French Polynesia

Travel tips for French Polynesia: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. Recent travelers report that credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but you should withdraw local XPF from an airport ATM for taxis, local markets, and small food stands (roulottes) which remain cash-only.

Try the food

  • Poisson cru (Ia ota): Fresh raw tuna marinated in lime juice and mixed with diced vegetables and rich coconut milk.
  • Poulet fafa: Chicken cooked in a traditional earth oven with taro leaves and coconut milk, resembling a rich spinach stew.
  • Fafaru: Fish fillets marinated in a pungent, fermented seawater broth, typically enjoyed by locals with a strong palate.

Say it in French

  • Hello: Bonjour
  • Thank you: Merci
  • Please: S'il vous plaît
  • Excuse me: Excusez-moi
  • How much is this?: Combien ça coûte ?
  • The bill please: L'addition, s'il vous plaît
  • Yes / No: Oui / Non
  • Goodbye: Au revoir

Essentials

Plugs
Type A / Type B / Type C / Type E
Voltage
220V, 60Hz
Driving
Right side
Tap water
Usually safe
Emergency
112 (general), 17 (police), 15 (ambulance), 18 (fire)
SIM tip
Pick up a prepaid Vini or Vodafone tourist SIM card at the boutiques in Faa'a International Airport upon arrival for reliable island coverage.

Etiquette

Tipping is not customary or expected in French Polynesia, as service is typically included in the price, though leaving a small amount for exceptional service is appreciated.

Airports in French Polynesia