After a long, but comfortable flight from Los Angeles our awaiting over-the-water bungalow at the beautiful Intercontinental Hotel was a welcome sight.  The trans-Pacific flight necessitated our arriving in Papeete shortly after midnight, but the pleasant lapping of the ocean underneath our bungalow, the roaring breakers pounding on the coral reefs surrounding the island, and the image of the Island of Moorea looming against the moonlit horizon 11 miles in the distance were all magnets that drew us to our patio deck to simply absorb this Polynesian paradise.  Soon,  the comfortable kingsized bed of the bungalow beckoned and a few short hours of sleep soon brought the sunrise of another day.

Before retiring we had opened our drapes that covered the glass windows and walls of three sides of our bungalow so that the first rays of sunrise would awaken us.  They did, and coffee on the over-the-water patio of the bungalow kick started our first full day in Papeete.

For four days and three nights this idylic setting would be our home.  The bungalow was thatchroofed and the interior walls were woven mats.  In addition to a sleeping area with a king-sized bed the bungalow featured a large sitting room with chairs and divan, and a bathroom featuring both a large corner situated tub and a separate shower.  A large patio deck with steps leading down to the ocean for swimming and viewing was also present.

The natural appearance of the bungalow, with its thatched roof and and woven walls, belied the fact that it possessed all the creature comforts one could want, including air conditioning, electricity, a refrigerator, and a mini bar. 

While in the bungalow one was constantly treated to the relaxing sounds of the ocean and the everchanging colors of the tropical waters (some say the waters of Tahiti are like looking into a parfait glass because of their many layers of colors separated by the white foam of breakers spashing on the coral reefs).

We recommend the bungalows of Papeete Tahiti.  In another blog we'll talk about riding Le Truk (the open air form of island transportation), buying fruits in the Market of Papeete, and our subsequent 10-day cruise among the many islands of Polynesia (polynesia means "many islands").

Marilyn & Larry - Please Go Away(tm) Vacations