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.
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.
To summarize, tipping in French Polynesia is not required nor expected! Unlike places in Canada and the United States, such as Calgary and San Diego, where servers are heavily reliant on receiving tips to have a livable wage, French Polynesia automatically factors in the cost of their staff's salary in your bill.
French Polynesia is an expensive destination. You must pick and choose your battles or you'll blow through your budget within the first couple of days. Here are a few ways you can save money while you're here: Look for package deals – You can often find package deals on sale that include hotels, food, and activities.
For drivers spending the majority of the day with you, as is the case with a limo or moving between airports, hotels, and events, 10 to 15 percent of the total bill is custom. You may find drivers go above and beyond and provide extra service to ensure safety or comfort.
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.
In resort restaurants, tipping approximately $2 to $3 per person is acceptable. In higher-end restaurants, plan on a $5 tip at a minimum. Tip the bartender and pool staff $2 to $3 per interaction and the concierge $5 for services. Tipping shuttle drivers is also customary.
Inside the resorts, local people in Tahiti dress in casual beachy attire: sundresses, tropical button-ups, khaki shorts and sandals. Outside the resorts, local people in Tahiti dress very casually: tee shirts, shorts and flip flops.
The overall high season in French Polynesia extends from May 1 to October 31, although some resorts change their prices starting April 1. The low season covers November 1 to April 30.