The isolated, heavenly islands of French Polynesia were one of the last places to be populated by people, also it was one of the last places to be colonised. Many tried to gain control over this wonderful area but the French managed to get a hold of it. Though French Polynesia is still dependant on France, it is slowly on its way to become a completely independent state. Consisting of 118 islands volcanic and coral island it is truly a place to relax and enjoy the peace. Maybe because it was populated to late that the nature seems almost untouched. There is a specific aura about it that absorbs all the negative energy like stress and anxiousness, leaving you with a heart full of calm and your head in nirvana.
The islands
Tahiti, often called the Island of Love, is the largest of the islands. It’s beautiful peaks are shrouded with white mist, it has beautiful beaches, pink coral reefs and lush green valleys. It is the island of excitement, though still a great place to visit with its lively atmosphere, many prefer the smaller islands for their reclusiveness.
Image by Daniel Chodusov via Flickr
They say that the legendary Bora Bora is the most romantic and exclusive island on our planet. Though it is fairly small, its beauty cannot be described accurately. The main island is centred around a blue and turquoise lagoon that is surrounded by smaller islands and a coral reef. The underwater life is even more impressive. The lagoon is home to many colourful fish of all sizes, sea turtles and playful dolphins. Bora bora was the birth place of the overwater bungalows that are perfect for couples wanting to relax and get away from it all. Staying Bora Bora villas and overwater bungalows is wondrous, you feel like you and your soulmate are the only people on the planet.
Moorea, shaped like a heart, is one of the jewels of the Pacific, its other name is the Enchanters. Its beauty is in the tall green peaks, white sandy beaches and a beautiful lagoon that is completely surrounded by a coral reef. It also has many pineapple plantations and the lagoon is inhabited by numerous schools of tropical fish.
Image by Loïc Lagarde via Flickr
Culture
Though the official language of French Polynesia is French locals use their native languages and many know English. They are proud, extremely friendly and relaxed because they live by the motto don’t rush and no worries. Their central values are hospitality, generosity and reciprocity. It’s a treat to see their dance performances and traditional celebrations. There is little point in going to French Polynesia if you don’t experience the culture. The Polynesia dances, costumes and music are very diverse and captivating, and will become a big part of your experience.
Food
The food is excellent, probably because it’s based on fresh ingredients. French Polynesian cuisine is a mixture of different influences; European influences combined with local ingredients and spices and with some Asian cuisine influence, as well. There are many types of fish, all of them good, that are either fried, cooked or roasted. The most famous speciality is Poisson Cru à la tahitienne or ‘Ota ‘ika, where raw fish is marinated in lemon or lime juice then coconut milk and diced vegetables are added. Tamara’a Tahiti are feats usually done for family celebrations and special occasions. This is when they serve pork, fish, yams, breadfruit and fe’i bananas that were wrapped in banana leaves and cooked by putting the wrapped food on layers of hot rocks that are in an earth-dug oven.
Image by watashiwani via Flickr