Popular among honeymooners today is Tahiti and her islands. Tahiti…the word evokes visions of an earthly paradise. Actually, there are 118 islands that encompass French Polynesia, better know as Tahiti and Her Islands. These are among the favorites:
Tahiti, known as “The Gathering Place” is the largest and most populated island and the starting point for all international travelers. Upon arrival, visitors receive a typical Tahitian display of hospitality – a memorable welcome with fragrant Tiare flowers and Tahitian music.
The figure eight shaped island features lush green peaks reaching more than 7,300 feet. Its scenery is dramatic. Cascading waterfalls and rippling pools in the jungle-like interior provide a striking contrast to the black and white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons of the island’s perimeter.
Moorea, “The Magical Island”, was the inspiration for James Michener’s mythical island of Bali Hai and the locale for many motion pictures, including “Mutiny on the Bounty” and “Love Affair”. It is just 11 miles across the Sea of the Moon from Tahiti, but a world away. To fully appreciate the drama of this heart shaped island, it is best viewed from atop Belvedere lookout, which affords breathtaking views of Moorea’s twin bays Cook’s and Opunohu. It’s an easy 25-minute catamaran ride from Tahiti for a day trip.
Bora, Bora, “The Romantic Island”, is often called the most beautiful island in the world. Most will agree, that it truly is. This tiny island – just 18 miles in circumference is encircled by a protective necklace of coral. Breathtaking lush mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for the indescribable turquoise, lapis and aquamarine of the sheltered lagoon. Arriving by air provides a unique experience, landing on the airstrip that was built by U.S. troops during World War II. The runway is on a motu (small inlet) and visitors must travel by boat to reach the main island. It’s no surprise that most of the island’s activities center around the spectacular lagoon. A shark feeding excursion allows visitors to be in the water with hungry reef sharks as they’re being fed by guides. Visitors can enjoy the lagoonarium, a marine exhibit in the lagoon where the adventurous can swim with sting rays, huge sea turtles and reef sharks.
Over water Bungalows,Tahiti’s signature accommodation, are unique toTahiti and provide an incredibly memorable experience. From the outrigger canoe breakfast deliveries to the glass coffee table that allows for fish viewing from the living room, it is a hotel room beyond the ordinary.
Tahiti and Her Islands are best known as a romantic paradise. Honeymooners and couples of all ages rediscover each other in the seclusion of the islands. More and more are renewing their vows in a traditional Tahitian Wedding Ceremony. Though not a legal ceremony, the ritual is deep and meaningful. Couples are bedecked in pareus, flowers, shells, and feathers. The groom approaches the beach in an outrigger canoe. His bride, who is carried in on a rattan throne, awaits him on the white sand beach. A spectacular sunset and lapping lagoon create the stunning backdrop. Tahitian music and dancers enhance the ambiance. A Tahitian priest marries the couple and gives them their Tahitian names and the Tahitian name of their first-born.
Hospitality is a Tahitian way of life. Tahitians are proud of their islands and want to share the beauty with visitors. Even tipping is contrary to their beliefs; it’s simply not expected. When you visit Tahiti, take the time to chat with Tahitians and learn about their culture and lifestyle. It will make the experience of this beautiful paradise even richer and your honeymoon all the more memorable.
For more information contact: Tahiti Tourisme,300 Continental Blvd., Ste. 160,El Segundo,CA 90245.
Tel: 800-365-4949 (US)
Fax: 310-414-8490
Website: www.Tahiti-Tourisme.com
E-Mail: [email protected]
Your local travel agent can make all the arrangements.
Want more options for your honeymoon? Go to www.premierbridems.com and click on Honeymoons-Travel Agents: http://www.premierbridems.com/listings.php?category=32
For destination weddings, go to www.premierbridems.com and click on Destination Weddings: http://www.premierbridems.com/listings.php?category=24
If you just got back from your honeymoon, email me a picture, your name, where you went, what you liked and what you would do differently: [email protected]