Amanda PhillipsIf you think idyllic paradise islands don’t truly exist – you clearly haven’t been to The Islands of Tahiti.
Located in the South Pacific The Islands of Tahiti is comprised of 118 beautiful exotic islands. When Captain James Cook and his crew returned to Europe after having stumbled upon The Islands of Tahiti, people were captivated with the illustrations of the unusual flowers and fauna – and the European fascination with these South Pacific Islands began.
And the allure hasn’t ended. The Islands of Tahiti is still the destination of choice for couples, families and individuals looking for seclusion, romance and escapism. Here are 10 reasons why Tahiti should be on everyone’s bucket list.
1. It’s the home of the water bungalow
Those water bungalows that are now an essential part of any tropical island? They are Tahitian.
In 1967, the first three overwater bungalows were built at the Bali Hai Hotel on Raiatea, followed by the overwater bungalows on Moorea and at Hotel Bora Bora. Five decades on, there are now 884 overwater bungalows across the islands.
2. The rare black pearl
The Islands of Tahiti is one of the few places in the world where you can find the rare black pearl. They are found in black-lipped oysters, which are larger than most other oysters resulting in larger pearls than you might be used to. Tahitian pearls can actually be a charcoal grey, silver, or dark green colour instead.
3. Whale spotting opportunities
Between July and November, humpback whales migrate from the icy waters of the Antarctic to the warm waters of Tahiti. French Polynesia is actually a Marine Mammal Sanctuary, and there are strict laws about approaching the animals. Book yourself a boat tour to witness these impressive mammals in the wild.
4. It’s a beautiful diving location
Whales aren’t the only fascinating creatures wandering through the French Polynesian currents. There are 1000+ species of marine life within the surrounding waters, including 20 shark species. Because of its exceptional biodiversity, scientists consider the Polynesian sea zone to be the “richest aquarium on earth”. The waters are also a warm 80°F with a visibility of 30m.
5. Some of the world’s best surfing
We’re not done talking about The Islands of Tahiti’s fantastic waters quite yet. Keen surfers will know that Tahiti is home to some big waves – including Teahupoo, which is considered the most powerful break in the world thanks to its size, force, power, and coral reef below. Don’t worry, if you’re not a surfer you can still take a sightseeing boat out to observe this incredible force of nature.
6. Adventurous rainforest
When you arrive in The Islands of Tahiti, it’s tempting to sit down on the white-powder beach and stay there for the duration of your holiday – but The Islands of Tahiti has an adventurous core. Book a 4×4 safari through lush rainforests and the Papearii and Papeeno Valleys and stumble upon villages and hidden rivers on The Islands of Tahiti, or seek out sacred altars and old World War II artillery on a guided hike around Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu.
7. The food is an exotic blend of Asian, French and Tahitian
You’ll discover plenty of new flavours and smells in The Islands of Tahiti. Alternate between delicious local dishes like Poisson Cru (marinated raw fish salad), traditional French fare like Bouillabaisse (fish soup) or Asian-influenced Chow Mein stir-fried noodles and wonderful mixed-culture dishes like Poulet Fafa (chicken with taro leaves). Remember to also try some fresh fruit and order some imported French wine to sip on during dinner!
8. Traditional tattoos
If you’ve got some ink, you’ll be in good company as the word tattoo actually derives from the Tahitian word tatau (the literal translation is “light tapping”). The practice of tattooing in French Polynesia goes back 2000 years and was traditionally used as a way to distinguish between tribes, chiefs, princes and kings. There were even “tatau” ceremonies that could last several weeks.
9. Dazzling night sky
With a remote location in the Pacific Ocean, far away from light pollution, you’ll find the clearest night sky you’ll ever witness. Keep an eye out for famous constellations, most notably The Southern Cross, Scorpio and The Pleiades.
10. It’s incredibly romantic
With gorgeous beaches, clear night skies, and gorgeous food – we don’t really need to explicitly tell you that Tahiti is perfect for a romantic break with your partner. It also makes for a beautiful backdrop during a proposal, wedding, or honeymoon! (There are 33 places to get married in Tahiti, including same-sex marriage).
