Papeete, Tahiti

PAPEETE, TAHITI:

Arrived in Papeete yesterday at 9 PM. Watched a beautiful sunset off the top deck of the ship when we were leaving Mooera. Had all these Polynesian drinks that the waiters kept bringing because it was a sail away. Met up with the two couples who have left the ship today and were saying good-bye to them. When on board, you see the same people around the ship and there are several you get to know well so it is sad to say good-bye to some whom you know you will never see again. We were joking and laughing about some of the things that have happened on board and in general had a great time. Then it was off to the BQ buffet that included some great food. So by the time we had finished having drinks and great food, it was time to go to the room and take a rest and wait for the Polynesian Show. It was great. The drums were a bit loud for Doug’s poor head but the one hour show was great.

This morning we awoke to sunshine and high humidity. Walked around Papeete, since we have been here twice before and revisited some of the sites. It is very noticeable how tourism has dropped off. The locals are around, but hardly saw any tourists except the people off our ship walking around. In the market place, I asked for the price of a very small fridge magnet. Reply, $12 US would you believe. No wonder no one is buying.
The market place was full of local people. Talked to a fellow at the gates to the wharf where our ship is docked, and he said how much Tahiti is suffering. He called it a disaster. Said that the Club Med closed down yesterday in Bora Bora and how the hotels and resorts are suffering here on the island. It is too bad.

We walked to everywhere since our ship is anchored right downtown and we don’t need a shuttle bus or tenders to take us in. It is very convenient.

Everyone speaks French here and the shops are small with shell jewelery and a lot of black Tahitian pearls. Unfortunately, no one is buying and the stores are empty.

The new people on board are settling in and so everyone is offered champagne drinks. This will be happening at every leg.

The front desk personal told me there are now 535 guests on board which is still a little more than half of what this ship holds. We, as guests, are bombarded with waiters asking to satisfy our every whim. They are bored and wish there was more work to do. Can’t blame them. For us, it is good, for we are cared for very well.

We are looking forward to arriving in Bora Bora tomorrow morning. Will talk to you then.