What to know before traveling to French Polynesia
Located halfway between Australia and South America, French Polynesia is made up of five beautiful archipelagos, each with its own unique island charm. Famous for its white-sand beaches, unusual diving spots, snorkeling tours, and Tahiti’s idyllic Overwater Bungalows, the islands’ main attraction is its laid-back vibe. This is what you should know before traveling to French Polynesia: an exotic island paradise!
Five exciting reasons to visit French Polynesia
1. Landscape: The turquoise water and landscape of this region are among the most beautiful and peaceful in the world.
2. Relaxation: The excellent relaxation potential of the area alone is reason enough to visit and stay a while, lie in the sun and soak up the traditional dances and cuisine of the local people.
3. Activities Abundance – The islands offer a variety of water and adventure activities to rival the best, including scuba diving, natural aquariums, wine tasting, zip lining, surfing and sailing**, and it’s easy to visit most of the archipelago in a single week.
4. Overwater Bungalows: Overwater Bungalows are famous the world over for being located right on the calm blue waters.
5. Privacy: The islands feel like a private escape and the people and cultural activities are worth experiencing.
Manihi, Rangiroa, Fakarava, Tikehau and Hiva Oa in the Tuamotu Islands are the most famous diving spots in French Polynesia, next to Tahiti and Bora-Bora. Fakarava Atoll is one of the best known and most popular diving spots in the archipelago. The secluded coves and beaches are another reason to visit the region. Resorts in the area are dotted with luxury hotels and offer five-star service, but there are also three-star hotels for the budget-minded traveler. May to October is the best time for diving and offers the best beach weather. Towering coconut palms, black pearl diving, and lagoons teeming with marine life complete this picturesque island.
Memorable Attractions in French Polynesia!
Once you’ve had your fill of visiting the best local dive spots, take a trip to Magic Mountain on the island of Moorea. These low, rugged mountains are the highest points of the fairly flat islands and from here you can enjoy stunning 360 degree views of the lagoon, ocean and surrounding island paradise. The route also allows visitors views of valleys, villages, orchards, and pineapple farms. This ancient volcanic island is best reached by 4×4 or quad. Belvedere Lookout has stunning views of Cook’s Bay, Opunohu Valley, Mount Rotui and its slopes and peaks. The Arahoho Blowhole is a popular local attraction that can be seen from the roadside. Under the right conditions, the blowhole shoots water into the air like a geyser. The Robert Wan Black Pearl Museum tells the story of the rare Tahiti black pearl, which is an integral part of the island’s history. The 19th century Notre Dame Cathedral is the oldest in Tahiti and a visit to this fascinating yellow building with its beautiful tall bell tower and red roof is a must! Local handicrafts, fresh foods and more can be purchased at the Pape’ete market.
Have you heard of ‘Bora Bora’? It is probably one of the most beautiful islands on Earth. Read more about Bora Bora and other beautiful islands in the South Pacific!
Papeete is the beautiful capital city of Tahiti. It is an elegant city where you will find flowers and palm trees in abundance. Once a commercial and whaling port, today it prides itself on receiving tourists and its dock area, off the main street, is well worth a visit. The Aremiti ferry travels between Tahiti and Moorea and departs from Papeete. Vaitape is the largest city in Bora-Bora and is famous for Matira Beach, which is the largest public beach in the region. Motu Pita Aau is a small but beautiful island near Vaitape that is popular for day, dinner and sunset cruises.
When is the best time to visit?
The best weather in French Polynesia occurs from June to August and this is the best time to take advantage of the sunny beach weather. Dry, mild days and warm temperatures make this an idyllic time of year on Tahiti, Bora-Bora, and throughout the archipelago. The lowest prices are usually found outside of this high season, when there are also fewer crowds, more frequent tropical rains but still plenty of sunny days. Temperatures remain comfortable during the off-season. The islands are relatively storm free and November is the best time for whale watching!
Five things you should know before traveling to French Polynesia?
1. Currency: The accepted currency in most of French Polynesia is the US dollar and the euro. However, in Tahiti, the French Pacific Franc (CFP) is the accepted currency.
2. Language: Employees at local restaurants, hotels, and shops are fluent in English, but the official languages in French Polynesia are Tahitian and French.
3. Visa and flights: Visitors to French Polynesia do not require a travel visa if your stay is less than 90 days, but you will need a valid passport for a stay of at least six months and to provide proof of a return flight or of connection. There are local flights that run between the archipelagos, so book in advance.
4. Tipping: Tipping is not a standard practice in the region, but some hotels and restaurants may include a service charge on their bills. However, tips are welcome to show appreciation for excellent service.
5. Preparation: As this is a tropical destination, visitors should prepare a packing list: pack sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottles, bathing suit, sun hat, and light casual clothing.
More interesting facts about French Polynesia!
There are no less than 118 islands in the region!
Tahiti is the largest of the French Polynesian islands. Papeete, the capital city (or Pape’ete in Tahitian) means “waters from a basket.”
The overwater bungalows on Moorea were built in the 1960s.
Tahiti locals get twice daily deliveries of fresh bread to “mailboxes” outside their homes!
The tiare is the national flower of Tahiti. If you are a single woman, you wear one behind your right ear. If they take you, your right ear!
Wide open spaces drenched in sunshine and local culture, turquoise seas and miles of coastline to explore make this a rejuvenating travel destination for the whole family.
