the Travel Enthusiast
- 03 Apr
andra88 in Amazing Places | NO COMMENTSThe amazing attractions of Tahiti
The overseas territories of France are island wonderlands that seem feel like Polynesia but still bear some eerie resemblance to France. But none of the islands of French Polynesia are quite so wrapped up in legend and glamor like Tahiti, the largest island in the Windward group.
Although nowadays Tahiti is known as a destination for the rich and famous, there is more the island than luxury hotels and endless supplies of pina colada.
Despite its modern sides, Tahiti’s culture is something to behold, and it’s no wonder that it inspired painters like Paul Gauguin to create some of their most famous works. So if you happen to take the trip of a lifetime to the island, don’t forget to check out some of the amazing attractions of Tahiti.
Le Marché, Papeete
The two stories of this historic market are the beating heart of Tahiti’smodern capital, Papeete. The market doesn’t seem to have changed much over the decades, and the stalls still sell the same kinds of traditional goods, crafts and produce.
Buy some tahitian oil, a traditional garb, and inexpensive exotic fruit. The market is not just a place where you can shop for souvenirs and picnic stuff, but a place where the whole culture of the city converges into a colorful chaos.
Arahoho Blowhole
Tahiti is not short on natural wonders, and Arohoho blowhole is one of the most spectacular natural sights on the island. The geyser like blowhole blasts seawater through the holes in the rock, and despite the viewing platform, there is a good chance that you will get completely drenched.
Tomb of King Pomare the Fifth
King Pomare the Fifth was the last monarch of Tahiti, and he died in 1891. The last resting place of the king is an interesting sight, built in the shape of a lighthouse using coral stones.
The tomb can be found just off the road in Arue, and it is easy to see from the road. The mausoleum was initially built for the king’s mother, Pomare IV, but he exhumed her remains and was buried in the tomb instead.
Gaguin Museum
The small museum dedicated to the memory of Paul Gauguin, the French painter who fell in love with Tahiti and captured its beauty in many of his paintings is not overly large, but definitely interesting.
While the museum has a few of Gauguin’s works, it also regularly borrows major works of the artist. Right next to the museum there’s a beautiful botanical garden that many people visit as well after touring the museum.
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travel search by Travelgrove (get this widget)Arahurahu Marae
Polynesian maraes are ancient temples and meeting sites, and while there are several of them to be found, only Arahurahu Marae in Tahiti has been fully restored. The marae functions as a museum today, and it has interesting displays and explanations that describe the importance of these meeting places in Tahitian culture. In July, ancient religious ceremonies are reenacted at Arahurahu Marae.
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