Hatiheu, French Polynesia
Museums
There aren't any museums in Hatiheu, but you can visit the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands in Punaauia, which is about a three-hour drive from Hatiheu. This museum offers exhibits on the history, culture, and natural environment of French Polynesia. If you're interested in smaller, local museums, try the Gauguin Museum or the James Norman Hall Home in nearby Atuona on the island of Hiva Oa.
Food
Hatiheu is a small village in the Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia, where traditional Polynesian cuisine is still widely enjoyed. Some of the most recommended and popular dishes in Hatiheu include:
1. Poisson cru: Raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk, often served with vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.
2. Umu: A traditional feast cooked in an underground oven, consisting of meat or fish wrapped in banana leaves and cooked with hot stones.
3. Poulet fafa: Chicken cooked in taro leaves and coconut milk, a classic Polynesian dish.
4. Breadfruit: A starchy fruit that can be boiled or roasted and served as a side dish or snack.
5. Coconut bread: A sweet, fluffy bread made with coconut milk, flour, and sugar.
6. Po'e: A dessert made from mashed bananas or sweet potatoes, mixed with coconut milk, sugar, and vanilla, then steamed or baked.
7. Hinano beer: A local beer made in Tahiti that goes well with many Polynesian dishes.
These dishes are just a sampling of the many delicious foods to try in Hatiheu and throughout French Polynesia.
Activities
Some fun activities that local people enjoy in Hatiheu and the surrounding area include hiking in the lush valleys and mountains, swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, fishing for tuna or mahi-mahi, and attending traditional Polynesian dance performances, or 'tāmūrē' in the nearby villages. Additionally, you can also explore the archaeological sites scattered around the island, such as the ancient marae (sacred meeting places) and petroglyphs.
