Just Married | French Polynesia
MONICA & IGNACIO
Together since 2018
Born in Marid
Now living in Marid
First kiss outside a club in Madrid, talking between two cars
First trip together Ibiza
You work as Monica: stylist, social media and founder of shoe brand ‘the trenza’
Married on 21/5/2025
Wedding night hotel Amagatay in Menorca
Honeymoon in French Polynesia in June 2025
the trip
Why this destination?
Who planned it?
Itinerary
Santa Barbara – 3 nights
We flew into Los Angeles and stayed at El Encanto in Santa Barbara, such an incredible place. I loved the town and we found some amazing spots:
— Brophy Bros: restaurant by the harbor in Santa Barbara. The perfect spot, very authentic with a great atmosphere
— Raoul Textiles: a beautiful store filled with antique pieces and unique fabrics
— The Blue Door: another special antiques shop
— Tre Lune: a must if you’re into real Italian food
Moorea – 1 night
We landed in Tahiti and took the ferry to Moorea, where we stayed in a small, charming hotel tucked between the mountains and the sea. The hotel felt like a little house in the middle of nature, set on a peaceful bay with a tiny islet just in front.
We spent our days kayaking, snorkeling, and just soaking in the beauty of the place. We didn’t spend much time in Moorea, but we truly enjoyed every moment.
Rangiroa – 3 nights
One of the islands Ari from Mundo Expedición had insisted we visit. She described it as wild, untouched, and full of marine life, and she couldn’t have been more right.
We were welcomed at the airport with flower garlands and taken to our hotel, Kia Ora, which we absolutely loved. Our room was adorable, decorated in traditional Polynesian style, with beautiful views of the sea.
The hotel felt like its own little world, with a great restaurant and everything we needed to fully enjoy our time there.
During the day, we went out to explore, and one of the absolute highlights was a boat trip with a local guide for diving and snorkeling. It was truly magical. We swam alongside sharks, spotted whales and manta rays, and were surrounded by the most vibrant, colorful fish. An experience we’ll never forget.
Taha’a – 4 nights
Taha’a was the crown jewel of the trip. An absolute dream.
We were welcomed at the airport with the most beautiful flower garlands, which I loved since I’m obsessed with flowers. I even did a floral workshop at my wedding because I find their symbolism so special. In Polynesia, floral craftsmanship holds deep cultural meaning and you can feel it everywhere.
We reached the hotel, Taha’a by Pearl Resorts, by boat just as the sun was setting, it was really amazing! When we arrived, a Polynesian man greeted us singing traditional songs, creating the most magical atmosphere.
The hotel was truly special and so inviting, I couldn’t recommend it more. Our room was absolutely incredible, set right above the water. Since the island is home to just the hotel, it had a nice variety of restaurants to choose from.
We went on several diving excursions, watched spectacular sunsets, read, rested, and fully slowed down.
I also bought a wonderful book that beautifully explains the history and traditional culture of Polynesia.
Just before heading to the airport, a rainbow appeared. The most magical farewell!!!
Tahiti – 1 night
Our final stop was Tahiti, where we explored the island’s mountains and got a glimpse into local life and beliefs.
Polynesian culture is incredibly rich and deeply connected to nature. Before colonisation, they believed in powerful gods, built complex canoes using natural materials, and used tattoos as a way to express identity, status and spirituality.
We went on a 4x4 tour through the island’s interior and absolutely loved it. Along the way, we learned how they used medicinal plants, how their ancestors communicated with shells, and how they held spiritual gatherings to call for good weather before navigating the sea.
Los Angeles – 1 night
With a bit of sadness, we said goodbye to Polynesia and arrived in Los Angeles at night.
We stayed just one night at Palihouse Santa Monica before flying back to Madrid the next morning.
We wrapped up the trip with a delicious Japanese dinner in LA.
DEBRIEF
Favourite hotel of the trip
Epic hotel breakfast
Most memorable meal or dish
A place you’d go back to
A ritual
A person you’ll always remember
Most ‘honeymooner’ thing you did
What made your honeymoon different than your past trips?
Wish you’d had time for
What did you learn about each other?