Moorea, Tahiti-travel-tips
Travel & Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Moorea, Tahiti
Respect Local Customs
- Dress modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting villages or attending cultural events.
- Remove shoes: When entering homes, temples, or traditional meeting places (marae), remove your shoes as a sign of respect.
Interact with Locals
- Learn basic Tahitian phrases: Greet locals with “Ia ora na” (hello) and show appreciation for their culture.
- Be mindful of personal space: Physical touch is generally reserved for close relationships, so avoid hugging or kissing on the cheek as a greeting.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
- Try traditional dishes: Sample Po’e (Tahitian doughnuts), Firi Firi (deep-fried dough), and Ahima’a (raw fish marinated in coconut milk).
- Respect food sharing customs: When eating with locals, wait to be offered food and avoid finishing a dish completely, as this implies the host didn’t provide enough.
Explore Moorea Responsibly
- Protect the environment: Avoid littering, respect marine life, and don’t touch or stand on coral reefs.
- Respect sacred sites: Don’t enter or climb ancient temples (marae) without permission, as they hold significant cultural importance.
Be Prepared
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen: Many chemicals in common sunscreens harm coral reefs, so opt for eco-friendly alternatives.
- Bring insect repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent, so come prepared with DEET-based or picaridin-based products.
Show Appreciation
- Learn about Tahitian history and culture: Take an interest in the local way of life to show respect for your hosts.
- Support local businesses: Choose to shop at markets, eat at local restaurants, and participate in community-led tours to contribute to the island’s economy.
By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be well on your way to a respectful and enriching experience in Moorea, Tahiti. Enjoy your journey!