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flag French Polynesia Practical information French Polynesia

 
 

Area : 621  sq.mi

Population : 265000 hab.

In brief

Visa :
No
Vaccinations :
No
Currency :
Franc Pacifique
Capitale :
Taiohae
Languages :
French, tahitian, English

Our expert French Polynesia

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Practical information French Polynesia

langue

Languages

French is the official language but Tahitian and other Polynesian languages are also spoken.
formalite

Requirements

Every visitor to French Polynesia must have a return airline ticket to their resident country or to at least two more continuing destinations as well as a valid passport with at least six months validity. For further requirements, British citizens are urged to check with the French Polynesia consulate.
religion

Religion

Christianity is the main religion of the islands, with most people being Protestant or Roman Catholic.
monnaie

Currency

The currency is the CFP Franc (CFP). Payments by credit card (Visa, American Express, Eurocard/MasterCard) are accepted in most hotels. You will find banks on Hiva Island, Oa Island (in Atuaona, open Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 11:30am and from 1:30pm to 4:00 pm), Nuku Hiva Island (in Taiohae Monday to Friday, from 07:30am to 11:00am and from 1:30pm to 4:00pm) and Ua Pou Island (in Hakahau, Monday to Thursday from 7:30am to 11:30am and from 1:00pm to 4:00pm, and on Friday from 7:30am to 2:30pm). There are no cash machines on the Marquesas Islands.
transports

Transport

Getting around French Polynesia is rarely straightfoward but it is fun and always scenic. For travel between islands there are various flights or boats although bear in mind that reaching the more remote islands is slightly more challenging. The boat connections between the larger islands are regular and affordable, while if you have the means to do so, jump on an inter-island flight for the most wonderful views. There are paved roads on some but not all the islands and while the local transport services are easy to use, they aren't everywhere so it's best to rent a car.
santé

Health

No particular vaccine is required, but make sure your current vaccines are up to date. Also remember to protect yourself against sun damage.
electricité

Electricity

Voltage of 220V so you will need an adaptor.
frequentation

Attendance

French Polynesia received 144,260 tourists in 2009.
taxe

Taxes

Tipping is not customary in French Polynesia but they are always welcome.
reperes

Landmark

French Polynesia, 3 Regions :