Sprawling over an area that is roughly about the size of the Western Europe, French Polynesia is an astounding destination in the southern Pacific Ocean. Boasting of mind blowing scenery, stupendous mountain peaks, dazzling waterfalls, magnificent valleys filled with aromatic flowers, isolated beaches and islands, incredible lagoons, and turquoise waters, French Polynesia is an overseas nation within the French Republic, and is made up of five archipelagos such as the Society Island, the Austral Island, the Gambier Islands, the Marquesas Islands, and the Tuamotu Island groups.
French Polynesia is better known by the name of its main island, Tahiti, which is in Society Archipelago. Each of the island groups in French Polynesia has its own significance, and is noted for its unique culture as well as ethnicity. Further, all of the 118 islands are much popular among the holidaymakers from across the world.
Most popular among the island groups in French Polynesia is the Society Archipelago, which covers such incredible destinations as Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, and Tahaa and Raiatea. Crystal-like clear water, breathtaking beaches as well as coral reefs, soaring volcanic peaks, and beautiful waterfalls - all sum up the island of Tahiti, which is not only the most prominent island in Society Group but also in whole of French Polynesia.
Sometimes acknowledged as the 'Island of Love,' Tahiti includes two island masses such as Tahiti-Nui and Tahiti-Iti, both of which are connected by an isthmus, namely, the Plateau of Taravao. Further, Tahiti is also home to the capital as well as the bustling port of Papeete, which in turn houses an array of police headquarters, government offices, airline and travel agencies, banks, and telecommunications center.
Al though Tahiti is the main island in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is the most beautiful as well as romantic of all islands in the South Pacific. One of its specialties is brilliant multicolored lagoon, which contains an array of rare as well as beautiful marine species.
The beauty of the island is further enhanced by two majestic mountains that dominate the island, such as, the Mount Otemanu and the Mount Pahia. Bora Bora is also much famed for its mythical and mysterious legends. Hence, it is not a wonder why the island is much sought after among the honeymooners, newly weds, and couples celebrating their anniversaries.
When Tahiti is bestowed with the title 'The Island of Love,' and Bora Bora acknowledged as the most beautiful destination on the earth, Moorea is referred to as the magical island, with its jagged volcanic peak, beautiful crystalline lagoons, and isolated small motus. Located just ten miles from Tahiti, Moorea's focal point is Tiki Village, which is frequented by couples who want to celebrate their marriage or renew their wedding vows in a special way.
When comes to the Huahine, it is popular among the vacationers as the Garden Island. Located about 120 miles north-west of Tahiti, Huahine is easily accessible from Bora Bora, Tahaa, and Raiatea. Other not to miss destinations in Society Archipelago is Tahaa, also known as the Vanilla Island, and Raiatea, otherwise called the Sacred Island.
With more than 75 coral atolls spread across more than 100 miles in the eastern Pacific, Taumotu Islands is made up of such magnificent islands as Rangiroa - the largest atoll in the archipelago; Manihi, noted for its clear lagoon; and Fakarava - a rectangular shaped atoll. Located about 1500 kilometers north-east of Tahiti is the Marquesas Islands, which consists of 12 volcanic islands, of which only six are inhabited. Gambier Archipelago is situated about 1500 kilometers south-east of Tahiti, and is home is to about 14 tiny mountainous islands, among which the largest as well as the most populated is Mangareva. Above all, Austral Islands is located south of Tahiti, and is well-known for its unique art and culture.
All of these island groups provide a spectrum of options for visitors to indulge in a myriad of activities, from land and water sport activities to fun-filled and adventure activities. Just few among them are deep sea fishing, parasailing, kayaking, diving, 4x4 safari tours, hiking, climbing, and much more. Likewise, for sightseers, a plethora of options are available. For instance, Bora Bora in Society Archipelago provides a continuum of attractions in the form of ancient Maraes and remnants of World War II.
With these scores of attractions and activities to enjoy, French Polynesia draws vacationers from every nook and corner of the world. Hence, it has accommodation to cater to every taste and budget. Perhaps the most popular choice among the honeymooners and newly weds is over water bungalows, which are complete with most sophisticated amenities and facilities.
Lagoons' crystal waters, impressive underwater cliffs, the amazing Big Blue of the Pacific Ocean are as many environments as there are exciting, surprising and unforgettable dives It's live entertainment on a natural big screen! From beginners to advanced divers, there are diving sites suitable to anyone.
BEFORE YOU TRAVEL
Please ensure you are in good shape and if not sure, do a medical check. Diving in Polynesia can be quite thrilling and tiring. If you haven't been diving for a long time, start with an easy dive. Check your equipment (pressure gauge, computer, BCD, wetsuit, etc) before packing"?this will avoid bad surprises once on the boat. Don't forget your diving diplomas, cards and log books.
DIVING REGULATIONS IN FRENCH POLYNESIA
Maximum depths are limited to: 1. 29 meters (95 feet) for level I CMAS, Open Water and Advanced Open Water Divers. 2. 49 meters (160 feet) for level II CMAS, Rescue Divers. 3. 60 meters (196 feet) for higher degrees. For introductory dives, no formalities are required. Qualified divers will be asked to provide their CMAS or PADI's card and log book.
PHOTOS AND VIDEOS
Visibility is usually good, even excellent, especially outside lagoons and in passes where it can reach 50 meters plus. Be aware that the electric power might not be compatible with your own equipment (flash, battery charger?) Don't forget to protect them from all external factors like sun, wind, sand, salt or water. Very few diving centers rent photo or video equipment. Some of them have good quality disposable underwater cameras for sale. You can have your films processed in Tahiti. However, delay may be long, and prices might be higher than in your home state.
FLYING AND DIVING
During your stay in French Polynesia, you will be most probably be traveling by flying between different Islands. After a dive, and before you go on a plane, please ensure that you wait 12 to 14 hours. In general terms, it is recommend not diving the last day of your stay. Take this time to visit or try one of the many other activities offered on the islands.
SHOPPING
There are no specialized shops on the islands (even though some shops do carry a very limited stock of diving equipment). The only shop in Tahiti, specialized in diving, sailing and most aquatic activities is: Nauti Sport.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Of course, wherever you travel, it is highly recommended that you take out travel insurance before embarking on any vacation. Unfortunately, without insurance, you have little recourse if you have to suddenly cancel your trip due to illness or other unforeseeable circumstances. Realize that resorts like this will expect to be paid no matter what. However, with travel insurance, you can recoup some or all of your costs if travel and vacation plans change. Travel insurance is very affordably priced, so please check out your options.
Both Wolfgang Jaegel & Robert Barner are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
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