2006 May :: Tahiti Travel Guide |
Weather in Huahineble border="0" width="100%" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="2"> |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Average Temperature |
80°F |
27°C 80°F |
27°C 82°F |
28°C 82°F |
28°C 80°F |
27°C 78°F |
26°C Average |
Precipitation 8.68% |
6.93% |
5.21% |
4.89% |
3.41 % |
3.69 % |
|
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
Average Temperature |
78°F |
26°C 77°F |
25°C 78°F |
26°C 78°F |
26°C 80°F |
27°C 80°F |
27°C Average |
Precipitation 2.85 % |
2.53 % |
3.18 % |
4.85 % |
7.48 % |
8.25 % |
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Experience your own version of “Survivor” when you journey to the Marquesas, where spectacular volcanic peaks soar from the ocean depths, lush valleys steeped in history wait to be explored, the wild ocean crashes on black sand beaches, and sheltered coves reveal a turquoise tide with pink and white sand.
The Marquesas Islands, part of French Polynesia, are a group of 10 islands clustered near the equator, in the Pacific, about 930 miles from Tahiti. These remote islands are volcanic, rugged and wild, with steep cliffs and deep valleys. They are not protected by coral reefs as the Society Islands are and surf crashes ashore against sheer cliffs or on black sand beaches. The island interiors are inhabited by wild horses, cattle and goats, and there is an abundance of papayas, bananas, mangoes and other fruits grown.
It is widely held that the ancestors of the Polynesians arrived here around 1000 BC. The name Marquesas comes from a Spanish explorer who, in the 16th century, discovered the four southern islands and named them after the Viceroy of Peru’s wife who had financed his explorations.
Nuku Hiva, in the northern group, is the largest island in the chain and is also the most populous, with about 2400 inhabitants. Hiva Oa, in the southern group, is the second largest. It is here the artist, Paul Gauguin, and the famed singer, Jacques Brel, are buried.
The Marquesas Islands have always been an inspiration for creative talents and have a special, mysterious appeal for visitors wanting adventure in French Polynesia. With new, attractive accommodations and more frequent air schedules, the Marquesas are more accessible to the traveler. Now is the time to come and experience this unique destination!.
The aquamarine lagoons of Tahiti and her sister islands provide the perfect setting for some of the best diving experiences in the world. Whether you are a novice diver or a seasoned veteran, the waters of French Polynesia will provide you with a wide variety of diving adventures. From the exploration of the Nordby shipwreck in Raiatea to the strong waves of Nuku Hiva, diving in Tahiti is never uninspiring. Each dive is more beautiful than the previous.
Tahiti
Often overlooked by divers, the island of Tahiti offers a fantastic array of marine life and unique diving adventures such as wrecks and submarine freshwater springs.
Moorea
Known for its shark feeding with grey, lemon, blacktip and whitetip sharks, Moorea also has many diverse dive sites for divers of all levels.
Bora Bora
The jewel of French Polynesia, Bora Bora is noted more for its romance and spectacular lagoon colors than for dive experiences. But Bora Bora’s sublime lagoon also houses a huge assortment of marine life and tropical fish, as well as a large population of the giant manta ray.
Huahine
The major diving draw to Huahine is coral. Famed sites such as Coral Garden and Yellow Valley feature Huahine’s large collection of yellow corals along with a multitude of eagle rays, barracudas and sharks.
Raiatea / Taha’a
Sharing a lagoon, the islands of Raiatea and Taha’a are separated by a pass. A superb shipwreck here attracts many divers but the vast lagoon also offers beginning and advanced divers an incredible mixture of plants and marine life.
Rangiroa
The largest atoll in the Tuamotus, Rangiroa is also the fourth largest atoll in the world. Undoubted one of the best diving locations in the world, Rangiroa’s calm lagoons are perfect for the beginner, while its two passes, Avortu and Tiputa provide more advanced divers the chance to drift dive amongst some of the largest manta rays in the world, as well as hammerhead sharks and a multitude of other unique marine life.
Manihi
Famed for its pearl farms, Manihi also attracts divers of all levels. An abundance of the giant manta rays and a large concentration of fish beckons divers to this small atoll.
Tikehau
Lying close to Rangiroa, Tikehau’s lagoons and pass is home to some of the richest marine life in the world. Divers can explore the untouched lagoons, visit the many bird colonies, or stroll the pink sand beaches of Tikehau.
Fakarava
A UNESCO natural reserve, the atoll of Fakarava contains some of the most spectacular dive sites and marine life in the world. Due to the strong currents, dives here are more suitable for the intermediate to advanced divers.
Nuku Hiva
Distinguished from other dive sites in French Polynesia by its lack of a fringing reef, Nuku Hiva’s strong waves feature a most unique dive experience. A spectacular abundance of dolphins, hammerhead sharks, manta rays and Pygmy Orca whales inhabit the waters along the rocky coast of the island.
Scuba dives can be added to any of our featured packages and customized itineraries. For more information, call your travel agent or contact Tahiti Legends reservations.
Refresh, Revitalize, Renew
Tahiti is the perfect tropical setting for your spa experience. Let the stresses of daily life drift away on the soft breezes and melt into the sea.
Fragrant, unspoiled air and pristine waters in myriad shades of blue make this an inspiring and mystical place. The gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore of the lagoon and the exotic aromas of flowers and fruits envelop your senses, lulling you into a relaxed, peaceful state of bliss.
The unique spa treatments reflect the beauty, spirit and traditions of Polynesia where beauty is felt, spirit is honored and traditions are recognized. The exotic treatments are designed to utilize the islands’ natural resources, embracing the gifts of nature and the uniqueness of Polynesia, celebrating the youth and beauty that lives within us.
Helene Spa of InterContinental Beachcomber, Moorea
Let yourself relax at this traditional, thatched roof Polynesian spa nestled in the hotel’s lush tropical gardens. The spa draws from Polynesian traditions that cultivates nature as a source of beauty, elegance and blooming of body and soul. Natural tropical massages, fresh flower baths, body wraps in fresh banana tree leaves and masks of fresh fruits and plants are soul-soothing magical moments offered by the spa.
Mandara Spa of Sheraton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa
Mandara is an international collection of resort spas with each reflecting the nature and traditions of the setting. Treat yourself to a Sunset Massage on the lagoon terrace; re-nourish and revitalize your skin after another gorgeous day in the Tahitian sun; relax in a floral bath of exotic flowers. The treatments and massage therapies may be enjoyed in the Spa or in the privacy of your bungalow.
Mandara Spa of Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa
This unique spa offers breathtaking views of Bora Bora. The complex has a fully equipped fitness center and juice bar and offers an extensive menu of island-inspired spa treatments and services.
Beach Side Spa of Taha’a Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
Located beachside, this Polynesian-style spa provides a full range of spa treatments that incorporate traditional Tahitian relaxation massages and body care, including a unique ‘in lagoon water’ massage.
Islands in the Sun continues to lead the way, offering packages specifically designed for families traveling with children, ages 4-10 years.
Children will love getting involved in Polynesian culture, with their own special Kids Club activities like flower crown weaving, shell lei making, tamure dance lessons, plus a Beach Olympics, garden discovery tour, and lots of water games in the lagoon. Meanwhile parents can enjoy their own separate snorkeling trip and 4WD safari tour. A perfect family vacation!
Kids Only Club - InterContinental Beachcomber Resort Moorea
Open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, the -Kids Only Club- provides fun activities for children 4 to 10 years of age.
Activities include supervised swimming and initiation in the pool and lagoon, beach Olympics, discovery tour of the botanical garden, flower crown weaving, shell lei making, pareo dyeing, tamure lessons, croquet games and more. Lunch and an afternoon snack are included.
Cost: $55 per child, per day. Advance reservations are requested.
Optional Activities: Dolphin Quest Kid’s Ocean Adventure–$100
Swim with Dolphins
Play with dolphins in their natural habitat, cavorting with them in the lagoon. Share an enchanting moment with these magnificent mammals.
At Dolphin Quest, on the property of the InterContinental Beachcomber Moorea Tahiti, you can interact with dolphins in three different programs.
Shallow Encounters are 1-hour programs, available to anyone 5 years of age or older. It is not necessary to be able to swim.
In the 1-hour Snorkeling with the Dolphins, swimming ability is required. Here you will actually learn the basics of training a dolphin, and watch them under the water with a mask.
Sea Quest, a 3-hour program, includes a canoe trip to a special breakfast locale, snorkeling with rays and reef fishes, and an encounter with an entire dolphin ‘family.’ Swimming ability is required for Sea Quest.
Scuba Diving initiation, Bathy’s Club - $32
Scuba Diving
Moorea is scuba diving heaven. Warm water, great visibility and abundant fish life await the diver and the snorkeler, and the biggest problem you’re likely to encounter is trying to decide which awesome site to choose. Fortunately, the capable instructors at Moorea’s dive centers will make that choice for you. So, relax, suit up and blow some bubbles!
Several sites on Moorea are suitable for novice divers, but the fish life is varied and exciting enough to thrill the most experienced divers. Unlike Tahiti’s reefs, with their sheer drop-offs, Moorea’s underwater topography is characterized by gently sloping reefs and generally shallower dives.
There is plenty of coral on Moorea, but coral is not the main attraction: it’s the fish, and the friendly reef sharks are undeniably the star performers.
Beginners
Although it is located on the ocean side of the reef, The Tiki is a calm, safe site for the beginning diver. The maximum depth is about 82 ft; on a calm day the visibility can exceed 200 ft. The fish life is astonishing. You’ll swim through schools of snapper and yellow clouds of butterfly fish, see parrotfish and Picasso triggerfish, blacktip reef sharks, grey sharks, and more. Best of all, The Tiki is where divers of all levels can witness a shark feeding. The Tiki gets it name from the tiki statue that rests at the bottom of the sea–put there by a far-sighted dive center operator.
In addition to the friendly pelagics that give this site its name, Sting Ray World is also an ideal place to encounter whitetip sharks and eagle rays. The depth here ranges from 30 ft. to about 50 ft. Sting Ray World is ideal for snorkeling.
The Rays Corridor is perfect for beginners or refresher dives. The depth ranges from 15 to 60 ft., and the calm lagoon waters are alive with beautiful corals, reef fishes, eagle rays and whitetip sharks.
Intermediate to Advanced Divers
Taotoi is a popular spot for all levels of divers. Just outside the reef across from the InterContinental Beachcomber Moorea Tahiti, Taotoi ranges from 30 to 75 ft. in depth. As with most dives on Moorea, the fish life is outrageous. Most days you will encounter dozens of sharks, several moray eels and an occasional Napoleon wrasse, in addition to the usual cast of characters–Moorish idols, tangs, butterfly fish, snapper, barracuda, and parrotfish.
The Opunohu Canyons radiate outward from the reef at 30-70 ft. and create great diving conditions when there is no swell. Expect to see blacktip sharks, moray eels, large triggerfish, and occasional sea turtles and Napoleon wrasses.
If you’re an experienced diver with very good buoyancy control, you can explore The Rose Garden, a huge field of Montipora coral that stretches across the ocean floor at a depth range of 98 to 130 ft. The Rose Garden is one of the most photographed underwater features in French Polynesia.
Dive Centers
Bathy’s Club
The only PADI 5-Star Dive Center in French Polynesia.
InterContinental Beachcomber Moorea Tahiti
Mr. Juan-Pedro Duran Lopez, Owner/Manager (CMAS *** International Supervisor;
State Supervisor BEES1, PADI OWSI)
Beginner dives, ocean dives, 2-Tank dives, night dives. PADI Open Water Certification
and specialty courses.
Elaborate as a royal event, or as simple as an “I do” on a sugar-white beach…a Tahitian wedding ceremony* is for many a dream come true. There’s no more enchanting way to exchange vows, celebrate an anniversary, or promise yourself to your loved one, than one of these traditional Polynesian celebrations.
Marriage Formalities
Marriage between two foreign persons or between French national and a foreign person, must follow and respect the form and conditions provided for in the legislation for public order: legal age limit, freedom from previous marital engagement, marriage arranged by parents within legal limits, mourning period for women. In order to verify if the projected marriage is not contrary to public order, the municipal authority has the right to demand a customary certificate from the foreign authorities (ministry of consulate) if the couple does not exercise the right of their own national law.
Article 74 of Civil Code provides that “the marriage will be conducted in the commune where one of the future spouses has an address or has established residency for a month of continued habitation from the date of publication provided by law.”
The publication of marriage bans will be done during 10 days at the entrance of the Town House. In case one of the future spouses has neither address nor residence in France, the publication must be done in the place of his/her residence and must be verified by a certificate of publication.
Verifying documents to be presented for the marriage include:
1 birth certificate for each of the future spouses (issued within the last 3 months)
1 pre-marriage medical certificate for each of the future spouses (issued within the last 2 months);
1 certificate of residency (1 month of residency at least);
birth certificate of children to be legitimized;
1 copy of the notarized marriage contract. It is requested from foreign born persons;
1 customary certificate
1 certificate of celibacy
1 birth certificate translated into French
1 certificate of residency (with 1 month residency in the commune selected for the marriage)
a publication of marriage bans will be posted for 10 days in the commune where the marriage will take place and in the last place of residence of the future spouse not residing in French Polynesia.
Mention “Tahiti� and one of the most vivid impressions that comes to mind is that of a young couple strolling hand-in-hand along a turquoise lagoon as palm trees sway gently in the warm South Pacific breezes.
Cut to the couple snorkeling in clear, shallow, 79-degree water losing count of the variety of colourful sea life present and being dazzled by the coral gardens. Finally, cut to the couple relaxing on the deck of their over-water bungalow feasting on a dinner of grilled fish, fresh fruit, and sautèed vegetables delivered by outrigger canoe as the sun stages what may be the most beautiful sunset in history.
Part of Tahiti’s charm is that compared to other surf and sand destinations, Tahiti hosts a relatively small, but steadily increasing number of annual visitors from the U.S. - just over 50,000 people per year. Of these, an unusually high percentage is made up of either newly wedded couples or people celebrating special wedding anniversaries. Both come to Tahiti seeking the kind of romantic experiences that Tahiti and Her Islands are known for — the kind of experiences that led to Tahiti adopting the theme, “Tahiti. Where Love Lives.�
The attraction of Tahiti to couples is based on its South Sea location and climate, the proximity of Tahiti to the West Coast of the U.S. - approximately 7 1/2 hours’ fight from Los Angeles — and “totally Tahitian� experiences such as staying in over-water bungalows, picnicking on a remote motu or islet, taking a 4wheel drive jeep trip into the Tahitian river valleys, or going on shark and ray feeding excursions.
Above all, it may ultimately be the warmth, friendliness, and hospitality of the Tahitian people who make Tahiti the world’s most inviting romantic destination. Their ever smiling faces, their traditional songs and melodies that fill the air, and their eagerness to please visitors are reasons why newly married and anniversary couples keep Tahiti among the highest rated romance destinations year after year.
Wedding Vow Renewals
Many visitors to Tahiti including Academy Award winning actor, Dustin Hoffman, are discovering what is becoming another island tradition-wedding vow renewal ceremonies. It’s easy to arrange a romantic and festive traditional Tahitian wedding ceremony or renewal of vows, either through a hotel, tour operator, cruise line or at the Tiki Village in Moorea which specializes in such ceremonies. Not legally binding, the vow renewal ceremonies are popular for people on their honeymoons and others celebrating their anniversaries. Many couples find it one of the most romantic and exotic ways to once again demonstrate their lifelong commitment to each other. Although there are many different types of ceremonies, traditionally it begins with the bride being treated to a soothing massage by her Tahitian bridesmaid� with monoi oil while being sung to and adorned with fragrant flowers like a Tahitian princess. Meanwhile, the groom is taken to a motu (small islet), painted with tattoos and given a crown of tropical leaves. The bride wears a traditional Tahitian wedding pareu and a flowered headpiece. The wedding vow renewal ceremony is conducted in Tahitian by a priest and each couple is given a Tahitian name and a name for their first born child. A Tahitian marriage certificate made of tapa cloth parchment, is presented while village women sing hymns. The ceremony is often followed by a romantic sunset cruise where the bride and groom continue to be serenaded by soft Tahitian music. It’s a lifetime experience that can only be experienced in Tahiti, “The Island of Dreams.�
What is Tahiti?
Tahiti is the largest of the 118 islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia. Neighboring islands include Moorea, Tetiaroa, Huahine, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa and Maupiti. Also, easily accessible are the islands of Tikehau, Rangiroa and Manihi in the Tuamotu Archipelago and the Marquesas Islands in the northern part of French Polynesia.
Where is Tahiti?
Tahiti and Her Islands lie in the Pacific Ocean, just south of the equator, in the same time zone as Hawaii, approximately seven and one-half hours by air from Los Angeles, midway between North America and Australia.
What’s the time difference?
Two hours behind Pacific Standard Time.
Do we cross the international date line to get to Tahiti?
No, but you do cross the equator.
Do we need a passport to go there? A visa?
A valid passport and a roundtrip ticket are required of all persons entering Tahiti (except returning residents). Visas are not required for U.S. or Canadian citizens for stays of less than one month.
Will we need to exchange money? If so, what’s the rate?
Upon arrival in French Polynesia, most visitors exchange some money at the Faaa Airport or at their hotel. Generally, it’s not necessary to change very much since credit cards and U.S. dollars are accepted. The currency used in French Polynesia is the French Pacific Franc or CFP. There are approximately 100 CFPs to one U.S. dollar (although the actual rate may vary).
Why are Tahiti and Her Islands called “Islands Beyond the Ordinary”?
Tahiti and Her Islands have long been referred to as a tropical paradise. But their unspoiled islands are not for everyone. If you’re looking for a familiar, commercial environment like your own hometown, you won’t find it in Tahiti. These extraordinary islands are for people seeking the unique, novel or adventurous honeymoon experience, and who want to visit a destination whose culture is different from their own.
What types of activities are there?
Opportunities abound for the adventurer! Thrilling jeep tours let you explore the lush interiors of the larger islands. Discover waterfalls and grottos as you hike or mountain bike through the heart of the islands. Or cycle leisurely around the perimeter of the islands. Circle island tours are offered on many islands and provide a glimpse of Tahitian lifestyle. Sunset cruises that sail from Tahiti’s capital city of Papeete are also available. Learn more about Polynesia at the Tahiti and Her Islands Museum and the Gauguin Museum. Ancient maraes (temples) hold the mysteries of early Polynesians. Lagoonariums offer an opportunity to view sea creatures in their own environment. The Marche, the bustling public market in Papeete, is ideal for finding picnic items as well as colourful pareus and other souvenirs.
What types of water activities are available?
Most visitors enjoy the lagoons as the natives do, swimming and snorkeling in the warm, turquoise waters, or outrigger canoeing, sailing, wind surfing, parasailing, deep sea fishing, jet skiing and water skiing. The Tahitian islands are world renowned for their scuba diving and snorkeling. Or you can go on a shark feeding expedition, where you’re in the water with hungry reef sharks that are being hand-fed by a guide. You can charter a yacht, perhaps with a captain and chef, to sail among the islands.
What’s the water temperature?
The water temperature averages 79°F (26°C) in the winter and 84°F (29°C) in the summer with less than a degree of variation from the surface down to 50 meters.
What kind of dive and snorkeling sites are there?
Lagoons, passes and outer reef dives offer aqua-culture at its best, with an abundance of all kinds of sea life, from the tiniest, beautifully coloured tropical species, to awesome large varieties, such as rays, sharks, occasional sea turtles and more.
Can I learn to scuba dive at a hotel?
If you have at least one week, you can enroll in a complete resort certification course during your vacation. If you are already a PADI, NAUI or SSI member, your certification is recognized.
What about night life?
Most hotels offer Tahitian post-dinner entertainment on a regular basis. Dancing is a popular evening entertainment in Papeete.
How do we get around?
Taxis and buses are available, as well as car rentals. The most common form of transportation is “le truck” independently operated shuttles that run most everywhere on the islands. Bicycling is also a very popular mode of getting around.
Is there shopping available? Duty-free?
Shops usually open about 7:30am and close at 5:30pm (noon on Saturdays), but there is always a long lunch hour. Duty-free shopping is mainly available on Tahiti only. Except in hotels, all shops are closed on Sundays.
How are the hotel rooms cooled?
Many of the hotel rooms on Tahiti are air-conditioned. On the other islands, cool tropical breezes are drawn in by ceiling fans.
Will my hair dryer work there?
(electrical voltage) The current is 110 or 220 volts, depending on your location. An adapter is recommended for using appliances you bring with you.
What about communications?
Telephone, telegram, telex and facsimile services are available. Post offices are the center of international communications on the islands.
Is the water safe to drink?
The water is drinkable, and most hotels also offer bottled water.
Is there a hospital?
Tahiti has excellent medical and dental services, pharmacies, a large government hospital, private clinics and cosmetic center.
Is there anything else we should bring?
If you desire, you can bring cigarettes (up to two cartons), film (up to ten rolls), and liquor (up to two liters). And don’t forget an extra bottle of your favorite suntan lotion, hats, sunglasses, water socks (reef walkers) and any common insect repellent.
Why is Tahiti a favorite among honeymooners?
Tahiti is simply the ultimate in romance. Couples can immerse themselves in the incredible beauty of the islands and the casual, relaxed pace. With its mesmerizing sunsets and sweet aroma of flowers, Tahiti radiates romance. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast brought to your overwater bungalow by canoe. Find a secluded motu (islet) for a private picnic. Arrange a traditional Tahitian wedding ceremony or renewal of vows. Spend a romantic evening dinner for two at your hotel. Or simply take a leisurely stroll along a secluded white sand beach and enjoy the most spectacular place on earth.
Is there anything special for honeymooners?
Yes. Many Tahiti experts offer special honeymoon packages at attractive rates.