> > by Ben and Joanna Hall
It’s a region that has inspired generations of artists and writers, and cruising the South Pacific, it’s easy to see why. Perfect blue lagoons, colourful reefs, volcanic mountains, bright flowers and a real atmosphere of tranquillity combine to create one big natural water- colour that typifies the tropical idyll. The islands of the South Pacific conjure up images of vast mountains rising straight up out of the ocean, stunning white sand beaches, palm trees swaying in the breeze and sunsets that light the sky in a wild palette of outrageous colours.
It’s a region that lives up to its tropical clichés and the island groups, and their inhabitants, are inextricably bound by a common culture which is as fascinating as it is enduring. It’s not surprising that this part of the world attracted the attention of artists like Paul Gauguin. In addition to one of France’s greatest post-impressionist painters, many other artists, explorers and writers made the arduous journey to French Polynesia, sometimes spending months at sea to answer it alluring call. From the time European adventurers and sailors returned with tales of a land, and people, of incredible beauty in the 19th century, the islands of the South Pacific have been a real life tropical fantasy for people around the world. Whether you’re in Tahiti, Hawaii or Fiji, it is possible to find that slice of paradise on some of the most spectacular islands in the world. Most romantic cruise in the South Pacific:
The m/s Paul Gauguin has undergone a multi-million dollar refurbishment and this luxury small ship cruises French Polynesia and the South Pacific from her home port in Papeete. A seven-night cruise of Tahiti and the Society Isles starts from US$3,145 (gratuities and port taxes included) for departures on October 23 and 30, 2010, for early bookings. Paul Gauguin Cruises also include premium wines and spirits, and non-motorised sports in its prices. For more info, visit www.pgcruises.com or call Wiltrans on 1800 251 174.