Papeete: Visiting the Island Paradise in the Pacific
The city of Papeete, French Polynesia, is the capital city of the collectivity of the French Republic. It lies in the Pacific Ocean, on the Tahiti Island and serves as the administrative capital of the Windward Islands administrative division. Papeete is considered the main center of both the French Polynesian and the Tahitian services for finance, industry, and commerce. Its name came from the Tahitian word Pape’ete, which translates to “water from a basket.” The tourism in the area has been market for several years now, attracting a handful of businesses, such as hotels, inns, and shops to the island. Fly into the city via Tahiti Fa'a'ā International Airport, which served Papeete, or Temae Airport on the island of Moorea.
Best Time to Visit
The month of July is practically one of the busiest in French Polynesia, thanks to the annual month-long celebration of the Heiva Festival in the whole collectivity. The event exhibits nothing but Polynesian culture and encourages the islands to participate in the competition for the best singers, dancers, artists, and athletes. While this event is held throughout the region, the main festivity is done in Papeete, where the “Fare Tahiti Nui” is hosted. Most of Papeete, French Polynesia hotels are packed come this festivity, so better plan early to attend the celebration.
What to Do & Area Attractions
You can stay at Tahiti Airport Motel and Hotel Sarah Nui, which are a few minute’s walk to Papeete Market and Parc Bougainville. From Parc Bougainville, you can walk to the Black Pearl Museum, which is the only pearl museum across the globe.