Le Taha’a Private Island Resort & Spa - Voted #1 by Travel Gal

Recently I traveled all over the islands of Tahiti to check out the most luxurious and romantic boutique luxury hideaways in the South Pacific - hey somebody has to do it right?!  My vote is for Le Taha’a Private island Resort & Spa!

We were met at the airport by our speedboat - imagine walking off a plane and right over to your waiting yacht! This was the first clue we were experiencing top of the line luxury! Our 20 minute ride was a photographers dream - pictures of pearl farms on stilts in the water, the oceanfront community church of Taha’a as well as the assorted little glimpse into island life makes for some great memories.

Arriving at Le Taha’a we were escorted to our huge overwater, island inspired bungalows complete with private deck, snorkle gear, seperate bath w/shower and amazing soaking tub, and king size bed - absolutely one of the most luxurious bungalows I’ve ever seen.

We dined in the Ohiri Restaurant which is the resorts goumet option. The Chef delighted us with french/polynesian fusion cuisine. The Sommelier selected wine to compliment the cuisine from their excellent wine cellar.

TravelGal opinion: The food! Oh my stars! We enjoyed a 4 course dinner with wine pairing that will rival any top restaurant - for the foodies out there - this is where you want to be!

Atmosphere is cozy, warm and romantic…palm trees are swaying, birds are singing, life is good on Le Taha’a.

Room Tip: Every room is amazing but I would pay up to experience the overwater bungalows.

For more inside scoop - call the Travel Gal at 800 644-6659

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Incredible Paul Gauguin Cruise On Sale until Oct. 8, 2011

Are you dreaming of the islands of Tahiti? Are you having visions of seeing crystal clear blue water and pretty little fish thru your snorkle mask? Lazily kicking your fins around a secluded lagoon with the only sound you hear is the waves lapping the shoreline. You are completely relaxed knowing all of your vacation expenses are covered because you have a stateroom aboard the m/s Paul Gauiguin - the all inclusive small ship cruise that is more like a large yacht with its swim step off the back of the boat, filled with all the water toys you need for a week?

Welcome aboard!
Reserve your stateroom by October 8, 2011 onboard the Paul Gauguin sailing around the South Pacific.  The Gauguin is offering unbelievable savings on select sailings of two of their most popular voyages.  While you reap the benefit of these exceptional savings, you’ll also enjoy the highest standards of luxury, quality and service in the most exquisite destination on Earth.

TAHITI & THE SOCIETY ISLANDS | 7 NIGHTS Fares from $3,647 per guest for the dates of March 31, 2012/ April 21, 2012/ April 28, 2012 and May 5, 2012 Plus FREE airfare from Los Angeles

or

MARQUESAS, TUAMOTUS & SOCIETY ISLANDS | 14 NIGHTS Fares from $4,997 per guest for April 7, 2012 sailing Plus FREE airfare from Los Angeles

Space is extremely limited and filling up fast - call the Travel Gal at 800 644-6659 or

email Teresa@LuxuryHideaways.net for more details & restrictions

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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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Islands of Tahiti - Where to Scuba Dive - Here’s the Guide!

Are you planning a winter vacation that must have fantastic scuba diving? Look no further then the islands of Tahiti.  I have listed below just a few of the amazing and pristine dive sites in the islands:

* Moorea: Explore the remains of ancient shipwrecks, glimpse a black tipped reef shark, impressively large moray eels, sea turtles and barracudas;
* Bora Bora: View Lemon sharks and manta rays close up;
* Raiatea: Discover shipwrecks and the marine life that thrives among mushroom shaped corals including octopus, tuna and leopard rays;
* Rangiroa and Fakarava: In this premier diving location, look for hammerhead sharks (Dec - Feb) or manta rays (Sept-Oct). In addition, dolphins, turtles, eagle rays and other fascinating fish species are often spotted here among coral reefs and canyon passes;
* Nuku Hiva: The steep cliffs and caves off this island reveal a variety of unusual marine life, including hammerhead sharks, melon-headed whales, moray eels and scorpion fish.

Are you convinced yet?  The two of you will find yourselves surrounded by the most beautiful and romantic islands, set amid endless Pacific waters. You have discovered paradise!

Contact your tropical island specialist at 800 644-6659 - lets begin planning your trip today!

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Haumana Cruises-barefoot chic cruising in the Tuamotus

Located in the center of the South Pacific, less than one hour from the islands of Tahiti, lies the beautiful atoll of Rangiroa, which means “Immense Sky”.
Nestled in the Tuamotu Archipelago, this chain of emerald islets, secluded pink and white sand beaches and turquoise lagoon is the base to the “Haumana” catamaran.
In this pristine environment, Haumana Cruises offers a unique style of cruising, off-the-beaten paths, in a true and authentic Polynesian atmosphere, the comfort and intimacy of a 12-cabins catamaran.

With Haumana Cruises, enjoy life at your own pace, leave away the hustle and bustle of your daily life and dive into a world of peace and tranquility, surrounded by the paradise colours of Rangiroa, simply the “Polynesian art de vivre” …
Get acquainted with the local population, learn about the local island culture and traditions and all what makes Tahiti and her islands so special, so unique, so mythical …
The Haumana experience is ideal for beach and nature lovers, snorkeling fans and fishing enthusiasts.

Vessel

The Haumana welcomes a maximum of 24 guests in 12 cabins, offering the intimacy & hospitality of a yachting experience.

Yacht’s Specificities
Built in Australia
Length : 36 meters or 110 feet
Beam : 13.8 meters or 45 feet
Draft : 1.8 meter or 6 feet
Cruising speed : 10 to 12 knots
Engine : Diesel powered
Stabilizers
3 tender boats for tours and transfers
French flag, registered in Mata Utu, Wallis & Futuna

The Haumana features
12 guests’ cabins
1 restaurant
1 outdoor lounge bar
1 main lounge with panoramic views
1 jacuzzi and sun deck
1 marina platform with kayaks and 2 waverunners

If you are interested in cruising the Tuamotus in style

contact the Travel Gal at 800 644-6659 or teresa@luxuryhideaways.net

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Life Aboard the Aranui III Freighter

The Aranui III is a mixed passenger/cargo vessel that operates between the islands of Tahiti and the Marquesas Islands.

She offers comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations for fewer than 100 passengers, creating an intimate environment for her guests. Passengers will be able to sunbathe on deck, swim in the pool, or enjoy exotic tropical drinks while the Aranui navigates her way among the islands of the Marquesas.

Vessel Particulars

Length: 104 meters (343 feet)
Draft: 5 meters (15 feet)
Cruising Speed: 15 knots
Capacity: 60-100 passengers
Displacement: 4,000 DWT

The name “Aranui” means “The Great Highway” in Maori, another great Polynesian culture. The first Aranui was purchased from a New Zealand ship owner in 1959. CPTM kept her original name, because it suited her. Serving as a link between the remote Marquesas and the rest of the world, she truly was a “Great Highway” on which cargo and passengers traveled. The original Aranui was too small to meet the needs of the islands as trade increased. CPTM therefore retired her, and purchased a new vessel, which was also named the Aranui.

The current Aranui was originally built as a freighter for the Baltic trades, with unusually thick hull plates because of floating ice often found in that area. She was modified in Germany in 1990, when additional passenger cabins were added.

The ship features a small boutique where various sundries, clothing and souvenirs are available. There are washing machines and dryers aboard. There is also a bar and video room, which has a television, VCR and a small collection of videotapes.

The vessel operates under the French flag, and her crew are all Polynesian, primarily Marquesans.   They are extremely skillfull and very hospitable. It is often their custom to give an impromptu concert in the evenings, both for their own and our passengers pleasure.

For more information contact The Travelgal at 800 644-6659 or Teresa@luxuryhideaways.net

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Who is “See The South Pacific.com?”

Aloha and mahalo for visiting my website!

My name is Teresa Nelle, I am a Travel Agent with 20 years of experience and I am passionate about assisting my Clients with their travel requests to exotic and unique destinations. I love to travel and when I work with a Client, I feel like I am planning my own personal holiday - its fun and exciting - then I love to hear about how their trip was when they return!

I am the Owner of Luxury Hideaways which is affiliated with Park Avenue Travel, a Virtuoso Agency. I have lived on the beautiful island of Maui, Hawaii for 20 years so obviously I am a Hawaii Specialist! I love living here and enjoy sharing my “kama’aiana” knowledge with my Clients! I have traveled extensively thru the South Pacific, having visiting the Fiji Islands 5 times as well as Australia & New Zealand. I have also sent many Clients to the Cook Islands, Samoa and as well as the islands of Tahiti.

HAWAII LESSON: Kama’aina is the Hawaiian language word for long-term resident of the Hawaiian Islands. It derives from the words ‘kama’, meaning ‘child’, and ‘aina’, meaning ‘land’.

The South Pacific is at the top of my list of travel destinations. I hope you enjoy visiting this site and do return to keep up with whats new and happening. Please also visit www.LuxuryHideaways.net.  On both sites you will find happy love letters from my past Clients.  I also have www.OnlyCruisesTravel.com highlighting small ship cruises around the world.

Luxury Hideaways is rated A+ by Better Business Bureau! (the highest rating available) I am also accredited with the Fiji Visitors Bureau, Hawaii Visitors Bureau, Australia Visitors Bureau as well as the Italian Visitors Bureau.

Last year I spent a month in Europe where I fell in love with the city of Rome, enjoyed a private walking tour of all things Rome (which I highly recommend), visited the ancient site of Pompeii with a Tour Guide from the Archeological Society of Pompeii as well as cruised the Mediterranean on a Windstar cruises, (which is a small cruise ship company) and visited the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre. Feel free to contact me about European travel as I just sent a family to the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain where they had their own private balconey in the shade!

My life motto is a wonderful saying by Mark Twain:
“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” - Mark Twain

See you in paradise!

Teresa Nelle
Your Friend in the Islands
800 644-6659  - Teresa@LuxuryHideaways.net
Fiji Visitors Bureau, Hawaii Visitors Bureau, Australia Visitors Bureau, Italy Visitors Bureau

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Paul Gauguin now combines Fiji Islands, Cook Islands & Islands of Tahiti all within 2 weeks

The luxury small cruise ship Paul Gauguin has expanded South Pacific itineraries where it is now possible to cruise from the Fiji Islands, thru the Cook Islands and end in the islands of Tahiti all within 2 weeks!

There is no other ship offering the extensive menu of 38 extraordinary itineraries ranging from 7 to 15 nights, highlighting such exquisite destinations as Tahiti, the Society Islands, Tuamotus, the Cook Islands, Marquesas, Tonga, Fiji and New Zealand - spectacular cruises that cater to the tastes of discerning travelers seeking a legendary small ship experience.

Highlights of the 2010 sailing season include:
• Sixteen classic 7-night departures featuring Tahiti and Society Islands;
• Six 10-night and two 9-night voyages of Tuamotus and Society Islands;
• Five 11-night Cook Islands adventures;
• Four 14-night sailings featuring the Marquesas Islands;
• In-depth 13- and 15-night discoveries of Fiji, Tonga and the Cook and Society Islands;
• Two exclusive 14-night cruises featuring New Zealand, Tonga, the Cook and Society Islands;

Since the Paul Gauguin carries a maximum of 332 Guests onboard and is offering outstanding savings, including free airfare on some of the departures, these sailing are a sure bet to sell out. Call us at 800 644-6659 for more details.

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