The official currency of Tahiti is the CFP Franc (XPF). It's best to exchange money or use your credit card in Tahiti. If you can't buy some before your trip, the next best options are Australian Dollars (AUD), US Dollars (USD) or Euros (EUR).
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U.S. dollar and European euro notes (but not coins) are widely accepted as cash in the islands, although at less favorable exchange rates than at banks. You will probably get a more favorable rate if you change your money in French Polynesia rather than before leaving home.
You'll certainly want to have some cash on hand for small purchases and the occasional tip. Euros and US Dollars are not widely accepted in the islands; therefore, local currency is best.
Credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops and grocery stores on Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. Smaller shops or stores or more remote islands may accept credit cards with a minimum purchase. Visa and MasterCard are the two most widely accepted credit cards.
Shoes should be removed before entering someone's home in French Polynesia. When greeting each other in French Polynesia, people use handshakes or a kiss on the cheek. It is considered rude to get into the room, and not greet everyone except for large crowds.
Once you've reached your destination, avoid airport kiosks or other exchange houses. Your bank's ATM network is likely the best option. You may be able to withdraw cash in the local currency with competitive exchange rates and low fees (1% to 3%). Use your institution's app to find an ATM near you.
If you intend to use a credit card during your stay, you should be aware that only Visa, Mastercard, Amex, Diners and JCP (Japan) are widely accepted in French Polynesia. Holders of other cards may encounter difficulties obtaining cash and paying for goods.
You can drink tap water in Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora and in all the international resorts. It is usually fine in family hotels and in the other islands but we recommend that you ask your hosts for confirmation.
If you decide to tip people in Bora Bora, you can do so using either XPF (preferred) or US dollars. It is easy for locals on the island to exchange US dollars for the local currency.
Do You Tip at Bora Bora Resorts? Even if you're staying in a fancy overwater bungalow or one of the luxury Bora Bora resorts, tipping is not expected by hotel staff. The reason is that in 2007, service charges became automatically included in hotel bills.
The languages spoken in Bora Bora are Tahitian and French. However, due to the high tourism population, many natives of Bora Bora have learned to speak English.