Today we enjoyed a day of luxuriating on Paul Gauguin Cruises‘ private islet: Motu Mahana.

Our motu was enclosed within the same barrier reef as the neighboring islands of Taha’a, and Raiatea.

The local residents live very tranquil lives fishing and raising livestock. However, the island of Taha’a is often called the “Vanilla Island” for its numerous plantations of “black gold” (vanilla beans). Taha’a is world famous for the quality of its vanilla.

As you can see in my photograph above, we spent the better part of the day laying on the white sand beach, snorkeling in the crystal clear turquoise-colored waters; enjoying Matai’s from coconuts, and a grilled chicken lunch on the beach.

In the ocean we walked amongst sea cucumbers, brain coral, sea urchins, and many colorful species of fish as we snorkeled in the beautiful waters.

All in all, a beautiful day. Don’t you think?

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