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Raiatea
Raiatea, the sacred island, offers the
magical atmosphere of an island rich in legends. From the Faaroa
Crater (named after the only navigable river in Polynesia),
passing before numerous waterfalls to the summit of Mount
Temehani where the tare apetahi flower grows (a gardenia unique
in the world), various excursions allow you to cross the
majestic mountains which divide the island. Raiatea also offers
scuba divers the pleasure of exploring her marvelous underwater
gardens near the coral reef.
Home of the Polynesian culture, the sacred "Havai" is
known to be the first island where the first Maoris disembarked
more than 1,000 years ago from huge bamboo canoes. Rebaptised by
the daughter of Queen Rai and warrior Atea in memory of her
deceased parents, the island me "Raiatea" which means "soft
light skies". According to the legend, Raiatea would be the
departing point for warriors' souls to Maori's homeland, Hawaiki.
The largest of the Leeward Islands,
Raiatea shares the southern part of her lagoon with Taha'a, the
vanilla island. As well as famous surf spots such as Faaroa or
Miri Miri, one can discover wonderful, white sand beaches and
underwater gardens on the motus (islets) close to the coral reef
surrounding the island.
Taha'a
Renowned for its
quiet bays protected from trade winds, its archeological sites
and its lagoon abounding with colorful fish, highly appreciated
by sailors, Taha'a hosts several pearl farms.
"The Vanilla Island",
nicknamed so because of the precious orchids that prosper on
numerous plantations, remains virtually saturated with the
strong aroma of the beans which perfumes the coastlines and the
little hibiscus-bordered villages nestled in the hills.
The inhabitants
still live a peaceful and traditional life; fishing, farming and
selling their produce in either Uturoa's or Papeete's market.
Taha'a offering you
peace and a chance to discover the traditional way of life of
the island's inhabitants.
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