French Polynesia (Bora Bora & Tahiti): What to Know Before You Go

Cuisine Highlights

• Poisson cru, raw fish marinated in lime with coconut milk and vegetables; the national dish
• Chevreffes, freshwater prawns cooked in vanilla and coconut, a Tahitian specialty
• Fafa, taro leaves with pork or chicken cooked in coconut cream
• Ma'a Tahiti, traditional earthoven feast (himaa) for special occasions
• Tahitian vanilla, among the world's most prized; used in desserts and rum

Traditions & Festivals

• Heiva I Tahiti (July), the most important cultural festival with dance, singing, and outrigger racing
• Bora Bora Liquid Festival (November), world-class outrigger canoe competition
• Tattooing tradition, Polynesian tattoo art originated here; deeply spiritual
• Black pearl culture, Tahitian pearls are among the world's most valuable
• Overwater bungalows were invented in French Polynesia, the ultimate luxury stay

Language & Communication

Tahitian and French are both official; English is spoken in major resorts but not everywhere. Learning "Ia Orana" (hello) and "Māuruuru" (thank you) in Tahitian is warmly received.

French Polynesia is autonomous within France, it has a unique blend of cultures.

Cultural Etiquette

• Polynesian hospitality is profound, accept it with genuine gratitude
• Ask permission before photographing sacred marae (temple) sites
• Respect the extraordinary ocean environment, no touching coral
• Tipping is not common but appreciated in larger establishments