The easiest island to get to from Tahiti is Moorea, about a 30 minute ferry ride (although some people are dumb enough to fly . . . not sure why.) This was the first time we got out on the open ocean, and it's pretty incredible to see the difference in the water once you leave the safety of the lagoon.

We actually ended up on the same ferry as the British Polynesian dancer. Apparently she takes the ferry to Moorea every morning to hang out at the resorts and go to her dance lesson. Not a bad plan, and it sounds like it's a common one for people who plan to spend a long time on the islands.

When you're used to the hassle and security of traveling in the United States, getting around on the islands is a refreshing experience. You buy your ticket at the counter a few minutes before, a couple of Polynesian guys throw your boat in the back, you get on the boat, find one of the many open seats, and have one of the best commuter views of all time. When the ferry drops you off, you quickly realize that you are in the middle of nowhere, so the challenge is getting your bag, getting on the bus (or paying $25 to take a taxi 2-3 miles) and figuring out where the heck you're trying to get to.

Fortunately, everyone at the Moorea ferry stop is in the same boat as you, so as long as you have 300CPF and know where you're going, it's not too hard to get someone to point you in the right direction. (But knowing French really really helps!)