Destination: French Polynesia
Jewel of the South Seas
Not exactly close to anything but ocean, ocean and more ocean, French Polynesia often seems like a remote island paradise where Paul Gauguin spent the last 10 years of his life painting. It can feel like these islands are hard to reach and expensive to visit. Island groups like Bora Bora conjure up images of lux overwater bungalows, jaw-dropping beaches and superb weather. While French Polynesia can be all of those things, it doesn’t have to be hard to reach or expensive to visit!
French Polynesia Travel Guide
Both a French Overseas Collectivity and the only French Overseas Country, French Polynesia has a fascinating blend of Tahitian culture tied into the ocean way of life mixed with French influence. From remarkable underwater experiences, to the tastiest fish you’ll ever eat and idyllic beaches contrasted with the thriving island city of Papeete, it’s a country that can only truly be explored by sea.
Taking to the water in year-round perfect temperatures, it’s easy to understand the relationship the Tahitian culture has with the sea. Whether swimming with the sharks and sting-rays in Moorea, diving around Tahiti or trying an underwater aquabike in the Bora Bora lagoon, there is something special for everyone.
If French Polynesia isn’t on your bucket list, it should be!
Cruising
Inspiration
A transpacific cruise is one of the easiest (and cheapest) ways to visit French Polynesia!
Sydney to Hawaii - Transpacific Crossing
Radiance of the Seas I Royal Caribbean
18 Nights
Sydney, Australia - Picton, New Zealand - Wellington, New Zealand - Pape'ete, Tahiti, French Polynesia - Mo'orea, French Polynesia - Bora Bora, French Polynesia - Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
Inspiration:
Wildlife Encounters
Swim in natural aquariums with abundant sharks, sting-rays and reef fish in the shallow lagoons of French Polynesia.
Inspiration:
Back to Nature
BORA BORA 4WD Tour
While the ocean is an undeniable part of French Polynesia, it’s not the only nature you’ll find. Take a 4WD tour on Bora Bora to explore the interior of the main island and climb the iconic Mount Otemanu rising out of the centre of the lagoon.
“All the joys—animal and human—of a free life are mine. I have escaped everything that is artificial, conventional, customary. I am entering into the truth, into nature.”
– Paul Gauguin
Inspiration:
Luxury Experiences
With luxury resorts on most islands in French Polynesia, it’s possible to spend a day, or a week, in luxury with sumptuous food, entertainment and gorgeous settings. Even French Polynesia’s own cruise line, Paul Gauguin Cruises offers a luxury experience.
