Pacific Island Paradises

– 168 – www.paradises.com returned to the islands following the infamous mutiny on the Bounty. Before the arrival of the Europeans, the islands were divided into districts, each governed by a chief. When Pomare V abdicated in 1880, Tahiti and her islands, previously a protectorate of France, became a French colony, and in 1957 French Polynesia became a French Overseas Territory. Nature Lush vegetation grows high above the lagoons and bays and f loral scents permeate the tropical air. A myriad of tropical f lowers grow throughout the Tahitian islands. The national f lower is the tiare, a heavily scented gardenia which forms the basis of the traditional lei necklaces. The sights You can visit Point Venus where Captain Cook camped to observe the transit of the planet Venus in 1769, visit the Faaruma waterfalls, and at Taravao on the strategic isthmus joining Tahiti Nui and Tahiti Iti, wander through an old fort built by the French in 1844. Don't miss the Gauguin Museum in the Papeari district, set in exotic botanical gardens, and the wonderful fruit, vegetable and f lower market in central Papeete. Food and entertainment Tahitian tamara'a' or feasts can be arranged through local tour operators. The major international hotels often host evening programs with lavish buffets and dance shows featuring the performances of some of Tahiti's most talented dancers and musicians. Outside the hotels, French, Italian and Chinese cuisine is widely available. There are a host of bars, cafes and nightclubs scattered around Papeete giving travellers a wide choice and a chance to mix with the locals. Les Roulottes are a Papeete institution—a collection of mobile diners operating from early evening until late at night on the waterfront at Vaiete Square offering mouthwatering savoury meals as well as delicious desserts. Where to stay International luxury resorts and hotels nestle alongside motels, lodges and small pensions in the islands. For an authentic Tahitian experience, many families also offer rooms for rent within their homes. There are also youth hostels and campsites with cooking facilities for those on a tight budget. Getting around Le Truck is Tahiti's public bus service. The destination is posted on top of each Le Truck, which always begins and ends — T a h i t i —

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