French Polynesia - A Heavenly Destination

Sprawling over an area that is roughly about the size of the Western Europe, French Polynesia is an astounding destination in the southern Pacific Ocean. Boasting of mind blowing scenery, stupendous mountain peaks, dazzling waterfalls, magnificent valleys filled with aromatic flowers, isolated beaches and islands, incredible lagoons, and turquoise waters, French Polynesia is an overseas nation within the French Republic, and is made up of five archipelagos such as the Society Island, the Austral Island, the Gambier Islands, the Marquesas Islands, and the Tuamotu Island groups.

French Polynesia is better known by the name of its main island, Tahiti, which is in Society Archipelago. Each of the island groups in French Polynesia has its own significance, and is noted for its unique culture as well as ethnicity. Further, all of the 118 islands are much popular among the holidaymakers from across the world.

Most popular among the island groups in French Polynesia is the Society Archipelago, which covers such incredible destinations as Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, and Tahaa and Raiatea. Crystal-like clear water, breathtaking beaches as well as coral reefs, soaring volcanic peaks, and beautiful waterfalls - all sum up the island of Tahiti, which is not only the most prominent island in Society Group but also in whole of French Polynesia.

Sometimes acknowledged as the 'Island of Love,' Tahiti includes two island masses such as Tahiti-Nui and Tahiti-Iti, both of which are connected by an isthmus, namely, the Plateau of Taravao. Further, Tahiti is also home to the capital as well as the bustling port of Papeete, which in turn houses an array of police headquarters, government offices, airline and travel agencies, banks, and telecommunications center.

Al though Tahiti is the main island in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is the most beautiful as well as romantic of all islands in the South Pacific. One of its specialties is brilliant multicolored lagoon, which contains an array of rare as well as beautiful marine species.

The beauty of the island is further enhanced by two majestic mountains that dominate the island, such as, the Mount Otemanu and the Mount Pahia. Bora Bora is also much famed for its mythical and mysterious legends. Hence, it is not a wonder why the island is much sought after among the honeymooners, newly weds, and couples celebrating their anniversaries.

When Tahiti is bestowed with the title 'The Island of Love,' and Bora Bora acknowledged as the most beautiful destination on the earth, Moorea is referred to as the magical island, with its jagged volcanic peak, beautiful crystalline lagoons, and isolated small motus. Located just ten miles from Tahiti, Moorea's focal point is Tiki Village, which is frequented by couples who want to celebrate their marriage or renew their wedding vows in a special way.

When comes to the Huahine, it is popular among the vacationers as the Garden Island. Located about 120 miles north-west of Tahiti, Huahine is easily accessible from Bora Bora, Tahaa, and Raiatea. Other not to miss destinations in Society Archipelago is Tahaa, also known as the Vanilla Island, and Raiatea, otherwise called the Sacred Island.

With more than 75 coral atolls spread across more than 100 miles in the eastern Pacific, Taumotu Islands is made up of such magnificent islands as Rangiroa - the largest atoll in the archipelago; Manihi, noted for its clear lagoon; and Fakarava - a rectangular shaped atoll. Located about 1500 kilometers north-east of Tahiti is the Marquesas Islands, which consists of 12 volcanic islands, of which only six are inhabited. Gambier Archipelago is situated about 1500 kilometers south-east of Tahiti, and is home is to about 14 tiny mountainous islands, among which the largest as well as the most populated is Mangareva. Above all, Austral Islands is located south of Tahiti, and is well-known for its unique art and culture.

All of these island groups provide a spectrum of options for visitors to indulge in a myriad of activities, from land and water sport activities to fun-filled and adventure activities. Just few among them are deep sea fishing, parasailing, kayaking, diving, 4x4 safari tours, hiking, climbing, and much more. Likewise, for sightseers, a plethora of options are available. For instance, Bora Bora in Society Archipelago provides a continuum of attractions in the form of ancient Maraes and remnants of World War II.

With these scores of attractions and activities to enjoy, French Polynesia draws vacationers from every nook and corner of the world. Hence, it has accommodation to cater to every taste and budget. Perhaps the most popular choice among the honeymooners and newly weds is over water bungalows, which are complete with most sophisticated amenities and facilities.