3-Secrets to Experiencing the REAL Tahiti (French Polynesia) and Keep to Your Budget!

August 10, 2019

Virtually everyone that wishes to go to Tahiti, wants to experience something “authentic” in the islands.

You have heard of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora, but you may feel that these islands may be too “touristy” so you would like to include in their trip another experience or island that is unique or different. 

I have THREE secrets that will lead you to a great, authentic, and unique trip into the islands….and may just save you a bit of money!

Here we go! Want to begin planning? Click Here!

1.) Add one island to your itinerary that you have not known before. The Society Islands of French Polynesia contain Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. The Society Islands also contains the islands of Huahine, Tetiaroa, Raiatea, Taha’a and Maupiti. All of the Society Islands are accessible by Air Tahiti Nui and are included in the Air Tahiti “Bora Bora Pass”. This “Pass” is designed to see each island, as long as you do not repeat an island, for one low price. So if you are going to Bora Bora anyway, add an island or two for the same fair price.

Benefits: A.) You conserve expenditures with these other islands with less expensive resorts or B&Bs so that you can do more activities like hiking, snorkeling, or diving, and splurge on that overwater bungalow on Bora Bora. B.) Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a, and Maupiti are a bit off the grid and your experiences will be more true to the islands like on Huahine, touring with Poe and then helping her create lunch for the group or on Maupiti, snorkeling with the largest group of manta rays you have ever seen. C.) The snorkeling and diving on Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a, and Maupiti allow you to be in locations that few have the ability to get to and are away from the larger group tours. 

2.) Take a Boat! There are few ferry services in the islands, but you can sail between the islands of Huahine, Raiatea, Taha’a, and Bora Bora. These beautiful catamarans with captain and cook allow you to see these islands at a slow pace. It allows you to visit locations on the islands that are only accessible by boat. When you arrive at Bora Bora you can have your own movable overwater bungalow (your catamaran) in the lagoon. You can also interact with the sea wildlife in a way you cannot in a fixed over-water bungalow. It is just you and the dolphin, shark, or whale!.

Benefits: A.) Whether a small group catamaran where you have one cabin or a catamaran just for you, your access to deserted beaches, snorkeling locations, and hiking spots is much greater than from a hotel. B.) You’re dining at wonderful locations with just the sea and stars. C.) Remember that all the islands are surrounded by reefs. This allows you complete protection from the ocean waves until you sail from one island to the other. It is very calm. In fact, for those of you with seasickness worries, we can have a cruise that never leaves the lagoon and you still get to experience all the best locations! D.) The catamaran option is about the same cost as an overwater bungalow on Bora Bora, so it can offer you an option to conserve expenses as it includes your meals.

3.) Bora Bora, Tahiti, and Moorea have accommodation in locations where the locals are! You can still visit the most visited islands, but why not stay in a location on those islands that are in a unique location?

There are many to choose from: Tahiti has Vanira Lodge in the southern part of the island “Tahiti Iti” or “Little Tahiti”. This small lodge overlooks the massive waves in the season of Teahupoo.

Moorea has the Moorea Beach Lodge, on the western side of the island with amazing sunset views and right on the beach, Just a short walk to the nearby restaurants and shops.

Bora Bora has the Sofitel Private Island. This small, boutique hotel is perfect for a laid-back experience on Bora Bora and still be in the best view and snorkeling locations.

Benefits: A.) With all the smaller hotels you have fewer people in the resort and still have that great Polynesian spirit. B.) You have access to having meals with the locals, the best snorkeling, and views. C.) You reduce your costs but still enjoy the best of the islands. 

I hope these secrets help you plan a wonderful trip. If you still wish to help with your planning, just contact me here.

Enjoy the day! Kleon

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