Tahiti is like no other! But to ensure everything about your Tahiti vacation is perfect, here is some honest advice on essential planning tips devoid of sugar coating – presenting a comprehensive Tahiti travel planning guide!
1. Familiarize yourself with Tahitian geography.
It can be easy to confuse Tahiti, Bora Bora, and Papeete with one another if you're unfamiliar with Tahitian geography. The country is officially French Polynesia, a group of Pacific Islands. Tahiti is the largest island and capital of Tahiti (analogous to how the large island of Hawaii is known as the collective name for Oahu, Maui, etc.) The island of Tahiti hosts the largest town in French Polynesia and the international airport of Papeete. The other well-known islands are Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, Taha’a, Tikeahau, and Rangiroa. The other well-known islands are Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, Taha’a, Tikeahau, and Rangiroa
2. Book early.
Tahiti is a premier destination where the demand outstrips the supply, meaning you can't expect many last-minute specials typical of the Caribbean. It is best practice to book accommodations and tours 90-180 days in advance. Many resorts in Tahiti give their best deals at least six months in advance. Furthermore, you must book your flights well in advance too. Tahiti is very popular with limited flight options.
3. Stick to a brand.
When island hopping, travellers staying with the same chain of hotels (such as the Intercontinental, Sofitel, or Le Meridien) will get the best bang for their buck. These resorts often offer multi-island discounts when staying with the same brand.
4. Book all your airfare at once.
Book regional inter-island flights with your international airfare to ensure seamless travel and avoid booking hassles, especially if you plan on island-hopping during your stay.
5. Mix and match the types of rooms you stay in!
So, you want to stay in an overwater bungalow? Who doesn’t? But truthfully, you will want to move around a little bit, so we highly encourage travellers to book two to three different room types on different islands. This is one way to save money and play up on what each island is known for. For example, consider booking a Garden room on the island where you plan to be the most active since you won't be in your room until the evening, as you’re outside snorkelling or on 4WD tours in the highlands. The overwater bungalow is best when you move onto your next island and are ready to soak up the Tahitian sun, enjoy the magnificent scenery, and indulge in sheer luxury. To round off your trip, exchange the lagoon for the beach and opt for a beach bungalow steps from the water on an island known best for its sandy beaches, like Bora Bora. Combining all the above will give you the best possible value as you effortlessly indulge in the best aspects of each island.
6. Seasonality and meals.
It is strongly recommended to opt for resort rates offering to include meals. Resorts include meals in their rates or have reduced rates on meals during the North American winter months, coincidentally when globetrotters want to escape winter! While it is possible to drop into neighbouring resorts or seek out local restaurants for a change of gastronomic scenery, the convenience, and actual savings of paying for food at your resort are worth it anyway.
7. Visit Papeete and eat at a roulotte.
Many travellers avoid Papeete, the capital and largest city of French Polynesia, as they think of it as a big city with nothing to offer, but they couldn’t be further from the truth! Papeete is indeed a tough port city with a few rough edges, but it’s worth visiting, nonetheless. Shopping – particularly for those seeking pearls – is the best here, and the local fruit and veggie markets offer delicious produce and are great for photographs. The experience of dining out at the roulottes, gourmet food trucks with outdoor tables and chairs, combining French, Tahitian, and other international cuisines, is worth visiting Papeete alone. It’s also a great way to meet locals and travellers at other resorts or those who’ve arrived by yacht or cruise ship.
8. Consider less popular islands.
Everyone knows about Bora Bora, and many have heard of Moorea, but other lesser-known islands, such as Huahine or Tikehau, can sometimes offer as much as 50% off the room at certain times of the year and are generally less crowded. These lesser-known islands are also great choices for the second time or repeat visitors looking for something different and for travellers looking for privacy.
What do the experts say?
The iconic Poisson Cru must be tried while in French Polynesia - it is raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk - so good!
The Food - Polynesian cuisine is based upon using top quality fresh local produce and both savory and sweet dishes often flavored with vanilla or coconut milk. It's surprising to hear many of the perishable ingredients that go into your meals are flown in from various other international countries, and yet, can still taste so fresh and exquisite.
I love the stunning natural beauty, the wonderful people and the opportunity to experience this unique Polynesian culture
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