Dreamscapes Travel & Lifestyle Magazine
Issue link: http://read.dreamscapes.ca/i/606819
tiny island of Tetiaroa where he prepared for his memorable roles in Mutiny on the Bounty and The Godfather. Gauguin, who spent most of his Polynesian years on the main island of Tahiti, where he created his finest master- pieces, died and was buried on the Marquesas Islands. That was his secret hideaway. I came here to find out if there was one for myself, in case I ever became famous. PERFECT HIDEAWAYS Perhaps it's here, on Paul Gauguin islet (Motu Mahana), a tiny sliver off the small island of Taha'a, often called the "Vanilla Island" for its numerous plantations of "black gold." Motu Mahana is the private islet of the M/S Paul Gauguin cruise line, which I am taking on a hop on, hop off tour of French Polynesia and the Cook Islands. White sand, tri-colour waters striped like a flag in aqua and two shades of blue, lush foliage, world-class snorkelling and other water sports, a sumptuous grilled buffet and floating bar—what's not to like about Motu Mahana? How about Huahine Island, where we began our cruise, a former whaling port and one of the richest archaeological sites with more than 30 maraes(ceremonial tem- ples) restored? And Huahine's "sacred eels," which have ear-like fins along their sides and cold blue eyes. Why sacred? Take your pick of the many legends. WINTER 2015/2016 DREAMSCAPES 19 OPPOSITE: Hikers take in their surroundings on the island of Moorea. © Ty Sawyer FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: Paddle along the Faaroa River on the island of Raiatea. © Grégoire LeBacon The picturesque lagoon off Bora Bora is ideal for all types of water sports. © Kap Photo-Lesage P.