Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia. The mountainous interior is adorned with deep valleys, clear streams, and high waterfalls, all bathed in green iridescence of Mother Nature's light. The coastal lands, edged with a rugged coastline, are home to fields of tropical flowers and most of the island's population.

The capital, Papeete, meaning the " water basket, " was once a gathering place where Tahitians came to fill their calabashes with fresh waters. 

Our tour of Tahiti started at the market in Papeete, followed by a visit to the Cathedral and the President's residence. We were surprised that the guard allowed us entry into the grounds to take a closer photo of the 'Palace'. We then went to the Pearl Museum, the only museum in the world devoted entirely to pearls - the history and practice of cultivating pearls as well as their place in art, history, mythology, and religion.

In the afternoon, we went on a circular tour of Tahiti, visiting the lagoonarium, Fern Grottos, Paul Gauguin museum, Point Venus - the tip of the peninsula lined with black-sand beaches being the historic landing site of many of the early explorers including Captain Cook and Captain William Bligh. Then on to Faarumai Waterfalls and the Blowhole before viewing a beautiful sunset.