Catriona Rowntree embraced the culture of Tahiti in the capital of Papeete. More than just a gateway to islands like Bora Bora, with breath-taking natural beauty, epic surf breaks and a rich culture, it is a destination in its own right.
Location:
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
Cost:
Hilton Hotel Tahiti www.hilton.com
Rooms start at $590 per night
Air Tahiti Nui is the flagship carrier of the islands of Tahiti and flies several times a week to Papeete via Auckland. For prices and more information visit airtahitinui.com
Visit www.tahititourisme.au for more holiday inspiration
Information correct at 25.10.25
Highlights:
The 118 islands of Tahiti are scattered across the Pacific Ocean over an area close to the size of Europe. Catriona eased into island life at the Hilton Hotel Tahiti, on the Papeete waterfront, minutes away from the airport and the city centre. The resort has tropical vibes, a gorgeous infinity pool and spacious guest rooms. Catriona began her stay with one of their guest activities, a Tahitian dance lesson. Music and dance is the heart and soul of the South Pacific, where every dance has a story to tell through expressive hip and hand movements.
A 5 minute drive away, the Papeete Markets was a great way for Catriona to immerse herself with the local people and culture. With colourful, vibrant stalls of fresh food and flowers, it was also an exciting place to buy local arts and crafts, Tahitian monoi oil and unique natural black saltwater pearls. After purchasing a string of the rare beauties, Catriona had to try a coconut beignet, a delicious blend of tropical ingredients and French pastry.
Just out of the city on a picturesque coastal drive, mother nature shows off with distinctive high green peaks, black volcanic sand beaches and lush rainforest valleys. Catriona visited the majestic 80m high Faarumai Waterfall which, fed by recent rain, had a very decent flow.
Back at the Hilton Hotel wearing her new pearls, Catriona ended her day on the terrace overlooking the lagoon with the national dish, poisson cru, a salad with fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk.
Tahiti truly has it all – culture, beauty, and your next adventure awaits!
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