Tahiti and her sister islands in French Polynesia have conjured up romantic images of an earthly paradise since European sailors brought home tales of their tropical splendor and uninhibited people in the 1770s. When I washed ashore 2 centuries later, I quickly understood why these remote outposts still enjoy such a reputation. In fact, I was so smitten that I stayed here for 7 months, as long as the gendarmes would allow in those days.

You may wish you had planned a longer trip yourself, for here are some of the most beautiful islands in the world -- if not the most beautiful. They are blessed with gorgeous beaches, and their lagoons offer fabulous diving and spectacular snorkeling.

And then there are the islanders who live here. Their fabled history has provided fodder for famous books and films, their storied Polynesian culture inspires hedonistic dreams, and their big smiles and genuine hospitality are prime attractions.

Even today, you are likely to encounter bare breasts on the beaches here, for these islands are indeed French as well as Polynesian. Unlike other South Pacific countries, where the preaching of 19th-century puritanical missionaries took deeper root, here you will discover a marvelous combination of both joie de vivre and laissez-faire. Add the awesome beauty of the islands and you'll quickly see why this is one of the world's top honeymoon destinations.