French Polynesia
Did you know that the islands of French Polynesia stretch more than 2000 kilometers across the South Pacific? That’s more than Europe! This expansive territory is home to more than one hundred islands, each with its own breathtaking natural scenery. Just imagine yourself lounging on an over-water bungalow and looking out across on the enthralling blue-water ocean beyond.
Bora Bora & Tahiti
Visiting all of the French Polynesian islands would be an exhausting and time-consuming undertaking. The two most prominent destinations are Bora Bora and Tahiti. You can fly direct to Tahiti (PPT) from international cities such as Auckland, Honolulu, Los Angeles, Paris, San Francisco, Santiago de Chile, and Tokyo. There are multiple daily Air Tahiti flights between Tahiti and Bora Bora.
Here are some cultural activities and culinary delights you won’t want to miss during your French Polynesian adventure.
Papeete: the Capital of French Polynesia
Tahiti and Bora Bora are somewhat exclusive destinations, with the majority of tourists flying in from Sydney as well as the rest of Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia. Papeete is definitely the tourist hotspot of French Polynesia. The majority of travelers flock to the seaside city to explore its food scene and cultural heritage.
Don’t expect to be wowed with legacy architecture or high-rise cathedrals. The cityscape has a predominantly turn-of-the-century look to it, with a few churches and museums dotting the busy streets. That doesn’t mean that the city has no cultural attractions. There’s the Museum of Street Art as well as the Robert Wan Pearl Museum, which exhibits the black pearls which the city is famous for. If you’re craving some fresh air and want to experience the hustle and bustle of the city, you can explore the thriving Municipal Market.
The Culinary Delicacies of Papeete
The culinary scene of the main island of Tahiti is a blend of numerous culinary influences from around the world. French, Chinese, and Italian are the predominant ones. The food is prepared with native ingredients, making every dish a unique delicacy. In Papeete it’s all about eating out and not just in restaurants. A visit to the food trucks stationed at Place Vaiete along the city’s coastline is a must.
The Tahitian palate is rich and diverse, ranging from the traditional roasted pork to fresh fish and seafood marinated in béchamel sauce or even coconut milk. Don’t hesitate to try it all before you fly off to Bora Bora.
Bora Bora: the Island Paradise of French Polynesia
Bora Bora is one of those idyllic island getaways intended for pure rest and relaxation. You know you’re in Bora Bora when you’re holding a fresh cocktail in your hand while you hear the sounds of traditional instruments chiming in your ears. You can reach Bora Bora from Papeete easily as Air Tahiti flights are affordable and available throughout the year.
Once you arrive, there is no shortage of things to see and do. While there is no denying that the beaches are beautiful and mesmerizing, the true beauty of Bora Bora lies in its cultural heritage and its vibrant culinary scene. You will also have the chance to experience the traditional song and dance of the Maohi people.
Bora Bora’s French Cuisine with Polynesian Ingredients
The food in Bora Bora cuisine is comprised of French cuisine using New Zealand meat, mixed with native herbs and spices. This plethora of vibrant tastes and aromas define the culinary scene of Bora Bora. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t order something more traditional and locally-sourced. With that in mind, you can’t go wrong with the island’s fresh seafood. Be sure to order ocean fish rather than fish caught in the lagoon if you want the finest quality seafood available.
The Song and Dance of the French Polynesian Ancestors
Tahitians (or Maohi) are the ancestors of Polynesia. For more than a century, the cultural heritage of Bora Bora was suppressed in order to allow for the French influences to flourish, while the French protectorate was being established. In recent decades, however, great effort has been taken to revive the cultural heritage of the Maohi through song and dance.
Across the islands, the traditional art form of the ancients fills up the nights with sounds of pahu and toere drums, as well as the nose flute. You’ll also hear the familiar sound of guitars and ukuleles which migrated from western civilizations. Don’t be shy about joining in on the traditional dance of tamure. It truly is a once in a lifetime experience.
French Polynesia is truly one of the most exotic destinations in the world and a real foodie paradise. Combining a stay in Papeete with an exploration tour of Bora Bora will allow you to experience French Polynesia in all its glory and culinary delights while giving you an unforgettable glimpse into the intriguing past of a thousand-year-old culture.
The food looks so different and I am sure it’s delicious. The islands of French Polynesia are always in my mind. It’s great to read about the food and culture there. Tahiti culture is preserved well among the tribes and you are lucky to have experienced them. I would do too, very soon.
Thanks Shreyasha! With travel starting to reopen, maybe we’ll get there soon!
Tahiti has been on my bucket list since before I knew what a bucket list was. Your photos are so beautiful and the food looks so interesting and delightful. You have made me want to go even more than I did before. I really love that there isn’t a big city area on the islands, full of lots of concrete structures. It makes it an even better escape.
Thanks Kathleen. Although I’ll always be more of a city person, I also enjoy photographing beach areas like these.
The food looks so tasty. I would love to visit Tahiti and Bora Bora and stay in an overwater villa. It is a long flight from home but maybe someday I will get there!
Yes, it would take me about a day to get there if you include getting to the airport.
I have always dreamt of going to Bora Bora more than I would have loved to go to Maldives. Must be interesting to try their cuisine as it is a mix of French, NZ, and native ingredients!
Yes, Justine. I’ve been pleasantly surprised eating on island destinations like this!