Tahiti on a Budget

New Tahiti Ferry and Cargo Boat Schedules

2008-04-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

Finally there are new Ferry and Cargo Boat schedules available for French Polynesia.

To Moorea I've heard that Le Truck only meets the fast ferries.
To the Leeward Islands Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea, and Taha'a
The Maupiti Express Raiatea, Bora Bora, Maupiti
To the Tuamotus
The Arunai to the Marquesas
I've heard that there is also a small cabin for locals in the back of the ship just beside the kitchen. The cost was reported as $30 per person with full board.
To the Australs

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme

Cheapest place to stay in Tahiti?

2008-02-17T18:56:00.000-08:00

Accomodations in Papeete are of poor value but due to flight and boat schedules sometimes you have to overnight there. I had mentioned Pension Teamo previously. It has now become Hostel Teamo and has a web site.

teamohostel@mail.pf
teamohostel@caramail.com
kay@mail.pf
(689)42 47 26
(689)42 00 35
(689) 43 56 95 Fax

8, rue du Point Neuf

Dorm rooms are available at 2200 cfp, a private room is 5500 cfp.

A kitchen is accessible for guests.

On their Web site they provide a handy map showing you how to get there after you get off the Le Truck from the airport.

Their online reservation form seems to suggest that they want a deposit in travelers checks but I noticed that they accept Visa and Mastercard. Be safe and either fax or call in your credit card information. Don't email it.

Au Motu Mahare - a new pension in Huahine

2007-07-15T19:04:00.000-07:00

I was going to save this one for myself. The owner of this new pension on Huahine posted their information on the Tahiti Explorer forum.

Au Motu Mahere
On its own motu (islet) across from the old (and unused) Sofitel Heiva hotel.
Tel:(689)77 76 97
Contact: Kim Fabre
motumahare@yahoo.com

6500 per night for one or two persons,
private bathroom (cold water) and a shared fully equipped kitchen
Free transfers, kayaks and bicycles

There are only two fares and the owners are the only people living on the island.
The location has been described as incredible by visitors. It's practically your own private island.

Finally a detailed Heiva I Tahiti 2007 Program

2007-06-23T09:22:00.000-07:00

iFenua has published a detailed Heiva I Tahiti 2007 Program, including entrance fees.

It runs from the 1st to the 21st of July.

You can purchase tickets at the Odyssey
17 Place Notre Dame
(689) 54 25 25
contact@odyssey.pf

Hours of sales are Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:45 pm and Saturday from 8:30 am to 3:45 pm.

You can also purchase them the evening of the performances from 5 pm.

Prices range from 1000 to 2500.

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme.

Papeete,Tahiti - Big Doings - June 25th - June 29th

2007-06-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

A four day celebration of the Autonomy Festival, culminating with fireworks over Papeete, will commence on June 25th. Most of the activities will be held at the Presidency in downtown Papeete.

Monday, June 25th will be artisan's day.
On Tuesday, June 26th there will be workshops to introduce the public to traditional and classical arts, including dancing and singing and traditional percussion instruments.
Wednesday, June 27th will be dedicated to the sea and to tourism.
Thursday, June 28th will be a day of literature and cinema.

Tahitipresse reported that this year's Autonomy Day will be celebrated next Friday (OP's note: are they referring to Friday the 22nd or Friday the 29th?) with a variety of entertainment starting at 9 am at Place Tarahoi and Bougainville Park in downtown Papeete.

A 1 pm ceremony will be held on June 29th at the "Pont de l'Est", a rotary on the north side of Papeete with a monument in honor of French Polynesia's internal autonomy relationship with France. Papeete Mayor Michel Buillard, Sen. Gaston Flosse and French Polynesia President Gaston Tong Sang are scheduled to participate.

The celebration will move to the presidency at 2 pm on June 29th with a presentation of the athletic delegation that will represent French Polynesia at the 13th South Pacific Games, which will be held from August 25th - September 8th in Apia, Samoa. This will be followed by a ceremony for the presentation of Tahiti Nui Order medals.

Public entertainment will be held at two downtown Papeete locations starting at 6 pm on June 29th, Place To'ata (concerts) and Place Vaiete (traditional Tahitian atmosphere recalling the period of Papeete's former famous night spot, Quinn's Bar). A fireworks display over the Port of Papeete will bring the four day celebration to a close.

Autonomy Day has traditionally been a controversial holiday, with the pro-autonomy political parties led by Flosse and the independence party and its coalition led by Oscar Temaru never agreeing on the proper date for the celebration. While the pro-autonomy politicians have always favored June 29th, the Temaru supporters have favored November 20th.

June 29th is the date in 1984 when French Polynesia's organic law approved by the French Parliament took effect, giving the overseas community, formerly known as a territory, greater internal autonomy while remaining part of the French Republic.

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme.

Heiva i Tahiti 2007 - Program Available

2007-06-01T13:40:00.000-07:00

TheTahitiTraveler Web site has published the first schedule for the 2007 Heiva festival.

It begins on June 12th at the Place Toata in Papeete and continues through July 20th.

Events include song and dance performances & competitions, outrigger races, traditional sports and firewalking.

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourism

Tahiti Resorts at a Bargain Price from Luxury Link

2007-05-12T18:40:00.000-07:00

Luxury Link is an online travel auction service, that works quite differently from eBay.

You bid on hotel packages but from observing the site I've noticed that the prices don't get bid up (for the French Polynesia properties). A bidder will place a starting bid and win that auction.

Currently they have two great deals on offer. Let me first note that your would be responsible for international and inter-island airfares (plus a hotel in Papeete if scheduling requires it). However these offers for 5* resorts for two are incredible.

For a minimum bid of $2,391 you can get:
6-night package for 2 includes:

On Bora Bora

3 nights in a Premium Pool Suite at Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
Your elegant air-conditioned suite has been designed with privacy and romance in mind, and features an enclosed garden area with private open-air plunge pool, an indoor/outdoor shower, alfresco dining area, and a wooden terrace & sundeck.

Roundtrip boat transfers between the airport and the resort *
Full American breakfast for two each morning
Set-menu dinner for two on one evening of your choice, in the Tevairoa Restaurant **
Serving refined international cuisine, Tevairoa Restaurant sits just 20 feet above sea level, overlooking the exquisite Bora Bora lagoon and beyond to the majestic and memorable mountain Otemanu.

Complimentary activities and equipment including:
Kayaks
Mini-golf
Outdoor swimming pool
Outrigger Canoes
Pedal Boats
Ping Pong
Snorkeling
Tennis
Bacci ball court
Volleyball
Badminton
Movie theatre
Coral Nursery
VAT and government taxes ***

On Manihi

3 nights in a luxurious Overwater Bungalow at the Manihi Pearl Beach Resort
In addition to a spacious sundeck over the lagoon and a glass tables to feed the fish below, your bungalow features tasteful and traditional Polynesian architecture using a mixture of the most noble materials: local precious wood, bamboo, shells, pandanus and palm tree fronds.
Full American breakfast for two each morning
Candlelight dinner for two on one evening of your choice, including a bottle of champagne **
Dine over candlelight on your private table in the restaurant, while indulging in a gourmet dinner with champagne and a delicious cake for dessert.
Complimentary activities and equipment including:
Snorkeling
Kayaking
Miniature Golf
Beach Volley Ball
Swimming Pool
Outrigger Canoes
Bacci Ball court
Bicycles
Game room
Billiard
Coral Garden
VAT, government, and local taxes
Rates above are quoted in U.S. dollars and are for two people sharing a Premium Pool Suite at Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, and an Overwater Bungalow at Manihi Pearl Beach Resort. Price does not include airfare, service charge or customary gratuities. Local tax in the amount of XPF 150 per person, per day is payable directly at the hotel at time of check out.
* Arrival and departure details required.
** Advance table reservations recommended. Beverages other than noted are additional.
*** Local Tax of $1.50 per person, per night payable directly to Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort.
Price does not include handling fee of $20

For $2,659 you can get this package:
7-night package for 2 includes:

On Bora Bora

4 nights in a Premium Pool Suite at Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
These elegant air-conditioned suites have been designed with privacy and romance in mind. Each features an enclosed garden area with private open-air plunge pool, an indoor/outdoor shower, alfresco dining area, and a wooden terrace & sundeck.

Roundtrip boat transfers between the airport and the resort *
Full American breakfast for two each morning
Set-menu dinner for two on one evening of your choice, in the Tevairoa Restaurant **
Serving refined international cuisine, Tevairoa Restaurant sits just 20 feet above sea level, overlooking the exquisite Bora Bora lagoon and beyond to the majestic and memorable mountain Otemanu.

Complimentary activities and equipment including:
Kayaks
Mini-golf
Outdoor swimming pool
Outrigger Canoes
Pedal Boats
Ping Pong
Snorkeling
Tennis
Bacci ball court
Volleyball
Badminton
Movie theatre
Coral Nursery
VAT and government taxes ***

On Tikehau

3 nights in a beautiful Overwater Bungalow at Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort
Designed in true Polynesian style, this spacious, airy bungalow features a private verandah, ceiling fan, thatched roof, and glass section in the floor from which to enjoy the spectacular underwater life of the lagoon.

Roundtrip boat transfers between the airport and the resort *
Fresh fruit basket in room upon arrival
Full American breakfast for two each morning
Set-menu lunch for two on one day of your choice, in the Poreho Restaurant **
With a terrace overlooking the lagoon, the Poreho Restaurant is truly a sumptuous setting for a taste of European and Polynesian cuisine.

Complimentary activities and equipment including:
Outrigger Canoeing
Snorkeling
Kayaking
Beach Volleyball
Badminton
Pétanque
Swimming Pool
VAT and government taxes

Rates above are quoted in U.S. dollars and are for two people sharing a Premium Pool Suite at Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, and an Overwater Bungalow at Tikehau Pearl Beach Resort. Price does not include airfare, service charges or customary gratuities.
* Arrival and departure details required.
** Alcoholic beverages are not included. Advance table reservations recommended.
*** Local Tax of $1.50 per person, per night payable directly to Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort.
Price does not include handling fee of $20.

Weekly Tsunami Alert Tests for Tahiti

2007-04-06T20:57:00.000-07:00

Tahitipresse reported that "French Polynesia will hold a tsunami alert every Wednesday at noon with the 62 sirens already installed as the French state continues to install the rest of the total 144 sirens to be in place by the end of the year throughout the five archipelagos.

The French High Commissioner's Office tested some 12 sirens for the first time on Wednesday from Tahiti's north coast Commune of Arue to the southernmost Austral Islands and the northernmost Marquesas Islands and the Tuamotu Archipelago in between.

By coincidence, the test of French Polynesia's French state controlled and operated tsunami alert system occurred only a few days after a tsunami triggered by a powerful 8.1 magnitude earthquake claimed at least 32 lives, wiped out villages and left nearly 6,000 people homeless in the Solomon Islands.

The test occurred after three days of particularly unusual seismic activity in the southwestern region of the Pacific Ocean that produced nearly 40 smaller earthquakes, all of which had a magnitude of more than 5.5 on the open-ended Richter Scale.

One such quake had a magnitude of 6.3, occurring early Wednesday between New Caledonia's Loyalty Islands group and Vanuatu's Southern Tanna Island, according to the Denver-based U.S. Geological Survey Center. Like the powerful quake in the Solomon Islands on Monday, the less powerful quake occurred under the ocean.

The highly active seismic zone has sparked a continuing debate in the Pacific over the limits of tsunami warning systems and a need for better preparations.

In French Polynesia, the French state has been installing tsunami alert sirens on island after island and atoll after atoll. Each siren costs 1.5 million French Pacific francs (US$17,045/€12,570). So by the time all 144 are installed by the end of the year, the French state will have invested 216 million French Pacific francs (US$2.45 million/€1.8 million).

The sirens are set up to operate with the push of a button. The system does not need to rely on ordinary telephone service because it is hooked up directly to the first worldwide satellite network, Immarsat, explained Yves Hermann-Auclair. He works for the company Assystem, which is installing the sirens in French Polynesia.

Each siren also has its own independent electricity source, so the sirens would not be affected by power failures or blackouts, he said. The reaction time between pushing the button in Papeete and the wailing of the siren ranges from 45 seconds to two minutes, he said.

One push of the button can set off all the sirens in French Polynesia, or just those sirens in one archipelago, or even in one of the 48 communes throughout the French overseas community, previously known as a territory.

The French state's Geophysical Laboratory in the Pamatai suburb of Papeete watches seismic activity throughout the Pacific 24/7, so it would be the first to alert the High Commissioner's Office in Papeete of any approaching tsunami danger for French Polynesia.

There's also the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center in Hawaii, which notifies governments throughout the region of any tsunami activity.

Earthquake specialists say a tsunami early-warning system would have been of little use for the thousands of people in the Solomon Islands because they had only minutes to escape.

But in French Polynesia, which is relatively isolated in the eastern sector of the region, officials figure they have a lead time of between two to six hours, depending, of course, where and how deep in the ocean the earthquake occurred.

Depending on the origin of an earthquake triggering a tsunami, the Marquesas Islands could be much more vulnerable than the Tuamotu Archipelago, officials said. That is because none of the islands in the Marquesas group have protective coral reefs. That means there would be nothing to slow down a tsunami wave. That is the role the coral reefs play throughout the Tuamotus as well as the Gambier Islands, the Austral Islands and the Society Islands, which contain the most populated Windward Islands of Tahiti and Moorea and the tourism-oriented Leeward Islands.

Wednesday's first test of the tsunami early warning system made no noise in downtown Papeete because the capital has yet to install a siren. Each commune must ask the French state to install a siren, and Papeete's is due to be ready by the end of the year.

The tests will continue at noon on the first Wednesday of each month as new sirens are added. But in the Marquesas Islands, where the official time is 30 minutes behind Papeete and the rest of French Polynesia, the sirens will sound at 11:30 am."

Photo courtesty of Tahiti Tourisme.

Moorea golf course to open first nine holes on April 15

2007-03-15T21:59:00.000-07:00

Tahitipresse announced that the first nine holes of the Moorea Golf Resort course are set to open on April 15th. The other nine are due to be completed in a few months time.

This is part of a project that includes a 154 room hotel as well as 115 residential villas. Completion of the hotel is scheduled for June 2008 and the villas for December 2008.

One of the reasons that the French Polynesia experience is so special is the intimate scale of ones accomodations. Currently the largest hotel, outside of Papeete, is the 143 room Moorea Intercontinental. The new resort will house over 500 guests. Fortunately it is situated near the airport and away from the areas where most visitors will stay.

Moorea - Motel Albert

2007-03-12T20:25:00.000-07:00

Motel Albert is across the street from Club Bali Hai on Cook's Bay.
PK 8
Tel:(689)56 12 76
Fax:(689)56 58 58
motel.albert@laposte.net

It's been top rated in the budget category on Moorea for a long time.

A room with a double bed (for 1 to 2 people) is 5400 (minimum stay two nights), including a kitchen and private bathroom.

Larger bungalows are available including one that sleeps up to 5 for 10850.

I must say that I had my doubts about the location as it is across the street from the bay. (There are places nearby where you can access it.) However, I was not enthusiastic until I saw this notice (scroll down) advertising Club Bali Hai's Blue Pineapple Restaurant. It says "Access a piscine pour les clients du restaurant", restaurant customers can access the swimming pool. (The pool is small and cold but if the CBH allows you to access their pool with a restaurant purchase I would assume that it holds for the beach to bay access too.)

There are two supermarkets nearby, restaurants, and a gas station to purchase snacks next door.

Moorea - Club Bali Hai

2007-03-11T16:58:00.000-07:00

Club Bali Hai
PK 8, Cooks Bay
Tel: 1-888-222-5406 (toll free)
Tel: (689) 56 13 68
Fax: (689) 56 13 27
reservations@clubbalihai.pf

Club Bali Hai has the most stunning view of any accomodations in Moorea. It's also the first place that I stayed in French Polynesia. For me, Moorea is the magnificent bays. I loved watching the clouds pass in front of the mountains. Being on the bay, the water is deep and dark (it gradually but quickly gets deep). There is just a tiny beach there. It has a funky, 60s decor.

I stayed in a Bayview room, which included a fully equipped kitchenette. I must admit that I paid about half of the current price less than five years ago. The value choice here is an overwater bungalow. The CBH's don't extend far into the water like the resorts but still they are very choice accomodations given the incredible view.

All rooms are air-conditioned.

Bayview rooms with kitchenette 129 Euros ($171 U.S. as of 1/27/07)
One bedroom Beachfront Bungalows with kitchenette are 213 Euros ($275 U.S. as of 1/27/07), including breakfast.
Overwater Bungalows with kitchenette are 220 Euros ($282.00 as of 1/27/07), including breakfast.
They are currently advertising a seasonal special for the Overwater Bungalows of 165 Euros (approx. U.S. $214 ), breakfast included and 160 Euros (approx. U.S. $206) for the Beachfront Bungalows. (Let me note that CBH is a timeshare as well as a hotel and the timeshare guests get first priority on the more popular room selections.)

They also have Gardenview rooms which only have a refrigerator. The prices for these are not shown on their Web site.

In the back of the Bayview building there are the Mountianview rooms, with only a fridge. They are not mentioned on the site at all, however, I did stay in one when I extended my stay there. They face the road and I found the room depressing after being spoiled by the stunning Bayview I had previously.

CBH is close to two supermarkets, restaurants, has its own restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch, there is a gas station across the street where you can purchase snacks and drinks.

Wednesday nights they have a free Tahitian dance show.

The staff is lovely.

Moorea - Les Tipaniers

2007-03-10T16:40:00.000-08:00

Les Tipaniers, Moorea
PK 25.9
Tel: (689) 56 12 67
Fax : (689) 56 29 25
tipaniersresa@mail.pf

Located near the Les Petit Village area on Moorea's west side where there are shops and restaurants, Les Tipaniers is right on the beach. There is a restaurant on the premises.

Rooms start at 6900 for a fan cooled garden room.
A garden bungalow with a kitchen goes for 13950 for 1 to two persons and is 16200 for 3 to 4 occupants.

Bicycles are provided free of charge.

They have an annex, Les Tipaniers Iti that is 2.5 miles east on Opunohu Bay. The prices are considerably less there, 7950 for a bungalow with a kitchen. The area there is residential. It does not have a beach but there is a pontoon overlooking Opunohu Bay (which is stunning). You can use the beach at the main hotel.

Club Med Bora Bora On Sale

2007-03-09T21:06:00.000-08:00

Club Med is running a 1/2 off every second person sale at selected locations.

You can book the Club Med Bora Bora for $1,952 for two, for a weeks stay.

The rooms are air conditioned and include a fridge and TV.

All meals, drinks (both alcoholic and non), required membership, optional travel insurance (you can opt out and save $100 per couple), sports activities including snorkeling (with boat trips), sailing(catamarans) and windsurfing is included.

Transport to Tahiti, and then Bora Bora, and transfers to the resort is additional.

What's great about Club Med is that they have a picnic spot on the motu opposite the main island of Bora Bora that is in the most breathtaking location I've ever seen.

You'll have to book by April 14th. Travel dates are April 14th - December 21st 2007.

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme.

Overwater Bungalows for $293 in Manihi

2007-03-07T21:07:00.000-08:00

I checked out Expedia and while they offer the Manihi Pearl Beach Resort $147 Garden bungalow special (on fewer dates and with only a free breakfast) what caught my eye was the Premium Overwater Bungalows for $293 per night including breakfast.

That is a great deal! Imagine yourself staying here:

Snorkeling in the lagoon there has been described as being inside an aquarium.

Manihi Pearl Beach Resort on Sale at Travelocity

2007-03-06T20:07:00.000-08:00

On Travelocity select dates are showing Garden rooms at the Manihi Pearl Beach Resort for US$142.77 plus tax including breakfast and dinner.

That is an incredible deal!

On the Pearl Beach Web site they only have last years rate but the rack rate for a Garden room is 28000 or $307 USD. A continental breakfast is 2300 and dinner is 5400.

I put in April 23rd - 26th but the rate is available on many dates in March and April.

This is what I copied from the Travelocity Web site:

Room: Premium Beach Bungalow (2 Adults)
Nightly rates are based upon 2 people in the room.

Two Breakfast and Dinners daily

3 Nights:
Mon, Apr 23 $142.77
Tue, Apr 24 $142.77
Wed, Apr 25 $142.77

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sum of Nightly Rates: $428.31
Taxes & Fees: $62.58

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Total for 1 Room: $490.89

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

There is a daily tax of 150XPF (est. $1.50 USD) per person, per night due direct to the hotel.

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme.

Next Stop Mataiva

2007-03-04T11:31:00.000-08:00

The stunning French language blog Notre Annee En Polynesie has been reporting on their trip to Mataiva, complete with gorgeous photos.

The Tuamotu atoll is a "touristed" one, with accomodations and written up in some guidebooks. It, however, it not available on any Air Tahiti airpass.

The photos posted on Notre Annee are just incredible and make one want to jump on a plane and head there right away.

They stayed at a new pension, Ariihee Vai, that you can book via the Haere Mai Association of Guesthouses and Family Pensions.

Tel:(689) 76 44 23
Fax:(689) 96 32 46

7000 per person, including full board
Children from 2 to 12 are 4000, under 2 free

Free transfers
Free excursions
Free bikes and kayaks
Free drinks (coffee, tea and water)
No credit cards accepted

The activities that they provide are:

Making necklaces of shells and flowers
Line fishing on the reef
Lobster catching
Visiting the fish parks
Visit of the Marae (old temples)
Excursion to the bird island
Island tour by car

Air Tahiti flies there twice a week, on Thursdays and Sundays.

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme

Getting a cheap (er) airfare to Tahiti

2007-03-03T06:35:00.000-08:00

I haven't seen a great airfare to Papeete (PPT) from Los Angeles (LAX) in a while. With the loss of Air New Zealand from that route in a months time I suspect that deals will be harder to find. I can share with you what has worked in the past for me.

Sign up for Air Tahiti Nui's email specials. It used to be the way to get the first news of special reduced fares to Tahiti, usually restricted to just a few flights.

Recently, ATN has been posting specials on their Web site over two weeks before the customers who have taken the time to register have received notification. I would be making at least a weekly visit to the ATN Web site to see if there is anything good posted there.

Last year I got a better fare on Expedia than the same flight directly from Air Tahiti Nui. (Just tried a comparison for departure on 4/19, return 5/2, after taxes and surcharges Expedia was $971 total and ATN was $1192.)

I tried Orbitz and they showed a fare of $972.

Travelocity amazed me as offering the lowest fare for those dates at $951.40.

I've been signed up for Air France's email specials for several years. However, they have never notified me of any special fares to French Polynesia (however, if you want to go to Paris ....).

Once a couple of years ago, when I was bored, I started inputing random dates into the Air France online booking service. I found a great fare (in the $400's RT) available for certain depatures in April and May. I was never able to find where the fare was published but it was available for purchase on the Air France site. The fare I got for roughly the same dates as above was $1,108. Note that Air France displays the fares in one way segments, the fare is not $504.

While I've gotten great U.S. hotel deals bidding on Priceline I have not used them for international air. You can purchase airline tickets, without bidding, from them also. For the dates mentioned above they were also cheaper than ATN coming in at $1013. I suggest reading up on bidding strategies at Bidding for Travel.

I also tried various "Cheap" airfares sites but none of them were cheaper than Expedia, Orbitz or Travelocity.

If I was planning for an upcoming trip and had flexibility with dates I would wait for an Air Tahiti Nui special. The specials aren't restricted to off-season, I've used them at the peak of high-season in August and early Septmember. I've purchased them over a month before depature.

Getting to Tahiti

2007-03-01T19:19:00.000-08:00

As there is so much outdated information on the Web regarding French Polynesia I thought I would post this basic information. The airlines that fly to Tahiti are:

	Air Tahiti Nui from Los Angeles, New York, Paris, Tokyo, Osaka, Sydney, Auckland
	Air France from Los Angeles, Paris
	Hawaiian from Honolulu
	Air New Zealand from Auckland and until April 2nd, 2007 from Los Angeles and Rarotonga
	Air Calin from Noumea, New Caledonia
	Lan Chile from Easter Island, Santiago
	Air Rarotonga will start service in April from the Cook Islands
	Air Tahiti will start service in April from the Cook Islands

Marquesas Arts Festival Program

2007-02-28T09:28:00.000-08:00

The tahitinui blog published the program for the Marquesas Arts Festival this coming December. Here is my attempt, using various Web translators, at an English language version.

Sunday, December 16th at HAKAHAU
Pre-opening

8:00 am Catholic mass in the church Tepano Peato
8:00 am Protestant worship

Sunday, December 16th noon to Monday, December 17th noon

YOU HAKAPEI IA KAI MAU: NO MAOIO
Preparations of the great traditional community meal for Monday midday
The “TUHUKA” and “TAUA” of each delegation will put their knowledge and know-how into practice in the field of the traditional Art of cooking.

Monday, December 16th Opening Ceremonies "TUHUKA"

8:00 am Presentation of the delegations in front of the official platform
With the sound of drums, HAHI, MAVE, songs of greeting, PU TOKA, PU HAKAHAU, the Marquesan delegation, ENANA, will present first by respecting the myth of the divine creation of “HAE ENANA”, the Marquesan box, whose each component evokes symbolically “TE HENUA ENANA”, in the chronological order of its construction

UA LOUSE, two pillars, two posts of the box
HIVA OA, the long ridge purlin, posed on the 2 posts
NUKU HIVA, ridge purlins posed on HIVA OA
FATUIVA, the cover in 9 lines of palms of braided coconuts
UA HUKA, the pit crowned to preserve the bones of the ancestors
TAHUATA, the box is finished, it is the dawn!

Delegation of NAPUKA TUAMOTU
Guests of honor, because they have a bond with the tribe “KAAVAHEPEOA” of HAKAOHOKA in the valley of HOHOI with UA LOUSE

TAMA ENANA TAHITI
HAURURU TAHITI
RAIATEA HAVAIKINUI
OPARO RAPA ITI
RAPA NUI
HAWAII
MAORI TEAOTEAROA
WALLIS AND FUTUNA
NEW CALEDONIA
CASTRES, FRANCE

9:00 am Prayer followed by the anthem "ENANA"

9:15 am Welcoming speech by the Mayor of UA-POU and the President of the Festival
Short speeches by eminent personages

9:30 am Official declaration of the opening of the MATAVAA

10:00 am Execution of a “GIANT PUTU”

The traditional dance specific to the Marquesas, by all the men who took part in the six preceding festivals.

11:00 am Official Opening of the Activities Workshops

Traditional practices
Traditional massage
The art of cooking
Display of models of traditional dugouts
Ritual, traditional dance and songs
Manufacture of traditional weapons
Myths, tales and legends
Art of public speaking

11:30 am Official Opening of the Stands

Display and sale of handcrafts

11:40 am Opening Ceremoney of "UMU KAI" (Marquesan Oven)
“NUNU KAI” the procession of the bearing of the food towards the place of “KAI IA MAU”, the great community meal.

12:30 am Traditional blessing of “KAI IA MAU”

1:30 pm Display of art works

Traditional sculptures and modern creations
Paintings of Polynesian expression
Drawings and explanations of traditional tattoos
Headresses and traditional costumes

5:30 pm to 6:30 pm Dinner

7:30 pm Cultural Presentations

UA LOUSE
UA HUKA
FATU HIVA
TAHUATA
HIVA-OA
NUKU-HIVA

10:30 pm End of the Presentations

Tuesday, December 18th and Wednesday, December 19th at MAUIA HOHOI

Delegations present on the site:

Tuesday
UA LOUSE - NAPUKA - TEAOTAEROA - WALLIS AND FUTUNA
OPARO - TAMA ENANA - TAHUATA - HIVA OA - RAIATEA

Wednesday
UA-POU - HAURURU - HAWAII - RAPA NUI - NUKU HIVA
UA HUKA - FATUIVA - NEW CALEDONIA -CASTRES, FRANCE

4:30 am Awake to the sound of the pū, drum

5:00 am Breakfast

6:00 am Departure for HOHOI

9:00 am Gathering of the delegations at the carpark
Go towards “TE POOTU I NOHO I MAUIA", the place of the tribe of TAVAKA
Drum reception
Drums coming from the Tohua party area will play a welcome consisting of "Hahi, Mavé, Tapatapa" and "a’naunau".

9:30 am Reception of the delegations and placement on the TOHUA

Ritual ceremony of the bond between the tribes of TAVAKA and NAPUKA
Painful evocation of the departure of the tribe of “KAAVAHOPEOA” 200 years ago
Exchanges of presents “VAETUKIA”

10:15 am Evocation on the preparations of the departure of the Princess and her tribe towards the large Ocean of HIVA.
The farewell of Princess MAHIHOPE and her father UKU ME HE HONU, to their valley HAKAOHOKA and their tribe TAVAKA.

10:45 am Ritual Ceremony of the Reunion
Expression of joy, evocation, the continuation of the voyage of MAHIHOPE,
the arrival and life with NAPUKA.

11:15 am Visiting workshops and the site MAUIA
Workshop - food conservation for transoceanic voyages
Workshop - food conservation for the tribe with the daily newspaper technique, preparation and demonstration
Workshop - clothes making

12:30 pm “KAIKAI” Community meal

1:00 pm Cultural Presentations
TEAOTEAROA MAORI
WALLIS AND FUTUNA
TAMA ENANA
OPARO
HIVA OA

4:00 pm Return to HAKAHAU lodgings

5:00 pm Dinner

7:30 pm Cultural Presentations
NEW CALEDONIA
RAPA ITI
RAIATEA
CASTRES, FRANCE
HAURURU
HAWAII

10:30 pm End of the presentations

Tuesday, December 18th and Wednesday, December 19th at HAKAHETAU VALLEY

Delegations present on the site:

Tuesday
UA LOUSE - HAURURU - HAWAII - RAPA NUI - NUKU HIVA - UA HUKA - FATUIVA - NEW CALEDONIA - CASTRES, FRANCE

Wednesday
UA LOUSE - NAPUKA - TEAOTAEROA - WALLIS AND FUTUNA - OPARO - TAMA ENANA - TAHUATA - HIVA OA - RAIATEA

The cultural activities of each day will take place in two areas:
An area known as contemporary, on the edge of the sea
A traditional area, in the valley on the TE TAHUNA site

8:30 am Official opening at HAKAHETAU

Presentation of the program.
Ritual of the sea presented by the delegation from HAWAII
A speech of presentation of the day will open the contemporary site
Animation on the plate of HAKAHETAU based on the products of the sea

9:30 am On the TE TAHUNA site
Legend “VEVEPUEHU”

10:00 am Workshops

Vegetable fibres and braiding
Dugout carving
Planting of taro and mei
Art of cooking
Woodcarving
Braiding
Fishing

Around 11:00 am the opening of a UA MA (mei and taro)

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm Lunch

2:00 pm On the contemporary site, craft industries workshops and three games

PEHE, sets of strings
Game with a rope for 10 people, played by the dance groups.
The sling
Stilts

4:30 pm /5:00 pm Return to lodgings

Thursday, December 20th
Day reserved for youth, the cultural future of the Marquesan people
Assessment of the cultural assets transmitted by the “TUHUKA”

Nursery school with the CM1, the children will highlight cultural assets transmitted by various “TUHUKA”

TUHUKA HAKA, Master of dance: various traditional dances

TUHUKA HIMENE, Master of songs: various traditional songs

TUHUKA TEKAO, Master of the word: Akakai (poems)

TAPATAPA (declamation)

TUHUKA SUBDUED TATAU, Master of genealogy: presents his genealogy

TUHUKA MT PAHU, Master of the drums: the art of drumming

TUHUKA HAA KA KAI, storyteller: the art of telling a legend or a myth.

8:00 am Beginning of the cultural services of the children accompanied by their respective TUHUKA. The activities in various workshops will also begin

9:30 am The invited delegations will be able to show their cultural identities

Ceremony of the KAVA , the man bird of RAPA NUI

10:00 am to 11:30 am Meeting of the Mayors, Chiefs of the Delegations and the members of Federation MOTU HAKA

11:30 am Lunch

2:30 pm Awarding prizes to the winners of the writing contest in EO ENANA

Awarding prizes for the most beautiful objets d'art

Awarding prizes to the winners of the traditional weapons contest

The presentation will be accompanied by traditional musics, songs and dances.

Closing Ceremonies
Cultural presentations by the different delegations
Farewell songs
Official speeches

Presentation of the symbol of the Matavaa to the island that will assume the next Matavaa in December 2011
“GIANT PUTU” executed by all the delegations present

6:30 pm Dinner and the departure of some delegations

The Waterfalls of Tahiti

2007-02-27T07:30:00.000-08:00

Of the many images of paradise that the name Tahiti invokes certainly waterfalls form part of the impression. World of Waterfalls was created by a California couple. They started out visiting falls in the Los Angeles area for a quick break. Soon they began traveling further afield collecting waterfall sightings.

In French Polynesia they have visited and photographed Vaimahutu Falls, Topatari Falls, Vaiharuru Falls and Puraha Falls on the island of Tahiti as well as Vaioro Falls on Moorea. The falls can be viewed by taking a 4wd tour.

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme.

Learn to Speak Tahitian

2007-02-26T05:55:00.000-08:00

Bruce Rimell, a fascinating Englishman, has created a wonderful Web site about the Tahitian language.

What's truly amazing is that he has never been to Tahiti but rather became interested in learning the language when he fell in love with Pacific island music while living in Japan. He writes "So without any grammar or textbooks to work from, I kept listening to the music, and slowly tried to take the language of the songs apart so that I could learn how to speak it".

He has now created online Tahitian lessons (and a quiz).
Both English-Tahitian and Tahitian-English dictionaries are available.

For fans of Tahitian music he has also translated the lyrics of various songs.

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme.

Tahiti Aggressor Relocating to Fiji

2007-02-24T07:48:00.000-08:00

The Aggressor Fleet has announced that they will be relocating the Tahiti Aggressor live aboard dive boat to Fiji. On their Web site they posted:

In 2002, the Tahiti Aggressor made way to the Tuamotu Islands then the Society Islands in search of a new frontier and found incredible diving. Since that time, it has become cost prohibitive to continue to operate there and we regret that the Tahiti Aggressor will cease operations March 10, 2007. She will relocate to Fiji after being dry-docked and will resume operations as the Fiji Aggressor starting May 12, 2007. The Fiji Aggressor will explore new dive areas that will be announced soon. The 10 passenger Fiji Aggressor II will continue operating and will go to dry-dock for an extensive refit during the year. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause cause.

Scubadiving.com adds that the following options are available to those who have made deposits on trips with the Tahiti Aggressor:

Transfer your reservation from the Tahiti Aggressor to the Fiji Aggressor, Fiji Aggressor II, Palau Aggressor II, North Sulawesi Aggressor or Kona Aggressor II (difference in charter price will be paid/refunded) and receive a $500 voucher towards a future charter, good for 3 years, non transferable and non commissionable. Reimbursement of penalties imposed for airline tickets will be made if client cancels trip to Tahiti. (Receipts must accompany request).

or

Receive a full refund for your Tahiti Aggressor charter. Reimbursement of penalties imposed for airline tickets will be made if client cancels trip to Tahiti. (Receipts must accompany request).

Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourisme.

Tahiti Le Truck Information

2007-02-23T09:07:00.000-08:00

Bus route map

You can view the schedule and stops of the lines here (yes, I see that it was published in January, 2003. That's as good as it's going to get. I've been seaching for this information since 2003).

Here are more schedules, including ones for travel outside of the Papeete area.

The minimum price is 130, at night 200. It costs about 300 to get all the way down to Teahupoo.

A New Hotel on Nukutepipi

2007-02-22T20:37:00.000-08:00

Last week Tahitipresse announced a new hotel is to be built on the atoll of Nukutepipi. Oceandots.com states that it is the southeasternmost atoll of the Duke of Gloucester group. It's less than 6 square kilometers, 3.5 kilometers in length by 2 kilometers wide.

Air Tahiti does not fly there. While it's part of the commune of Hao, it's quite a distance away. Every 25 days the cargo boat Nuku Hau stops there. It costs 7900 for a one way deck ticket.

It will cost US $16,500,000 to buy the land and build the hotel, which will accomodate 25 to 40 people (that's pretty big for French Polynesia and sort of defeats the point of being on a remote island). It's scheduled to in 2007 (that's this year!)

However, before embarking on the Tuamotu project the French-Canadian investor plans to build a 40 unit hotel on the northwest coast of Bora Bora. That's scheduled to open in 2010 so maybe the Nukutepipi project is slated for completion in 2017?

I'm fascinated.

Photo courtesty of Tahiti Tourisme.

Air Tahiti - Part 5

2007-02-21T11:22:00.000-08:00

Savings can also be realized by purchasing point to point airfares in Tahiti instead of overseas.

Here some are fare comparisons for round trip tickets. My Tahiti fares are from last summer. These fares are good on any flight.

Route RT	Overseas LS	Overseas HS	Tahiti
Tahiti - Huahine	21000	21000	18900
Tahiti - Bora Bora	31500	34700	26100
Tahiti - Raiatea	24300	24300	21600
Tahiti - Maupiti	30300	30300	26600
Tahiti - Tikehau	32200	34700	28600
Tahiti - Rangiroa	32200	34700	28600
Tahiti - Nuku Hiva	57600	57600	50200
Tahiti - Raivavae	49200	49200	43900

Many destinations do not have seasonal surchages.