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Bora Bora Travel Tips

Bora Bora Travel Tips

Bora Bora Society Islands, French Polynesia Travel Guide

Communication Networks

Vini, Vodafone, and Moana Pasifika are the major mobile carriers. Vini generally has the widest coverage.

SIM Cards & Coverage

  • Purchase local SIM cards at Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti or in Vaitape.
  • Resorts offer Wi-Fi access, often included in the room rate.
  • Coverage is good on the main island and motus, although it may be spotty in remote areas.

Internet Access & Language

Most guesthouses and small inns offer Wi-Fi, occasionally with a fee or limited access.

Wi-Fi & Linguistic Support

  • Limited public Wi-Wi-fi hotspots exist, mainly in Vaitape, and some cafes offer Wi-Fi for customers.
  • Official languages are French and Tahitian. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
  • The Google Translate app (offline French/Tahitian) helps outside popular sights.

Essential Tahitian Phrases

Learning a few basic Tahitian words shows consideration and welcomes positive interactions.

Common Greetings & Responses

  • Ia Ora Na (ee-ah oh-rah nah): Hello
  • Mauruuru (mah-oo-roo-roo): Thank you
  • Nana (nah-nah): Goodbye

Connectivity Tools

Keep in touch with eSIMs or portable WiFi, offering convenient options for access to data during your trip.

Digital Nomad Essentials

  • Airalo offers eSIM services for international travelers.
  • Solis Wi-Fi provides portable WiFi devices.
  • Consider Rosetta Stone for deeper language learning before your journey.

Other Useful Phrases

Affirmative & Negative

  • 'E (eh): Yes
  • Aita (ay-tah): No
  • Maita'i (my-ty): Good/Fine
  • Teie (tay-ee-ay): This

Common Expressions

  • Aita e pe'ape'a (ay-tah eh peh-ah-peh-ah): No problem
  • This is a common and relaxed response.
  • Parau (pah-rau): Speak/Talk
  • E Te Atua (eh teh ah-too-ah): God bless you

Helpful Tip

Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival in Tahiti. This helps with data for maps and talking to people for the duration of your journey.

Business Hours & Schedules

Bora Bora's operating hours reflect a relaxed island pace, with midday closures typical for many businesses.

Banking Hours

Banks generally in Operation monday To friday, from 7:45 AM to 3:30 PM, often closing for lunch.

Retail Shop Times

Most Vaitape shops operate From monday To saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM, with a long midday break (NOON-2 PM/3 PM).

Restaurant Schedules

Lunch service typically 12 PM to 2 PM; dinner begins around 6:30 PM, lasting until 9:30 PM.

Banking & ATMs

Large banks with branches in Vaitape include Banque de Tahiti, Banque de Polynésie, and Banque Socredo.

Cash Access Points

  • ATMs are available at these bank locations in Vaitape.
  • Find ATMs at Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti.
  • Resorts might have ATMs, but this is not guaranteed, therefore plan cash in Vaitape.

Holidays & Closures

An Overseas collectivity of france observes both French public holidays and its own local public holidays.

Service Adjustments

  • On bank holidays, many businesses, banks, and certain stores may close.
  • Area holidays include Missionary Day (March 5) and Internal Autonomy Day (June 29).
  • Plan errands and activities around these closures to avoid disappointment.

Seasonal Operating Hours

Major Resorts

  • Luxury resorts typically operate year-round, maintaining consistent services.
  • Their facilities and restaurants generally have extended hours for guests.
  • High season sees full availability and extended service.

Smaller Establishments

  • Some boutique guesthouses or independent tour operators might have short closures.
  • This is most common during the low season (wet season).
  • Always confirm directly with businesses if planning a visit at this very time.

Helpful Tip

Plan your shopping trips to Vaitape during in the morning to avoid the midday closure many shops observe.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Bora Bora features a relaxed yet polite social environment, where respect for local customs is prized.

Greeting Customs

A polite "Ia Ora Na" (hello in Tahitian) or "Bonjour" (hello in French) is always well-received.

Interactions

  • Direct eye contact is frequent and acceptable.
  • A handshake is appropriate for formal introductions.
  • A smile and polite demeanor go a long way in any interaction.

Appropriate Attire

Swimsuits are fine within resort grounds and on beaches. Other settings call for more cover.

Dressing for Occasions

  • When visiting Vaitape or local communities, wear a pareo, shorts, or t-shirt over swimwear.
  • For houses of worship or religious sites, shoulders and knees should remain covered.
  • Smart casual attire is suitable for upscale resort restaurants.

Dining & Photography

People don't usually tip in An Overseas collectivity of france, as charges for service are frequently included in prices. Wait to be seated in restaurants.

Photo Ethics

  • Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
  • Be discreet and respectful; respect their decision if they decline.
  • Avoid photographing sensitive areas, like religious ceremonies, without explicit permission.

Sensitive Topics

Be mindful of the delicate ecosystem, notably the coral reefs. Use reef-safe sunscreen.

Social Considerations

  • Avoid public displays of affection, because they are generally discreet.
  • Do not touch or stand on coral when snorkeling or diving.
  • Refrain from taking part in conversations about politics unless you are invited and familiar with local issues.

Gender & Inclusion

Tolerance

  • The Land of pristine lagoons is generally tolerant.
  • The "mahu" are a historically recognized part of Polynesian culture.
  • Bora Bora welcomes all couples and is a popular romantic destination.

Public Behavior

  • Public displays of affection remain subtle.
  • Discreet behavior is usually the norm.
  • The atmosphere is welcoming, with respect for privacy.

General Conduct

Observe and Adapt

  • Observe local practices to guide your behavior.
  • Politeness and a pleasant attitude are always appreciated.
  • Show respect to older individuals and community leaders.

Religious Sites

  • Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites.
  • Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
  • Don't disturb services or ceremonies if they are in progress.

Helpful Tip

When unsure about proper etiquette, observe locals and simply follow their example. A smile and courteous conduct are always welcoming.

Accessibility Information

Bora Bora's infrastructure has some limitations for travelers with mobility challenges, requiring prior planning.

Infrastructure Overview

Limited infrastructure specifically caters to easy wheelchair access. Nearly all public areas and ancient establishments lack accessible design.

Locations

  • Fa'a'ā International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti includes some accessibility features; Bora Bora Airport (BOB) is very basic.
  • Newer luxury resorts often have ramps, accessible rooms, and wider pathways.
  • Vaitape the sidewalks might not be level, making navigation challenging for wheelchair users.

Activities & Transport

Many lagoon-based activities, like boarding boats for snorkeling or scuba diving, may present difficulties.

Navigating the Island

  • Verify with individual tour operators regarding accommodation for special accessibility needs.
  • Le Truck (the local bus) is not wheelchair accessible.
  • Taxis might be usable with assistance, but cars are not specially adapted.

Impairment Support

No specific services are widely publicized or readily available for travelers with sight or hearing difficulties impairments.

Travel Assistance

  • It is wise to travel with a companion who can provide assistance.
  • Communication mainly counts on spoken The french language or English.
  • Printed materials may not feature large print or braille.

Information Sources

The best approach involves contacting individual resorts, tour operators, and the French Polynesia tourism board directly before booking.

Direct Inquiries

  • Clearly state your specific requirements.
  • Ask about their capacity to provide accommodation.
  • A few specialized travel agencies focus concerning accessible tourism.

Helpful Tip

Contact your chosen resort well in advance to discuss specific room types and assistance available for mobility needs.

Bora Bora Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture - MileHacker