The Beauty of French Polynesia

My impression before visiting Tahiti and French Polynesia was that of a honeymooner’s destination — which it is, of course, but also so much more. Each island is a distinctive paradise with its own unique treasures to be explored.

The trip began with a luxurious eight hour flight from Los Angeles aboard Air Tahiti Nui. The airline staff was extremely welcoming. The aircraft was customized to add comfort and enjoyment for its passengers for the long trek across the ocean. With personal video systems in each seat, restaurant quality meals, and a large selection of liquor and wine, this airplane was first-rate.

Even though I landed well past 1:00 am, local time, my arrival to the Faa’a Airport in the capital of Papeete was a warm and gracious one. A traditional flower necklace was placed around my neck while a four piece Polynesian band played. They continued to play and sing until the last passenger on our plane had passed through immigration. Hospitality was clearly not an afterthought in this country, and I was beginning to realize that this trip was going to be something very special.

I was also pleasantly surprised to discover that although French and Tahitian are the primary languages of French Polynesia; most everyone spoke English as well, making communication almost effortless.

My first stay in these charming islands was in Tahiti at the Manava Suite Resort — an elegant blend of the authentic Polynesian style with splashes of modern fashion accompanied by world-class amenities. The Taapuna pool bar was, of course, the most popular spot during the day, and in the evening, the stylish lounge transformed into an energetic mix of both visitors and locals. Just 20 feet from my private deck was the infinity pool and beyond that was the South Pacific Ocean. The views were absolutely breathtaking, with the island of Moorea in the distance highlighting its cascading mountains. There were surfers in the distance paddling through the tranquil lagoon to reach the break; and although it was about a half a mile out, the surf could still be heard crashing onto the reef. There were snorkelers and swimmers enjoying the crystal clear, eighty three degree ocean with its exotic fish and radiant coral reefs. I had only arrived a few hours ago and I had already started to decompress.

Later that day I toured the city of Papeete and visited the local market. With lively vendors, a dizzying assortment of colorful displays, and new and exotic foods to sample, I could have spent hours exploring and selecting just the right gifts.

From Papeete, I flew to the island of Huahine, known as the Garden Island for its exceptional forests and striking landscape. Although a less visited island, it was a truly rewarding experience for just that reason. Upon arrival I was escorted to the Te Tiare Beach Resort (http://www.spmhotels.com/resort/huahine), which was only accessible by boat. My water arrival was announced by the blowing of a conch shell. I was warmly welcomed by an entire hotel team who decorated all the new arrivals with traditional shell necklaces. Icy and refreshing tropical beverages and cold moist towels lightly scented with vanilla were delightful. I was instantly rejuvenated. This fabulous resort was full of character, nestled on unsettled coastline with stunning views of pristine islands in the distance and spectacular sunsets each night. While enjoying a glass of wine from my private deck of the over water bungalow, I watched the sun slip towards the horizon over emerald blue water. I had to pause and just appreciate the pure beauty of this place. The next morning I awoke and stepped off my deck into the sparkling lagoon — the only ripples in the water were my own. As I watched the brightly colored fish that swam by, I realized I had never enjoyed getting out of bed more in my life. Shortly after an indulgent breakfast of French pastries and local fresh fruit, I departed on a 4×4 jeep safari through the island. Huahine is home to magnificent mountains, lush tropical valleys, historic sites and churches. Pearl farms and vanilla plantations, also help bring the Polynesian culture to life.

Early the next morning I flew to the island of Raiatea and was then taken by boat past the island of Taha’a, known as the vanilla island. Shortly after, I arrived at Motu Tautau, one of the many motu situated on the coral reef surrounding the island of Taha’a. Motu are little islands made up of coral, sand and limestone. Here they surround the island of Taha’a like an elegant necklace in a lagoon of many shades of blue. The Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa (http://www.spmhotels.com/resort/taha-a) is known to be the most exclusive resort in all of French Polynesia with bright sand beaches and unsurpassed views of the famous Bora Bora island. It was post card perfect. Later that day a traditional Polynesian canoe picked me up from the deck of my over water bungalow and transported me to a small white pearl of a sandbar out in the lagoon. Here, a group of hotel guests and I were treated to a customary Polynesian lunch with the most intoxicating flavors and textures. We enjoyed some traditional Polynesian dance and performances by the group representing the island of Taha’a. Polynesian dance competition is very popular in French Polynesia with each island sending a group to compete against the others once a year. The group from Taha’a was exceptionally talented and very entertaining.

In addition to its extraordinary service and picturesque setting, the Le Taha’a is also famous for its gourmet restaurant, Ohiri. The chef, Franck Bezy, originally from France, demonstated his skill by presenting masterful creations that pleased both eye and palette. The wine was individually selected for each course, and complimented the innovative dishes perfectly.

Everything about the Le Taha’a was surreal from the magnificent coral reef located off the tip of the resort, to the stars at night that danced in the crystal clear sky. The over water bungalows were equipped with glass partitions in the floor for perfect viewing of the marine life below. The glass panels were designed to be lifted off so guests could feed the fish from their beds. It was possible to illuminate the water underneath the bungalow at night. The next morning I stepped over the still fragrant flower petals that had been sprinkled on the floor from my turn-down service the night before. Coffee cup in hand, I walked out on my private balcony as a canoe pulled up delivering breakfast. I never wanted to leave this enchanting place, but my final island of Bora Bora awaited.

After checking out, I flew to the main island where I boarded a boat for the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort (http://www.spmhotels.com/resort/bora-bora), located on the Motu Tevairoa. The resort’s sparkling lagoon faced the very recognizable and beautiful, Mount Otemanu. Well known as a honeymooner’s paradise, the resort is also a romantic destination for couples from around the globe.

Early the next morning I departed for a lagoon tour which turned out to be an unforgettable experience and a highlight of the trip. The first stop on the reef was a stingray encounter. Swimming with these graceful but surprisingly powerful animals who glided effortlessly through the water was quite a thrill. Friendly and curious, they seemed to be everywhere around me, seeking the fish that our guide had kindly brought. Our next stop was at the outer edge of the reef where the intimidating open ocean began. In the crystal clear water I could easily see 40 feet to the bottom. There were sharks everywhere. From my safe vantage point on the boat, I counted approximately a dozen black tip sharks. Incredibly, our guide threw in chum and then dove into the water himself. Encouraged that he wasn’t eaten alive, the other passengers and I began working up some confidence. Adreniline pumping, we cautiously entered the water to experience this opportunity of a lifetime for ourselves. We were not disappointed! The day ended with yet another mouth-watering Polynesian feast cooked in the earth (umu) on a secluded motu. Life does not get much better than this.

The warm island people, incredible food, fabulous spa treatments, diving, sailing and activities too numerous to mention make this Polynesian encounter one well worth discovering and an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime.
South Pacific Management • http://www.spmhotels.com • 800.657.3275

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