The islands of Tahiti are becoming a more accessible destination to Canadians and other travelers, thanks to additional rooms, new airlift and more cruises.

The islands are working to increase room capacity by 10% by the end of the year.

Currently, legacy carrier Air Tahiti Nui flies daily or twice daily out of L.A., while Air France flies three to four times a week out of L.A. But that’s about to change. Starting in May a new low-cost carrier called French Bee will l be launching service with brand-new Airbus A350s.

 

 

In October, United Airlines will also begin service out of San Francisco, which Sloan said will open up “tons of feeders” into North America and Europe. Air Tahiti Nui is responding with new offerings — and new aircraft.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Air Tahiti Nui, and in November the airline will begin replacing its fleet of five aircraft with the 787-9 Dreamliner. The new aircraft will offer 30 lay-flat seats in business and introduce 32 seats in premium economy. The airline has also introduced web check-in, lounge passes (US$60) and priority passes for business class check-in (US$60); it continues to offer its kids fly free program (ages 2-11).

 

 

Tahiti has an inventory of 2,800 rooms; of those, 1,500 are in 300 guesthouses found on every archipelago (averaging US$100 per night).

Over the coming months, Tahiti Tourism will be launching an English- language ‘Stay at a Tahitian Guesthouse’ campaign to increase awareness of the offering among consumers and agents alike.

For more information, visit tahititourisme.ca