Overview

Lake Gunn, South Island © Jocelyn Kinghorn

Tahiti and 118 attendant islands and atolls make up the captivating, tropical country of French Polynesia, a French overseas territory that is spread across an area of the South Pacific that is as big as western Europe.

Its earliest explorers thought they had found paradise on earth when they came across these picture-perfect islands, and today's travellers are no less entranced by the volcanic mountain peaks clothed in lush tropical vegetation and exotic flowering plants, and encased by coral reefs, warm waters, and white sand beaches. Add to this abundant beauty the warm hospitality of locals, a collection of world-class resorts, spas, fine restaurants, nightclubs, and vibrant markets, and one would imagine the islands would be overrun with exuberant vacationers.

So it is surprising to discover that despite being a dream destination for many, French Polynesia remains gloriously uncrowded. The lack of tourist hordes is mainly the result of the remoteness of the islands, ensuring that travellers who do manage to visit find the destination friendlier, more authentic, and less crowded than many similar destinations. This means it is possible for a visitor to tuck a tiare (Tahiti's national fragrant white flower) behind their ear, pack their swimsuit and pareu (sarong), and head off to find their own idyllic piece of Polynesian paradise.

One group of travellers who reliably come to French Polynesia in droves are surfers, for whom Tahiti is an established paradise. The famous French Polynesian surf spots are mostly not for the faint-hearted, with notorious breaks such as Teahupo'o treated as serious testing grounds for world-class surfers. However, despite its formidable reputation as a big wave surfing destination, French Polynesia does also offer fodder for beginners and surf can be found all year. It is also a gem of a travel destination for scuba divers and snorkellers.

French Polynesia has much to offer anyone who fancies a tropical holiday destination. Those who are willing to travel a little further afield than usual to enjoy one will be richly rewarded.

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