FACTS AT A GLANCE:

TRAVEL TIME: The islands of Tahiti are located south of the equator, in the same time zone as Hawaii halfway between California and Australia. Papeete's Faaa Airport (PPT) is just 7 ½ hours by air from Los Angeles (LAX) non stop. There are daily non stop flights from Los Angeles to Tahiti.

LANGUAGE: French and Tahitian are the official languages of the islands. In the tourist areas English is understood and spoken. Brushing up on a few French phrases and learning a few Tahitian greetings is always appreciated and may make your stay more enjoyable.

CLIMATE: The climate is tropical but moderate with an average temperature of 79 F. Tahiti's summer, November through March, is typically warmer and more humid, while April through October, Tahiti's winter tends to be cooler and drier. Tahiti get most of its rainfall during the summer months but bright sunny days and refreshing trade winds are still very common during these months. The water temperature of the ocean and lagoons has an average of 80F year round.

ELECTRICITY: Hotels use either 110 volts or 220 volts depending on location so an adapter may be required.

TIME ZONE: From April to October the islands are 3 hours behind Pacific Standard Time. From November to March the islands are only 2 hours behind Pacific Standard Time.

CURRENCY: French Pacific Franc or the Euro dollar. Most visitors exchange money upon arrival in the Faaa Airport or their hotel. Most major credit cards are widely accepted so exchanging large amounts of money is really not necessary.

TIPPING AND TAXES: In Tahiti there is no sales tax on purchased items and no departure tax. Tipping is not customary or expected. A warm smile and a Mauruuru are sufficient in return for excellent service.

PASSPORTS AND VISAS: All visitors to French Polynesia must have a valid passport, a return airline ticket to their resident country, and sufficient funds to cover their stay. For stays up to one month there are no VISAS required for citizens of the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Citizens of European Union countries do not need Visas for up to a 3 month stay. Citizens of other countries should consult the French Consulate.

CLOTHING:The island lifestyle calls for casual, comfortable clothing year round. Pareus and swimsuits can be worn during the daytime at the resorts while casual walking shorts are the most comfortable for daytime excursions. Tahiti is closely associated with France and topless ness is accepted. For dinner casual slacks and sport shirts are the best option for men and cool sundresses are appropriate for women.