Wake up in paradise. “Overwater” bungalows at this lavish resort sit off the beach, so you can peer at the ocean floor through the glass bottom of your room. Watch your room service order get delivered by canoe! Explore the white sand beaches and the crystal blue water around the resort before heading out for a day of fun activities. InterContinental Moana Beach, 011-689-604900. http://www.borabora.interconti.com
Don’t bother checking the weather report.
Despite the occasional brief shower, Tahiti’s location
affords it the remarkable ability to sustain eight hours
of sunshine and temperatures of 75-85 degrees every day,
all year long. You may still need an umbrella when venturing
out, since some parts of the island get wetter than others,
Current Tahiti Weather: http://www.wunderground.com/
global/stations/91938.html
Get to the market early. Experience real island life by asking one of the resort’s eager shuttle drivers to take you to the municipal market. Farmers, butchers, and bakers sell their wares while musicians play festive tunes. Be forewarned that the best picks get snapped up by about 8am. Municipal Market, between rue du 22 Septembre and rue François Cardella.
Go diving. Over eight hundred different species of marine life inhabit these waters, which inspired the musical South Pacific. But you can’t see them all from your glass-bottomed hotel room. Arrange for a professional guide to show you the best spots to live out your Jacques Cousteau fantasies. You can grab a snorkel to explore creatures near the land, or suit up in scuba gear to dive deep into the clear ocean. Beginners can get lessons and personal help from experienced divers. Tahiti Diving Guide, 011-689-50-57-00. http://www.diving-tahiti.com
