Tahiti and Her Beautiful Islands
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The word evokes visions of an earthly paradise. Actually
there are 118 islands that encompass French Polynesia, better known
as Tahiti and Her Islands. These are among the travelers’ favorites:
Tahiti – Moorea – Huahine – Raiatea
– Taha’a – Bora Bora – Rangiroa – Manihi
– Fakarava – Tikehau – Marquesas.
Tahiti
Tahiti, known as “The Gathering Place”,
is the largest and most populated island, and is the starting point
for all internationa l travelers. International flights land at Faa’a
Airport in the capital city of Papeete. Upon arrival, visitors receive
a typical Tahitian display of hospitality – a memorable welcome
with fragrant Tiare flowers and Tahitian music.
Tahiti is a figure-eight shaped island with a larger
part, known as Tahiti Nui (which means big) and a smaller part called
Tahiti Iti (little). With lush green peaks reaching more than 7,300
feet, its scenery is dramatic. Cascading waterfalls and rippling pools
in the jungle-like interior provide a striking contrast to the black
and white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons of the island’s perimeter.
A circle island tour (about 70 miles) is a great way to get acquainted
with the island, including highlights at the Tahiti and Her Islands
Museum, the Paul Gauguin Art Museum and Botanical Gardens and the Marae
Arahurahu (an ancient Tahitian outdoor temple). In the center of town,
Le Marché, the municipal market, is not to be missed. The first
floor of this indoor market has an abundant supply of tropical fruits
and vegetables and fresh fish from the lagoon. The second floor is dedicated
to Tahitian art and crafts, and boasts the largest selection of colorful
pareus (sarongs) anywhere.
