The heart and soul of the South Pacific, Tahiti is the largest in a chain of islands that make up French Polynesia. The name can either refer to the main island or the entire destination. Commonly referred to as The Islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia is a collection of 118 islands and atolls scattered across an impressive nautical surface area the size of Western Europe. Still, these tiny islands—many of which remain uninhabited—make up a total landmass of only 1,600 square miles

There is no better way to gain a sense of everyday Tahitian life and experience the culture of French Polynesia, than passing through the small villages on a circle-island tour. As nearly every island has a coastal road following the lagoon shores, you can either drive around the island by rental car or take a guided bus tour. Explore the island interiors on a 4x4 safari, guided nature hike, or horseback ride. Skim across the lagoons on a motorized canoe, sailboat, or powerboat. For dramatic views above the islands, take a helicopter tour.

This excursion is one of the most thrilling and popular and can be enjoyed on most of the main islands. After a short trip into the lagoon by powered outrigger canoe or powerboat, you'll float or stand in four to seven feet of clear water behind a secure rope as the docile sharks are hand-fed by an experienced guide. Even non-swimmers can enjoy this exciting scene from the boat.

The public market in Papeete is in every sense the heart of the city. "Le Marché", as the municipal market is called, is the perfect place to find local Tahitian products and produce and it is located just one block inland from the waterfront. The Centre Vaima in Papeete is the Tahitian version of a mall. Tourists can find a variety of goods, services, pearls and books at good prices. Robert Wan Shopping on the island of Tahiti should certainly include a visit to the famous Robert Wan Pearl Museum. At the museum, tourists can, not only learn about pearls, but also shop for pearls. Robert Wan operates several shops in several hotels on Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. Tahia Collins Collin's flagship store is located on the island of Moorea, and she has outposts on Tahiti and Bora Bora. Call and arrange transportation from your hotel. Collins won awards for her original designs, which incorporate Tahitian pearls with 18-karat gold and pavé diamonds. The store is located near Le Petit Village in Papetoai, Moorea. Tahiti Pearl Market Family-owned Tahiti Pearl Market has shops on Tahiti and Bora Bora and sells loose pearls as well as readymade settings. You can choose your pearls and have them set into one of the designs within hours. The market is located in 23 rue Colette in Papeete, Tahiti.

Currency accepted in Tahiti is the French Pacific Franc; most credit cards are accepted in tourist areas.

From Chinese to French, American to Japanese, and Polynesian to Italian, the island of Tahiti itself offers quite a diverse selection of cuisine.