Troy, Kimberly, Cole and Cameron (my family) return to French Polynesia. We took it easy on their first day since they flew all night long. We unpacked the two 50lb bags full of boat parts that they brought us, frolicked in the water, and hit the large Carrefour for a few last-minute provisions. The next day, we rented a car to tour around the island of Tahiti. Our first stop was the Museum de Tahiti.
Museum de Tahiti
The best laid plans still can go awry. I emailed and or called each of our desired stops to ensure they were open. We are still after all still in the middle of a pandemic. The museum responded that “yes, we are indeed open.” However, when we arrived, we learned that the actual museum is under massive renovations and they only have an exhibit up. Well, shoot.
The exhibit showcases many costumes worn during heiva (their annual festival) which are super fun to look at, along with art, and a few sculptures.
We take advantage of all the fun photo opportunities. Troy, Cameron, and Cole imitating the tiki behind them.
Troy, Cameron, Cole
Kimberly and I in front of the exhibit photo.
Kimberly and I
Museum de Tahiti had lots of life size beautiful posters.
Cameron and Cole posing like the Rapa Nui (Easter Island) tiki
Cameron and Cole
Troy and Kimberly poised as the Tahitian bride and groom (see costumes behind them)
Troy and Kimberly
Lots of beautiful heiva costumes were on display.
Heiva Costumes
Cole and Cameron with an authentic Tahitian pirogue.
This was an amazing piece of art painted on metal. Can you see the dancer’s in the swirl of feathers? It took us awhile, but there are 2 women facing each other dancing. The one on the left is smiling and shows teeth in her mouth and the one on the right has her mouth open.
Can you find the two dancers?
Museum de Tahiti Gardens
We venture outside to see the grounds. They have lots of statues scattered around the property. Kimberly and I both have to “go.”
Museum de Tahiti Tiki Garden
Troy looking out toward Mo’orea
A large area with hand painted graphics depicting unique illustrations from each heiva (festival)
Stay tuned for the next blog when the Konis Family visits the natural grottos of Tahiti.
Events from this blog post occurred during the last week of July, 2021. Our blog posts run 10-12 weeks behind our adventures.