The names are familiar enough; Tahiti, Polynesia, Bora Bora certainly conjure up classic imagery of South seas desert islands, with white sand, swaying palm trees, red sunsets and hearty fish barbecues. But exactly where are these places? How do you go about visiting them, and do they really look as good as the pictures?

The short answers: 1: In the South Pacific Ocean, north-east of New Zealand. 2: It's a lot easier than you might expect, and 3: Yes - definitely.

Visitors from France, Japan and the USA flock to Tahiti and her glimmering islands, but would-be British explorers tend to be more reticent. But these islands can be reached from the UK more quickly than you'll get to Australia or New Zealand (although you could always tag on an Antipodean stopover on the way back).

The 118 islands and atolls of French Polynesia cover an area of more than 4,000 kilometres in the Southern Pacific, some five hours' flying time from New Zealand, or eight from Los Angeles. International flights land in the nation's capital Papeete, on the main island of Tahiti. There's lots of space to go round in French Polynesia; just over 200,000 visitors come to experience these islands each year, compared with 7 million annual tourists who go to Hawaii.

Whilst there's plenty to enjoy on Tahiti itself, nearly all visitors jet off on smaller planes to explore other islands. Nervous flyers need not fear; inter-island connections are on modern, comfortable aircraft - and the views you'll get en-route are spectacular.

Which island(s) should I go for?

Spend some time on Tahiti, getting acquainted with local cultures and traditions, chilling by the pool and enjoying as sedate or as lively nightlife as you wish. The rambling old capital of Papeete is rough around the edges but full of character and has plenty of shopping opportunities. There's also a bustling marketplace to wander round.

Feeling adventurous? Go on a cross-island hike or 4wd ride, or perhaps hop on a quad bike and hurtle through dramatic, lush valleys. Whatever your mode of transport, Tahiti's rugged, empty interior is a scenic and exciting place to explore.

Tahiti itself is great - but other islands are even more scenic. Just across a short stretch of sea is beautiful Moorea, a true jewel of an island with azure lagoons, mystical mountain peaks and beautiful sand islands that are perfect for a tranquil beach picnic with that shipwrecked vibe.

An hour away by plane, Bora Bora is a favourite with sun-seeking celebs and honeymooners, who love its spectacular high-end resorts. Many of these offer wooden bungalows perched on pontoons above the crystal-clear ocean, for the ultimate romantic getaway.

Also just a short flight away, Raiatea, Tahaa and Huahine are unpretentious havens of greenery, particularly popular with backpackers and those seeking the most laid-back of atmospheres. Hiking opportunities here are excellent, and there are a number of archeological sites to explore.

Meanwhile, divers flock to the Tuamotu group of islands and atolls; just off-shore from such spots as Rangiroa and Tikehau, the incredibly rich undersea world provides a peerless scuba experience. These are just a few of the more visited destinations; if time permits, there are dozens more to explore. Less-visited and further-flung island groups like the Marquesas and Australs receive rave reviews from travelers who make the effort to reach them.

Getting there - and getting around the islands

The most convenient and comfortable way to reach Tahiti from the UK is via Los Angeles. Air New Zealand flies daily from London to LA, and their flights connect conveniently with those of the award-winning Air Tahiti Nui, which travels onward to Tahiti. The South Seas experience will kick in as soon as you step on to one of Air Tahiti Nui's sparkling modern jets; staff in colourful ocean-blue uniforms will present you with a necklace and flower to put behind your ear, and boarding passengers are greeted with soothing Polynesian music. By the time you arrive on Tahiti, eight hours later, you should already have started to adjust to the islands' unique atmosphere. Air Tahiti Nui also operates flights between Tahiti and New York, another stopover option.

Once you're in Polynesia, the local services of Air Tahiti are the way to go. Their colourful and comfortable planes jet around the main islands several times daily. As you might expect, Polynesia is spectacular from the air, so be sure to nab a window seat...

For more information on visiting Tahiti and Her Islands, visit www.tahiti-tourisme.co.uk

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