Forget the bachelorette - Tahiti is sooooo much more!

Mention Tahiti and the words newlywed, expensive, luxurious (did we mention expensive?) crop up. Even Ali Fedotowsky, this season's bachelorette can't resist Tahiti's charms. On August 2^nd you'll be able to watch the fabricated drama unfold...

But what about the real Tahiti - the one the tourists haven't discovered yet?

Tahiti Tourism - Unabashed Luxury!French Polynesian Tahiti is home to some of the most picture-perfect beaches in the world. Mythical sunsets, delectable restaurants and accommodations that hover over the water are the stuff storybook honeymoons are made of. If you don't mind shelling out the exorbitant air fares and equally nose-bleed-worthy accommodation costs.

But step away from the resorts (and all the places Ali took her victims bachelors too) and you'll find an ecological island bent on protecting its resources.

Ecotourism in Tahiti

For a taste Tahiti's untouched beauty, head into the island's interior. You'll find a stark change from the postcard posh beach scenes - luscious and teaming with life. Hike Mount Orohena, one of the most well known peaks or check out the waterfalls in the Fautaua Valley - that is notably devoid of tourists. For now.

Go a little further off the beaten track and you'll findTahiti's Ecotourism Trails more demanding trails that lead to a peninsula of virgin coastline - the beaches here are accessible only by boat. If you want to get the most out of your trip to Tahiti, take a guided tour with a company like Tahiti Evasion.

Travel from site to site in Tahiti is easier (and cheaper) than many places. Les Trucks, their public transit system, will ferry you around the island $2. But you can also rent a scooter or a bike for far less than you can a car. And unlike the Caribbean, drivers here are friendly.

And when you get hungry, Papeete's market offers locally sourced fruits and vegetables and food carts (called roulettes) offer the true flavour of the islands. Be wary of larger restaurants that focus on imported foods.

Eco-Accommodations in Tahiti

Tahiti boasts more than its fair share of luxury beach resorts, but have you ever slept in a treehouse? Tucked away in the village of Teahuppo (70 km from Papeete) you'll find Vanira Lodge. There are only 5 bungalows here, so say goodbye to crowds and hello to peaceful serenity.

Tahiti Treehouse LuxuryThe restaurant is close by - and wifi is available in the main lodge (for addicts) where you'll also find coffee and space to stretch out and relax with other guests. Prices start at a reasonable $175 (US dollars) per room per night. Not bad for a hideout where you can play Jane with your Tarzan.

Want to stay in a green hotel with a few more amenities? The Bora Bora Resort and Thalasso Spa offers over the water bungalows cooled by water pumped from the ocean floor. No pollution and twice as efficient as traditional air conditioning. What's more, Intercontinental Hotels support Te Mana o te Moana, a conservation organization that protects wildlife and ecosystems in French Polynesia.

Ever been to Tahiti? Tell us where you stayed and how you liked it! Comment here or visit me on Facebook or Twitter - let's talk!