We Want More Moorea

We just returned from a fabulous vacation on the island of Moorea in French Polynesia in the  South Pacific. The region’s natural beauty is stunning – pale blue ocean, silky white sand beaches, and lush, tropical greenery. The sea is calm and clear, and you can see beautiful fish just off shore. The water is warm, too, and the beaches are so lovely. It’s truly paradise!

We stayed at the wonderful Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort. The resort’s elegant yet understated design puts the emphasis on the natural beauty all around. It is situated on a long, pristine beach, with calm, gradually deepening waters that are perfect for all ages and swimmers. I loved taking long walks on the beach but the more adventurous in our group went kayaking and swam out toward the nearby coral reef that is said to have the best snorkeling on the island. The hotel provides snorkeling gear, kayaks, and paddle boards – all you need is a swimsuit!

I also loved sitting on our bungalow’s veranda, looking out at the sea. The Sofitel’s bungalows are charming, comfortable, and well-appointed. Service at the Sofitel is excellent; everyone at the hotel is very friendly and helpful. The resort’s food was very good including the sumptuous breakfast buffet.. We also discovered some excellent restaurants on the island, which is easy to do as most restaurants provide free transportation to and from your hotel. The food on Moorea is an enticing blend of Polynesian, French, and other cuisines, with lots of fresh fish and seafood… and probably the best pineapple I’ve ever tasted.

Our flights on Air Tahiti Nui were excellent. I love their new plane, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. Ours had a very nice seat configuration and a lovely design and color scheme in everything from the blankets to the flight attendants’ uniforms. The food was good too.

The gateway to French Polynesia is Papeete on the island of Tahiti. All international flights land there. We made the 15-mile trip from Tahiti to Moorea by ferry. Our 45-minute ferry ride was a bit bumpy but still a fun experience. (There is also the option of a 15-minute plane rid .) The view of Moorea as you approach it is so lovely.

This was a family trip for us. We were three generations enjoying sunshine, relaxation, snorkeling, kayaking and an especially memorable experience: swimming with manta rays and small sharks. Whether you are planning a family trip, a honeymoon, or a solo adventure, French Polynesia is an ideal destination.

All of us are ready to return to French Polynesia. Contact TravelStore to arrange your fabulous trip so that you can experience it also.

Suzanne Allswang