Costco Connection - March 2011

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A Tahiti state of mind

By Sarah Wyatt

TAHITI: JUST ITS NAME conjures images of exotic serenity and splendor. Composed of 118 diverse islands in French Polynesia, Tahiti is the perfect destination for romance, rejuve-nation, family fun and adventure. The stunning white-sand beaches, natural waterfalls, lush rain forests and abundant warm wishes of manuia—a Tahitian greeting for “cheers”— are sure to indulge every taste.

The friendly locals and the feeling of cultural authenticity of the island of Bora Bora have drawn a nod from Hollywood with movies, television shows and celebrity honeymoons. From the 1935 classic The Mutiny on the Bounty, to the contemporary Couples Retreat, moviegoers are noticing what makes this island so extraordinary. The island was recently the backdrop for the finale of the ABC reality romance show, The Bachelorette. There is a hefty ongoing list of celebrities—including country diva Carrie Underwood—who have visited Bora Bora for either a honeymoon or a romantic escape. For those who are interested in experiencing their own couples’ retreat, the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort is located at famous Matira Point, which is often regarded as one of the most beautiful sites in French Polynesia.

On the main island of Tahiti, Papeete has become a gateway for modern travelers to French Polynesia. The city’s public market, Le Marché, nightclubs and lively mix of French and Asian restaurants—plus the evening rou-lotte dining trucks that provide a festive, casual way to dine—offer visitors urban excitement before they retire to the island’s remarkable coasts. Some resorts feature spectacular views of Tahiti’s sister island, Moorea.

Dubbed “The Magical Island” and also the inspiration of many works by French painter Paul Gauguin, Moorea is a true romantic paradise with unspoiled beauty. The island offers couples the best of all the Tahitian islands, with

ALL PHO TOS COURTESY OF TAHI TI TOURISME

INTERCONTINENTAL FRENCH POLYNESIA

Seven-Night Packages Include:

Local entertainment and resorts such as InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort (top) indulge the Tahiti traveler.

The Costco Connection Costco Travel offers vacation packages to the islands of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Taha’a, Huahine, Tikehau and Manihi. For more information, visit the Travel section of Costco.com or call Costco Travel toll free at 1-877-849-2730.

turquoise lagoons, select resorts featuring bungalows and acclaimed spas. Nightly sail excursions to view Moorea’s sunset glows are a favorite among honeymoon and other romance travelers.

Tahiti is a smaller destination compared to its cousins to the north, receiving as many passengers in a year that Hawaii gets in about 12 days. Adventure sports are popular draws for families with children, with many of the resorts offering kayaks for guests to use. Several excursion companies offer kite surfing, 4x4 plantation tours, ray feeding, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding, surfing and hiking. Families with children have an extra incentive: Air Tahiti Nui frequently offers a Kids Fly Free program.

Ecotourism has presented one of the biggest changes in French Polynesia over the past decade. The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa boasts eco-friendly technologies, including an air-conditioning system powered by sea water. Many resorts throughout Tahiti are Green Globe certified, offering travelers options to enjoy the islands while leaving behind a very small carbon footprint.

Indeed, it’s possible to wish manuia to the planet and yourself. C

INTERCONTINENTAL MOOREA from $2,545 per person Includes a romantic dinner for two.

INTERCONTINENTAL
BORA BORA LE MOANA
from $3,749 per person*

Includes an Overwater Bungalow and daily dinner on Bora Bora.

INTERCONTINENTAL
BORA BORA & THALASSO SPA
from $3,969 per person*

Includes an Overwater Bungalow and daily dinner on Bora Bora.

Valid for travel 4/1/11 – 5/31/11 and 11/1/11 – 3/31/12.

For complete vacation details, visit the
Travel section of Costco.com.

*Price shown is per person based on double occupancy, and includes airfare and hotel taxes. Due to airfare and/or currency ;uctuation, price is subject to change. Fees for checked baggage may apply and vary by airline. For complete information, please visit the airline’s website. Price is valid for travel as speci;ed, is valid for new bookings only and is available to Costco members residing in the United States. Price and inclusions are subject to change without notice. Any unused portion(s) of inclusions are nontransferable, nonrefundable and not redeemable for cash. Cancellation and change fees may apply. Travel purchases are not included in the Executive Membership 2% Reward program. Seasonal surcharges, availability, blackout dates and restrictions may apply. All prices are in U. S. dollars. Costco Travel disclaims liability for any inaccuracies or typographical errors. Costco Travel is registered as a seller of travel in each of the states listed: California registration number: CST 2054248-50 • Florida registration number: ST 32555 • Hawaii registration number: TAR 5595

• Iowa registration number: TA 620 • Nevada Seller of Travel registration number: 2007-0060 • Washington registration number: WST 602042600. Registration as a California Seller of Travel does not constitute approval by the state. 11TR0504 1/11