ADVERTISEMENT
French Polynesia
Crystal blue lagoons
Highlights
The three archipelagos most sought by visitors are the Society Islands, comprised of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea and Taha'a; The Tuamotu Atolls or "Tahiti's Strand of Pearls", which include the atolls of Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, and Fakarava; and the Marquesas, or "The Mysterious Islands."
Entry requirements
No visa required for visits less than 30 days. Canadian citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months following their intended departure date from Tahiti. For all other nationalities, consult your consulate or tourist board for details. You can also visit www.voyage.gc.ca for up-to-date information.
Currency
The currency is the Pacific Franc. US dollars and Euros are widely accepted on the islands, although at a less favourable exchange rate than at banks.
Shopping
The colourful Papeete market is certainly worth visiting. Buy pareos or perhaps some coconut products for health and beauty care. Black pearls can also be found and will make a memorable souvenir.
Credit cards
Visa, MasterCard are accepted in virtually every hotel in major cities throughout the country, as well as in most stores and restaurants.
Eating & Drinking
From exquisite French cuisine in an elegant restaurant to a simple picnic on a small motu islet, Tahiti has a wide rage of dining experiences and it is hard to be disappointed with the quality of the food. It is also possible to taste the result of different cooking techniques including the traditional ground oven, typical of the Polynesian cultures.
Tipping
Tipping is contrary to Tahitian custom, but it is left to the individual to determine whether to offer a gratuity.
Language
French and Tahitian are the two official languages. However, English is widely spoken throughout the country.
Climate
Cooled by the gentle breezes of the Pacific, the climate of Tahiti is sunny and pleasant. There are roughly two seasons: from November through May the climate is warmer and humid, and from June through October the climate is cooler and drier. Most of the rain falls during the warmer season, but there are also many lovely sunny days during these months, with refreshing trade-winds.
Health
No shots or certifications are required for entry from North America, regardless of the traveller's nationality.
On the islands of Tahiti, good sanitary facilities and health services are available. The cities of Papeete, Taravao (Peninsula of Tahiti) and Uturoa (Raiatea) have fully equipped hospitals. Other tourist islands at least possess a doctor's office or a clinic. Tahitian hospitals and clinics provide a high standard of health care.
Telephone
The country code is 689
Electricity
Electricity: 220V / 60Hz.
Time zone
Tahiti is 10 hours behind GMT
The three archipelagos most sought by visitors are the Society Islands, comprised of Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea and Taha'a; The Tuamotu Atolls or "Tahiti's Strand of Pearls", which include the atolls of Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, and Fakarava; and the Marquesas, or "The Mysterious Islands."
Entry requirements
No visa required for visits less than 30 days. Canadian citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months following their intended departure date from Tahiti. For all other nationalities, consult your consulate or tourist board for details. You can also visit www.voyage.gc.ca for up-to-date information.
Currency
The currency is the Pacific Franc. US dollars and Euros are widely accepted on the islands, although at a less favourable exchange rate than at banks.
Shopping
The colourful Papeete market is certainly worth visiting. Buy pareos or perhaps some coconut products for health and beauty care. Black pearls can also be found and will make a memorable souvenir.
Credit cards
Visa, MasterCard are accepted in virtually every hotel in major cities throughout the country, as well as in most stores and restaurants.
Eating & Drinking
From exquisite French cuisine in an elegant restaurant to a simple picnic on a small motu islet, Tahiti has a wide rage of dining experiences and it is hard to be disappointed with the quality of the food. It is also possible to taste the result of different cooking techniques including the traditional ground oven, typical of the Polynesian cultures.
Tipping
Tipping is contrary to Tahitian custom, but it is left to the individual to determine whether to offer a gratuity.
Language
French and Tahitian are the two official languages. However, English is widely spoken throughout the country.
Climate
Cooled by the gentle breezes of the Pacific, the climate of Tahiti is sunny and pleasant. There are roughly two seasons: from November through May the climate is warmer and humid, and from June through October the climate is cooler and drier. Most of the rain falls during the warmer season, but there are also many lovely sunny days during these months, with refreshing trade-winds.
Health
No shots or certifications are required for entry from North America, regardless of the traveller's nationality.
On the islands of Tahiti, good sanitary facilities and health services are available. The cities of Papeete, Taravao (Peninsula of Tahiti) and Uturoa (Raiatea) have fully equipped hospitals. Other tourist islands at least possess a doctor's office or a clinic. Tahitian hospitals and clinics provide a high standard of health care.
Telephone
The country code is 689
Electricity
Electricity: 220V / 60Hz.
Time zone
Tahiti is 10 hours behind GMT
