2 Days in Tubuai
Kirsten and I took a flight to Tubuai directly from Raivavae. This was an incredible island to visit in the Austral island group and it did not take long for us to fall in love not only with this island, but also the friendly people here.
We stayed at Pension Taitaa, one of only 3 guesthouses on the island. The rooms were simple, comfortable, clean and included ensuite washrooms. They have recently completed a number of renovations which have added some great touches to the guesthouse.
There is a large indoor dining room that opens to a lounge area with games and a TV. There is also a new covered open air dining area adjacent to this large room which was great considering one of our three days on the island was a bit rainy and we didn’t go too far.
The main advantage however to Pension Taitaa are the owners and hosts, Nariiorono and Nathalie. Nathalie prepared the most incredible meals and as a pastry chef, she tempted us one meal after another with the most delicious deserts.
Nariiorono, a native to Tubuai, was the most incredible and knowledgeable tour guide. He took us on a 28 kilometre circle island tour stopping at ancient murae’s while telling us the stories and historical significance of each one. He also stopped at a number of local artisan’s homes to visit their studios and the incredible artwork they are creating. At one place two women were weaving intricate hats and baskets while at another, a carver explained the significance and meaning behind the various wooden carvings he has created. It brought to life the cultural art that has been a longtime part of Polynesian history.
On another day, Naiiorono took us on a boat trip out to a remote motu (islet) in Tubuai’s lagoon. While out on the water on a beautiful Sunny morning, the dozens of colors of the lagoon had us in awe. Looking out over the water we could see the various shades of blue indicating the depths of the water. Througout the lagoon were hundreds of dark shadows indicating healthy coral just below the water’s surface. The laboon of Tubuai is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen. With white sandy beaches and warm swimable waters, this was a snorkler and swimmers paradise.
The best part of Tubuai is that because of how remote it is, very few people make the trip to visit. As a result, those who make the trip almost have the island to themselves (and the locals who are more than willing to share their paradise).
If you are wanting to visit a remote and idyllic lagoon in the Pacific, Tubuai is an island you should consider. After making the trip here, you will not want to leave.
2 Days in Raivavae
Kirsten and I stayed at the Tama Resort in Raivavae. It is one of a handful of Pensions (guesthouses) on the island. There are no traditional hotels in the Austral islands so a tradition home with one of the locals is a great option to explore the islands.
