There are some destinations that instantly conjure up images of paradise and Tahiti is right at the top of that list.

A lucky group of travel industry guests gathered at Sydney’s chic W Hotel this week for a fabulous three-course dinner celebrating the launch of new direct flights between Sydney and Tahiti.

This game-changing development brings one of the world’s most coveted island escapes tantalisingly closer to Australia.

The evening was expertly hosted by the ever-charming Caroline Brunel from Tahiti Tourisme, whose passion for Tahiti was as infectious as the destination itself.

A series of lively panel discussions brought together representatives from airlines, cruise companies, tour operators and accommodation partners, providing a fascinating insight into the incredible range of experiences available throughout French Polynesia.

From luxurious overwater bungalows and intimate boutique retreats to cruising the crystal-clear lagoons and exploring the rich Polynesian culture, the message was clear – Tahiti offers far more than postcard-perfect scenery.

And here’s the really exciting part. With Air Tahiti Nui’s direct flight time of around eight hours from Sydney, this exotic slice of paradise is no longer reserved for bucket-list holidays and honeymoons.

Suddenly, Tahiti is within striking distance for a long weekend or a short luxury escape or as Grant Sinclair of Air Tahiti Nui succinctly put it: “The key with French Polynesia is that you don’t look at it as a once in a lifetime destination. The key with French Polynesia is to visit over and over again.”

Think swaying palms, turquoise lagoons, warm tropical breezes and that unmistakable “Imperial Leather advert” feeling we’ve all dreamed about.

Informative, delicious and inspiring, the evening left guests with one overwhelming thought: paradise has never been closer.

https://www.tahititourisme.com/