Papeete

Papeete is Tahiti's capital, and ships dock at the Quai D'Honneur in the centre of town. The waterfront roulottes (food trucks) set up each evening along the quay and serve grilled fish, chow mein, crêpes, and Tahitian dishes at tables under the open sky. The central market, Marché de Papeete, sells flowers, vanilla beans, black pearls, pareos, and fresh fruit on two floors. Tahiti's interior is mountainous and lush, and tours go to waterfalls, Vaipahi Gardens, and the Arahoho Blowhole. Point Venus, where Captain Cook observed the transit of Venus in 1769, is about 10km east. The Museum of Tahiti and the Islands covers Polynesian culture and navigation history. Black pearl shops line the waterfront, and Tahitian pearls are significantly cheaper here than abroad. The currency is the CFP Franc. French is the main language, with Tahitian also spoken. English is limited outside tourist spots.