Seeing is believing when it comes to the captivating beauty of Tahiti and French Polynesia. There may be a million photos and a trillion rave reviews, but the perfection of these islands can only be fully appreciated in person.
Seven Travel Associates Advisors explored this tropical wonderland and brought back the following memories; a collection of moments that managed to stand out in a dazzling line up.
Tahiti
Bird’s-eye Beauties
The island formations of Tahiti and French Polynesia are a remarkable sight from a bird’s-eye view. I was rendered speechless by the splendour of the volcanic mountain tops, sunken craters and the thousand hues of turquoise water as we flew between islands on our domestic flights. The deep blue lagoons beckoned to me with promises of underwater marvels.
Blair Davis, Wolf & Turner Travel Associates, VIC
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Dining like a local
I was a little surprised when we pulled up to a collection of food trucks for our last dinner in Papeete, but then I noticed the crowds of locals - an infallible guarantee. You can choose from local specialties, Asian cuisine and American favourites. Whether you settle on fresh Tahitian-style ceviche, a big juicy burger, an aromatic stir fry or a huge slice of pizza, it will definitely be delicious.
Natalie Watts, Connelly & Turner Travel Associates, VIC
Bora Bora
Tropical touring
Our day started with a stop to swim with the locals; some stingrays and reef sharks that were so friendly that you could pat them for hours! Afterwards we enjoyed a tour of the historical sites around the island, topped off by a picnic lunch on a deserted island - a gorgeous feast of traditional Tahitian cuisine. It was a day straight from a daydream.
Lynette Maria, Maria Fellowes & Turner Travel Associates, NSW
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Million dollar dinner views
The worlds of fine dining and tropical paradise really hit it off at the Iriatai French Restaurant at Conrad Bora Bora Nui. Pre book for a dinner with million dollar views and feel the fine dusting of sand under your feet and the balmy breeze off the lagoon as you sip lavish French wine.
Craig Stepnell, Stepnell & Turner Travel Associates, VIC
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Over water bungalow
The glass floor and lookouts in the shower of my overwater bungalow at the Four Seasons Bora Bora made me feel constantly connected with the ocean. While lying in the king sized bed, all you can see is the sea, so you feel as if you’re floating in aquamarine bliss. There’s also an enormous bathtub you can sink into right by the window, with an outlook that insists that you relax.
Lisa Wright, Travel Associates Product Lead, QLD
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Tikehau
Pink sand paradise
The perfectly round atoll of Tikehau had water that was even more crystal clear than that of the other islands, which I didn’t think was possible. The beach is made up of creamy sand, which glows an incredible pink colour in the right light. Tikehau is a true escape; a fishing, diving and surfing paradise and a romantic haven.
Katie O’Sullivan, O’Sullivan & Turner Travel Associates, NSW
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At the water’s edge
The location of the Beach Bungalows at Pearl Beach Resort Tikehau meant that just a few steps over the inviting pink sand landed you at the edge of the water. Sharks and manta rays were a common sighting, and you could kick back on your private deck and watch these marvellous creatures frolicking in the dazzling water of the lagoon. From the Overwater Bungalows, you can jump straight into a world of ocean wildlife; some of the best snorkelling is available right at your doorstep.
Alan Reis, Reis & James Travel Associates, ACT
