French Polynesia

one could spend a month exploring French Polynesia and it wouldn’t be enough. However, we highly recommend spending at least 3 nights on each island. For maximum impact, fly to Bora Bora for 3 nights and then spend 3 nights either on Moorea or one of the other islands. Bora Bora is incredible, but it comes at a higher cost. Rates on Rangiroa or Moorea are more budget friendly, while still providing a luxurious experience.

A common type of accommodation in French Polynesia is called “Pensione”. Pensiones are family-run boutique hotels that typically operate more like a guest house. They range in price and luxury from very basic to high-end boutique hotel with full blown amenities. You’ll find Pensiones on most islands and provide a nice alternative to the big brands. Our recommendation if you are on a tighter budget is to spend a few nights in a Pensione and then spend the last 2 nights of your trip in the ultra-luxurious hotel.

Typically, travelers will arrive to PPT, the main international airport for all of French Polynesia. Once on the main island of Tahiti, you will travel by boat or by smaller prop-plane to your destination. Bora Bora and sister islands are a few hours away and require a domestic flight. Islands like Moorea, however, are a short, 40 minute ferry ride from Papeete and require only a $20 ferry ticket.

Taxis are quite expensive due to the high gas prices on the islands, so many travelers opt for renting a car if they plan to explore the islands. On Moorea and similar islands, restaurants will typically pick you up and drop you off if you eat a meal at their restaurants.

French Polynesia has everything you love about France and more. Think delicious cheese, beautiful wine and fresh bread. Of course, Tahitians put their own spin on it, adding fresh fish and seafood. The don’t-miss dish of French Polynesia is Poisson Cru, a take on Tuna Poke with coconut milk – just trust us.

Dining prices really range, depending on where you go. Resorts will be more expensive, particularly the big chains on the islands (think $35 USD for a burger at select 5-star resorts). Regardless of what you’re looking for, you will find it. Note, however, that if you stay on Bora Bora or similar islands, it’s likely that you will not be leaving the resort to go out to dinner.

French Polynesia is known for their pearls. The best shopping we encountered is the Marché Papeete, located just across from the ferry terminal on the main island of Tahiti. Travelers can find anything from discount single pearls to beautiful, handcrafted jewelry and flower crowns.  The shops surrounding the Marché contain some of the higher-end items and travelers can claim VAT upon exiting the country.

Prices are fair due to the Tahitians being genuinely kind people that are not looking to “screw” the tourists. Some negotiation is expected, within reason.

People in French Polynesia are some of the kindest, genuine people we have ever met – anywhere in the world. There’s really no such thing as getting ripped off in French Polynesia that we experienced. From the Marché to the hotels, Polynesian people genuinely care about everyone (tourists and their fellow Polynesians alike). It’s a stark contrast to many places around the world, where you’re constantly in fear for your safety and for getting majorly ripped off. The concept of Pensions are huge in French Polynesia. The family-owned “bed and breakfast” style hotels are the low-key, often low-cost alternative to fancy hotels. The Polynesian owners take care of you as if you’re family and they’re often incredibly clean and nice. Of course, with all places, do your research. Beware of places with negative reviews on TripAdvisor, as they’re often great indicators of the truth. We’ve only have one bad experience in French Polynesia and it was dealing with a scam from the Australian-owned Moorea Beach Lodge.