Papeete, Tahiti
We awoke in the Capital City of French Polynesia, Papeete. We decided to enjoy the day engaging in a self-guided walking tour and explore the city.
After a week at Sea, followed by visits to the nearby Islands of Moorea and Bora Bora, our first impression of Papeete was overwhelming. It’s not a village or an out of the way tourist destination, it’s a full-blown city, replete with urban sprawl, traffic, hustle and bustle.
Our first stop was the City Market. The market has everything tourists and locals could want. Plenty of food, endless stalls of fabric, crafts and artwork.
Once again, a flower lady stole the show. Her creations were unique, colorful and beautiful. Compared to the endless stalls of fabrics, trinkets and jewelry, her offerings were a feast for the eyes.
Polynesia has strict laws against bringing flowers or plants from the ship and we weren’t certain we could board with the bouquets. We opted for a small bunch of gardenias. Even if they were confiscated “at the border”, we would enjoy their sweet scent for the day.
Our next stop: The Assembly. The meeting place for Polynesia’s version of Congress. The building was impressive and the grounds beautiful.
After negotiating maps, dodging traffic and doing plenty of window shopping, it was time for a tranquil walk along the waterfront.
I love double hulled canoes. I find the woodwork, craftsmanship and capabilities of these vessels intriguing and a source of wonder. This beauty was the finest I’ve ever seen. Brought back memories of Hawaii and the voyage of the Hokulea.
We didn’t venture far when we came upon a gathering of locals. We discovered this is a daily lunch ritual and a vigorous workout. Not a bad way to spend workday afternoons.
Our wildlife photo of the day.
The waterfront park has lovely art installations. Our walk completed it was time to return to the Neptune.
On this, our last evening in Tahiti, Viking brought in an excellent local dance ‘halou’ to provide a final farewell to French Polynesia.
All made it back to our cabin safe and sound, ready to set sail for a bucket list country, New Zealand.
