Tahiti’s Tuamotu Archipelago - Where is Manihi Atoll?

Manihi is an atoll in Tahiti’s Tuamotu Archipelago. It is the idyllic retreat of a South Sea Society Island life. Manihi offers balmy breezes, idyllic pristine beaches and clear waters.

Where to stay: Manihi Pearl Beach Resort is a little luxury hideaway offering beachside and overwater bungalows with hardwood floors and palm-frond ceilings have ceiling fans, minibars, and coffeemakers.

The complimentary amenities include miniature golf, snorkel in the lagoon, and paddle kayaks and outrigger canoes at no extra charge.

There are only 41 guestroom at the resort, offering a very personal feel. The staff caters to the needs of each and every guest by helping plan trips, personalizing your bungalow and offering helpful tips about the area. Visitors will experience a relaxing and calm vacation surrounded by the pristine waters and natural, undiscovered beauty of the Tuamotu Archipelago.

The true gem of the resort is the surrounding water, filled with dazzling arrays of fish and coral reef life. Diving and snorkeling are the best way to see the beauty of the lagoon up close and personal. The resort is famous for its “Motu Picnic” which includes fishing, snorkeling, delicious seaside dining and an endless view of the turquoise blue horizon.

Manihi atoll is a great destination if you are looking for a Tahitian Cultured Pearl, which is Tahiti’s largest export and a local specialty.

Visitors can explore Tahitian cultured black pearl farms in the Tuamotu atolls Manihi, Rangiroa and on the islands of Raiatea, Taha’a, and Huahine, and can watch the grafting of the blacked-lipped oysters that create these exotic and highly prized pearls. Before buying pearls, stop by theblacked-lipped oysters Tahiti Black Pearl Oyster Museum in Papeete to learn how to judge the value based on size, color, luster, and shape.

If you are looking for the ultimate island paradise, a tiny little haven for just a few chosen people,

Contact the Travel Gal at 800 644-6659 or Teresa@LuxuryHideaways

to plan your romantic beach vacation!

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Small Ship Cruise Options for the Islands of Tahiti

Aloha and Ia Orana,
Cruising around the islands of Tahiti for a romantic cruise celebration sounds like a fabulous idea to me! Lets review some small ship cruise options for you:

7 Night Haumana Cruise

A unique experience of discovery in the pristine ocean environment of Rangiroa!  Cruise in luxury in one of 12 well-appointed cabins, with all-inclusive gourmet dining and charming motu picnics. Swim, snorkel, hike, or relax on the deck at sea in this romantic paradise. The 7 night cruise departs from Rangiroa on Saturdays and Wednesdays. The guests fly into Papeete, stay overnight 1 night, then they will be transferred by plane to Rangiroa.

Location: Rangiroa, Tahiti.

Haumana Cruise Amenities:
Air Conditioning, Bar (On upper deck & open all day.), Bathroom Amenities, Boutique, CD Player, DVD Player, Hair Dryer, Housekeeping (Twice daily), In Room Safe, Jacuzzi, Mini-Bar, Television, VCR.

Haumana Cruise Activities:
Dolphin Watch, Fishing, Fly Fishing, Jacuzzi, Jet Skiing (At an additional cost), Kayaking, Nature Excursions (Visit unspoiled motus and virgin reefs), Polynesian Dance Lesson, Snorkeling, Surfing, Vineyard (Dominique Auroy’s Vineyard).

Attractions:
Snorkeling, swimming, authentic island craft demonstrations and performances by local cultural groups.

If you would like to experience the romantic islands in the South Pacific,

Call 800 644-6659 or email Teresa@LuxuryHideaways.net for more details

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The Aranui III offers 86 cabins & is an Inter-Island Freighter!

Have you ever longed to hop a freighter to the romantic South Seas? Well, now you can, with Aranui Cruises - a delightful alternative to the more sumptuous cruises in and around Tahiti. The Aranui III is a state-of-the-art freighter that delivers supplies to the Marquesa Islands and also carries passengers.

Inspired by the tales of Herman Melville, Jack London and Robert Louis Stevenson, travelers go along to get in touch with the spirit of adventure that lies dormant in us all, and because no other cruise offers such an authentic slice of Polynesian life.

The Aranui III offers 13 to 16 night trips with Saturday departures.

Aranui Amenities:
Air Conditioning, Balcony or Patio, Bathtub, Cocktail Lounge, Gym/Fitness Center, Laundry Service (Washers & Dryers available; No Dry Cleaning), Library, Live Entertainment (Members singing and playing hand craft ukuleses), Refrigerator, Shared Bathroom.

Aranui Activities:
Fishing, Horseback Riding (On Ua Huka Island), Scuba Diving, Snorkeling, Surfing, Swimming Pool.

If you would like to experience the romantic islands in the South Pacific,

Call 800 644-6659 or email Teresa@LuxuryHideaways.net for more details

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Paul Gauguin Cruise

Named after France’s greatest Post-Impressionist painter, whose work is indelibly linked to Tahiti and Polynesia, the Paul Gauguin is the ideal ship on which to explore the world’s last natural paradise. The ship accomodates 318 passengers and departs out of Papeete. Come experience the ultimate in luxury, service and impeccable cuisine aboard a ship that celebrates the art of living in true Gallic style.

Paul Gauguin Cruise Amenities:
Air Conditioning, Bathrobe, Bathroom Amenities, Bathtub, Beauty Salon, Boutique, Business Center (There are four computers and a printer), Butler Service (In Suites only), CD Player, Concierge, DVD Player, Direct Dial Phone, Dry Cleaning Available, Fax Machine Available (Sent/received through the reception desk), Fruit, Gym/Fitness Center, Gym/Fitness Center, Hair Dryer, Internet Access, Laundry Service, Library (A wide selection of books is available), Medical Services (Doctor & nurse equipped to provide medical care), Mini-Bar, Refrigerator, Room Service, Room Service (24-hour room service), Shower, Spa Services (Carita Spa & Beauty Salon), Television (TV/ VCR), Video Library.

Paul Gauguin Cruise Activities:
Art Gallery (Fare Tahiti Gallery), Casino, Casino, Dance Club (La Palette Lounge, Piano bar & romantic nightclub), Diving, Island Excursions, Kayaking, Kayaking, Night Club (Polynesian performances, dancing, cabaret singer), Outdoor Pool, Scuba Lessons, Snorkeling, Swimming Pool, Water Skiing, Windsurfing.

If you would like to experience the romantic islands in the South Pacific,

Call 800 644-6659 or email Teresa@LuxuryHideaways.net for more details

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One month ago today we left beautiful Maui. It was a magical trip.

Teresa, Travel Agent Extradinairre, Aloha,

Sorry for taking so long to reply. One month ago today we left beautiful Maui. It was a magical trip. We enjoyed our time there so much. The whole family did. Your itinerary worked out perfectly. Only one day was not as good as we hoped and that is when we took Vern’s family snorkelling. That day was very, very rough and difficult to snorkel especially for the little ones. Kelly and I became seasick which was not so great but we still had fun. Everything else was aces.

Maui Hill fit our needs very well as the condos are so spacious. They even had Santa land by helicopter near the pool on Christmas Eve. That was very exciting. Hawaii is a paradise.

Sorry you were sick and we missed meeting you. Anyway you did a great job so thank you so much! May 2011 bring good things into your life. Happy New Year.
Bye for now,
Lynda & family

If you too would like assistance with your Christmas vacation,

Call 800 644-6659 or email Teresa@LuxuryHideaways.net

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New Zealand - The South Island, Christchurch & Queenstown

The South Island is home to some of New Zealand’s most striking landscapes… perfect for outdoor adventures.

Christchurch, the “Garden City,” is also called the “most English city outside England.” The largest city on the South Island, it is filled with beautiful parks and gardens, through which the Avon River runs. Whale-watching, visiting the International Antarctic Centre, punting on the Avon, hot air ballooning, and wine tasting are some highlights of a visit to Christchurch.

Toward the center of the South Island, Queenstown is the adventure capital of New Zealand. Activities include jetboat rides, garden tours, lake cruises, helicopter flights, bungy jumping, golf, skiing, gondola rides, guided walks, fishing, skydiving, wine tasting, and much more. If there’s any outdoor activity you crave, chances are you can find it in Queenstown! By far the most popular activity is the trip to Milford Sound, including a launch cruise on this stunning fiord.

Dunedin, New Zealand’s oldest city, is located on the southern coast. It is home to Edwardian heritage buildings, museums, galleries, and New Zealand’s first university. The nearby Otago Peninsula is a haven for wildlife, including seals, dolphins, albatross, and penguins.

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Aranui III - Freighter to Paradise!

Explore French Polynesia’s enchanting Marquesas Islands aboard the new freighter Aranui III. The 85 cabin Aranui III is custom designed with space and comfort in mind, but retains the friendly atmosphere and experienced crew that makes it half way between a modern-day cruise ship and an old island trader.

The ship’s large, family-style dining room offers French and Polynesian cuisine in a casual atmosphere. On board, you can enjoy the swimming pool and gym, cocktails in the two bars, and a library. Special facilities are offered for fishing, swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. You’ll learn about Marquesan history, culture and art from the guest lecturers.

Lifeline for these remote islands, the Aranui III makes monthly 16-day voyages, carrying everything from baguettes to bulldozers, loading copra for the return trip to Papeete. With exhilarating surf landings and fascinating excursions, a cruise aboard the Aranui III offers the rare opportunity to visit islands which remain virtually untouched since the days of the early explorers.

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We Loved Kauai Island Private Home Rental!

Teresa found the most wonderful beach front house for our week in Kauai. She made our trip absolutely perfect and we will use her services again for our next vacation.

Susan, Alison & Michael

Aliomanu Sands

This charming, oceanfront home is located on one of Kauai’s most beautiful beaches. Vaulted ceilings add a spacious feel and the large lanai, accessible from both the great room and the master bedroom, faces the magnificent Pacific Ocean. Step outside for a closer view of nature’s splendor and tropical island breezes will caress you. Relax to the soothing sounds of the sea while you take in this splendid vista.

Step outdoors to a white sand beach and the expansive Pacific Ocean. Lounge on the warm sand, sip a cool beverage and take a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge. Playful dolphins may delight you with their antics and the occasional sailboat in the distance could divert your attention. The tranquil surroundings of this special home invite peaceful moments.

Tempting menus abound at the many retaurants located in neighboring towns. A wide variety of cuisine, including fresh seafood, Italian, Japanese, Pacific Rim, Chinese, Mexican and vegetarian, is offered.

Activities nearby include swimming, snorkeling, fishing, surfing, windsurfing, horseback riding, hiking, shopping, tennis and golf. Non-smoking. 2BR/2BA. Sleeps 4.

If you too would like to rent a private home - at a great price - in Hawaii
Call Me at 1-800-644-6659
Your ‘See the South Pacific Specialist’ at Luxury Hideaways

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Huka Lodge - luxury lodging in New Zealand

Huka Lodge is located in Taupo, in the central North Island of New Zealand and is considered to be one of the world’s top retreats in the world.

Huka Lodge is surrounded by magnificent natural beauty. The crystal clear waters of Lake Taupo are fed by mountain streams and are home to some of the most sought-after Rainbow trout in the world. The spectacular and mighty cascades of water forming the Huka Falls are a short walk from Huka Lodge, on the banks of the Waikato River.

How to get there: Huka Helicopter transfers from Auckland, Wellington and Rotorua. Enjoy the scenic wonders of the central North Island and be delivered to the front lawn of Huka Lodge. Auckland to Huka Lodge - 1 hr 15 min, Wellington to Huka Lodge - 1 hr 35 min, and Rotorua to Huka Lodge 25 mins.

Explore the park-like gardens and flower borders or soak in our hot pools. Enjoy a game of tennis on our all weather court. Relax playing a game of petanque. A short walk beyond the gates brings you to the spectacular Huka Falls.

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