Tahiti is the largest island and the gateway to French Polynesia. It has the only international airport Faaa which is just outside of Tahiti’s invigorating capital Papeete. Boasting first class resorts, fine dining, relaxing spas and an active nightlife, Papeete is the entertainment capital. Before embarking on the Ultimate Lady, enjoy a luxurious evening in one of the overwater bungaloos; and experience the entertainment capital Papeete.
Local Experiences:
Romantic Overwater Bungalows
Before embarking on the Ultimate Lady, experience a romantic evening in one of the luxury bungalows, situated right on the water. A unique experience you won’t find just anywhere. Stay in one of Tahiti’s signature overwater-bungalows, where you can step straight off your own private platform into the lagoon.
Experience overwater bungalows at The Intercontinental Tahiti Resort & Spa, which is conveniently located 2 miles from Tahiti's international airport of Faaa.
Dining
For a fine dining experience visit the high-end resort restaurants in Tahiti. Supplied by a daily bounty of fresh fish and fruits complete with beautiful ocean views they have a captivating atmosphere not to be missed.
Le Lotus (pictured above) La Plantation Hiti Mahana
Or head to the Le Marche markets first thing in the morning to find fresh local cuisine. Fish caught locally in the Tuamotu Islands is air lifted to the markets for sale.
The Tuamotu atolls are located northeast of Tahiti.
With an array of exciting activities including scuba diving, horseback riding and deep-sea fishing, this is the place for a bit of outdoor adventure.
Local Experiences:
Explore the lagoon
Tikehau contains the highest concentration of fish among the Tuamotu Atolls. Enjoy exploring the beautiful seabed and abundance of life in the bright-blue lagoon waters with the Topdive Dive Centre.
But if you don't want to get wet but still want to explore the submarine scenery, Matahi Excursions in Rangiroa offer glass bottom boat tours. See the breath-taking array of fish on your trip through to the Tiputa Pass.
Gourmet Cuisine in Tuamotu
Experience some of the beautiful cusine the Tuamotu's have to offer. For a menu that stray's from the typical "raw fish and coconut milk" diet; try Chex Lili, situated on the eastern tip of Avatoru and run by a lady from Madagascar. Experience the well prepared daily specials, including chicken in Creole sauce and Tuna tartare.
Taste the beutiful menu at Vaimario; the extensive menu takes in seafood, meat and pizza and combines French tradition with an eye for local flavours. Taste the irresistable crepe au miel de Rangiroa (pancake with local honey).
A favourite haunt of hungry divers, Mitivai is conveniently located between two dive shops. Mitivai is one of Rangiroa's trusted spots for lunch and serves fine food to accompany the wonderful lagoon views. Experience their yummy burgers, copious salads and freshly grilled fish.
The Marquesas Islands are known for its natural wonders. Even now some of the islands remain virtually untouched since the era of European exploration. Towering mountains disappear into the clouds and waterfalls so high that most of the falling water evaporates as it descends.
Local Experiences:
The southernmost cluster of islands, the Australs boast beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes. It's easy to understand what makes them special; their isolation, the untouched look and their deeply authentic nature.
Local Experiences:
Whale watching
If you are visiting between mid July and mid October an extremely rare experience you won't want to miss is the whale watching excursions, offered by la bonne bouteille
Gambier Archipelago 'Islands at the end of the World"
Lying over 1,600 km South eas of Tahiti, the Gambier archipelago consists of 14 small rugged islands which are the largest and most populated of which is Mangareva.
The Gambier is a place rich in history featuring the ancient Polynesia culture (with nuemrous archaelogical vestiges), as well as the first Christian culture with different cathedrals and churches built in the 19th century; often located on former pagan cult sites. An iportant evangelisation site, the Gambier Islands have witnessed the construction of nuemrous religious and civil buildings which have mostly been restored.
St Michael Cathedral
In the main village of Rikitea, you can visit St Michael's cathedral dating from 1848, whose masterpiece is the altar richly decorated in pearls and mother-of-pearl.
The Ruins of Rikitea
The ruins of Rikitea provide a history of the lost civilisation. These monumental ruins include a convent, a triumphal arch, a large number of watchtowers, a jail and a court. This old and precious monument has a dark and eerie feeling.
Discover Mt.Duff
In terms of activities, hiking is a pleasant leisure to experience while you are here. Mt Duff contains overgrown vegetation and very long ggrass; it will take you approximately three to four hours to reach the peak of the mountain. However, when you arrive at the top, you will appreciate your efforts as the view of the lagoon and the island is extraordinary.
Shopping
There are not many souveniers to buy in Mangareva. However, there are some local artists who sell carved mother-of-pearl items.
Local Experiences:
Historic Landmarks
Visit the Rikitea Ruins in Mangareva. These abandoned remains of hundreds of stone buildings erected following the arrival of the first missionaries to the region include churches, convents, schools and watch towers.
Still in use today the St Michel of Rikitea Church is constructed of fired limestone and inlaid with mother of pearl. Dating from 1848 this church has been fully restored.