French Polynesia May 2003

Flights to Tahiti: We left Dallas at 11 am on a brand new 777 with individual video screens in the back of each seat. Made the trip go fast. American checked our bags through to Papeete so all we had to do upon arriving in LA was take the short walk from Terminal 4 to the Tom Bradley international terminal. We checked in with Air Tahiti Nui but passed on the Business class upgrade (just couldn't justify the $600 per person expense). Since American didn't provide lunch on the flight from DFW we checked out the food court at LAX. Ended up getting some very good sushi at "Sushi Boy". We then went through security, a bit of a line but not outrageous, and waited at the gate. Saw the plane arrive, it really has a distinctive and pretty look. We met up with another cruisecritic couple at the gate. Recognized each other from the "Hall of Fame".

The plane was the Mangareva, one of the older (but by no means old) planes. The seats were quite comfortable with footrests and lumbar supports. The flight attendants came through the cabin with Tiare flowers then a flight kit (mask, ear plugs, headphones, socks). Drinks and dinner were served and were actually pretty tasty. I was too excited to sleep so I just watched two movies and the flight tracker on the back of the seat in front of me. The flight wasn't too full and many people were able to stretch out across several seats and sleep. After a few hours we were served another snack. Then we landed at the small airport in Papeete. We were greeted by a group playing ukeleles and given more Tiares. Immigration and customs was quick and easy. The airport was warm, but not unpleasant. After finding all our luggage (yeah!) we found the Tahiti Nui Travel agent who gave us a beautiful lei and directed us to a van. We did change some money at the airport, it seemed the exchange rate was better than at LAX but they do charge a $4 fee for each transaction, so it's better to change a larger than smaller amount. Read more