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We offer holidays to the four corners of the globe. If you want specialist advise please phone our travel team and we will be happy to help.
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- Destinations
- Australasia
- Tahiti and French Polynesia
- Moorea
Moorea
The most dramatic of the French Polynesian islands, Moorea lies
only a few miles northwest of Tahiti (10 minutes by air or under an
hour by ferry from Papeete). The little tropical island gem is
characterised by spectacular bays, white sandy beaches and towering
craggy volcanic peaks that form a jagged central spine, reflected
in the surrounding crystalline lagoons.
About 8,000 people live happily on Moorea, but there are no
towns, or even villages, as such. Settlements offering clusters of
shops and stalls line the 40-mile long (64km) paved road that
encircles the island, giving access to the few sightseeing
opportunities and lovely beaches. The best beaches are between the
Moorea Village Hotel and the Hotel Beachcomber, and near the
Sofitel Ia Ora near the airport.
All sorts of water activities and excursions are offered on the
island, as well as several land-based activities like hikes and
mountain safaris. A fun way to explore the island is to rent a
scooter or bicycle, or join the locals on the 'trucks' that form
the island's public transport system. A 'must see' is the panoramic
view of Cook and Opunohu bays from the Roto Nui (Belvedere)
viewpoint, the Paopao open air market, and a distillery where
exotic liqueurs are produced from the local pineapple, vanilla,
mango and coconut crops.
Information & Facts
Language
French and Tahitian are the official languages; English
is widely spoken.
Money
The unit of currency in French Polynesia is the French Pacific
Franc (XPF), divided into 100 centimes. The exchange rate is fairly
stable as it is linked to the Euro. Banks throughout the islands
are open mainly on weekdays only and are the best place to change
foreign currency; rates of exchange are not as good at hotels.
There are ATMs on a few of the islands, but shouldn't be relied
upon. Most hotels and resorts will exchange travellers cheques in
US$ or Euros, and credit cards and US currency is readily accepted
on the main islands. Tourism taxes are levied for accommodation and
activities.
Time
GMT -10 (The Marquesas Islands are half an hour ahead of the
rest of French Polynesia).