French Polynesia Travel Information

French Polynesia, a collection of 118 islands in the South Pacific, offers a tropical paradise with its crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation, and stunning landscapes. Here are the top 10 things to do while visiting this breathtaking location.

1. Visit Bora Bora

Bora Bora is one of the most famous and picturesque islands in French Polynesia. Known for its clear blue waters, pristine beaches, and overwater bungalows, it is a must-visit for any traveler to French Polynesia. Explore the island by boat, snorkel in its lagoon, or simply relax on the beach.

2. Take a Snorkeling or Diving Excursion

French Polynesia is renowned for its stunning underwater world, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkeling and diving trips are widely available and offer a chance to see the underwater beauty of French Polynesia. Some of the best snorkeling and diving spots can be found in the lagoons of Bora Bora and Moorea.

3. Visit Papeete, the Capital of Tahiti

Papeete, located on the island of Tahiti, is the capital of French Polynesia. The city offers a mix of colonial and Polynesian architecture, with a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. Explore the local markets, visit the black sand beaches, and try the local cuisine in Papeete.

4. Visit the Marquesas Islands

The Marquesas Islands offer a unique and remote experience, with rugged landscapes and traditional Polynesian culture. Visit the island of Nuku Hiva, known for its majestic waterfalls, ancient stone carvings, and stunning scenery.

5. Explore the Island of Moorea

Moorea is another popular destination in French Polynesia, known for its lush tropical scenery and breathtaking views. Take a scenic drive around the island, visit the Belvedere Lookout, or go on a guided tour of the island's interior.

6. Visit the Cultural Center of Paea

The Cultural Center of Paea is a must-visit for anyone interested in Polynesian culture. The center showcases the traditional arts, crafts, and dances of French Polynesia, as well as its history and heritage.

7. Visit the Vaipahi Gardens

The Vaipahi Gardens, located on the island of Tahiti, offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city of Papeete. The gardens are a lush and tropical paradise, with a collection of exotic plants and flowers.

8. Take a Cruise around the Islands

French Polynesia is best explored by sea, and taking a cruise around the islands is a must-do. Choose from a variety of cruises, from small catamarans to large cruise ships, to explore the beauty of the South Pacific.

9. Visit the Arahoho Blowhole

The Arahoho Blowhole, located on the island of Tahiti, is a natural wonder that is not to be missed. The blowhole shoots water high into the air, creating a spectacular display that can be seen from the coast.

10. Visit the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands

The Museum of Tahiti and the Islands, located in Papeete, offers a comprehensive look at the history, culture, and traditions of French Polynesia.

Climate

French Polynesia has a tropical climate with warm temperatures all year round. The average temperature is around 28°C (82°F) and the humidity is high. There are two main seasons: the hot, rainy season from November to April, and the cool, dry season from May to October.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit French Polynesia is during the cool, dry season from May to October. This is when the weather is dry and pleasant, and there is less rain and fewer storms. This is also the peak tourist season, so be sure to book accommodations and activities in advance. If you're interested in surfing, the best time to visit is during the rainy season from November to April, when the waves are bigger.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

The most popular type of accommodation in French Polynesia are hotels. There are a wide range of options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Most of the hotels are located on the main islands of Tahiti and Moorea, but there are also options on the smaller atolls and islands.

Resorts

Resorts are another popular option in French Polynesia, particularly for those looking for a more luxurious experience. These resorts often offer all-inclusive packages, including meals and activities, making them a convenient choice for those looking to truly relax and enjoy the island life.

Guesthouses and B&Bs

For a more budget-friendly option, guesthouses and bed and breakfasts can be found on most of the islands in French Polynesia. These types of accommodation are often run by local families and offer a more intimate and authentic experience.

Villas

For those looking for more space and privacy, villas are also available for rent in French Polynesia. These can be standalone villas or part of a larger resort property. Villas often come with a private pool and other amenities, making them a great choice for families or groups traveling together.

Planes

The most convenient way to travel between the islands of French Polynesia is by plane. The main carrier is Air Tahiti, which offers flights between the main islands of Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. There are also smaller regional airlines that offer inter-island flights.

Ferries

Ferries are also available for traveling between some of the islands, but they are less convenient than planes and may not run daily. These ferries are a good option for those who want to see more of the islands and enjoy a more scenic mode of transportation.

Cars and Buses

Cars and buses are available for rent on the main islands of Tahiti and Moorea. This is a good option for those who want to explore the islands on their own and have the flexibility to move around at their own pace.

Taxis and Shuttles

Taxis and shuttle services are also available on the main islands, making it easy to get around. These services can be arranged through your hotel or through local companies.

Bicycles and Scooters

For a more eco-friendly option, bicycles and scooters can be rented on most of the islands in French Polynesia. This is a great way to see the sights and explore the islands at a slower pace.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.