Where to stay in French Polynesia?

Guesthouse in Paofai, in Papeete, a few streets from the waterfront. For the market, the evening food trucks and the ferries to Moorea on foot, without hiring a car for the first night.

Guesthouse in Punaauia, on the west coast, in the Papehue estate. For sleeping near the beaches and lagoon of the west coast, with Papeete about twenty minutes away by car.

Seafront resort in Faa'a, on avenue Nelson Mandela, between Papeete and the west coast. For a first or last night with the lagoon beneath the bungalows, a few minutes from the airport.

The hotel is next to Faa'a airport: handy for night flights, with Moorea opposite for the sunset.

Guesthouse in Pihaena, between the two bays. For a controlled budget with the lagoon in front and the Mount Rotui viewpoint a few minutes away by car.

Overwater bungalows in Papetoai, on the northern lagoon. For stepping down into the lagoon from the terrace, with Opunohu Bay a few minutes away.

Overwater resort at Temae, in Teavaro, on the island's best-known beach. For Temae beach every day, with the airport and the ferry quay next door.

Bungalows in Hauru, on the ring road, on the north-west coast. For a small-scale address facing the motus, with the lagoon for snorkelling from the beach.

Bungalows at Matira, on the ring road, on the island's public beach. For Matira beach on foot and a reasonable budget for Bora Bora.

Lodge in Vaitape, on the ring road, in the main village. For the shops, the quay and lagoon tour departures on foot.

Overwater villas on Motu Tehotu, in Faanui, facing Mount Otemanu. For those who come for the overwater night and the lagoon, everything happens on site.

Luxury hotel on a motu, on the lagoon facing the main island. For those who want the lagoon and Mount Otemanu from the terrace without leaving the resort.

Resort on Motu To'opua, on the south-west side of the lagoon. For sunsets from the motu and snorkelling on the nearby coral gardens.