Pacific Island Paradises

TAHITI climate, handpainted pareus, sundresses, bikinis, shirts and beachwear add instant beach chic to any wardrobe or make perfect gifts. Tahiti's prized black pearls are available loose or set in designer jewellery from jewellers and boutiques on Moorea, while the public market in Pao Pao beside Cook's Bay has locally made shell jewellery as well as hats, tote bags, baskets and mats woven from palm fronds, pandanus and banana plants. Moorea plays host to a number of special events each year that are well worth attending, including the Tahitian Tamara'a Show. Visitors arrive by outrigger canoe at sunset, try foods cooked in a traditional underground oven, enjoy a spectacular Polynesian dance performance and stay for the bringue or party that follows. The Tiki Theatre Village offers a taste of authentic Tahitian life, with its performances and displays of art and culture. Regular shows include the spectacular re-enactment of the coronation of a prince and his marriage, the Tahitian Legends evening which gives travellers the chance to enjoy tasty local specialties alongside an international buffet, and the open-air Great Polynesian dance show. Romantics can also organise their own Polynesian wedding at the Tiki Theatre Village. The ceremony takes place on a marae stone altar and is sure to be a highlight of any Tahitian holiday. Moorea is blessed with calm waters protected by a reef that provides an ideal environment for sailing, snorkelling and swimming. Sunset cruises offer a perfect way to soak up the vibrant tropical colours at dusk, champagne in hand, while there's nothing more exhilarating than a gallop on horseback along the endless beaches. The island's warm lagoon is a diver's dream and even the novice snorkeller will eagerly join the colourful schools of fish that frolic through the crystal-clear water and multi-hued coral. Other nautical activities on offer on the island include outer island charters, deep-sea fishing, motorboat cruising and sailing in glass-bottomed boats. Tours in glass-bottomed boats leave Hotel Bali Hai dock most days. Hotel Les Tipaniers Combining enchantment, and unspoiled beauty, Hotel Les Tipaniers is located in an idyllic corner of Moorea, just an eight–minute flight from the island of Tahiti, and 30 minutes by scenic catamaran. Amidst coconut palms and tropical flowers, 22 Polynesian style fares have their own bathrooms, telephone, safety box, free Wi-Fi and a private terrace overlooking the ccean. The 13 bungalows are equipped with kitchens providing guests with the freedom to self cater. A second property, Les Tipaniers Iti, provides an additional five, four-person fares equipped with kitchenettes, five kilometres from the hotel. Three romantic motus (islets), are located just offshore next to the protected coral reef and can easily be reached by individual outrigger canoe or motorboat. They are perfect sites for picnics, snorkelling, sunbathing or fishing. The on-site Nautical activity centre provides lagoon tours with shark and ray discovery, kayaks and paddleboard rental, and there is a scuba diving centre on-site. Dolphin watching tours with migrating whales in season and deep sea fishing can be arranged, horse riding is nearby as well as mountain biking, 4x4 tours, ATV tours, petanque, beach volleyball and hiking through the tropical rainforest. There is a small shopping centre located only 15-minutes walk from the hotel featuring a supermarket and a variety of clothing and gift shops. Cars and scooters are available to rent. The Beach Restaurant and Bar offers local, French and Italian favourites and The Garden Restaurant is open for dinner every night. There is also a weekly traditional and delicious Polynesian feast. BP 1002, Moorea FRENCH POLYNESIA Tel: +689 561 267 Fax: +689 562 925  Email: tipaniersresa@mail.pf  www.lestipaniers.com www.paradisesonline.com  223

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