The largest and most populated island in French Polynesia, Tahiti beckons travelers with its lush beauty, idyllic beaches and superb scuba diving. It’s a South Seas paradise known for its romantic overwater bungalows, ideal for honeymooners or anyone looking to get away from it all.
Popular activities during a Tahiti vacation include taking a tour of the island’s mountainous interior on a 4x4 safari, snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters, shopping in the Papeete market, hand-feeding sharks (with the help of an experienced guide!) and searching for the perfect strand of the island’s world-renowned cultured pearls. Halfway between Los Angeles and Australia, Tahiti is just an 8-hour flight from LAX. A fascinating destination in itself, Tahiti also serves as a base for trips to nearby islands—such as Moorea and Bora Bora—via air or high-speed catamaran. A vacation to Tahiti often includes an array of relaxing spa treatments. Polynesia is now known as a world-class spa destination, with many resorts offering luxurious spas that take advantage of the islands’ serene natural beauty. A Tahiti luxury vacation should also include the unforgettable experience of a private Motu picnic, in which gourmet cuisine is enjoyed at a table set in warm, shallow waters along the beach.
U.S. citizens traveling to Tahiti require a valid passport, a return airline ticket to the U.S. (or to at least two more continuing destinations), and sufficient funds to cover their planned stay. No visa is required for stays of up to one month. Rental cars are available at the airport for drivers over 21 years of age with a valid driver’s license; a major credit card is required for drivers under 25. The official languages are French and Tahitian, although English is widely understood in the resort areas. Both the water and air temperature in Tahiti average about 79°F year-round. Currency is the French Pacific Franc. For more information on Tahiti travel, log on to www.tahiti-tourisme.com, the Tahiti tourism board’s website.