• Tetiaroa Atoll Beach
    French Polynesia

    Tetiaroa Atoll: An Unforgettable Day Trip from Tahiti

    While Moorea is famous for its crystal clear waters and Tahiti for its jet-black sands, Tetiaroa Atoll is the type of place that is most synonymous with my imaginings of the Pacific. Paradisiacal and remote, it is an isolated ring of white sand lined with palm trees and surrounded by coral gardens. Tetiaroa’s isolation gave me the feeling that I was journeying to the end of the Earth. Aside from Arno Atoll in the Marshall Islands and And Atoll in Micronesia, I’m not sure if I’ve ever been anywhere so…

  • Black Sand Beach in Tahiti
    French Polynesia

    Driving around Tahiti: Top Things to Do and See

    Tahiti conjures images of a far-flung tropical paradise. The largest island in French Polynesia, it has long been associated with crystal clear waters, soft white sands and luxurious overwater bungalows. Yet, in Tahiti, the sands are not white and the waters are not clear. And stepping foot on the island might make you wonder about the images you’ve seen in holiday brochures. It is a paradoxical place—one whose very name draws people to French Polynesia, and then ultimately becomes overlooked by travelers opting to visit other islands instead. Tahiti may…

  • Stingrays in French Polynesia
    French Polynesia

    Budget Guide to Moorea, French Polynesia

    French Polynesia is often regarded as paradise on Earth. You’ve likely seen images of its jewel-like islands plastered on tourist brochures and social media. The South Pacific archipelago is a honeymooner’s dream. Its crystal waters, lush mountainous interior and soft white sands have long been associated with the ultimate luxurious escape. There are simply few places on the planet that compare with French Polynesia’s exotic appeal.   THINGS TO DO IN MOOREA ON A BUDGET Moorea is one of the most beautiful islands in French Polynesia. Though it often lies in…