Tahitian Noni Juice
Tahitian noni juice is touted as a cure-all, medicinal drink that is enjoyed by fashion and fitness celebrities and holistic health practitioners all over the world. The elixir is praised as the solution to everything from problem skin and aging, to gout and inflammation issues, and much more. However, Tahitian noni juice as a miracle…
Tahitian Gardenia
The National Flower of French Polynesia The Tahitian gardenia, also known as the Gardenia taitensis, or by its original Tahitian name of tiare mā’ohi, is the national flower of The Islands of Tahiti. Most commonly referred to as the Tahitian tiare flower, this type of gardenia has become a staple in Tahitian culture. The name…
The Tiki of Taaoa and the Upeke Archeological Site
Hiva Oa is the second biggest of the Marquesas Islands, after Nuku HIva. A 3 hour 45 minute flight from Tahiti takes you to Henua Enana, as the islands are called in the Marquesan language. Hiva Oa is a mystical land of tales and legends, charged with the spiritual force, Mana. It's what causes the…
Celebrate a traditional wedding
A traditional Polynesian wedding in The Islands of Tahiti is a moment of pure romance. Wearing white pareos, shell necklaces, and crowns and garlands of hibiscus and tiare tahiti, the bride and groom are summoned to exchange their vows in an emotional ceremony that they'll remember for the rest of their lives. Atraditional Tahitian wedding…
The Polynesian Tiki
In the mystical depths of French Polynesia there are treasures sculpted by the skilled hands of local craftsmen. They are called tiki. These sculpted statues have very distinct features, half man and half god. They look a lot like men, but their eyes are huge almonds, representing windows into the afterlife. Tiki symbolize power, knowledge,…
The history of the Tahitian ‘ukulele
You hear the lively playing of a 'ukulele wherever you go in The Islands of Tahiti. 'Ukulele orchestras animate the evenings in hotel restaurants, and you'll also hear the unmistakable strumming at the beach, on the bus, and especially during a bringue (party). The sound of the 'ukulele always comes with a smile! The strumming…
The history of Tahitian dance
Tahitian dance, called 'ori Tahiti, is a vibrant, sensual and exciting embodiment of the spirit of Polynesia. Profoundly anchored in the culture and history of The Islands of Tahiti, it is more than just a performance, it is an art form and a powerful means of expression, used to convey emotions, tell stories and transmit…
Cultural Immersions in Huahine
The magnificent turquoise lagoon of Huahine is an irresistable temptation, but try to make the time to explore the island itself and discover its rich culture. Bobby Holcomb is an American singer who made his home in Huahine for 25 years until his passing in 1991. He is greatly missed by all Polynesians and especially…
Efforts to preserve endangered species in The Islands of Tahiti
The population of The Islands of Tahiti is committed to the preservation and protection of endangered species. Increased public awareness of the environmental challenges facing French Polynesia is helping to drive the implementation of a sustainable tourism that will protect our fenua, the ocean and the unique biodiversity of our islands. The geographical isolation of…
Tahitian practices and sustainable tourism
As part of an ever more sustainable tourism and the protection of the environment of The Islands of Tahiti we want to explain how traditional Polynesian practices have an important role to preserve a sustainable lifestyle on our islands. The inhabitants of French Polynesia have an inestimable cultural heritage. Polynesian traditional practices favor a sustainable…
The Islands of Tahiti: A sustainable paradise
A voyage to French Polynesia is a unique experience. It is the opportunity to relax and recover, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday modern life, in a perfect island paradise. Reconnect with the essential and feel the Mana in The Islands of Tahiti. Responsible tourism is a way of getting back to the…
Making a flowercrown
Polynesians love to wear flowers. As soon as you arrive you'll receive a garland of flowers as a sign of welcome. Be careful, if you wear a tiare Tahiti flower behind your right ear it means you're single! Wear it behind the left ear if your heart is already taken. A flowercrown is an elegant…
Making mono’i in Tahiti
Tahitian mono'i is the sacred oil that you find everywhere in The Islands of Tahiti. The name alone speaks of beauty and well-being. Made from coconut oil and tiare Tahiti flowers, mono'i is one of the prized beauty secrets of the Polynesian vahine. Mono'i has always been used by Polynesians for its skin hydration properties…
The history of Tahitian drums
All visitors should attend a spectacle of traditional music and dance at least once during their stay in The Islands of Tahiti. These celebrations of Polynesian culture are rhythmed by the beating of the pahu drum, which represents the passion, vitality and harmony of the Tahitian people. Many hotels and resorts stage their own spectacles…
The Islands of Tahiti, birthplace of the tattoo
The Ma'ohi, civilization began on the island of Raiatea in the Society Islands over a thousand years ago. Groups of people set sail from there to explore the Pacific Ocean. Settling in one island after another, generation after generation, they reached places as far apart as New Zealand, Hawaii and Easter Island. This vast zone…
Participate at an ‘ahima’a
An 'ahima'a is an almost compulsory feature of any a festive gathering in The Islands of Tahiti. These traditional earth ovens require quite a bit of preparation. The oven is actually a hole in the ground, filled with red hot volcanic stones and used to steam cook food. The stones have been heating on a…
Tahitian first names
Tahitian first names have an exotic and poetic ring to them and are popular far beyond the shores of The Islands of Tahiti. Traditional Tahitian first names are deeply rooted in Polynesian culture and mythology. Each name has a particular significance and is never chosen lightly. If you decide you would like to give your…
The Tuamotu Islands: Coral Reefs and Turquoise Lagoons
The Tuamotu Islands in the heart of the South Pacific are a veritable tropical paradise. With their turquoise lagoons, soft, white or pink sandy beaches and magnificent coral reefs, they are the South Sea Islands of picture postcards. And the scenery beneath the waves is every bit as magical as it is above. Nowhere is…
Fafaru, an olfactory challenge
Fafaru is one of the most popular dishes in The Islands of Tahiti. However, most tourists never try it, because of its incredibly pungent odor. If you can put up with the smell, fafaru is a succulent and delicious fish dish that you should try...once, at least! Fafaru is one of the most preferred dishes…
Tahitian Vanilla, the Scent of Paradise
Vanilla, the flavor of ice creams and birthday cakes when you were young. Vanilla has a unique and special taste, and a heady perfume that makes you close your eyes and breathe in deeply. The vanilla grown in The Islands of Tahiti is one of the very best, used by top chefs in the finest…
Wearing a Pareo
If there is one piece of clothing that symbolizes life in The Islands of Tahiti, it's the pareo. Long or short, a dress or a skirt, worn by vahine, but also by men. The pareo is the most versatile of garments. Almost a national costume, the pareo or sarong, is called a pareu in Tahitian,…
The Moana Experience
The animated Disney film, Moana, called Vaiana in the French version, was inspired by The Islands of Tahiti. Disney's creative team visited the islands of Moorea, Tahiti and Huahine, which was the inspiration for the character Te Fiti. Follow our visitor's guide in the footsteps of Moana. The romantic, animated Disney film, Moana, has its…
Try out a va’a, the Polynesian canoe
The outrigger canoe is an integral part of Polynesian culture, and Tahitians are always delighted to give visitors lessons. Don't worry, with a little trial and error, you'll soon get the hang of it. A canoe is called a va'a in Tahitian. A va'a is a canoe attached to an outrigger (ama), by two struts…
A Tour of Tahiti by Truck
You should take at least a day to explore Tahiti, the main island of French Polynesia. The most authentic way to do so is on a truck, the traditional Tahitian bus. The Tere Fa'a'ati is a festive tour of the island by truck that is organized each year in January. Tahiti is the biggest and…
Hiking in Tahiti and Bora Bora
When you think of French Polynesia, the image is of coconut palms, sandy beaches and turquoise lagoons. But there is another side to the islands that is equally as beautiful. The lush green hills and valleys, waterfalls and archeological sites that you'll discover when you go hiking in the interior of The Islands of Tahiti.…
Sculpture and engraving in The Islands of Tahiti
Sculpture and engraving have a significant place in the art and culture of The Islands of Tahiti. They are closely linked to the Polynesian identity and tradition. During your visit, you'll be able to learn about the significance of these objects and the meanings of the designs etched into them. In The Islands of Tahiti,…
Tahitian dance costumes
Sensual, inventive and captivating, Tahitian dance is an unforgettable spectacle that can only be appreciated fully in The Islands of Tahiti. It's a dance that expresses itself in movement and music, but also in the magnificent costumes of the dancers. The creation of these costumes is an art form in its own right. Dance is…
The Islands of Tahiti and the Cinema
The natural beauty of The Islands of Tahiti has been the background for many well-known films. Many famous actors have starred in films that were made in these islands, including Richard Thorpe, Robert Flaherty and of course, Marlon Brando. This exotic destination provides a perfect setting for a film, with superb scenery and ideal conditions…
The most beautiful sites in the Gambier Islands
At more than 1,600 kilometers from Tahiti, the Gambier Islands are a unique destination in The Islands of Tahiti. Far off the beaten track, these volcanic islands all share the same magnificent lagoon. Idyllic motu and some of the most beautiful churches in French Polynesia are just some of the sites to see.
Buying a tifaifai
The tifaifai is one of the flagships of traditional Polynesian handicraft. There's not a family inFrench Polynesia that doesn't have at least one of these works of art spread out on a sofa or bed. Take one home with you to add a splash of exotic Polynesian color to your bedroom or your baby's crib.…
A Visit to Papeete Market
Papeete market is a wonderful place to visit during your stay in The Islands of Tahiti. Situated right in the middle of the town, it is a colorful and lively center where you'll get a good insight into the daily life of the inhabitants of French Polynesia. The municipal market in Papeete was originally called…
Buying a handwoven basket
An emblematic souvenir of your stay in The Islands of Tahiti, is a handwoven basket. It is both a practical item and a work of art, as well as an accessory that never goes out of fashion. You can buy them in Papeete market and at roadside stands throughout The Islands of Tahiti. A basket…
Cultural Traditions of the Gambier Islands
Nestled together in an isolated lagoon, the Gambier Islands have a very unique charm. Far off the beaten tourist track, a vacation in the Gambier Islands is an authentic voyage to the heart of Polynesian culture, where ancestral traditions are preserved with pride. With their rich and thriving ancestral culture, the Gambier Islands are an…
The 10 Best Spots in the Society Islands
Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine... The Society Islands are known all over the world,for their beautiful scenery. Here are some of the very best spots to visit in this magical archipelago.
The Tiki and Paepae of Hatiheu, Nuku Hiva
You'll need to go by car to get there, because the magnificent bay of Hatiheu is on the other side of the island from the main village of Taiohae. A captivating archeological site with a troubled past, where you'll discover tohua, petroglyphs, tiki and much more besides. There are countless historical and cultural sites in…
In the Footsteps of Gauguin and Brel in Hiva Oa
Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel (a well known French musician) are united for eternity on the island of Hiva Oa. Both of them fell for the charms of this beautiful island and spent their last days in Atuona, the main village. They are buried a few meters apart, in the island's picturesque Calvaire cemetery. "To…
Visit Saint Michel Cathedral and its Surroundings
On the island of Mangareva in the heart of the Gambier Islands, stands the impressive cathedral of Saint Michel of Rikitea. Visit the interior and admire the mother-of-pearl decoration. The unique architecture of this 19th century religious building displays a different aspect of Polynesian history. The arrival of catholic missionaries in Mangareva had an immense…
Papeete, a Family Destination
Welcome to Papeete, the vibrant capital of Tahiti. Once you've settled into your accommodation, take a tour round the town center with the family. There's plenty to do for children and adults. Visit the lively market, stroll along the waterfront and let the family get its first taste of this South Sea island. A visit…
Top 10 sacred sites to visit in The Islands of Tahiti
Political, cultural and ceremonial centers, the marae were highly symbolic sites for Polynesians. Most of these open-air temples date from several centuries ago and to explore them is to delve into the very foundations of the ancestral culture of The Islands of Tahiti.
Three Little-Known Polynesian Islands
Take the time to get off the beaten track on your voyage to The Islands of Tahiti. Makatea, Rimatara and Tahuata are three little-known islands that are certainly worth visiting, as you'll find out here. Visiting somewhere off the beaten track is an ideal way to discover a destination's authentic culture and traditions. There are…
The Museums of Ua Huka
Ua Huka has four museums which promote the island's history, nature and culture. They are dedicated to the sea, archeology, petroglyphs and wood. The Papuakeikaa arboretum is an emblematic tourist site reputed throughout French Polynesia and beyond. These sites help to make Ua Huka a leading destination for cultural activities in The Islands of Tahiti.…
Celebrating a traditional Polynesian wedding
A traditional Polynesian wedding in The Islands of Tahiti is a moment of pure romance. Wearing white pareos, shell necklaces, and crowns and garlands of hibiscus and tiare tahiti, the bride and groom are summoned to exchange their vows in an emotional ceremony that they'll remember for the rest of their lives. A traditional Tahitian…
Preparing banana po’e
Like poisson cru au lait de coco, po'e is a classic of Tahitian cuisine. Served as an accompaniment to fish dishes or poulet fafa (chicken in spinach and coconut milk), it is extremely popular dish in The Islands of Tahiti. Po'e is based on fruit and tapioca flour or corn starch and although banana po'e…
Cooking raw fish with coconut milk
With such an exceptional climate, fruit, vegetables and spices grow in abundance in The Islands of Tahiti. They serve as fresh and often exotic accompaniments to fish, invariably caught the same day in the lagoon. You'll find perch, mahi-mahi, parrotfish and swordfish on the menu, and of course, the famous Tahitian dish of poisson cru…
Gastronomic Experiences
A vacation in The Islands of Tahiti is an opportunity to discover traditional Polynesian cuisine, based on fresh local produce, with fish dishes its speciality. There is also a large choice of other menus in the restaurants, snackbars and foodtrucks, especially on the main islands. You'll find French, Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese and Italian cuisine, and…
The Bird Colonies of Tikehau
Even for a lagoon in the island paradise of French Polynesia, Tikehau is something special. Just a 55 minute flight from Tahiti, it is an atoll of incredible natural beauty. It is also home to a rich and unique birdlife that will delight every ornithologist. Motu Puarua, known as Bird Island, is a sanctuary for…
Tour of the island of Tahiti – The spots you must see
The quickest way to get to know Tahiti is to rent a car and drive round the island. A chance to see (almost) everything in just one day. This itinerary is an ideal way to begin your voyage to The Islands of Tahiti. Stopping to admire luxuriant countryside, idyllic beaches, caves, waterfalls and historic sites…
Enjoy a Polynesian spa
Let yourself be pampered and enjoy the luxury of a Polynesian spa. A special place just for you to experience a moment of pure well-being and total relaxation. French Polynesia is a veritable jewel of the South Pacific, reputed for its natural beauty and the warm hospitality of the local population. Experience a special moment…
Unwind in Moorea
A vacation on the island of Moorea in French Polynesia is an occasion to relax and unwind. Take the time to admire the idyllic scenery of the beach, lagoon and mountains, and enjoy a taurami traditional Tahitian massage in the luxury of a hotel spa. Just a few miles by ferry from Tahiti, Moorea is…
Traditional Sports
The traditional Polynesian sports include stone lifting, javelin throwing, fruit carrier races, coconut tree climbing and va'a races. Most of them are far less easy than they look. Give them a try and see for yourself! The Tahitian name for traditional Polynesian sports is Tū’aro Mā’ohi. and they are another part of the ancestral culture…
The Tere A’ati in Rurutu
The island of Rurutu is in the heart of the Austral Islands, more than 370 miles from Tahiti. This small island paradise is known for its unique, authentic traditions, such as the annual Tere A'ati festival held every January. The entire population, old and young, gathers together for a grand procession around the island. A…
10 things you didn’t know about Tahitian culture
The culture and traditions of French Polynesia are part of what makes The Islands of Tahiti such an interesting and popular destination. Here are some features of that culture that you should be aware of when you visit.
Polynesian tattoos – Origins and significance
Tattooing has a long history in Oceania. The first traces of tattooing in Polynesia date back 2,000 years! Today, tattooing is still a thriving art in The Islands of Tahiti, perhaps more than ever, an this despite having nearly disappeared when it was banned by the christian missionaries. Every Polynesian culture has its own tattoos,…
Preparing a Polynesian fruit salad
There is an incredible abundance of fruit in The Islands of Tahiti, including watermelon, pineapple, mango, papaya, passion fruit, lychees, bananas, star fruit, abiu, rambutan and many, many others. You'll find fruit for sale at roadside stands or in the markets. Ask to try some of those that you've never seen before. Then make a…
Fire walking (Umu Ti)
Careful, things are going to get very hot! Welcome to the mystical and fascinating world of umu ti, firewalking in The Islands of Tahiti. An extraordinary ritual that is a mixture of courage, tradition and festive spirit. This captivating ceremony is one of the emblematic rituals of Polynesian culture. Take a closer look at this…
Discover History by Diving Shipwrecks
The Islands of Tahiti is a very popular destination with diving enthusiasts due to the variety of its marine life, especially the big species such as humpback whales, sharks, manta rays, dolphins and sea turtles. But there are other big attractions that you can discover beneath the waves with diving in Tahiti and Raiatea as…
Explore Taputapuatea
The Islands of Tahiti is a destionation where you can get back in touch with the essential things in life, feel the Mana and enjoy the magnificence of nature. To get a better understanding of the origins of the ancient culture of the islands, a visit to Raiatea is a voyage to the sacred birthplace…
The words of Mana
There is a sacred force in The Islands of Tahiti called Mana. It is something unique to French Polynesia and is a powerful flame that inhabits and links all living things, past and present. Mana is the vital force that is the spirit of the islands, the people and the ma'ohi culture. Wherever you visit…
8 specialities of The Islands of Tahiti you must try
French Polynesia boasts numerous culinary specialities and here's a list of some of the most delicious. Trying the local cuisine is the best way to get a real taste of The Islands of Tahiti.
Top 5 museums to visit
The Islands of Tahiti isn't just a destination of beautiful beaches and warm turquoise lagoons . It is also a land with a unique and thriving ancestral culture. Here are five of the best museums to visit in order to get a better understanding of the history and development of French Polynesia.
Exploring Tahiti’s Peninsula
The peninsula is the perfect place for lovers of nature, authenticity and of course, surfing. Known by Tahitians as Tahiti Iti, the peninsula is of volcanic origin, mountainous and untamed. Take the time to explore this unique and special part of Tahiti during your visit to French Polynesia. Tahiti is two islands linked together by…
Tour Papeete’s Street Art
An open air art gallery on the streets of Papeete. Take your camera and explore a very different side of Papeete, the side of its buildings. Numerous walls in the city have been painted with graffiti, with the blessing of the local authorities, and are now works of art. From 2014 to 2018, a Polynesian…
Soak up the Mana at the Marquesas Islands Arts Festival
Live and breathe Marquesan culture and discover the true sense of Mana in these remote and mysterious islands. At the three day Marquesas Islands arts festival you'll have a unique experience that you'll never forget. The first edition of the Marquesas Islands arts festival was held in 1986 to promote Marquesan culture in French Polynesia.…
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