Destination of the Week: Tahiti, French Polynesia
Why you should go: As the largest island in French Polynesia, mountainous Tahiti boasts lush rainforest valleys and towering waterfalls on the interior, and your choice of black- or white-sand beaches around the edges. It's renowned for its marine life, but with lively markets and a thriving arts and cultural side, there's also plenty to see and do away from the water.
Top spots: Take a half or full day taxi boat trip around the island's breathtaking lagoons, and while away the hours snorkelling, swimming with sting rays, and exploring jungle coves. Head to Papeete for the excellent local market, shops and museums, and take a walking tour of Old Papeete. If it's beaches you're after, check out Plage de Toaroto for white sand and watersports, or Lafayette Beach for it's super-soft black sand and secluded surroundings. Surfers won't want to miss the legendary waves at Teahupo'o, while nearby Moorea is an ideal island-hopping day trip.
