Dreams of Tahiti

Arguably the most dramatically beautiful of the French Polynesian islands, Moorea lies only a few miles northwest of Tahiti (10 minutes by air or under an hour by ferry from Papeete). This little tropical island gem is characterised by spectacular bays, white sandy beaches, and towering craggy volcanic peaks that form a jagged central spine, reflected in the surrounding crystal-surfaced lagoons.

About 16,000 people live happily on Moorea, but there are no towns, or even villages, as such. Settlements offering clusters of shops and stalls line the 40-mile long (64km) paved road that encircles the island, giving access to a handful of sightseeing opportunities and lovely beaches. The best beaches are between the Moorea Village Hotel and the Hotel Beachcomber, and near the Sofitel Ia Ora near the airport.

All sorts of water activities and excursions are offered on the island, as well as several land-based activities like hikes and mountain safaris. A fun way to explore the island is to rent a scooter or bicycle, or join the locals on the 'trucks' that form the island's public transport system, such as it is.

Must-see sights include the panoramic view of the Cook and Opunohu bays from the Roto Nui (Belvedere) viewpoint, the Paopao open-air market, and a distillery where exotic liqueurs are produced from the local pineapple, vanilla, mango, and coconut crops.

Moorea boasts some fancy luxury resorts for those wanting to indulge but there are also more reasonably priced options. Despite the island's great popularity with travellers, Moorea retains an authentic, non-touristy atmosphere and provides a good retreat from bustling Tahiti.

Raiatea (French Polynesia)

Motu Mahaea, Society Islands (French Polynesia)

Satellite pictures of the tiny island of Bora Bora, from hundreds of miles above the earth, show it to be almost glowing, its dark green centre surrounded by a coral necklace and an iridescent aquamarine lagoon.

Little wonder that this is the dream destination for celebrities, honeymooners, and lovers who live in splendour in the island's luxurious spas and resorts, while enjoying privacy and anonymity on its magical secluded beaches.

Visitors to Bora Bora touch down on an airstrip (built by US troops during World War II) situated on a (islet) in the middle of the beautiful crystal-clear lagoon, and are ferried to the main island. The lagoon forms the centre of activities for holidaymakers, being the stage for numerous adventures, from shark-feeding excursions and swimming with giant turtles to scuba diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing, glass-bottom boat cruises, descending into the 'lagoonarium', kite-sailing, picnicking on a and more.

Bora Bora also offers plenty of cultural and historical attractions, like taking a day trip to a (ancient temple), exploring the World War II-era cannon and relics, browsing the art and craft galleries, watching a Tahitian dance ceremony, and perhaps even braving a traditional tattoo (the skin art is said to have originated here). Bora Bora is a famously dreamy travel destination and more than lives up to its reputation. For a romantic holiday in a tropical beach paradise there is no better choice.

Huahine (French Polynesia)

Papeete will be your gateway to the tropical paradise of French Polynesia, where islands fringed with gorgeous beaches and turquoise ocean await to soothe the soul. This spirited city is the capital of French Polynesia, and serves as a superb base for onward exploration of Tahiti – an island of breathtaking landscapes and oceanic vistas. Wonderful lagoons of crisp, clear water beg to be snorkelled, stunning black beaches and blowholes pay tribute to the island's volcanic heritage, and lush green mountains beckon you inland on adventures, as you explore extraordinary Tahiti. Visit to relax inside picturesque stilted huts, which stand out over shimmering water, as you settle into the intoxicating rhythm of life, in this Polynesian paradise.