Way out there in the South Pacific is French Polynesia, made up of a group of islands called the Society Islands – the largest of which is the ever popular Tahiti. Here resides the bustling city of Papeete, the capital of all of French Polynesia, which is (as the name implies) a French protectorate. With a population of just shy of 30,000 people, Papeete is truly the BIG city. It also has the only international airport of the area, so all visitors to any of the other islands enter and exit through Papeete. A cruise, however, will bring you directly into the center of the downtown area of the city. AND – if you cruise in early morning or late night, the sight is quite beautiful – –
Early morning arrival in Papeete.
Of course throughout these islands the water and sea life are the attraction. But, there is a rich culture that grew here. The ancient Ma’ohi civilization settled the area as much as 1,000 years ago. Their ‘temple’ or place of worship was a Marae. The Marae included a sacred square, an altar, a surrounding low wall that could be seen over to experience the ceremony by the ‘congregation’ and wooden sculptures of ancestors. (If one thinks of the ancient Puebloans in the western US, the Marae is much like the Kiva!) There were also often Tikis leading the way to the Marae.
Large Tiki near entrance to Marae Arahurahu.
Colorful gates to the grounds.
A favorite – a turtle in the ‘gate’.
The sacred square with the wall to the heavens and altar in the rear.
More beautiful scenery can be found at Vaipahi Botanical Gardens – and cooling waterfalls – –
Refreshing…
…and colorful flowers.
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On another lighter note, a visit to the Grotte De Mara’a is quite cool and refreshing on a hot, humid day. This site is composed of three natural caves, thought to have been created by lava tubes. There is a permanent trickle of water which has formed pools of cool water and the ceilings of the caves are covered with ferns and moss. But, beware – the surrounding mud can be quite slippery and send one into the brown mirk, as was seen on a recent trip;-)
Fern draped grottos…
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After exploring the coasts of Tahiti, a walk through town will take you to the Robert Wan Pearl Museum. This museum provides a complete guide to the history and legends of pearls including the historical figures who used them to adorn themselves. It also provides in depth information on the intricacies of pearl farming and choosing the perfect pearl. It is really quite an interesting place to visit.
Just a few historical examples of pearl usage.
Almost all of the coast on both sides of the city are garden areas along the ocean. A stroll will take one by many nice places for an afternoon snack and beverage with fantastic views – –
Tiki bar in the waterfront park – come have a seat and relax;-)
Colorful, cooling beverage.
Another day comes to an end and Bora Bora is calling. So – it’s goodby to Papeete.
Farewell.
Bora Bora!!! Not enough can be said about this island. It is for the rich and famous – the who’s who – and E&G;-)
It is one of the many islands of the Society Islands of French Polynesia and is located about 140 miles northwest of Papeete. The island is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef with an extinct volcano rising to two peaks in the center. As is true of all the islands, the lush, green vegetation grows right down to the waters edge.
Beautiful Bora Bora.
Vaitape is the big city on this island – and that is a stretch. The main street has lovely, but not inexpensive, shops with many places to buy those ever present South Pacific Pearls. A stroll up and down will not take long. But a place to relax for a bite is always welcome.
The welcomng committee.
Nice lunch spot in Vaitape.
Beautiful display of ukulele’s in a tee shirt shop on main street. Who would have thought?!?!?
Bora Bora has become a major international tourist destination with its many resorts touting ‘over the water’ bungalows. These, too, are not cheap. Think Four Seasons, Intercontinental, St. Regis and Westin $$$$. But – you only live once – right? AND – it’s in “A Thousand Places to See Before You Die” – so why not check it out for a night. What an experience.
View across the lagoon towards the main island of Bora Bora.
Lunch views from the bar at the Four Seasons Bora Bora.
Relaxing off the bungalow deck in the infinity pool.
Little chapel with a big view – on the grounds of the resort.
Our bungalow was one of those in the background.
Time to head back to reality and reboard our ship.
Many experiences are truly once in a lifetime and not to be repeated. This is one of those.
As always, time marches on and ships sail away.
Another beautiful sunset. Bye bye Bora Bora.
It is impossible not to like these islands. The next is just as beautiful as the last. It was a map at the Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix that made this trip a ‘bucket list’ item. So glad to get to see this part of the world with its many exquisite views, distinctive cultures and fabulous music.
E & G – awed by this South Pacific beauty
Elizabeth & Gary's Magic Bus Tour 