Tahiti is the largest of the 118 islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia and is 1 of 8 islands which make the Society archipelago (neighbouring islands include Moorea, Tetiaroa, Huahine, Bora Bora, Raiatea, Tahaa and Maupiti).

The archipelago of the Tuamotu Islands (45 minutes flight from Tahiti) is the most popular destination amongst Polynesian looking for a more secluded lifestyle (think of Robison Crusoe). Those islands survive on Fishing (one third of the fishes sold in Tahiti come from the Tuamotu islands) and Black Pearl farming. Usually know as the "off the beaten track" islands, you will not cross path with many tourists around those islands, which makes them very pleasant to "get lost". Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, Ahe and Fakarava are just a few islands which should get your attention.

The Marquesas Islands, with massive mountains on the islands of Nuku Hiva and Hiva Oa in the northern part of French Polynesia represent the wealth of the Polynesian culture. These islands stand more than 3 hours flight from Tahiti. The locals still travel by horses from one relative to another.

It is to no surprise that the famous French Post-Impressionist painter PAUL GAUGUIN has spend his last years on this island and has capture the essence of the Polynesian life there. ________________________________

You will find Tahiti halfway between Sydney (Australia) and Los Angeles (U.S.A), below the equator and in the same time zone as Hawaii. ________________________________

While Tahiti cannot be considered a ‘budget’ destination, it certainly can be an affordable place to holiday. In Tahiti there are no taxes levied on personal income, but indirect taxes and import duties on almost everything you buy. People often ask ‘how much spending money should we take’, this really depends on your tastes and pocket. Below is an indicative price range you can expect to pay:

A/ AUD $80 - 90 per day For the budget conscious, this amount of money allows for food each day and limited excursions and activities. NB: For those who have pre-purchased a meal plan or have self-catering facilities, this is a good allowance.

B/ AUD $100 - 120 per day An average amount of expenditure, allowing enough for food and excursions.

C/ AUD $150 - 170 per day A higher level of food and activities ________________________________

Tahiti and her island is simply the ultimate in romance destination. Mesmerizing sunsets and sunrises, a feast for aromatic senses, a world a new experiences and feelings still enjoyed by the locals.

A holiday over seas is just a unique feeling. Having breakfast, lunch or dinner delivered to you over-water bungalow brings a new dimension to your souvenirs.

Get lost on many of the islet and beaches waiting for you to discover them. English and French explorer fell to charm, why not you… ________________________________

A valid passport and a round trip ticket are required of all visitors entering Tahiti. A valid passport but no visa is required for 3 months for Australians. ________________________________

Compare to Queensland, Tahiti is 4 hours ahead, with one day behind.
IE: 2 PM Monday in QLD = 6 PM Sunday in Tahiti. ________________________________

The Big Mac Standard: you would pay about AUD $ 11 for a Big Mac meal and AUD $ 2 for a can of coke.
Money change should be done at banks or at the Airport. Hotels and shops generally accept to convert, but at a lesser rate.
Some remote islands, such as the Tuamotu Island do not have banks on site or ATM. Please bring cash with you if traveling there.

Average Exchange Rates
1 AUD = 75 CFP approximately
1 Euro (€) = 119,33 Pacific Franc (XPF)
1 US Dollar = 94 Pacific Franc
1 NZ Dollar = 60 Pacific Franc ________________________________

French and Tahitian are the official languages, but English is spoken and understood in tourist areas. Learning a few basic French and Tahitian phrases and greetings are appreciated.

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Tipping is not expected but tolerated for exceptional service.

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The average ambient temperature is 27 Degrees and the water is 26 Degrees. Even though these islands enjoy a high level of humidity, November until March has a slightly more humid temperature.

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One word: Colours. Tahitians are surrounded by them, so they like to wear them on something light. Pareo (sarongs), thongs and sandals are a must have for the day, and at night casual and comfortable are recommended.

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Black pearls Tiare
Pareo (Sarongs)
Coconut soaps
Monoi oil
Vanilla beans
Hinano (local beer or merchandise)
Shell leis
And many hand made artifacts
For the most courageous, the tattooing culture is well established and unique in its style.
For your shopping, you should definitely check the Papeete public market. Duty free shopping is mainly available on Tahiti only, and most are closed on Sunday.

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Bargaining is not customary. But if you buy many items at once you can ask for a little discount.

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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.

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 (primitive buses) and the RTC large white coaches. Le Truck also operates on most other islands.
Bicycling is also a very popular mode of getting around (only recommended in the outer-island where traffic is limited).

Rental cars are available at most airports for drivers over 21 years of age with a valid driver's license. Major credit cards are usually required for drivers under 25. Because of the small size of many islands, and the uniqueness of many circle island tours, you may find renting a car unnecessary.

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The ocean is what most locals and visitors enjoy. The warm and turquoise water invites you to discover with comfort this underwater world full of live and excitement. Swimming, wind surfing, parasailing, outrigger canoeing, sailing, deep-sea fishing, jet skiing and water skiing, as well as all kind of fishing. Shark and ray feeding are a must do while visiting. But more and more its mountains attract attention and trekking is becoming a new Eldorado for adventurer.

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Most hotels have their own certified diving centre. You can get your diving certificate in a week. If you are already a PADI, NAUI or SSI member, your certification is recognized.

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Telephone, telegram, facsimile and Internet services are available in most hotels. You will find Internet café or the Post offices are the centre of international communications on the islands. Phone cards are easily purchased in Tahiti. Australian Mobile service may not work in Tahiti depending on the type of phone you have and your service provider (Telstra mobile works well there)

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You will have better chance of enjoying a local dance when having dinner at an international hotel. Please check with them for time and day of the shows.

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Many of the hotel rooms on Tahiti are air-conditioned. On the other islands, ceiling fans are widely used.

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Most hotels use 220 volts. You should bring a converter/adapter is often required for appliances.

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Tap water is good in most hotels and restaurants, except in the Tuamotu Islands (those flat islands do not have river streams). For safety please only use bottled water, available everywhere in stores, markets, and hotels.

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The health system is as good as the one the French enjoys. Tahiti has great medical facilities, dental services, pharmacies, a large government hospital, private clinics and cosmetic centre. If you have any special medical conditions, please advise you operator.

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Alcohol (up to 2 liters)
Cigarettes (up to two cartons)
Surfboard, bodyboard
Any diving equipments (some hotels can provide storage)
Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, water socks (reef walkers) and any common insect repellent.


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