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Tetiaroa
is situated thirty miles north of the hustle and bustle of Papeete. It is
a glittering atoll, comprised of 13 deep green coconut islets encircled by
a coral reef. Formerly the summer residence of Tahitian kings and now
owned by Marlon Brando, this private atoll has its own beautiful lagoon
and many, many miles of empty white sand beaches. On
one of these islets, Hotel Tetiaroa offers rustic Polynesian style
bungalows made from materials found on the island and set right on the
beachfront. The only sounds you will hear are the thud of a coconut
falling in the forest, the cries of birds and the thunderous roar of the
sea as it breaks into rainbow cascades on the coral reef surrounding the
atoll. A
tranquil trip back to nature...
Activities
here include boating, outrigger canoes, windsurfing, fishing trips, and
picnics to nearby islands. There is superb snorkelling and diving inside
the 100 foot deep coral gardens in the marine reserve. However, you will
need to bring your own gear.
Tetiaroa
is home to thousands of seabirds who lay their eggs on the white powdery
sands of the beaches and excursions can be arranged to visit Tahuna Iti
which has been designated a seabird sanctuary. There are still the remains
of several ancient 'maraes' and giant 'tuu' trees on the Rimatuu islet.
In
between relaxing and soaking up the spectacular sunsets, guests can savour
the hotel's cuisine which is a delicious mixture of French and Tahitian
and, of course, the bar is always well stocked.
Tetiaroa
offers a holiday of unforgettable beauty, relaxation and the opportunity
to mingle with Tahitians as they really like to be. The island can be
reached by charter flight in around 20 minutes by small plane which can be
arranged at the Tetiaroa office located at Tahiti Faa'a airport. And the
good news is that it is possible to visit on a day trip, although most
will find it hard to leave this exquisite nature playground. For
more general information
on French Polynesia, go to: |
