A holy grail of luxury travel, Tahiti and her islands hold promise of languid sensuality, tropical seas and carefree days.

Tahiti encompasses 118 far-flung islands that make up French Polynesia, and has long beguiled outsiders with its promise of languid sensuality, tropical seas and carefree days. Its five-star resort hotels have recently made Tahiti the Holy Grail of luxury travel.

Travel to Tahiti comes close to fulfilling the ideal of paradise. The islands and motus, which include Bora Bora, Tahiti, Papeete and Moorea, are still largely quiet and move at a slow pace; the water of French Polynesia is still amazing shades of blue or green; the mountains still rise dramatically above the sea.

And though the residents of French Polynesia may spend more time buzzing around on scooters than paddling outrigger canoes, they still (clichéd as it may sound) spend an inordinate amount of time humming or singing.

But as with most things beautiful, Tahiti isn’t easily had as a travel destination. A (decidedly chic) thatch-roofed bungalow there can cost you a little over the average for a night or more, and there are few bargains to be found in dining, activities or transportation. Optimal value for money is to be found in all-inclusive travel packages. That said, those who can afford a vacation in the islands of Tahiti aren’t likely to be disappointed. You might be tempted to stay forever.

Advisor tips for Tahiti

Resorts

Bora Bora Nui – Tahiti
This resort has great large rooms, it is very tranquil, chic but very Tahitian at the same time – it makes you feel like you are miles away from anything. I highly recommend the overwater bungalows and you can go snorkelling directly from the pontoon. – Glenda

Restaurants

Pink Coconut – Papeete
It is located at Marina Taina; it has water views and a little out of town but worth the trip. It has a groovy atmosphere with a great wine list. - Glenda

Must Do Experiences

Tuamotu’s - Tahiti
Choosing your very own black pearl directly from the black pearl farms in the Tuamotu’s. Manihi being one of the very best islands’s for this as it is covered with black pearl farms. - Glenda

Private BBQ picnic on an uninhabited island in Tahiti. Your guide will spear fresh fish for you and then cook on a BBQ served with local dishes – all whilst your snorkelling and relaxing on the beach – perfect! - Glenda

Swimming with stingrays and Sharks – Bora Bora – Tahiti
This is an unforgettable experience – where you can get up close and personal with these graceful sea creatures unlike anywhere else in the world. - Glenda

Canoe Breakfast in Bora Bora – Tahiti
What better way to enjoy breakfast than in the privacy of your overwater bungalow, the canoe breakfast is delivered to your balcony via outrigger canoe, so that you can enjoy whilst savouring the stunning views. - Glenda

Whale watching – Moorea – Tahiti
The best time to experience these amazing creatures is between June to October. - Glenda

Travelling around Bora Bora in a helicopter to see the sharks and turtle in the lagoon and reef, it was exhilarating and you are able to get quite close to them from a safe distance. – Julie

Swimming with Turtles – Bora Bora Tahiti
They are majestic creatures and you feel at one witch nature. You can get so close you can touch them. – Julie

Spas

Intercontinental Thalasso – Bora Bora – Tahiti
It is the largest spa centre in all of French Polynesia and offers an array of treatments for all tastes. The Thalasso therapy is internationally recognised as one of the leading spa treatments in the world with guest travelling from all over the world. – Glenda

The Taj Resort and spa Maldives.
Dedicated spa on its own beach on the edge of the atoll. The treatment pavilions are independent of each other – each pavilion is
designed for its speciality treatment. The location is stunning with an amazing menu of treatments to choose from. - Glenda

Cruises

Tahiti – Cruising on the Star Clipper
This wonderful ship with 4 masts makes it a visual sight alone. 200 passengers only – makes the service unique and 5 star - you never have to lift a finger. The ports this vessel visit are out of the way and this is a main attraction. - Julie