INTERVIEW
Hinanui Ina and Mihimana
The sounds of your first names already take us on a journey... What do they mean?
Hinanui Ina: I'm originally from Tahiti. In Polynesian beliefs, Hina is the name of the Moon goddess. And nui means ‘great’. So Hinanui, ‘the great Hina.’ Mihimana: I'm also Tahitian and my name means ‘the power of thought.’
Who are the Gauguines and Gauguins?
Hinanui Ina:We are dancers, musicians and singers. As well as welcoming guests, our ‘mission’ is to take them to the heart of Polynesia, our culture and traditions– of which we have a great knowledge, much more than the mere ‘postcard.’ With us, both on board and ashore, they learn the basics of Tahitian dance and a few rudiments of our language. Tey learn the secrets of weaving to make wreaths, baskets and hats. Guests are also very curious about our tattoos and their meanings.
Which facet of Polynesian culture do you think most fascinates the guests?
Hinanui Ina:What most fascinates those who come to see us is our way of life, I think. Our simplicity, our kindness. Mihimana:We never forget that, for some guests, this may be the trip of a lifetime. So it's our duty to make this a moment they will never forget. ‘Receiving’ is part of our education. ‘Being Tahitian’ means being friendly, smiling and always ready to help others. Wherever they go, in whatever country, Tahitians greet others. Living on a small island where everyone knows everyone else fosters solidarity and a sense of community.
‘Being Tahitian’ also means living in harmony with the ocean...
Mihimana: Some families perpetuate this deep bond across the generations by tattooing on their bodies the marine animal that symbolises them, protects
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them and tells their story: a shark, a dolphin, a turtle... It is also said that when a Polynesian dies, their soul returns to the ocean. When someone dies, we take to the sea in pirogues or on surfboards. We sing and throw a wreath of flowers into the sea in tribute to the deceased. Tese are very strong traditions here.
What is the nicest thing anyone has said to you at the end of a trip?
Hinanui Ina: "We'll be back." And the guests return. At the end of each cruise, we usually sing a Polynesian song. It's not unusual to see a few tears fall. It's always a very emotional moment, both for the guests and for us.
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