Did you know that I just took a business trip to Tahiti?
I know what you’re thinking. A “business” trip to Tahiti? Really?
But yes, it was a business trip with one of my supplier partners where I had the opportunity to experience the islands first-hand, check out 14 different resorts, make important travel industry connections and learn insider tips at the Tahiti Tourism Exchange event.
Now, I won’t argue that taking a business trip like this in paradise doesn't have its perks. But, in all seriousness, the main reason I invest in trips like this is to better serve my clients – I use all of the insights I gain and networking I do to enhance my ability to create even more amazing travel itineraries for you!
So, what are the must-do activities when you go to Tahiti?
First, you must do some island-hopping. Tahiti is made up of over 100 islands and they each have something different to offer – like the romantic island of Bora Bora, the mystical island of Mo’orea, the urban feel of Papeete on the main island of Tahiti, or the vanilla island of Le Taha’a that I visited.
Staying in an over-the water bungalow is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people, and I highly recommend it. The views are incredible and there’s something so cool about being able to jump straight into the crystal clear water from your own personal deck. If you want to check out the specific bungalows I stayed in, be sure to check out the EverAfter Travel Facebook page.
Another must-do is attending an authentic Polynesian cultural show. Several of the resorts offer these on property once or twice a week, and I was lucky enough to be a part of the one at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui resort during my stay. This unique experience started on the beach at sunset with everyone gathered around the underground oven while the chef blessed the food with a Tahitian prayer. Then the hosts showed us how to make the traditional “poisson cru” and how to crack/peel a coconut. The buffet was lovely and the live music throughout topped it off. The people in Tahiti are so warm and welcoming, and this is a great way to learn about their culture!
Shopping for Tahitian pearls. These pearls are often referred to as “black” pearls, but they actually come in a variety of colors like: blue, purple, green, brown, and silver. I didn’t think I was a pearl person before I went on this trip, but there’s something quite mesmerizing about these. Many of the resorts have pearl stores on property, or you can also find them at local markets like the one in Viatape in Bora Bora.
I’d encourage you to be adventurous and go on several excursions on your trip. On mine, I went on a safari tour through the jungle in Mo’orea where the highlights were the breathtaking lookouts we stopped at, driving through a valley of pineapple fields (so yummy!), and seeing some ancient Tahitian ruins. And, would you believe I swam with sharks while I was in Bora Bora?! Yep, and it was amazing!! I also swam with sting rays, which was really cool, and did some awesome snorkeling.
Lastly, I feel like you must try as much of the food as possible! The cuisine is a mix of Polynesian, French and Asian, and it’s fantastic. If you consider yourself a bit of a foodie like I do, I found the best foodie tour where the local guide teaches you about the food while he brings you to a variety of delicious small restaurants you’d never find on your own. And, if you like food trucks, you’ll definitely want to head over to the Roulettes in Papeete for some huge portions at a great value.
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