Travel // Going Around // South Pacific // Fakarava
French Polynesia has many beautiful islands, islands which are very remotely located away from the rest of the world. Really far as it appear from the world map, tourists from around the world still flock to this remote French colony in the South Pacific Ocean. The cost of living in French Polynesia is relatively high compared to other holiday destinations, but tourists never hesitate to come over to French Polynesia just to enjoy the appeal of its many wonderful islands. Being a crew member of a cruise ship that is based in French Polynesia, I think I should consider myself lucky enough to see and visit some of these most isolated islands for free.
I am now on my third contract onboard the same cruise ship but on April 6, 2009 was my very first time to see Fakarava. Fakarava is the second largest atoll after Rangiroa; both these atolls are geographically located in the Tuamotu group of islands. Fakarava is a protected atoll that is part of a UNESCO classified biosphere reserve. Visitor highlights in Fakarava includes a visit to the pearl farm, scuba diving and a visit to the ancient village of Tetamanu. Tetamanu is the village where the first Catholic church built in coral is located. The construction of the church dates back to 1875. From the ship, I could see this unique church which I wanted to visit but I have job to do, so visiting the church is obviously impossible. I wasn’t able to step into the island but I am very grateful to my colleagues (who were able to do their own tour at the island) for sharing to me this inset photo.
Credit: Wikipedia for the topmost photo
