It was only during our semi-retirement years that my husband Jim began to relax enough to enjoy the pleasures of travel. And once he did, he was ready to pack his bags on a moment’s notice.
The above ad captured our attention. We were ready to experience this new civilized way of travel. Instead of beginning our adventure in economy class air travel as usual, we reserved business class seats on Air Tahiti Nui for the 8 ½ hour flight from LAX to Papeete.
VIP Treatment in Business Class Air
Welcomed by the fragrance of the Tiare gardenia and the sounds of legendary island music, we soaked in the plush beauty and comfort of the Air Tahiti Nui airbus. Serving 24 passengers, Poerava Business Class features two-abreast seating, allowing for extra privacy. We soon easily relaxed into the mood of the tropics.
Champagne flowed. Hors d’hoeuvres fit for royalty, warm towels, socks and other sundries were distributed. Footrests emerged and movie screens appeared telescope-fashion from tray tables. Business class on Air Tahiti Nui is a virtual entertainment center, with first-run movies, music and games.
Five Star Menu and Service
The meal plan is based on five-star restaurant standards and designed by internationally celebrated chefs. Premium wine accompanies dinner served on china plates with real silverware, except for the plastic knives, a sad commentary on the state of our times. The cuisine is a blend of Polynesian and French heritage complemented by Continental fare.
Boarding the M/S Paul Gauguin in the Port of Papeete
As we boarded the ship in Papeete, we were welcomed into a small salon with only a few other couples at a time. On large ships carrying thousands of passengers, this process can be a nightmare. We learned that the ship was carrying about 70 less passengers than the usual number of 330, so we could expect extra pampering.
The following days can only be described as a slice of Paradise. We enjoyed breakfast by a full-sized window in our roomy stateroom or out on our spacious balcony. Many days we came in close range of the lush surroundings, a panorama of velvety green peaks or sheltered azure bays.
No Formal Nights or Mandatory Meal Times
Each day we planned our daily schedule according to our mood, making dinner reservations in the dining room of our choice, at the hour of our choice. The evening dress code is Country Club Casual. Complimentary wines are provided in a choice of restaurants and each cabin has a stocked bar. Gratuities are not accepted as they are included in the price of the cruise.
Excursion to Moto Mahana in Tahaa
An excursion provided by the cruise ship is a trip by boat tender to spend the day on its very own private island. Lounge chairs are set up on the white sand beach and lunch is served on China platters overflowing with salads, fruit, grilled meat and fish. I tried Poisson de Cru, a native raw fish soaked in lime juice and found it pleasant and fresh-tasting. If I were ever going to try this dish, it would be from the meticulous chefs of the Paul Gauguin.
After Tahitian Beer and Pina Coladas in real coconut shells are served, lagoon wading in the sparking blue water is a must, with beach shoes of course, to guard against coral cuts and sea urchin stings.
Lagoonarium Excursion in Bora Bora
On our stop in Bora Bora, we joined three other couples on a snorkeling tour of four lagoon pools, each with a different species of tropical fish, turtles, rays and sharks. Our handsome guide Xavier, sporting an ever-so-brief pareo, possessed a charming lagoon-side manner, flirting effortlessly with each of us women.
Paul Gauguin Ship Offers Eco-tour and Dolphin Watching Excursion in Moorea
Along with about 20 other passengers, I joined marine biologist Michael Poole’s expedition and eco-tour. Coincidentally, Dr. Poole earned his doctorate in my California hometown at UC Santa Cruz. He is director of the Marine Mammal Research Program in Moorea, French Polynesia.
The excursion took us around the island, accompanied by Poole’s fascinating commentary. As we reached one of the spots along the reef where dolphins are normally seen, three wild spinners leaped out of the water, spinning like tops. We learned that one of the reasons dolphins spin is to remove remoras, or parasites that attach themselves by suction.
Shipboard Lecture by Michael Poole on “The Dolphin and Whale Population of the South Pacific”
After the tour, Dr. Poole came aboard the Paul Gauguin to present a lecture on the plight of whales and dolphins in French Polynesian waters and spoke about his crusade to make the area a safe sanctuary for these mammals.
Dr. Poole, married to a native dancer and with two children, graciously met with me after the lecture for a fascinating interview for my hometown newspaper, describing his life on Moorea.
Take the Time to Travel Before Retirement
Today when I look back, I am forever grateful that Jim and I took the time to explore the wonders of travel before it was too late. He has now gone on to another paradise, but … I envision him waiting for me in a place as breathtakingly beautiful as the spectacular islands of the South Pacific.
June Smith - I am the retired owner of a pioneering winery founded in the early '70s in California's Santa Cruz Mountains, with dozens of food, wine ...
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