My solo trip to Tahiti - Moorea Island
(28 Reviews)
100% Recommended
Tara Evel
Colorado Springs, CO
Tahiti Travel Agent Specialist
Tahiti and the Islands of French Polynesia is often known for its romantic above water bungalows, but it has a lot more to offer not only to the coupled tourists but the solo traveler as well. From Moorea’s volcanic landscape with multitudes of hi...
Tahiti and the Islands of French Polynesia is often known for its romantic above water bungalows, but it has a lot more to offer not only to the coupled tourists but the solo traveler as well. From Moorea’s volcanic landscape with multitudes of hiking trails, to Bora Bora’s crystal-clear waters and coral gardens. The Bora Bora Lagoon is home to hundreds of dazzling tropical fish species, sting rays, manta rays and reef sharks. A few reasons to travel here are for the Tahitian black pearl, the gourmet French Polynesian cuisine, whale watching, hiking, big wave surfing, snorkeling and diving, paddle boarding, kayaking, waterfalls, the endless night sky, and the friendly people.
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Tahiti Flower Crown and Traditional Pareo
Traveling internationally by myself for the very first time was scary! I decided to go to the French Polynesian Islands because I had built friendships with a few people that live on Moorea Island. I felt safer going to a place I could contact someone if needed. However, as soon as I landed I realized I had nothing to worry about! The Tahitian people are so kind and welcoming. Most of them speak English, and it is known to be one of the safest areas in the world.
I flew into the island of Tahiti in the largest city called Papeete. There were Tahitian musicians welcoming the travelers with traditional song and offering flower leis. The airport was easy and self explanatory. I easily got through customs and made my way to the taxi pickup. I stayed my first night in a vrbo in Papeete. The taxi driver, Tina, was very helpful and kind. The vrbo was so cozy and clean. It was up the hill from the ocean, but I could smell the salt through the breeze all night.
The next day I made my way to the ferry port to head over to Moorea Island. The ferry was quick, about 35 minutes from Papeete. As soon as the volcanic mountain peaks started rising bigger in view, I was immediately in awe. I could not believe my eyes. I had never seen anything so beautiful. Luscious green mountain peaks, palm trees. It was breathtaking. As we came into port some dolphins were jumping out of the water. That was my first experience seeing that!
Next as we exited the ferry I took a ride from my friend to his house on the other side of the island. Moorea is about 40 miles around and I don't think I took my eyes off the scenery the entire drive. Every corner came new trees, flowers, sandy beaches. I could not wait to get my feet in that sand.
During my stay of 11 days, I was able to paddle board over and snorkel in some of the most beautiful reefs in the pacific ocean. I had a ray jump out of the water in front of me, I got to swim with rays and sharks. The fish were so colorful, and the reefs were bright. I went on several hikes through the lush green trails of the inner island areas. The views were spectacular. I bathed in the sun on every beach possible. I ate fresh fish... even raw! Yes I said raw! One of the Tahitian specialty dishes is Tuna Tar Tar. This local woman literally took a fish her husband got that morning, cut it up and marinated it then put it over rice topped with some delicious sauce and served it to me. It was the best food I have ever had. The mangoes, coconut, bananas, passion fruit were to die for. But the avocado, they were the size of an ostrich egg and juicy! Nothing in Colorado compares to this day.
I was able to tour and see the overwater bungalows at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort as well as lounge at the outdoor pool. It was a beautiful hotel, the private beach was so peaceful and clean. I got to fly over to the more luxurious Island of Bora Bora and experience a small plane adventure. I didn't get sick! I stayed at the Inter Continental which provided amazing hospitality, it was right on the water and the sand was so white and the water was so clear. I was in total heaven here. Once again, the food was incredible. The transfers were easy from the small airport to the hotel as well.
My last few days I spent back in Papeete on Tahiti. I went to the local market and was able to find Tahitian Pearl jewelry, handmade bags, paroes, flower crowns, fresh fruit, fresh fish, fresh vegetables. I had never experienced such a large and good quality market before.
Upon departure from Tahiti, I would say Moorea was my favorite. Although Bora Bora was luxurious, I liked the more quiet less touristy vibe that Moorea has to offer. Yes all the islands in French Polynesia had tourists, but I could find pockets in Moorea where I was one of few hiking, or at a private local cove. The vibe in Moorea is very laid back. If you want to rush around stay in Papeete! I can say I had never experienced living on true "island time" until I stayed in Moorea. I truly was forced to relax and chill. This was a trip of a lifetime and I hope everyone can get the same opportunity I did to have such a wonderful experience!