A humid and warm rainy season prevails from November through April, with May through October drier and a bit cooler. Rainfall can be of the tropical downpour variety, however, and cyclones have caused significant damage on some islands in recent years. Cuisine Fish, of the freshest variety, dominates menus. Other home-grown staples such as breadfruit and tapioca, or fruits such as coconut, pineapple, grapefruit, mango and papaya, are typical offerings. As far as popular dishes, poisson cru is a winner.
Black pearls are specialties and a major investment.
Buying quality gems through certified dealers is essential. Transportation Inter-island travel can be accomplished variously, depending on destination. Air Tahiti offers more than 30 flights out of Tahiti to other islands. Boats and ferries connect some points. On shore, varying from one island to another, vehicles are available for rent.