Crystal clear turquoise water, white coral-sand beaches and swaying palm trees awaits you on Tahiti and Her Islands. A mix of deep valleys, high mountains, fertile plains and sharp cliffs adds to the magic. It's the perfect destination for honeymooners, adventurous water sport fanatics or for those who just want peace, quiet and ultimate relaxation.
Whether you decide to go diving and snorkelling in warm lagoons, shopping for Polynesian handicrafts and exquisite black pearls in the capital Papeete or savouring Tahiti's national dish of raw fish and diced vegetables soaked in a mixture of lime juice and coconut milk, the hospitality of the friendly Polynesians will envelop you everywhere. Relax in soothing overwater bungalows before you take part in the annual Heiva festival with its traditional and elaborate dance performances ... Welcome to paradise!
Travel Information
From the UK, you can travel to Tahiti and Her Islands via Los Angeles or New York. The flight time between Papeete's Faa'a Airport (PPT) and Los Angeles is around 8 hours by air with Air New Zealand, Air Tahiti Nui. From New York (JFK) is around 10 hours with Air Tahiti Nui.
Accommodation
French Polynesia offers a wide range of hotels. The quality and location of most hotels is excellent, although many travellers have to get used to the high prices in French Polynesia.
Visa Requirements
Only French citizens can enter French Polynesia without a passport and the visa requirements are much the same as for France itself. Western European and Scandinavian citizens are allowed to stay for up to three months without a visa. Citizens of Canada, the USA, Japan, Singapore and New Zealand can stay up to one month without a visa, but all other visitors need a visa to enter.
Getting 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. Both operating frequently in Papeete and around the island. 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.
Health & Safety
No vaccinations are required except for passengers from high-risk countries. On the other island of Tahiti, good sanitary facilities and health services are available. The cities of Papeete Taravao and Uturoa have fully equiped hospitals. Other tourist islands at least possess a hospital or a clinic.
National Holidays
1 Jan - New Year's Day
6 Apr - Good Friday
9 Apr - Easter Monday
Ascension Day
Whitmonday
Assumption Day
5 Mar - Missionary Day
1 May - Labor Day
14 Jul - Bastille Day
8 Sep - Internal Autonomy Day
1 Nov - All Saints Day
11 Nov - Armistice Day
25 - Christmas Day
Currency
Pacific Franc (XPF)
Electricity
110 or 220 volts (60Hz) depending on the island and type of accommodation.
Working Hours
Business hours from 8.00am to 12.00noon and 1.30pm to 5.30pm Monday to Friday.
Emergency Numbers
Hispital: 420 101, Police: 17, Fire: 18
