Once you leave the island of Tahiti, you will find that public transportation is very limited or non-existent on outer islands. Taxis and rental cars are astronomically expensive. So, once again, I have arranged in advance for door-to-door pick up and drop off service for you, my guests, for convenience. There are several FUN options for today’s activities. Let’s discuss some options.

The majestic mountains of Moorea invite you to hike up the winding rainforest trails to dramatic high lookouts and there are ample opportunities to participate in guided treks. There is one company that currently offers horseback riding excursions on Moorea as well. And helicopter tours can fly you along the ridgetops and into canyons for the bird’s eye view.

Photo Courtesy of tahiti Tourism

I find that a 4 wheel drive land safari is a good way to circle the island to get your bearings and also go off road to explore the interior’s deep valleys, passing through plantations, crossing  streams and discovering hidden waterfalls. Your driver-guide will impart information about the flora and fauna as well as a little history and culture along the way.

At some point, the tour usually includes a stop at an ancient  marae or temple, perhaps on the way up to the Belvedere Lookout Point. These sacred spaces exist throughout the islands and consist of rock formations that mark official places for meeting, ceremonies, and worship.

The rich soil found in the valleys has proved to be fertile ground for cotton, coffee, sugar cane and pineapple plantations. Unlike the larger variety produced in Hawaii, the smaller pineapples grown here are particularly sweet. These are usually offered each morning at breakfast along with other tropical fruits such as local papaya & banana  . . . and some absolutely scrumptuous French pastries.

Well, we’ve spent two weeks together on our adventure so far.
Next time, remember to bring your swimsuit & a towel. We’re going to get wet!

Note: This travel blog is meant to be interactive. I welcome your comments and questions. Just remember this is a public forum. Personal or private inquiries may also be sent via e-mail.
Jacintha@IslandGetawaysTravel.com

I often talk to people who assume that the only thing to do on a tropical island is to lie on the beach and bake. I always recommend a balance of activity and relaxation wherever you happen to be.

Tahiti is the largest island in the country and a playground of nature. The surrounding lagoon waters offer ALL the water sports: swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, outrigger canoeing, guided catamaran tours, deep sea fishing, even surfing.  Apply waterproof sunscreen ahead of time unless you enjoy being shades of hot pink.

It surprizes many people to learn that the island offers a mountainous interior with lush valleys, clear streams and high waterfalls that are ideal for guided nature hikes, 4×4 excursions and escorted tours. Remember to bring insect repellent. I knew that. But I had to be reminded – the hard way. Mosquitos like to lurk behind tropical foliage and enjoy feasting on fresh imported tourists! They seem to find me particularly tasty.

Once you’ve had enough sunshine  and fresh air, it may be time to visit any of several museums. The Museum of Tahiti & Her Islands is considered to be one of the best in the South Pacific for Polynesian history. It houses rare collections of art carvings and historical artifacts.

The Gauguin Museum is dedicated to artist Paul Gauguin’s life in Tahiti and the Marquesas. Unfortunately, almost all of the works displayed are reproductions. The originals are in museums and private collections around the world.

The Pearl Museum in Papeete presents a fascinating history of the Tahitian black pearl industry.

I strongly suggest that you visit each with an experienced tour guide rather than wander through on your own to learn the most from each institution.

Tomorrow – a different form of recreation.

Once you leave the island of Tahiti, you will find that public transportation is very limited or non-existent on outer islands. Taxis and rental cars are astronomically expensive. So, once again, I have arranged in advance for door-to-door pick up and drop off service for you, my guests, for convenience. There are several FUN options for today’s activities. Let’s discuss some options.

The majestic mountains of Moorea invite you to hike up the winding rainforest trails to dramatic high lookouts and there are ample opportunities to participate in guided treks. There is one company that currently offers horseback riding excursions on Moorea as well. And helicopter tours can fly you along the ridgetops and into canyons for the bird’s eye view.

Photo Courtesy of Tahiti Tourism

I find that a 4 wheel drive land safari is a good way to circle the island to get your bearings and also go off road to explore the interior’s deep valleys, passing through plantations, crossing  streams and discovering hidden waterfalls. Your driver-guide will impart information about the flora and fauna as well as a little history and culture along the way.

At some point, the tour usually includes a stop at an ancient  marae or temple, perhaps on the way up to the Belvedere Lookout Point. These sacred spaces exist throughout the islands and consist of rock formations that mark official places for meeting, ceremonies, and worship.

The rich soil found in the valleys has proved to be fertile ground for cotton, coffee, sugar cane and pineapple plantations. Unlike the larger variety produced in Hawaii, the smaller pineapples grown here are particularly sweet. These are usually offered each morning at breakfast along with other tropical fruits such as local papaya & banana  . . . and some absolutely scrumptuous French pastries.

Well, we’ve spent two weeks together on our adventure so far.
Next time, remember to bring your swimsuit & a towel. We’re going to get wet!

Note: This travel blog is meant to be interactive. I welcome your comments and questions. Just remember this is a public forum. Personal or private inquiries may also be sent via e-mail.
Jacintha@IslandGetawaysTravel.com