Costco Connection - March 2012

travel connection

Paradise Found:

Tahiti

Rena Peterson

Costco Travel buyer

Buyer’s tıps

By Cynthia Dial

WHEN ONE DESCRIBES the Tahitian islands, one hears them: bird songs at dawn, trade winds rustling through palms, the beat of drums at day’s end.

O;cially called French Polynesia, this collection of 118 islands and atolls lies in the South Paci;c—seemingly close to nowhere but in actuality less than eight hours from Los Angeles and within Hawaii’s time zone. With an average temperature of 79 degrees and a beckoning blend of Polynesian and French customs, these French-governed islands are year-round magnets for visitors.

Ringed by coral reefs, punctuated with lush mountains and enclosing clear aquamarine lagoons, they’re magical, they’re mystical and they beg to be explored.

Tahiti: the queen of the Paci;c
Moorea: the magical island

The Costco Connection Costco Travel offers a variety of packages featuring Tahiti and Her islands. Click “Travel” at Costco.com or call 1-877-849-2730.

at sunset, a dolphin encounter, the Belvedere lookout’s dramatic view of the mountainous terrain, o;en draped in clouds.

Bora Bora: the romantic island
Huahine: the garden of Eden
Rangiroa: the endless lagoon

Although Moorea and Bora Bora are at the top of the paradisiacal chart, Huahine is a signi;cant rival. Far enough o; the tourist track to retain its authentic roots and resist modern-day pressures, the island is best described as laid-back. Cherished for its jungle setting and lack of nightlife, Huahine lures visitors with such attractions as the archaeological site and royal village of Maeva and 6-foot-long eels, deemed sacred by locals.

THE TAHITIAN islands are a magical place. I’ve discovered a few ways to save money and time and make the most of the experience there.

• Travel during the slower seasons (November to May). Off-season travel usually means fewer visitors and more opportunities to engage with the locals.

• Short on time? Fly Air Tahiti Nui in the evening. Their short-stay fares offer a lower fare if you stay only five nights. Arrive on Tahiti in the early morning, enjoy a full day on the beach and get six full days of vacation.

• If you’re traveling to and staying on more than one island, consider a garden, pool or beach bungalow on one island and an over-water bungalow on the other island.

• Explore the lesser-known islands of Tikehau, Manihi, Raiatea and Taha’a, which all offer unique, off-the-beaten-track experiences.

• Eat local. Try locally caught fish and Tahitian Hinano beer.

• Stop at a bakery in one of the villages and get fresh croissants or breads.

• Discover the evening roulettes (food trucks) located on the Papeete waterfront for a colorful dining experience.

• Split a meal, as portions are usually large.

• Pick up the wonderful local coconut soap or scented coconut oils that will soften your skin and keep your memories alive with the scents of Polynesia long after you have returned home. C