Reasons to Visit French Polynesia
Tahitian culture is more in evidence now that ever before and not just in the sophisticated dances and performance art but in the revival of symbolic tattoo art through which Polynesians use the dark strong colours to assert their ma'ohi identity.
Rangiroa was described by Jacques Cousteau as the richest aquarium on the planet matched only by the other great Tuamotu lagoons on Tikehau, Manihi and Fakarava; now one of UNESCO's most valued biospheres.
The islands of French Polynesia have long been a melting pot of migrant peoples who have made the most of the ecology and geology of this region of the South Pacific to create sophisticated cultures.
For most people an overwater bungalow set in a turquoise lagoon is the essence of French Polynesia and the reason to travel thousands of kilomtres round the world for the ultimate romantic holiday.
One of the most successful uses of light is visible in the pearl industry in which French Polynesia has become a world leader. The most sought after pearls are from the farms on Taha'a an in the Tuamotus and you may even get a chance to see the incredibly rare black pearls.
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New Zealand & the South Pacific
Explore the contrasting landscapes of the Marquesas Islands
The day is yours to sail where you wish around the island of Bora Bora as you have a 50 foot state-of-the-art cruising catamaran and captain at your disposal.
Unprotected by barrier reefs, the Marquesas Islands are altogether different to their neighbours, with coastlines either indented with bays or ending in abrupt cliffs, swept by the surf of powerful Pacific rollers.
Discover the tropical ambience of the island of Tahiti on a complete excursion around the island taking in the Gauguin Museum, the lovely Botanical Gardens and the museum of Tahiti and her Islands.
Explore by outrigger canoe around the island, the perfect way to experience Bora Bora's stunning lagoon.
Tahiti… Bora Bora… Moorea… the names tell a story, but not all of it. Beyond these famous paradise islands are the Tuamotu and Marquesas archipelagos, which are no less idyllic but even more secluded.
15 Days from £3,785pp
Discover the main highlights of the best known French Polynesian Society Islands, Moorea and Bora Bora.
14 Days from £3,815pp
Discover the main highlights of the French Polynesian Society Islands, Tahiti, Huahine, Moorea and Bora Bora.
18 Days from £9,855pp
Spend your time divided between two of the most romantic Polynesian resorts with the sophistication of Bora Bora combined with the exclusivity of Taha'a.
23 1/4 (Papeete, via Los Angeles)
Air New Zealand
GMT -10
The best time to travel.
A good time to travel, but there may be some factors to be aware of.
Travel is possible, but this is not the best time of year.
Travel is not recommended.
Snow or ski season.
July
Further reading:When to GoItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout French PolynesiaCountry Guides
Other countries in Australasia:AustraliaNew ZealandSamoaThe Cook IslandsFiji
