Tahiti and French Polynesia Travel Information

Basics, Red Tape, Culture, Holidays

Tahiti Main Page

BASICS

Weather
Warm tropical climate year-round. There are two seasons: from November through May the climate is warmer and humid, with daily temperatures of about 85 F degrees; and from June through October the climate is cooler and drier with daily temperatures of about 82 F degrees. The year-round low is about 70 F degrees. The average ocean water temperature is in the low 80’s.

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What to Pack
Casual, informal, lightweight, and breathable clothing. Bring wet sandals for walking on coral, and a waterproof bag. Plus the standard hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

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Money
Currency is French Polynesian Franc (CFP) or (XFP) You will find ATM's at the airports and villages, although they don't work with all cards. Bring a couple of cards from different banks. Traveler's checks are a good alternative if your cards don't work, and they get a better exchange rate than cash.

Currency Converter

Telephone
Country dialing code: 689
Get an International Unlocked Cell Phone Make sure you include French Polynesia as a service country.

If you don't have a cell phone that works in French Polynesia, you can buy a phone card (telecart) for about $15 US to use with public phones. They are easy to use, and you can select instructions in English at the payphone.

Language
The official languages are Tahitian, French and English. Most people speak English. We found that even if they speak very little English, they will try their best to help you. Rosetta Stone - Learn French

Electric Voltage
110/220V 60HzHz

Time
GMT -10
World Clock -- time and date.

RED TAPE

Health:
Tap water at hotels and restaurants is generally safe to drink. No immunizations are required in French Polynesia. For more information you can visit:
Required immunizations

Travel Insurance:
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Passport and Visas:
U.S. and Canadian citizens only need a valid passport and do not need a VISA to enter French Polynesia for visits up to 30 days.

Citizens of all other countries may need a VISA in addition to a valid passport. Consult the nearest French Consulate or French Embassy as early as possible. It can take several weeks to obtain a VISA.

Passport & Visa information, travel services and resources from the
US Department of State

This travel documents service helps you obtain your birth certificate, passport, visas:
Official Travel Documents

Work Abroad:

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CULTURE

Tipping
Tipping has been contrary to the Tahitian custom of hospitality. Prices quoted are all inclusive. However, you can always tip for exceptional service.

Dress Code
French Polynesia beaches are topless--optional, of course.

Tahitian Black Pearls, Tahitian Apparel, Tahitian Vanilla and Gourmet Foods

HOLIDAYS

Late January or early February, Mo'orea Marathon

March 5th, re-enactment of the arrival of the first London Missionary

June and July, Miss Tahiti and Miss Heiva i Tahiti contest

14 July, French Bastille Day falls in the middle of the Heiva i festival

Late June and early July, four-day golf tournament on Tahiti

September, surfing contest off Tahiti

Early November, Hawaiki Nui canoe race. Three-day, four-island, event. It begins from the island of Huahine to Raiatea. Day two is between the twin islands of Raiatea and Tahaa, and day three to the island of Bora Bora.

Get more information on Tahiti and Papeete, and Bora Bora Beaches

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