French Polynesia - General Information & FAQ

Exotic Tahiti and her Islands have always been considered among the most romantic destinations on earth. So while you are looking for that perfect trip, here are answers to some commonly asked questions about the magic islands of Tahiti

What is Tahiti ?

Tahiti is the largest of the 118 islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia. The island of Tahiti and the capital city of Papeete are located in the Society Islands. Neighbouring islands include Moorea, Tetiaroa, Huahine, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa and Maupiti. Also easily accessible are the islands of Tikehau, Rangiroa and Manihi in the Tuamotu archipelago, and the Marquesas Islands, with massive mountains on the islands of Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa in the northern part of French Polynesia.

Where is Tahiti ?

Tahiti and her Islands lie in the Pacific Ocean, just south of the equator, in the same time zone as Hawaii, halfway between North America and Australia.

Do we need a passport to go there ? A Visa ?

A valid passport and a round trip ticket are required of all visitors entering Tahiti.

A valid passport but no visa is required for up to 3 months for the following nationalities: European Union, Malta, Australia, Monaco, Cyprus, Nationals of Vatican, Iceland, Saint-Martin, Liechtenstein and Switzerland.

A valid passport but no visa is required for up to 1 month for the following nationalities: USA, Latvia, Argentina, Lithuania, Bolivia, Malaysia, Brunei, Mexico, Canada, New Zealand, Chile, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Croatia, Paraguay, Czech Republic, Poland, Equator, Salvador, Estonia, Singapore, Guatemala, Slovakia, Honduras, Slovenia, Hungary, South Korea, Japanand Uruguay.

A Visa is required for all other countries and must be endorsed 'Valid for French Polynesia'.

Important notice: This information is of a general nature and was the best available when posted. We urge you to make your own enquiries.

What is the time difference ?

The Islands are two hours behind Pacific Standard time. During Daylight-Saving time (April to late October) they are three hours behind. Time in the Marquesas is half an hour ahead of the rest of the islands. French Polynesia is 10 hours behind GMT, 2 hours behind US Pacific Standard Time and 20 hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.
When it is noon Sunday in Tahiti, it is 2 pm Sunday in Los Angeles, 8 am Monday in Sydney, 11 pm (wintertime) - 12 pm (summertime) in Frankfurt. The time difference from Australian East Coast is 20 hours.

Will we need to exchange money ?

Upon arrival in French Polynesia, most visitors exchange some money at the Faaa or at their hotel. Generally, it is not necessary to change very much since credit cards are accepted. The currency used in French Polynesia is the French Pacific Franc or CFP.

Approximately Exchange Rates at July 06

1 AUD = 70 CFP approximately

1 Euro (€) = 119,33 Pacific Franc (XPF)

1 US Dollar = 94 Pacific Franc

1 NZ Dollar = 57.2 Pacific Franc

1 CAD Dollar = 83.4 Pacific Franc

Why are Tahiti and her Islands called 'Islands Beyond the Ordinary' ?

Tahiti and her Islands have long been referred to as a tropical paradise. These extraordinary islands are for people seeking the unique, novel or adventurous experiences,  who want to visit an unspoiled destination whose culture is different from their own.

Is English spoken ?

French and Tahitian are the official languages, but English is spoken and understood in tourist areas. Brushing up on a few basic French phrases and learning Tahitian greetings are appreciated.

What about tipping ?

Tipping is not customary in Polynesian culture and is not expected, however, tipping is welcomed for exemplary service.

What are the seasons and climate ?

Cooled by gentle ocean breezes, the climate is ideal. Being tropical but moderate, the climate features sunny, pleasant days and an average yearly water temperature of 27 degrees. Summer is from November through April, when the climate is slightly warmer and more humid. Winter is from May through October, when the climate is slightly cooler and dryer.

What should I wear ?

The climate and lifestyle on the Islands call for casual and comfortable clothing. Pack loose-fitting, natural fabrics and plenty of shorts. Pareos (sarongs) and swimsuits can be worn during the daytime at the resorts, while casual shirts and walking shorts provide the most comfort during island explorations. For dinner, casual slacks and sport shirts are the best choice for men while cool sundresses are most appropriate for women.

What kind of shopping is there ? What souvenir should I buy?

Among Tahiti's most popular products are black pearls, tiare and coconut soaps, monoi oil, vanilla beans, shell leis, wood carvings, woven hats and baskets, and the colourful and dyed pareu (sarongs) fabric worn by the island natives. The Papeete public market is a favourite with visitors. Shops usually open about 7.30 am and close at 5.30 pm (noon on Saturdays), but there is always a long lunch hour. Except in hotels, all shops are usually closed on Sundays. Duty free shopping is mainly available on Tahiti only.

Do I bargain when shopping ?

Bargaining and haggling over prices in markets and stores is not customary.

How do I get around ?

The most inexpensive and common form of transportation is the public bus system. On Tahiti there are now two types of buses: the open-air trucks called Le Truck and the RTC large white coaches. Le Truck also operates on most other islands. Taxis can be hired at most hotels, airports, and ferry terminals. For scenic tours around the islands, try escorted excursions by boat, 4x4 safari, bus or helicopter. Bicycling is also a very popular mode of getting around. Rental cars are available at most airports for drivers over 21 years of age with a valid driver's license. Major credit cards are usually required for drivers under 25. Because of the small size of many islands, and the uniqueness of many circle island tours, you may find renting a car unnecessary.

Can I Charter a Boat?
If you are an experienced sailor, yacht and sailboat charters are available on most of the major islands for short or long-term voyages. Some come complete with a captain and crew. Fishing boats can also be chartered for deep-sea fishing for big species.

What types of activities are there?
Opportunities abound for the adventurer! Thrilling jeep tours let you explore the lush interiors of the larger islands. Discover waterfalls and grottos as you hike or mountain bike through the heart of the islands. Or cycle leisurely around the perimeter of the islands. Circle island tours are offered on many islands and provide a glimpse of Tahitian lifestyle. Sunset cruises that sail from Tahiti's capital city of Papeete are also available. Learn more about Polynesia at the Tahiti and her Islands Museum and the Gauguin Museum. Ancient maraes (temples) hold the mysteries of early Polynesians. Lagoonariums offer an opportunity to view sea creatures in their own environment. Le Marche, the bustling public market in Papeete, is ideal for finding picnic items as well as colourful pareus and other souvenirs. Tahiti is the perfect place to do everything or nothing at all !

What types of activities are available?
Most visitors enjoy the lagoons as the natives do, swimming and snorkelling in the warm, turquoise waters; or outrigger canoeing, sailing, wind surfing, parasailing, deep sea fishing, jet skiing and water skiing. The Tahitian islands are world renowned for their scuba diving and snorkelling. Or you can go on a shark feeding expedition, where you're in the water with hungry reef sharks that are being hand-fed by a guide. You can charter a yacht, perhaps with a captain and chef, to sail among the islands.

What's the water temperature?
The water temperature averages 26°C in the winter and 29°C in the summer with less than a degree of variation from the surface down to 50 meters.

What kind of dive and snorkelling sites are there?
The islands of Tahiti offer world-class diving and are famous among divers for the large marine life, drift dives, warm and pristine waters, and uncrowded dive sites. Lagoons, passes and outer reef dives offer aqua-culture at its best, with an abundance of all kinds of sea life, from the tiniest, beautifully coloured tropical species, to awesome large varieties, such as rays, sharks, occasional sea turtles and more.
 

Can I learn to scuba dive at a hotel?
If you have at least one week, you can enrol in a complete resort certification course during your vacation. If you are already a PADI, NAUI or SSI member, your certification is recognized.

What about communications?
Telephone, telegram, facsimile and internet services are available in most hotels. Post offices are the centre of international communications on the islands. Phone cards are easily purchased in Tahiti. Your cell phone with Australian service may not work in Tahiti depending on the type of phone you have and your service provider.

What about night life ?

Most hotels offer Tahitian post-dinner entertainment on a regular basis. Dancing is a popular evening entertainment in Papeete.
 

How are the hotel rooms cooled ?
Many of the hotel rooms on Tahiti are air-conditioned. On the other islands, cool tropical breezes are drawn in by ceiling fans.
 

What is the Voltage?
Hotels use either 110 or 220 volts, depending on the location. A converter/adapter is often required for appliances you bring, including computers.

Is the Water Safe to Drink?
Tap water is good in most hotels and restaurants. Bottled water is also available everywhere in stores, markets, and hotels.

Is there a hospital?
Tahiti has excellent medical and dental services, pharmacies, a large government hospital, private clinics and cosmetic centre.

Is there anything else we should bring?
If you desire, you can bring cigarettes (up to two cartons), film (up to ten rolls), and liquor (up to two litres). And don't forget an extra bottle of your favourite sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, water socks (reef walkers) and any common insect repellent.

currency -  faq - getting there - history - visas and customs - weather - weddings