£1 CFPF 138
Today
5:55 pm
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Weather in French Polynesia
French Polynesia
27°
Slight rain showers
Wed
26
27
Thu
27
27
Fri
27
28
Sat
27
28
Sun
28
28
SPF level in French Polynesia
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around French Polynesia
Tipping in French Polynesia
Tipping is not mandatory in French Polynesia, but it's becoming more common for good service.
Restaurant
5-10% for exceptional service
Bar/Café
Small change or 5-10% for exceptional service
Taxi
Round up the fare or a small tip for helpful service
Hotel Porter
100-200 XPF per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
100-200 XPF per day
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price for a good tour
Safety in French Polynesia
Tips for British travellers
French Polynesia is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Avoid isolated areas like beaches after dark.
Do not carry large amounts of cash or wear expensive jewellery on the street.
Store your valuables and travel documents in a hotel safe.
When scuba diving, always check an operator's credentials and the condition of their safety equipment.
When scuba diving, ensure oxygen is available on the boat and ask about safety procedures.
You must carry both the 1968 version international driving permit and your UK driving licence to drive.
Bonus tips:
Check your insurance policy for required dive instructor qualifications before scuba diving.
Car hire companies often require you to have at least one year of driving experience.
Driving in French Polynesia
A valid UK driving licence is accepted. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
110 km/h
Urban speed limit
50 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.05%
Remember: French Polynesia drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
17
Ambulance
15
Fire
18
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in French Polynesia
Voltage
220V / 60Hz
Plug types
Type A, Type B, Type E
UK adapter needed?
Yes
French Polynesia uses 220V at 60Hz. Plug types A, B, and E are common. Visitors from the UK will need a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Credit card acceptance is good in tourist areas, hotels and larger establishments and shops. Smaller businesses may only accept cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in French Polynesia
ATMs are mainly found in larger towns and resorts, particularly on the islands of Tahiti and Bora Bora. Availability is limited on smaller islands.
Local name
DAB (Distributeur Automatique de Billets)
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
Using ATMs is the best way to get local currency. Ensure your card has a chip and PIN. Check for fees charged by your bank and the local ATM.
Mobile & roaming
As the UK is no longer in the EU, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in French Polynesia. Roaming charges can be high; consider a local SIM card if you plan to use your phone extensively.
Local SIM data package
5GB for 5000 XPF (~£35)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Vini, Vodafone Pacific
WiFi & internet
WiFi is commonly available in hotels, resorts, and some cafes, particularly in tourist areas. Coverage can be limited on smaller islands or in more remote areas. Some places may charge for WiFi access.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Free Wifi is available in most resorts.
Health & vaccinations in French Polynesia
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation. A Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not applicable in French Polynesia.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Dengue fever
Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and health precautions before travelling to French Polynesia. Dengue fever and Zika virus are present, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
Calling French Polynesia
Country code
+689
To call French Polynesia from the UK, dial 00 689 followed by the local number.
To call a number in French Polynesia dial 00 689 40 12 34 56.
The country code for French Polynesia is 689. When calling from outside French Polynesia, use the exit code of your country followed by 689 and the local number.
UK Embassy in French Polynesia
British Embassy Paris (France)
35 rue du Faubourg St Honoré, 75383 Paris Cedex 08, France
Airport in French Polynesia
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.