Papeete,Tahiti

Papeete is one of the largest urban centers in the South Pacifc and lies on the southwest coast of Tahiti.  By the 1830s, its excellent deep water harbor made it a place of trade and a favorite port of call for whalers.  Papeete means "water basket" in Polynesian and has hundreds of underground springs which are connected to make the fresh water drinking systen for the island.

We docked around 8:00am under cloudy skies, that gave way to sun by the time our tour left the port.

Leaving the ship we were greeted by the Polynesians playing and singing and welcoming us. Over 200,000 inhabit the island of Tahiti

Welcome Committee

Boarding our bus, our local tour guide, Lydia, explained  a lot about the Polynesian history of Tahiti and their gods and culture.  Our first stop was Arahurahu Marae -- sacred ground for the Tahitians.  What a fascinating place that has been restored to its nearly original condition.  It's one of the largest and well kept Maraes that we've seen. Taking a short walk through this quiet sacred place, the Arahurahu Marae served both religious and social purposes in pre-Christian Polynesian societies.  Entering the site, you're met by 2 sacred Tiki stone statues guarding the Marae.  It's amazing the enormity of the site!!

Continuing our drive  drive along the West Coast of the island of Tahiti, we turned  south to the Vaipahi Gardens. Rare species of precious wood and tropical flowers flourish here.  From the waterfall to the babling, cascading brook, and the flowering lily pads this place was spectacular!  Quiet, peaceful, so beautiful that the photos can't really capture the true beauty we experienced.

And just to prove we were there, we took a pic of us inside the roots of a huge banyan tree!

On the return route, we enjoyed a stop at the Fern Grotto Caves of Maraa. These caves were described in Captain Cook's 1769 journal and were also a popular bathing spot for painter Paul Gauguin on hot afternoons, as described in his book, Noa Noa.  There was water actually dripping from the cave roof to the pool below.

Last but not least, we explored the interesting Museum of Tahiti & Her Islands. Set in a lagoon side coconut grove, with a pictureque view of Mo'orea, this museum ranks as one of the best in the South Pacific. The exhibits display a large array of archeological finds, Polynesian artwork and costumes that tell the story of ancient Tahiti.

On the way back to the ship we were able to get a photo op of the wall of the volcanic crater which formed the island.

 

What a SUPER tour and and a great tour guide,Lydia, that made it all the more special!!

Tonight on the ship's World Stage we will be seeing Mana - The Spirit of Tahiti, featuring "O Hinahere".  Through the music, song and dance of Tahiti, the local cast of singers, dancers and musicians, exhibited their talents and colorful, authentic costumes as they share Tahiti's rich heritage in this performance.  We saw this last March when we were here and this year we got some photos!!.  Fabulous show!!