Moorea is one of the Society Islands in French Polynesia. It is an island of
volcanic origin and is thought to be twice as old as Tahiti. Until the 18th
century it was known as Aimeho. A local priest changed the name to Moorea
after a "moo-rea" (yellow lizard) appeared in a vision. It is also referred
to as Tahiti's little sister.
Moorea is about 10 miles northwest of Tahiti (Tahiti is 3,844 miles from Los
Angeles). It is a 10 minute plane ride or 30 minutes by ferry to get to
Moorea from Tahiti. The drive around the island of Moorea is 37.3 miles and
covers an area of approximately 53 square miles. In 2007 the census counted
16,329 inhabitants - most living on the mountain side of the road in
structures ranging from primitive shacks to lovely villas. The population is
largely Tahitian, French and Chinese.
The official language is French, but most of the Tahitians speak Reo Moohi
among themselves. One can easily get by with English, gestures and smiles
almost anywhere and English is spoken in all the major resorts and most
shops and restaurants.
Tourism has dropped dramatically, estimated to be down 30% or more, due to
the economic conditions worldwide and is evident here and on the other
islands by the number of resorts and businesses that have closed their doors
(I counted at least four resorts that were shuttered in Bora Bora last
month).
I have rented a house on the beach in Maharepa - Moorea's administrative
center. The Pearl Resort and Club Bali Hai are both located here. The town
has three banks, a market, a post office, car rental outlet and numerous
restaurants and shops all within walking distance.
Moorea is circled with white sand beaches that are not crowded, and clear
lagoons with colorful coral and exotic sea life. The mountains and bays of
Moorea are breathtaking. Moorea offers one the South Seas Island experience
that you read about. The atmosphere of the island is peaceful and quiet and
the pace is slow.
