January 9, 2026
This is a part of the world I had seldom heard or seen photos documenting. The Marquesas were named after the 16th century Spanish Viceroy of Peru, the Marquis of Canete, by navigator Alvaro de Mendana who visited them in 1595. Nuku Hiva meaning "the land of men" is a group of volcanic islands. The highest point is the peak on Mount Oave, on Ua Pou Island at 4,035 feet above sea level.
The community of Taiohae, the town we tendered into on Ua Pou Island had a cultural event for us in the most gorgeous setting - twighlit along the harbor. The performance was very engaging, complete with getting volunteers from our group, up for dance lessons.
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The town itself was quite charming with tons of statues and gorgeous vistas wherever you look!
When you think about escaping to a semi-deserted, tropical island to recharge, FAKARAVA wins my vote! I had never heard of this place a month ago and when I did, people giggled, just saying its name. No one knew what we were going to do there for 2 days. Divers knew a little about it, but we couldn't find any tours through usual channels.
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE - Hoping 2026 is a great year for you all! PLEASE COME VISIT - I have no plans to return to the USA.
Papeete (with a population of 26,000) is the bustling capital of French Polynesia and the cultural heart of the island of Tahiti . Papeete is directly across the lagoon from Moorea and several ferries ( just a 35 minute ride) connect the islands & the only airport is in Papeete. The city is known for its mural arts, Polynesian culture and pearl trade.