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Fatu Hiva, Marquesas IslandsLagoon in the Tuamotu IslandsThe Tuamotu IslandsThe Tuamotu Islands form the largest of thePolynesian archipelagos and include over 76islands and atolls extending over more than20,000 square kilometres. Home to a mere12,500 people, the islands lay undiscovered formany years but are now opening up to visitors.They provide a wonderfully fresh experience forthose seeking a different side to Pacific island life.Scarcely influenced by the modern world, theislands are largely undeveloped except for smallcommunities of picturesque white-washed housesdecorated with shell art, and a series of pearlfarms that remain the mainstay of the region.80Pearl Resort, TikehauThis stylish and secluded hideaway is set on abeautiful beach on a small atoll. There are just 38Polynesian-style bungalows here, 14 beachfrontrooms set among the swaying palms and featuringoutdoor bathrooms, and 24 over-waterbungalows and suites with glass-bottomed coffeetables enabling you to view the lagoon’sunderwater life from your armchair. Life is centredaround the sea with snorkelling, canoe trips,fishing, scuba diving and sunset cruises filling eachday. There is an excellent open-air restaurant anda bar by the shimmering infinity pool.Pearl Resort, TikehauPaul Gauguin, Tahitian Women on the Beach 1891Paul GauguinNo artist is more indelibly tied to theSouth Pacific, and to French Polynesia inparticular, than 19th century Frenchpainter Paul Gauguin. Gauguin left Paristo travel to the South Pacific in the late19th century citing a need to live asimple life away from civilisation. Duringhis time there he sided with nativeislanders and frequently clashed withcolonial authorities and the local Catholicchurch. His colourful work reflected anobsession with his exotic adopted homeand his famous paintings of Polynesianwomen can be found in museums acrossthe world. Gauguin is buried at CalvaryCemetery (Cimetière Calvaire), Atuona,Hiva Oa in the Marquesas Islands.