From the moment you step off the plane and the warm, tropical wind caresses your skin, you know this place is different.
Tahiti is far from the rest of the world, and remains wildly exotic. There is a sense of freedom and spontaneity. The people are friendly, and French Polynesian hospitality really is as good as they say.
Pape’ete is the capital city of Tahiti, and it is the gateway to Bora Bora, Moorea, and the other French Polynesian islands. This is where most international flight arrive.
TIP You may want to look into getting a free stopover in Tahiti. How? you can fly to Australia with a free stopover in Tahiti, New Zealand, and Rarotonga in the Cook Islands, for about the same price of a flight just to Tahiti.
The Airport Lodge is a guest house, also called a pension, conveniently located near the airport. It is at the top of a hill with stunning views of Moorea island.
If you're looking for an inexpensive place in Papeete, this is it. The owners speak English, will pick you up from the airport, and respond to email to confirm your reservation--not all of them do.
TIP Most guest house rates are under $100 US, and they ONLY accept cash.
While in Papeete, we visited the Marché du Pape'ete, a food and crafts market downtown. This is a good place for an inexpensive lunch.
For dinner, try the Roulottes--vendors that set up in the evenings, in front of the Ferry Quay in the Port of Papeete with all kinds of delicious food.
If you feel like dancing, there are several night clubs which are open from 10:30 pm to 4:00 am.
The famous Paul Gauguin Museum is here.
There are art galleries, and of course Tahitian black pearl shops.
You can rent a car and drive around the island to see some beautiful natural spots.
If you rather not drive, there are plenty of Papeete tours you can book.
TIP Allow at least 1 day between travel to and from the other islands. The weather can sometimes be unpredictable and delay ferries and flights.
The Papeete airport offers a handy luggage checkroom (consignes a bagages) where you can store your stuff while waiting for your flight or ferry.
GETTING AROUND
There are taxis (about $20.00 US from the Papeete airport to the Ferry port or downtown), and inexpensive regular shuttles called 'Le Truck' that run along the main road for about $6 US.
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