All UNESCO World Heritage Sites
The Islands of Tahiti is a treasure trove of biodiversity and culture, where nature and history intertwine to offer breathtaking landscapes and unique heritage sites. Three sites are recognized by UNESCO for their exceptional value: the Fakarava Biosphere Reserve, the Taputapuātea Marae in Raiatea, and the Marquesas Islands. Discover what makes these places must-visit destinations.…
The Islands of Tahiti, birthplace of the tattoo
The Ma'ohi, civilization began on the island of Raiatea in the Society Islands over a thousand years ago. Groups of people set sail from there to explore the Pacific Ocean. Settling in one island after another, generation after generation, they reached places as far apart as New Zealand, Hawaii and Easter Island. This vast zone…
Tahitian Noni Juice
Tahitian noni juice is touted as a cure-all, medicinal drink that is enjoyed by fashion and fitness celebrities and holistic health practitioners all over the world. The elixir is praised as the solution to everything from problem skin and aging, to gout and inflammation issues, and much more. However, Tahitian noni juice as a miracle…
Tahitian Gardenia
The National Flower of French Polynesia The Tahitian gardenia, also known as the Gardenia taitensis, or by its original Tahitian name of tiare Tahiti, is the national flower of The Islands of Tahiti. Most commonly referred to as the Tahitian tiare flower, this type of gardenia has become a staple in Tahitian culture. The name…
The Tiki of Taaoa and the Upeke Archeological Site
Hiva Oa is the second biggest of the Marquesas Islands, after Nuku HIva. A 3 hour 45 minute flight from Tahiti takes you to Henua Enana, as the islands are called in the Marquesan language. Hiva Oa is a mystical land of tales and legends, charged with the spiritual force, Mana. It's what causes the…
Celebrate a traditional wedding
A traditional Polynesian wedding in The Islands of Tahiti is a moment of pure romance. Wearing white pareos, shell necklaces, and crowns and garlands of hibiscus and tiare tahiti, the bride and groom are summoned to exchange their vows in an emotional ceremony that they'll remember for the rest of their lives. Atraditional Tahitian wedding…
The Polynesian Tiki
In the mystical depths of French Polynesia there are treasures sculpted by the skilled hands of local craftsmen. They are called tiki. These sculpted statues have very distinct features, half man and half god. They look a lot like men, but their eyes are huge almonds, representing windows into the afterlife. Tiki symbolize power, knowledge,…
The history of the Tahitian ‘ukulele
You hear the lively playing of a 'ukulele wherever you go in The Islands of Tahiti. 'Ukulele orchestras animate the evenings in hotel restaurants, and you'll also hear the unmistakable strumming at the beach, on the bus, and especially during a bringue (party). The sound of the 'ukulele always comes with a smile! The strumming…
The history of Tahitian dance
Tahitian dance, called 'ori Tahiti, is a vibrant, sensual and exciting embodiment of the spirit of Polynesia. Profoundly anchored in the culture and history of The Islands of Tahiti, it is more than just a performance, it is an art form and a powerful means of expression, used to convey emotions, tell stories and transmit…