French Polynesia Islands – Moorea

By Pamela Fairbank

Part 2

Here I swam in the ocean off of the deck of my over water bungalow at the intercontinental Moorea Resort and Spa, watching a black tip shark sail by me and sting rays.  This property is large with quite a bit of walking necessary, but lots of bungalow options. They also had a very good Polynesian show-food was great with lots of variety. Throughout the islands the fresh fish is amazing!

Our next site inspection was at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort and Spa.  This is where the beautiful over water bungalows with glass floor bottoms.  Beach bungalows had claw-foot tubs. Some of the garden bungalows connected to other bungalows to make one large bungalow for families, and all had private dipping pools. They offer free snorkel equipment and kayaks.  My favorite part was the Toatea Crepe Bar and restaurant in the middle of the over water bungalows.  The crepes are cooked right in front of you, reasonable prices $20-$25 per person. This restaurant is very romantic and you could watch them feed sharks.  The other thing I loved about this hotel is the proximity from the bungalows to the lobby and restaurant.  It was so easy to get around this resort.

The next day we took a boat to the Pearl Moorea.  This property is very near the one and only town for shopping and restaurants.  It is a smaller European feel resort –over water bungalows with glass bottoms. The restaurant food was fabulous- I recommend the sashimi!  Then we did an exciting 4x4 Jeep Safari Tour of the island. Pierre, our fun and engaging driver, knew the Island inside and out. Pierre took us up to the top of “Magic Mountain” and the “Belvedere Lookout.” Hang on tight during the drive, but it is well worth the end result. 

We made our way back to Papeete airport for flight to Bora Bora. Check in was easy, you can take up to 43 kilos of luggage. 

French Polynesia Islands – Tahiti

By Pamela Fairbank

Part I

I have been a travel agent for thirty-six years and finally was able to take my dream trip to the French Polynesian Islands- TAHITI!

After sending several honeymooners to this fabulous romantic destination it was amazing to be able to see Tahiti firsthand.  This idyllic paradise is not only perfect for honeymooners, but is a romantic escape for two or a family vacation of a lifetime.

Upon arrival and at every hotel, I was greeted by customary singing Tahitians playing the Ukulele, and presented with a wonderful flower lei, cold beverage and cool towel. The Polynesian people are all so friendly and welcoming.

I stayed at Le Meridian Tahiti which is a great property for a one or two night stay, before exploring other islands or taking a Tahitian cruise.  I recommend the deluxe panoramic view room and check out the sand bottom pool. 

Next, I visited the Intercontinental Tahiti Resort and Spa. They have large nice rooms and over water bungalows. This property is minutes from airport and downtown Papeete. The Intercontinental has the best Tahitian dinner show on Wednesdays and Fridays!

Looking for a black sand beach?  I found it at the Tahiti Pearl.  What I love about this property were the ocean views, the sound of the waves, and how you could see Moorea off in the distance.  We took a tour of Papeete, including the marketplace before boarding our Catamaran to the Island of Moorea and to the Intercontinental Moorea Resort and Spa.