Tahiti ranks as the largest island in French Polynesia, a cluster of 118 islands and atolls in the South Pacific. The Polynesian people originally sailed from Indonesia and the Philippines and settled the islands between 1000 BC and 1000 AD. Although Spaniards discovered the area in 1595, it wasn't until English explorer Samuel Wallis encountered Tahiti in 1767 that the island was given much attention. Before then, Polynesians had adapted to the remote islands, imparting their own subtle nuances to culture, language, craft, and religion. With the arrival of Europeans came zealous Protestant and Catholic missionaries, who limited traditional religious practices and restricted places of worship as they sought to convert natives. For decades, then, the British and French argued over ownership of the islands. Today, French Polynesia is essentially responsible for its own affairs, although France makes contributions to currency and defense. Polynesia's moderately developed economy depends largely on imported goods, tourism, and financial assistance from France. The island also boasts spectacular natural beauty and intimate resorts, making Tahiti a major honeymoon destination. Visitors delight in its secluded beaches, snorkeling, hiking, and island tours, and most newcomers make it a point to include a "tama'ara'a" (Tahitian feast) and dance show into their vacation plans. Affordable day trips to area reefs and islands showcase similarities among these small outcroppings of paradise and throw into relief the unique features that make each place special. For instance, Bora Bora's prize feature is its extraordinary lagoon, Moora revels in beauty and lushness, and the atolls of Rangiroa, Manihi, and Tikehau elicit a remote, exotic feeling. Plus, fantastic snorkeling and diving can be found along their reefs, should Tahiti alone not hold you completely in thrall.