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Surfing
A real paradise on earth for surfing, the islands of French Polynesia are famous worldwide for their surf spots. In the Society archipelago, the best spots are scattered over several islands. Tahiti (Papara, Teahupoo, Taapuna…), Moorea (Atiha, Haapiti…) and Huahine (Fare, Fitii...). These islands are extraordinary getaways for travellers in general but they are also magical places for surfers.
It may be useful to recall that the weather in Polynesia is divided into two seasons, each featuring swells with opposite directions. During the rainy season (summer), the northerly swell brings in suffocating heat and humidity. During the dry season (winter), the swell comes from the South and the climate is very pleasant, not too hot, not too cold. Between those two seasons, the islands receive swells coming from both directions. Summer is the best season, with a wide array of spots available. So, whether you are a professional or amateur surfer, in French Polynesia there will always be a surf spot for you!
Paddling
Polynesians have always been born with a passion for canoes.
The Polynesian outrigger canoe, also called va’a, has become the latest fad. It’s a canoe the stability of which is ensured by a single outrigger. The paddler uses a paddle. Va’a is the most practised sport throughout the islands of French Polynesia. There are many thousands paddlers, either amateurs, for competition or just for fun. And, in the outer islands, some people still go out fishing on the family canoe. Young Polynesians are more and more numerous to practice paddling, which is a challenging sport. Races are run over distances of 500 metres, 1,000 metres, 1,500 metres for speed competitions, and marathons range from 30 kilometres to more than 150 km (for instance the “Hawaiki Nui Va’a” race, which is held every month of November between the islands of Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa and Bora-Bora).
These two stamps, the pictures of which were made by illustrator Lieby present, with a touch of humour, those two sports, which are a complete part of the Polynesian culture and tradition.
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| Unit price: 330 FCFP (2,77 €) |
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