WHY WE LOVE IT:
Tahiti’s the stuff ‘Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous’ is made of. Panaauia is also the most accessible beach and offers plenty to do like the Museum of Tahiti for the Chanel-wearing history- nerd inside you. The Museum has information on Polynesian origins, culture and history. You can Mountain-bike, hike, play golf at the 18-hole Atimaono international golf course or just swim in the blue waters. Or , simply stroll in the local market treating yourself to the native produce like vanilla, fruit and Monoi ( a type of traditional coconut oil). Panaauia Beach attracts surfers from all over the world. It’s a good place to take lessons from experts on the beach.

MUST DO:
Humpback whale-watching, shark and ray-feeding demonstrations, mahi-mahi fishing, wind surfing and water-skiing. Sights to catch include Blowhole of Arahobo, Faarumi and Vaipahi waterfalls, Mahaiatea open-air temple and the burial spot of Paul Gaugin.
GET THERE:
Fly to paris, then to Papeete, French Polynesia. Air Papeete operates to 33 islands.
WHERE TO STAY:
• SUITE:
InterContinental Resort Tahiti Point, Tahiti PO Box 6014, Papeete, French Polynesia. Tel: (689) 865110 E-mail: Tahiti@interconti.pf Room costs Rs 12.800 onwards per night for a couple.
• BUSSINES:
Hotel Sofitel Tahiti Resort, BP 60008 tahiti, French Polynesia Tel: (689) 866600 E-mail: H0547@accor.com. Rooms cost Rs 10.000 per night for a couple.
• VALUE:
Tahiti Airport Motel BP 60113, Tahiti, French Polynesia Tel: (689) 504000 E-mail: staff@tahitiairportmotel.com. Rooms cost Rs 8.500 per night For a couple.
RISK FACTOR:
Nothing scarier than a few bugs.