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TROPICAL TERRAIN
The Island Chains And Their Different Topographies
SOCIETIES
Volcanic High Islands
Surrounded by ReefsTUAMOTUS
Reef Islands
MARQUESAS
Volcanic High Islands
COOK ISLANDS
Composite High Islands
Surrounded by ReefsSOCIETY ISLANDS—POLYNESIAN PERFECTION
Tahiti’s earthly beauty was born when two volcanoes erupted and formed an island so large that it represents almost 30 percent of French Polynesia’s landmass. The city of Papeete brings a whirl of cosmopolitan commerce and artistry to the island’s northwest end. Small towns dot the parameter of the island, but as you meander inward, the population drops as the elevation rises. Majestic peaks like La Diàdeme are visible from within the Fautaua Valley, which is home to an eye-stunning thousand-foot waterfall. Tahiti’s quieter side, Tahiti Iti, is home to the world-famous surfing wave, Teahupo’o. Surfers, swimmers, and kiteboarders all add color to the exotic black sand beaches that ring the island.
Moorea is a heart shaped island whose idyllic scenery is rumored to have inspired the mythic legends of Bali Hai. Encircled by a necklace made of coral, the reef provides a tranquil refuge to a multitude of exotic and iridescent fish. James A. Michener called Bora Bora ‘the world’s most beautiful island.’ Its towering volcanic spires disappear into the clouds, adding a touch of mystery to the island’s remote beauty. The isle of Taha’a’s bleached coral sand beaches and aquamarine waters come with the delightful scent of vanilla, the island’s most prolific crop. Guests of The Gauguin enjoy a day on Motu Mahana, a small islet off the coast of Taha’a, where they snorkel, kayak, sip out of coconuts and bask in the sun. This islet can be circumnavigated on foot in twenty minutes and is conveniently placed in the middle of an aquamarine lagoon. The “garden isle” of Huahine is actually two islands connected by a bridge (and a sand spit at low tide) and is fringed by a coral reef. Explore and you will discover restored ancient ceremonial sites (maraes) and centuries-old fish traps built out of rocks in Huahine’s lagoon.