PAPE’ETE

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The 3rd edition of the ANOE guide is now available

Street Art in Tahiti, discover the works of art under the open sky

24 hours in downtown Papeete: must-sees

Credit Photo: TAHITI TOURISME© Massimiliano Cinà

Papeete Market

The economic and cultural heart of Papeete, the municipal market is a must for soaking up the typical Polynesian atmosphere in the city center.

Pape’ete, the capital of French Polynesia

You want to visit Papeete, but don’t know where to start? We’ve put together a short list of places you won’t want to miss!

The Papeete Market: There’s plenty to discover, even right in the center of town! The Papeete Market, considered the heart of the city, is brimming with local produce from the sea and land, as well as a wide range of jewelry, handbags, pareos and oils. It’s a must-see in Papeete. But the best time to go is Sunday morning, around 4am, when you can enjoy the best local produce and see Papeete in all its effervescence.

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Notre Dame Cathedral
A landmark in Papeete since 1875, Notre-Dame Cathedral has stood the test of time. Construction began in 1856 and was completed 20 years later. As well as being at the heart of the urban area, it also hosts a number of events.
The Presidency of French Polynesia
The country’s premier institution, the Presidency boasts beautiful gardens and, above all, a rich history. It is truly the place that best traces the political history of Polynesian society.
The Robert Wan Pearl Museum
Want to know all about pearls? Papeete is home to Robert WAN’s Musée de la Perle, otherwise known as Polynesia’s Emperor of the Pearl. Go there to admire, listen to and touch the history of the pearl in Fenua.
Bougainville Park
For a leisurely stroll, to discover the history of the historic navigator or to take a selfie in front of the cannons (of the German privateer Seeadler and of the gunboat La Zélée), Bougainville Park is the place to be.
Paofai Park
Paofai Park is a great place to relax alone or with the family, offering gardens and children’s play areas. You can also admire the view over Moorea with the sunset in the background.
The government assembly gardens
As well as being an institution, the Assembly of French Polynesia is home to the gardens of Queen Pomare (the last queen of Tahiti), and in particular the pool where she used to bathe.

Tips

10-track playlist: Songs to listen to before or during your stay

Listening time: 43 min

Tanning and swimming: how to keep an eye on your stuff at the beach!

Can you leave your stuff on the beach?
Before you leave
Leave your most precious items at your accommodation, including your passport and cash.
Check your rental car key: electronic? It doesn’t like water!
Once on the beach
- The eagle eye: before diving into the ocean, take a look around you. Find a strategic spot where you can keep an eye on your belongings while letting the waves wash over you.
- Friendly neighbors: get to know the beachgoers around you. Friendly neighbors can become your trusted allies in keeping an eye on your gear when you take a water break.
- Waterproof magic: invest in a waterproof pouch to protect your phone, keys and other sensitive items. That way, you can take them with you even in the waves, without worrying about the water.
- Clever staging: arrange your belongings in such a way that they don’t scream “Steal me!” A simple, well-arranged pareo can do wonders to deter wandering hands.
- Keep your head up when swimming: a little common sense always pays off. Don’t stray too far from shore, and occasionally look out of the water for your belongings.
So, ready to conquer the beach and lagoon without stress? Keep a sharp eye, make friends and enjoy the sun without worrying about your belongings. Happy sunbathing and swimming! 🌞✨

Gift ideas: vanilla-based

Vanilla as a gift

Polynesian metal? Listen to URAVENAD

Yes, under the coconut trees, here we also listen to thrash metal

Listen to ETO, a Tahitian artist

A sound, a melody and this artist's commitment to preserving nature

The sound of percussion, Tahiti

The toe're, listen to the sound

Cooking shrimps from the peninsula

An easy-to-prepare local dish - get cooking!
Ingredients
500 g shrimp, 1 red onion, 3 cloves garlic, fresh ginger, 1 tomato Curry powder, Garam masala, coconut milk, olive oil, fleur de sel, black pepper
Preparation
Finely chop the onion and garlic and grate a piece of fresh ginger. Dice the tomato and set aside in a bowl.
In a hot pan with a little olive oil, add a generous pinch of curry powder and a pinch of garam masala. Stir gently to bring out the aromas.
Add the onions, garlic, ginger and diced tomato to the pan, then simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Remove the pan from the heat and reserve the mixture in another container. In the same hot pan, brown the shrimps until they reach the desired color.
Return the first preparation (onion, garlic, ginger, tomato and spices) to the pan with your shrimp, and simmer until all the ingredients are well blended.
Now it’s time to gently pour in your coconut milk to create a creamy sauce. Season with a pinch of fleur de sel and black pepper to taste, and simmer briefly for the sauce to thicken.
Serve hot and enjoy your coconut milk curry shrimp with your favorite accompaniment. Of course, we recommend a small bowl of hot rice and a handful of beans.
Tama’a maita’i
To see other recipes, visit the Chefs de Tahiti website:
https://chefsdetahiti.pf/crevettecurrycoco/