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
Bora Bora, known as the ‘pearl of Polynesia’, is just a 45 minute flight from Papeete, with silky beaches set against the emerald backdrop of Mount Otemanu: truly a perfect place for a South Pacific idyll.
The ultraviolet index is a measure of the risk of skin damage due to exposure to the sun. Be aware that the potential damage caused by the sun varies from person to person as well as by time of day, altitude and several other factors. We recommend contacting your GP for further advice.
Wear sunglasses on bright days; use sunscreen if there is snow on the ground (which reflects UV radiation) or if you have particularly fair skin.
Wear sunglasses and use sunscreen, cover the body with clothing and a hat, and seek shade around midday when the sun is most intense.
Wear sunglasses and use sunscreen having SPF 15 or higher, cover the body with sun protective clothing and a wide-brim hat, and reduce time in the sun from two hours before to three hours after solar noon.
Wear sunscreen, a shirt, sunglasses and a hat. Do not stay out in the sun for too long.
Take all precautions, including: wear sunglasses and use sunscreen, cover the body with a long-sleeved shirt and trousers, wear a very broad hat, and avoid the sun from two hours before to three hours after solar noon.
18 days from £9,745pp
15 days from £3,735pp
14 days from £3,770pp
18 miles away
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54 miles away
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171 miles away
Further reading:French PolynesiaWhen to GoItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout French PolynesiaCountry Guides
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