Tantalizing Tahiti

When you think Tahiti what comes to mind?

Swaying palms, aquamarine lagoons, jagged mountains, thatched roof bungalows over clear water, white sand or black sand beaches and the colorful, fantasy paradise of Gauguin that soothes the soul.  Alas, also one thinks of outrageous priced luxury resorts that make it impossible for most to experience this tropical gem that sits invitingly, out in the middle of no where.

We were so pleased to discover that we could visit Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea on our 7 year around-the-world  family trip and still stay on our cheap $23/day pp budget. Better yet ,we even got to know the locals and see the normal life of French Polynesia, like these guys selling fresh caught fish along the road side. We liked it so much, we might return for a long stay and immerse in a bit of kidlet's French there in this land of enchantment.

Yes, we visited some of the luxury hotels for free ( like the locals do) as a day trip or to see a dance show, but actually preferred the more authentic parts of our experience and connecting with locals. We've really fallen in love with the spirit and heritage culture  of these people in Hawaii, Tahiti and New Zealand.

MORE TIPS ON HOW TO VISIT TAHITI FOR CHEAP

THE ULTIMATE TAHITI VACATION ON A BACKPACKER LOW BUDGET

BORA BORA ON A CHEAP BUDGET

FAMILY TRAVEL FRENCH POLYNESIA CHEAPLY

MOOREA CHEAP AND AMAZING


What is your tantalizing Tahiti dream?

Comments

[Pufferfish]

Oh how I loved Tahiti! Actually, we only spent one night on Tahiti, but over a week on Moorea and it was a dream.
I never thought I'd be able to go there as it always sounded so incredibly exotic and expensive. I saw a last minute special one year right after Sept. 11 and knew I'd never find such a low price again. Ten days later we were in Tahiti! I dream of returning someday and snorkeling in those pristine waters.

[Jeanne @soultravelers3]

Oh, I so agree with you Pufferfish! Tahiti had been on my list for 20 years, and I am so glad I finally got to experience it, Bora Bora and Moorea!! Wish I'd done it sooner.

We loved it so much, we plan to go back for a long stay...probably on Moorea. The flights can be expensive but if one lives like a local, we were amazed to find it doable on a low budget.

I adored Bora Bora, but I think Moorea probably makes a better long stay as I am afraid I might get island fever in Bora Bora as it is so small and isolated, but Moorea is easily accessible to Papette for a change if needed.