Travel // Going Around // South Pacific // Papeete, Tahiti: A Closer Look
There are so many islands and atolls in French Polynesia and one of the most popular is the island of Tahiti. Papeete, Tahiti is the entry point for everyone coming from different parts of the world who venture for a vacation or holiday in French Polynesia's many beautiful islands. One must travel first to Tahiti before reaching to the other islands of French Polynesia. But if you have your own yacht, boat or a private jet perhaps, you can go straight to the island of your choice.
Aside M/S Paul Gauguin that regularly calls in the port of Papeete, several cruise ships and yachts from around the world are also making a stop over at this port. Close to the harbor, one can find church, banks, hotels, shops, restaurants and bars. The short stop over of these ships allows its passengers to spend some time around downtown Papeete or spend some dimes at Papeete's restaurants and bars or buy some local crafts. 
Normally during working days, shops in Papeete are closed by 5:30 PM, so if you plan for some shopping don't go there after 5 PM. like what I did. I went out one time to buy some personal stuff but only to discover that all shops were closed. In Philippines, just like the rest of the world, shops are open as late as 10 PM or in some special days until midnight. I realized that it's my fault too because I did not mind asking my colleagues before I went out. On Saturdays, shops and businesses are open until noon but some shops remain open until 2 or 4 in the afternoon. Sunday is a family day for Tahitians. Mostly, locals spend this day for outdoor family activities after attending church services. So during these days, all shops are closed for the entire day.
The cost of living in Tahiti as well as to the other islands of French Polynesia is a bit high. Until now, I did not think of going out to dine in restaurants or to have some fun in bars because I know I am not ready to spend some bucks for it. But if you are really determine to go on a French Polynesia vacation, make sure you have enough fund in your wallet and I would suggest you have your credit card with you just in case you need more fund. There are several beaches around Tahiti's coastline. Normally, beautiful private beaches owned by hotels does not allow outsiders from geting in, unless you stay there as their guest. Access to private beaches owned by locals maybe possible. Just always wear a smile in your face when you ask permission to get access. Tahitians are friendly and nice people, so I believe you can get into their privately owned beach at no cost. If you are not lucky enough, you still have the last option - to the public beaches. French Polynesia is generally a warm place. So in Tahiti, light clothing is suitable to wear. And to be more fashionable, I would suggest the wearing of light clothing with floral imprints. This is the Tahitian signature of clothing. S
ince I arrived Papeete in November, I noticed that the weather seems reasonably friendly for tourists. For half of the week, the sun may shine brightly and perfect for sunbathing, water sports and other outdoor activities while for the other half, the sun may be pretty shy. But at times, sunny weather may persist for the whole week too. These are just some of the many things about Tahiti. And there are still more to discover about this beautiful island.
