Is This the Most Romantic Place on Earth?

by Voyages by Gauguin
Last updated:: 9:00 PM ET, Wed February 7, 2024

With the season of love upon us, travelers are turning their thoughts to the idea of a romantic vacation, with crystal clear waters, enchanting vistas, and plenty of pampering. The idyllic islands of French Polynesia are believed by many to be the most romantic place on Earth. As the home of Paul Gauguin Cruises for more than 25 years, here are some reasons why this tropical paradise is truly the most romantic destination.

Incredible Sunsets and Breathtaking Starry Nights

Whether watching the sun melt into the ocean’s horizon, or seeing it dip below Bora Bora’s Mount Otemanu, sunsets in French Polynesia are blissfully romantic. Watch the deepest of oranges, pinks, and purples kiss verdant peaks of green and shimmer across a sea of blue as you hold your special someone. Or find a quiet spot on deck aboard your small, luxury ship during the evening hours. The Southern Milky Way stretches above you, made of countless stars—they’re so bright, if feels like you can almost touch them.

Unreal Blue Lagoons

With impossibly clear waters in hues of turquoise and aquamarine, French Polynesia’s iconic lagoons are the stuff of dreams. Bora Bora’s may be the region’s grand dame, but Rangiroa’s is its largest, home to Blue Lagoon (a lagoon within a lagoon!). Then there’s appropriately heart-shaped Moorea, which boasts two symmetrical lagoons. Or venture to Fakarava, home to a UNESCO Marine Biosphere.

Cultural Charm and Hospitality

French Polynesia is known for its welcoming people. Locals embrace visitors with open arms, proud to share traditions, dance, music, and sense of community. Only aboard The Gauguin will you find Les Gauguins and Les Gauguines, local Tahitians who live aboard ship as hosts and entertainers, ensuring guests enjoy a truly authentic experience.

Seafood and French Cuisine

These islands are truly a foodie’s paradise, with the ocean playing a starring role among a cast of French influencers. The national dish is poisson cru, a ceviche-like delicacy of fresh tuna prepared to perfection. There’s also intriguing Asian influences here, as well as the popular roulettes (food trucks), serving everything from shish kabobs to the catch-of-the-day.