Radisson Plaza Resort, Tahiti

History has been made again at Matavai Bay on Tahiti’s north-west coast with the opening of this stylish 165 room resort-style hotel in the town of Arue - the heartland of the old Tahitian royal family. Captains Samuel Wallis and James Cook both anchored in Matavai Bay in the 1700’s – and it is also the site where The Bounty first dropped anchor after the mutiny. The hotel embraces Tahiti’s fascinating heritage with historic black and white photographs of the island displayed in all public areas and in the guest rooms.

Newly opened in August 2004, the Radisson Plaza Resort overlooks the black sands of Lafayette Beach – Tahiti’s only natural beach – and the sleek contemporary décor brings a refreshing change to Tahiti’s hotel scene. All rooms and suites have a relaxing sun-terrace with views across the ocean towards Moorea.

Facilities include a variety of watersports, a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and ‘Le Spa’ –Tahiti’s first purpose built spa and health club –which overlooks the beach. The vibrant Lafayette Bar is set to become as well-known as its infamous namesake. The Lafayette Bar of the 40’s, 50’s and 60’s (which was located directly opposite where the hotel is now) was once a legendary late night spot frequented by the locals after the town had closed down!

This is a great base from which to explore Tahiti –it is only 20 minutes from the airport and 10 minutes from downtown Papeete (the hotel runs a courtesy shuttle into Papeete twice daily).

PRICES Price per night from £105 per person in an Ocean View Room or £118 per person in an Ocean View Jacuzzi Room based on 2 people sharing. Prices including a meet and greet service on arrival in Tahiti and return transfers from Papeete airport. Fly to Tahiti via Los Angeles on the award winning services of Air New Zealand from only £990 including taxes and fuel surcharges. Please ask your consultant about upgrading to spacious Pacific Premium from only £280 per sector.