French Polynesia

Marvellous Tahitian islandsFrench Polynesia, better known as the Tahiti Islands after its largest and most populated island, is the epitomy of Polynesia: rugged rain forest clad mountain peaks tumbling into stunning lagoons, an abundance of tropical fruits and a people so graceful you might think you had arrived in heaven. These islands have allured, inspired and enamored visitors since the time the islands were first discovered, not only due to the hospitable Polynesian people, abut also to the special ambiance, from the warmth of the air, scented heavily with tropical flowers, to to fiery romantic sunsets that signal the end of another fabulous Tahitian day.

The islands lie to the west of Fiji, Samoa, Tonga and the Cook Islands with 35 islands and 83 atolls in all dotted amongst over 5 million sq. km of ocean. Tahiti travel was first made famous by Captain Bligh and the Mutiny of the Bounty and along with its enchanting scenery, beautiful people and the vivid colours of French painter Paul Gauguin, French Polynesia has become one of the icons of the South Pacific and Bora Bora, with a lagoon resembling an artist’s palette of blues and greens, is love at first sight.

The Tahitians of the modern era, maintain their heritage and traditions of their Maohi ancestors. Oral history recounts the adventures of gods and warriors in colorful legends where javelin throwing was the sport of the gods, surf riding was favored by the kings, and Aito strongmen competed in outrigger canoe races and stone lifting as a show of pure strength.

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