​An A to Z of Travel: French Polynesia

by Maddy Faulkner

Become a local in every location by using our Roam app, download here for free!

This week we’re taking a closer look at French Polynesia, which comprises more than 100 islands in the South Pacific including Tahiti, Mo’orea and Bora Bora.

These idyllic, isolated islands are picture-perfect, with miles of powder-white sand and the bluest of oceans filled with schools of tropical fish - it’s no surprise that these islands are at the top of most bucket lists!

Although this part of the world has a reputation of being one of the most expensive holiday spots on earth, a once-in-a-lifetime trip is certainly worth it, should you have the chance.

Save up to 50% when booking your Hotel in Bora Bora with Hotels.com

What to Do:

It’s no surprise that ocean-based activities are extremely popular with visitors to these islands, thanks to their natural underwater playgrounds. From shark feeding to diving amongst the coral reefs, you’ll never be bored!

Tahiti appeals to those in search of pure relaxation and adventure-seekers alike. If shark and stingray feeding is on your bucket list, this is the place to tick it off. But don’t just think you’ll be watching from the side of a boat… you’ll be in the water interacting with these beautiful creatures!

Northwest of Tahiti lies Mo’orea, a volcanically formed island boasting turquoise water and lush, green cliffs. If you favour land-based activities, the jagged hills of Mo’orea can be explored in an open-air 4x4 truck, or the land can be explored on a hiking tour.

Snorkelling enthusiasts will relish in exploring the Lagoonarium de Mo’orea, a pristine, protected part of the water where you can discover the most vibrant coral reefs. Divers are guaranteed to fall in love with the varied ecosystem and marine life.

A visit to Bora Bora will be incomplete without a visit to Matira Beach, where you relax and soak up the sun. It’s conveniently located, with access to nearby resorts, shops and restaurants. Grab a good book and you’ll be able to happily relax here all day long.

A boat tour is a great way to discover what Bora Bora has to offer. Whether you are in a sailboat or glass-bottomed boat, whether you want to go deep-sea fishing or animal feeding, the island has it all.

Save up to 50% when booking your Hotel in Mo’orea with Hotels.com

Where to Eat:

Tahiti delivers the best of French and Polynesian cooking. Le Lotus, situated within the InterContinental Resort, is an overwater restaurant with an incredibly romantic vibe thanks to its live piano music and candlelit tables. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy great food and watch the sun go down.

Rudy’s Restaurant in Mo’orea is renowned for its fine steaks and fresh seafood. French flavours are combined with authentic island influences to create delicious dishes - it’s a must visit!

La Matira Beach restaurant, which overlooks Matira Beach in Bora Bora, is an upmarket, ambient restaurant where fresh fish and light meals dominate the menu.

Where to Drink:

Island resorts are often the best places to grab a delightful cocktail with a magnificent view.

Bora Bora Yacht Club, located at the side of a lagoon, is a great place to chill out throughout the day. At night, you can grab a bite to eat, watch the sunset, mix with locals and dance into the early hours.

Save up to 50% when booking your Hotel in Tahiti with Hotels.com

Where to Stay:

Tahiti, Mo’orea and Bora Bora are known for having dreamy overwater bungalows in luxurious resorts. There are however, also alternative (and more affordable!) accomodation options including bed and breakfasts and smaller local hotels.

In Tahiti, the InterContinental Resort & Spa is a large resort situated close to the island’s airport. As well as overwater bungalows, there are hotel rooms offering panoramic views of the ocean. These start from £197 per night.

Mo’orea Surf Inn is an affordable family-run bed and breakfast situated on the west coast of the island. Guests can enjoy free use of surfboards, canoes, snorkelling equipment and bicycles. Rooms start from £57 per night.

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is a five-star, family-friendly resort which overlooks a private beach and crystal-clear waters. Splashing out on a luxurious overwater bungalow or beachfront villa is well worth it for an unforgettable experience! Rooms start from £1,003 per night.

Become a local in every location by using our Roam app, download here for free!

Related Posts