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Destination: Tahiti
by Maureen Woodward on January 22, 2010 |
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With a population of only 173,000 people, the island paradise of Tahiti is exactly that: an unspoiled, natural wonder! As the largest island in French Polynesia, located in the archipelago of Society Islands, Tahiti is synonymous with honeymooners and lovebirds. It's a wondrous and breathtaking place to spend your vacation, especially if you are looking for romance and beauty. I was fortunate enough to travel to Tahiti in 2007, courtesy of Sunspots International.
The island consists of two roughly round portions centered on volcanic mountains, connected by a short land bridge, or Taravao, named after the town on that land bridge. The northwestern part is known as Tahiti Nui, which literally translates into big Tahiti, while the southeastern part is Tahiti Iti, which translates into what? You guessed it - little Tahiti, because this portion of the island is smaller in comparison. Many parts of Tahiti Iti are still fairly remote and can only be accessed by boat or a long hike. Lush rainforests abound on this tropical island. Typcially, November through April is the wet season with an average temperature of 79 degrees.
I always recommend Tahiti as a honeymoon option to any of my clients; especially those who want to experience the South Pacific. The island is beautiful, the scenery is dramatic, the watercolor is nearly indescribable, the culture is one-of-a-kind, and the people are warm and friendly.
While I was there, I had the pleasure of staying in an over-water bungalow. Talk about an amazing experience! They feature amenities like French champagne, flower petals arranged in the shape of a heart at turndown, in-villa dining experiences serving up culinary masterpieces - I could go on, and on! The best part was that my accommodations were right above the water, allowing for perfect opportunities to spy on the aquatic wildlife. Some over-water bungalows even come with Plexiglas floors.
If you're into water sports and communing with nature, then look into snorkeling or diving. Many resorts offer world-class water sport activities, like swimming with sea turtles or dolphins, which can last all day. Looking for a little more thrill? Try feeding a shark or manta ray. Take a Motu Island picnic. Navigate Tahitian countryside in a 4-wheel drive adventure.
An area that Tahiti knows a lot about is spas. Spas are very big in the French Polynesia island chain. Many put their own twist and excitement into each treatment, differentiating themselves from the spas in Europe and the Caribbean. Many spas have over-water treatment rooms where you can watch the sea life beneath you as you receive a hot oil massage. You can opt for the private outdoor treatment, as well. There are treatment rooms high in banyan trees or floating in lagoon waters. My piece of advice: Because these treatments are unique and very relaxing, they tend to book up quickly. I would book in advance, which is something that your travel agent can help with.
Whether you are organizing your honeymoon or your 50th wedding anniversary, Thaiti and her wonders are waiting! Cheers...
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