Island, Atolls and Archipelagoes -Millions of years ago, underwater volcanic action in the Pacific created flows of lava that eventually reached the surface of the ocean to become lush tropical islands, such as Tahiti and Moorea. Other islands actually sank over eons, leaving huge lagoons surrounded by coral barrier reefs, called atolls, such as Rangiroa and Manihi. Archipelagoes are groups of islands and atolls. Five archipelagoes comprise French Polynesia - The Society Islands (Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Raiatea, and Huahine), Tuamotu Archipelago (Manihi, Rangiroa, and 60-plus other atolls), the Austral Islands, the Marquesas, and the Gambier Islands.

Tahiti - French Polynesia, commonly referred to as Tahiti, comprises 118 islands in a vast area in the central South Pacific. The most frequently visited islands are Tahiti and the capital city of Papeete, followed by Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine and Raiatea. Distant atoll groups like the Tuamotos are now becoming popular with adventure travelers and divers. A recent series of popular "Survivor" television shows were filmed on location in the remote, volcanic Marquesas Islands.
Tahiti is in the same time zone as Hawaii, two hours further by nonstop jet from LAX. The flight takes seven and one-half hours from Los Angeles.

Magical Moorea - Moorea, "The Magical Island', was the inspiration for James Michener's fictional island of Bali Hai and the location for many motion pictures, including "Mutiny on the Bounty'. Located 11 miles across the Sea of the Moon from Tahiti, Moorea is one of the most photographed islands in the world.
Dropping anchor at Opunohu Bay is a life's dream to yachtsmen. Pineapples grow abundantly as do mangoes, papaya and Captain Bligh's famous breadfruit.
Moorea has many resorts, including the Sheraton, Sofitel and Pearl Beach properties.

Beautiful Bora Bora - Bora Bora, "The Romantic Island", is considered by many to be is the most beautiful island in the world. Tall, bulbous just volcanic peaks dominate the center of the island. A narrow road encircles the landmass, surrounded by a brilliant turquoise, lapis and aquamarine lagoon. The airport is actually offshore with the landing strip on a small "motu" or atoll. Transfers are by water taxi.
Shark feeding is a popular excursion. A Jeep tour through Bora Bora's interior allows exploration of this wondrous place. Honeymooners should experience a few night in one of the overwater bungalows!

Heavenly Huahine - Huahine, nicknamed the 'Garden of Eden', is located 110 miles northwest of Tahiti and is a short plane ride away. Actually two islands joined by an isthmus and encircled by a colorful barrier reef, Huahine is linked by a 20-mile road winding a figure eight around the islands.
Spectacular views of white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons make the two-hour drive pass too quickly. Restored Tahitian maraes (temples) tell the story of an ancient people who could navigate as far south as New Zealand and north to Hawaii.

The world's largest outrigger canoe race begins here each October.
Huahine is sparsely populated and visitors will fall in love with the remote, unspoiled scenery and relaxed pace of the island. Given the high level of accommodation Huahine is an outstanding value offering a less expensive alternative to Bora Bora, which in peak season (June through September) is heavily booked.

Revered Raiatea - Raiatea, called "The Sacred Island', is the most revered island in the South Pacific. This was the center of Polynesian culture where of kings from all the islands gathered. From the shores of Raiatea, the large canoes of 100 people or more set out to populate New Zealand, Easter Island and Hawaii. Raiatea has the only navigable river in French Polynesia. Popular excursions include exploring the cool, green haven of the Faaroa River in a motorized outrigger speed canoe.

Overwater Bungalows - The overwater bungalows are uniquely Tahitian. Perched on sturdy pilings, some travelers go to Tahiti just to experience these exotic quarters, and the Tahitian TV - glass coffee tables often providing an incredible view of the clear lagoon waters and colorful fish below.  You may even be able to feed the fish by sliding back the coffee table and flipping a light switch to attract your underwater neighbors.  Room service to your private retreat on the water may be by canoe. All of the properties we offer reflect the distinctive character of their locations and heritage, with many designed and built using bamboo, palm fronds, and thatched roofs. We  offer and feature accommodations on the seven main Tahitian Islands.  You'll find the surroundings breathtaking and the service exceptional.

Tahiti Travel Tips

Time-Tahiti and Her Islands are much closer than you think, only seven and one-half hours from the U.S. mainland. Tahiti shares Hawaii's time zones - five hours ahead of East Coast Time.

Entry Requirements - A valid passport, with a return ticket home, is required to enter Tahiti for U.S. and Canadian citizens.  Those from other countries should check with the French Consulate.

Money Exchange - Most major credit cards are accepted in Tahiti, including American Express, MasterCard, and Visa.  Travelers checks and U.S. dollars are also widely accepted.  Banks and most hotels can convert U.S. dollars into French Pacific Francs (CFP), however, banks tend to offer a higher rate of exchange for the local currency.

Taxes and Tipping - Throughout Tahiti and Her Islands, there are no sales taxes or service charges and tipping is not generally accepted, as it is contrary to Tahitian customs of hospitality.

Water and Health - Vaccinations are not currently required for United States citizens entering or leaving Tahiti.  Consult your physician prior to departure for any updates. The water is generally safe to drink in hotels and restaurants, however, we recommend using bottled water available through the hotels.  The tropical sun can be deceptively penetrating, so be sure to use a good, waterproof sunblock to protect your skin from overexposure.  Tahiti and her Islands have modern medical and dental facilities available, if needed.

Electricity - Power outlets for all shavers and other appliances are provided in most hotels. Most of the hotels use 110 or 220 volts, AC 60 cycles current. A converter/adaptor for other appliances is usually available upon request from the hotel.

Telephone Service - Direct dialing for local and international telephone calls is very easy in French Polynesia, whether placing calls from your hotel or from public phone booths. When dialing direct to Tahiti and Her Islands, dial the proper International Access Code (011 from the U.S.A) plus 689 (country code for Tahiti) plus the local number.

Dress - Casual, informal dress is the standard in Tahiti.  Lightweight, washable cottons are suggested for greatest comfort. Men are most often dressed in shorts (slacks for dinner), sport shirts or T-shirts, sandals or tennis shoes.  Women can wear everything from shorts to skirts to sun dresses to pareos (wrap-around cloth garment).  We also recommend taking along a couple of swimsuits each, rubber-soled shoes for walking on coral, hat or sun visor, sunglasses, and waterproof bag.

Language - The official languages of Tahiti are Tahitian and French, however, English is widely spoken throughout the islands. Tahitians, as any other foreign people, truly appreciate visitors who try to learn a few of their words. They enjoy helping and you can expect a big smile and hearty laugh as they teach you.

Activities -
Whether you are looking for relaxation on white sand beaches, swaying in the tropical breeze on a hammock or swimming with the dolphins or feeding sharks, you can find it all in Tahiti. You'll also enjoy such activities as snorkeling, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, water skiing, hiking, golf, helicopter rides and horseback riding, tennis, sailing, wind surfing, hang gliding, shopping, outrigger canoeing, and parasailing. Also available are the unique Tahitian activities
of sentimental wedding ceremonies - for couples wishing to renew their vows, or lovers looking for a unique and legally non-binding way to express their feelings, the traditional Tahitian wedding service is a fun way to say "I do" - and Black Pearl shopping - Black Pearl are can only be found in French Polynesia and visitors can explore black pearl farms in Manihi, Rangiroa and Raiatea.

Dining- With the exception of a more cosmopolitan Papeete, you won't find much in the way of fast foods on the islands.  However, you will discover a palate-pleasing variety of native dishes and French, American and Chinese cuisine.  You'll delight in the abundance of seafood, tropical fruits, and fresh vegetables.  You can eat at fine restaurants or outdoor cafes,
partake of Polynesian feasts and beach barbecues, and even arrange gourmet picnics on secluded motu.