Papeete, Bora Bora-travel-tips

Papeete and Bora Bora Travel Etiquette Tips

As a tourist in Papeete and Bora Bora, Tahiti, you’ll want to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Here are some key travel etiquette tips to keep in mind:

General Etiquette

  • Learn basic French: While many locals speak English, learning basic French phrases like “Bonjour” (hello), “Merci” (thank you), and “Au revoir” (goodbye) will be appreciated.
  • Dress modestly: When visiting temples or churches, dress conservatively and remove your shoes if required.
  • Respect the environment: Papeete and Bora Bora are both environmentally sensitive areas. Refrain from littering, and avoid touching or standing on coral reefs.

Cultural Etiquette

  • Tattoos: Tattoos are a significant part of Tahitian culture. However, it’s considered impolite to stare at someone with tattoos. If you have tattoos, be prepared for curiosity.
  • Greetings: When meeting locals, use the traditional Tahitian greeting: “Ia ora na” (hello), followed by “Tahiti moana” (goodbye).
  • Food and drink: Try local cuisine, but avoid eating or drinking in public areas. Also, be mindful of food waste and respect local customs around meals.

Bora Bora Specific Etiquette

  • Resort etiquette: When staying at an overwater bungalow resort, be aware of your surroundings and respect other guests’ peace.
  • Water activities: If participating in water activities like snorkeling or diving, follow guidelines and respect marine life and the environment.
  • Shark and ray feeding: Avoid touching or handling sharks and rays. Instead, let them feed naturally.

Papeete Specific Etiquette

  • Market etiquette: When shopping at local markets, be prepared for crowded conditions and haggling over prices.
  • Traffic rules: Be mindful of traffic laws, as pedestrians have priority on the roads.
  • Time zones: Tahiti is 3 hours ahead of most American time zones. Be aware of this when scheduling activities.

By following these etiquette tips, you’ll be able to navigate Papeete and Bora Bora with confidence and respect for the local culture.