct volcanoes! Moorea is well-known for its fruit plantations and said to be the inspiration behind Disney’s ‘Moana’ movie. Bora Bora is a bucket-list destination, perfect for luxury and romantic escapes.
As an overseas collectivity of France, the official language in this South Pacific jewel is French. You can often hear locals conversing in Tahitian and a variety of other Polynesian languages. English is also widely spoken in tourist areas, so you can easily interact and communicate with locals.
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