Accommodation tips, Society Islands

Tahiti: get out of Papeete. Guesthouse Te Miti does airport pickups and is a friendly place 15 minutes walk from a nice beach and good snorkelling. Breakfast is with the family and good. Fred speaks english and has unlimited good advice. Crystel is a good cook and makes an excellent steamed fish with vanilla sauce.

Raiatea: Uturoa is a pleasant city. Hotel Hinano is in the middle of town and contrary to Lonely Planet´s advice is good value, and gives plenty of restaurant or roulotte opportunities. There´s a great open ocean swimming pool 10 minutes walk away. Farida and Doumenic are really friendly and helpful. Staying in town avoids the hassle of a long walk in from the usually recommended Pensions along busy roads infested with dogs which apparently turn into werewolves after dark.

Huahine: Chez Guynette is asuperb location straight opposite the little beach next to the main wharf of Fare. It´s a happening place, and Olivier and Laurantz are very friendly. There are plenty of places to eat to choose from, and the 2nd story internet cafe has 2 english keyboards.