The Beautiful Islands of Tahiti!
I promise you a shared travel experience with friends establishes an unforgettable, life-long bond. I am so excited by the promise of silky white beaches, impossibly blue lagoons, and islands fringed by elegant palm trees. What better way to experience the fabled islands of the South Pacific considered to be the pulse of French Polynesia, than on an award winning luxury small cruise ship?
Our ship is intimate, custom built for navigating through the dreamlike lagoons and ports with only 332 passengers, offering unparalleled service. Seventy percent of the spacious staterooms have balconies which I totally recommend!
Our journey through the mythical Society Islands of Tahiti.
Greeting me every morning. 😎
Paarara Artist's Cottage on Bora Bora. We observed the artist perfecting his colorful handicraft, including wall art as well as unique art on clothing.
Such an enchanting evening. Time to reflect.
As we marveled at the Tahitian sky on the top deck of m/s Paul Gauguin, Kim Novotny helped us to locate the Southern Cross.
The Underwater Walk in Bora Bora - beauty living in harmony featuring Trigger Fish, Butterfly Fish, Parrot Fish, Stingray, and Coral of the most vibrant colors.
Yoga on the stand up paddle board.... anyone?
Water sports from the back of the ship in Opunohu Bay.
Horseback riding in the Opunoho Valley, Moorea. You can't help but to be awestruck by its natural beauty. Jagged peaks surround lush greenery, encircled by the deep blue of the ocean and sky.
A highlight for many is surely a day on private Motu Mahana a short distance from the island of Taha'a, reserved only for ship guests. Swim in the warm waters, snorkel with colorful fish among the green and purple corals, take out the kayaks and paddle boards that have been brought out from the watersports marina. Why not treat yourself to an overwater massage, and enjoy a sumptuous barbecue feast, complete with specialty drinks from a floating bar.
We were entertained by a guest presenter of many talents, Vikram Vij. His five restaurants in Vancouver are reflections of the personal and culinary journeys that he has taken throughout India. My Shanti, one of his restaurants, received a nomination as one of Canada's Best New Restaurants..... easily among the finest Indian restaurants in the world. I am looking at my travel schedule to see when I can spend some time in Vancouver. Namaste and enjoy!
A Tahitian rainbow - declaring that the day will be a very good day. Although isn't that always the case in these fabled islands?
Conversation is plentiful as the open dining options in La Veranda, L'Etoile, and Le Grill are both exquisite and relaxed, with expertly prepared dishes, unlimited specialty drinks and fine wines throughout. The ship has made every effort to accommodate new found friends!
The colorful Saturday morning Papeete, Tahiti market.
The people of Tahiti have a beautiful soul. They are honored that we are visiting their paradise, as they treat us as they would family. Their culture is peaceful and colorful, with a bit of magic folded in.
A mother made her daughter a new head piece several times a week....just because~!
How can you leave Tahiti without purchasing a Tahitian Pearl? These black pearls are farmed in the turquoise waters of French Polynesia. They are often referred to as black pearls but have a remarkably unique color range.
A colorful floral arrangement and Tahitian delectables are at every turn. The locals are warm and delightful. Their wish is to make you smile and your journey memorable.
A stop in Bora Bora is never complete without dinner and/or drinks at Bloody Mary's. This was super convenient to dine at because the ship was overnight in Bora Bora. The restaurant has a convenient shuttle that will take you from and back to the pier. Tip: Be sure to make reservations in advance.
BUCKET LIST ALERT - scattered throughout the islands are sensational over the water bungalows, inspiring romance on an epic scale.
As the sun sets on this adventure which has been remarkable in so many ways, I am convinced that Tahiti should be on everyone's list. (By the way I rarely say this.) This is a destination that forces you to slow down, to reflect, and discover something new every day. I experienced the world under the water, which I had never done before.
The gateway to the islands of Tahiti is the city of Papeete, only 8 hrs from Los Angeles and and 6 hours from Honolulu. We broke up the flight from Chicago with a 2 night stopover, staying at a property in Santa Monica (a Virtuoso property where my clients receive amenities) which allowed our bodies to gradually get used to the time change.The price to book your adventure online versus using an advisor is no different. You can book this cruise online but why would you? By using a Virtuoso advisor you receive onboard shipboard credits and a trusted advisor to talk you thru the very important shore excursions when planning this unforgettable experience. You will be sent all kinds of tips gathered through my own personal travels!
"I have learned that I am not a tourist.....I am a traveler that not only sees but feels the world around me."
Kathy Moran
kmorantravel.com
630.267.3054
kmorantravel.com
630.267.3054
