Travel Information
Travel Documents
For travelers with US, Canadian, and EU citizenships, you will not need a visa to enter Tahiti for stays of up to one month. However, it’s advisable to have a return or onward ticket before entering.
Language
French and Tahitian are the official and most spoken languages in Tahiti. Tahitian is the original language of the island, but French quickly became the official language once the island was declared a French Colony in 1880. Today, native Tahitians continue to use and teach their historic language alongside French and other world languages. Since tourism is a major cornerstone of the economy, you'll find that English is commonly used at resorts, tourist attractions, and border crossings. Also, take note of the unique Tahitian-French accent that most natives have while speaking English. It's an accent that's unique to the island, and it's a great blend of Tahiti's history and culture!
Some common and useful phrases that you may hear in Tahitian include:
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Welcome = Maeva (ma-eh-va)
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Good morning = La ora na (la ora nah)
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Goodnight =Toto maita’i (my-ta-ee)
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Bye = Nana (nah-nah)
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Ocean = Moana (mo-ah-na)
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Cheers = Manuia (ma-new-ee-ah)
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Yes = E (ay)
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No = Aita (ah-ee-ta)
Some common French phrases include:
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Hello = Bonjour (bahn-jur)
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Thank you = Merci (mehr-si)
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Goodbye = Au revoir (ah re-vwa)
Currency and Tipping
The currency is written as CFP or XPF Franc in markets. One US dollar equals roughly 100 CFP Francs. A bus ride may cost about 300 CFP Francs on average which is equivalent to about $3.
You can exchange your US dollars or other major currencies at the international airport, at local banks, and at some resorts. However, currency exchanges may come with flat fees and percentage fees.
For the best deal, use your debit card at one of the numerous banks and ATMs at either the international airport or one of the featured banks downtown. Some ATMs may charge a small flat fee for the transaction and your issuing bank may as well. Major credit cards are also accepted but you should keep cash on hand for bus tickets, smaller cafes, and handmade souvenirs.
Tipping is not necessary in most circumstances, and may even be seen as strange in some situations. However, Tahitians have a lot of experience with international visitors, so feel free to tip if someone goes above and beyond what was expected.
Climate
The Islands of Tahiti enjoy a warm climate with average yearly temperatures of 25 degrees Celsius. November through April is often very hot and humid with periods of tropical rainfall. From May to October, the islands are pleasantly warm with gusts of refreshing wind.
If you're planning a destination wedding and want an outdoors ceremony, you may wish to book it between May and October since you’ll have less chance of rainfall or strong winds. The strong humidity from November to April can make activities and wearing fancy clothing more difficult, so you may wish to have an in-doors celebration to keep cool.
Getting Around
All international and most regional flights will arrive at Faa’a International Airport (coded as PPT.) Situated right near the capital city Papeete, Faa’a International Airport provides an effortless way to arrive in Tahiti or explore other nearby destinations.
You can take a bus from the airport to reach Papeete quickly and affordably, and you can generally use the city bus to get anywhere you need to go for roughly $3 per person each way. Private taxis and shuttles are also available for a slightly higher fee, or you may rent your own car for roughly $100 per day. Take note that many rental cars are stick-shift, so either ask for a manual car beforehand or be prepared to learn on the spot.
Bicycles and scooters can be rented easily around town. If your wedding or honeymoon trip includes nearby islands, you can get there by ferries or catamarans. These options range from cheap and practical ferries to more deluxe and premium yachts. You may also rent your own private boat and either sail it yourself or pay for a private crew.