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.
People Also Ask
Yes, many lodging establishments, eateries, and retail stores in Bora Bora accept credit and debit cards, but some small shops may only accept cash.
You should use a credit card in French Polynesia. The ones that are accepted on our main islands are American Express, Visa, Master Card, Diners Club, etc. However, only cash will be accepted in Tubuai, Ua Pou, Mangareva, or on other small islands.
Compared to the United States where tipping is always expected, regardless of the kind of service you receive, tipping is not required or expected in French Polynesia. It's similar to the culture in France and most places in Europe.
There are many sharks in Bora Bora, although attacks on humans are rare. Still, it's best to steer clear of them, as well as Bora Bora's stingrays and barracudas. Wear reliable foot protection whenever you're in the ocean to fend off injuries from stonefish, urchins, and the coral itself.
You may bring large sums of money with you in the form of cash, money order, or traveler's checks. There is no maximum limit, however, any amount exceeding $10,000 USD must be declared upon arrival on both the Form 6059B and FinCEN 105. All forms must be filled in completely and truthfully.
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.
The hotel will also exchange currency, but almost all restaurants, bars and grocery stores on Mo'orea take cards. There are a few casual pizza places and food trucks, etc. that only take cash, so just check places ahead of time. We always have some, but only withdraw/exchange as needed to not end up with extra.
No, the 5 French overseas departments are not considered part of the Schengen Area. As such, they have separate visa policies from metropolitan France. Schengen visas do not grant entry to these regions. However, travellers from many countries may visit the overseas departments visa-free.
European Union citizens can stay in French Polynesia as long as they like, without being required to obtain a special visa in advance. (All visiting yachts may stay for three years without being officially imported.) Americans and Canadians will get 90-day visas on arrival at their first landfall.
French Polynesia uses the Global System for Mobiles (GSM) technology. Check with your wireless company before traveling to see if you have a GSM phone. If so, you may be able to use it in the islands if your home provider has an international roaming agreement with the mobile network Vinia (www.vini.pf).
While meal prices in Tahiti can vary, the average cost of food in Tahiti is F5,740 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Tahiti should cost around F2,296 per person.