Tahiti: an Island Paradise

Luxury Vacations: Everyone has a different opinion of tattoos. Some think they are cool, others think they are cutting edge, maybe you wouldn't be caught dead with one. Many cultures paint their bodies for different reasons. In Tahiti, a Tahitian island god named Tohu, the god of tattoo, is to blame. In fact, the word itself originated on this gorgeous tropical island. In Polynesian culture, tattoos are considered signs of beauty, and in ancient times Tahiti's children were ceremoniously inked when reaching adolescence. Aside from its colorful past, Tahiti offers a rich culture. Open-air sanctuaries called marae were the power centers of ancient Polynesia. Today you can view what remains of these large stone structures, which were witness to the worshiping of gods, peace treaties, and war celebrations.

July is a great time to visit Tahiti. During this time the Heiva in Tahiti celebration is in full swing. Tahitians gather in Papeete to display crafts, compete in ancient sporting events, and recreate traditional and elaborate dance performances. Catch a romantic sunset on a white sandy beach any time of year, while you watch the turquoise surf breaking onto the colorful reefs. In addition to the vibrant cultural activities, Tahiti offers world-class snorkeling and diving. From Experienced to beginner, divers and snorkelers enjoy the clear waters and abundant marine life, like the gigantic manta rays. There are hundreds of dive sites throughout the islands, including drift dives, oceanic drop-offs, sunken ships, and lagoon dives. With summer approaching, now is the time to book your next tropical destination.

For LxM Amy Covington