Papeete Bora Bora Travel Tips

Travel and Cultural Etiquette Tips for Tourists in Papeete, Bora Bora

Respect the Local Culture

  • Dress modestly: Avoid revealing clothing, especially when visiting temples or attending cultural events.
  • Remove your shoes: When entering a local’s home or a temple, remove your shoes as a sign of respect.

Interact with Locals

  • Learn basic French and Tahitian phrases: Show appreciation for the local culture by learning simple phrases like “bonjour” (hello), “merci” (thank you), and “mauruuru” (thank you in Tahitian).
  • Be respectful of personal space: Physical touch is not a common practice in Polynesian culture, so avoid hugging or kissing on the cheek as a greeting.

Enjoy Local Cuisine

  • Try traditional dishes: Sample local specialties like po’e (a traditional Tahitian dish made with coconut milk and fish), ahima’a (grilled fish), and fruits like mangoes and pineapples.
  • Avoid eating with your left hand: In Polynesian culture, the left hand is considered unclean, so eat with your right hand only.

Explore Responsibly

  • Respect marine life: Bora Bora’s coral reefs are fragile ecosystems. Avoid touching or standing on them, and don’t remove any marine creatures from their natural habitat.
  • Keep the island clean: Refrain from littering and take your trash with you when leaving the beach or a scenic spot.

Visit Sacred Sites

  • Dress appropriately: Wear respectful clothing when visiting temples or sacred sites. Avoid shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing.
  • Be mindful of restricted areas: Some areas in temples or sacred sites may be off-limits to visitors. Respect these restrictions and avoid taking photos in prohibited areas.

Shop Locally

  • Support local artisans: Purchase handicrafts and souvenirs from local markets or artisanal shops to support the local economy.
  • Bargain respectfully: Haggling is not a common practice in French Polynesia. If you need to negotiate prices, do so respectfully and with a smile.

General Tips

  • Learn about local customs and traditions: Take the time to understand the island’s history, customs, and way of life.
  • Be patient and flexible: Island time is different from mainland time. Be prepared for delays or changes in schedules.
  • Respect the environment: Bora Bora is a fragile ecosystem. Avoid using single-use plastics, and choose eco-friendly tour operators.

By following these travel and cultural etiquette tips, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the beauty of Papeete, Bora Bora, while also showing respect for the local culture and environment.