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Moorea Travel Resources

Moorea Travel Resources

Moorea Society Islands, French Polynesia Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

-6 Months Before Departure

  • Passport Validity:

    Ensure your passport holds valid for a minimum of six months beyond your return. Renew if necessary.

  • Visa Requirements:

    Investigate French Polynesia's specific entry rules for your nationality. Apply for visas, allowing ample processing time.

  • Flight Bookings:

    Book flights from abroad to Tahiti (PPT), the main gateway. Research different airlines for optimal value.

  • Inter-island Transport:

    Book inter-island flights (PPT-MOZ) or tickets for the ferry if you choose that travel mode.

  • Book Lodgingd:

    Secure lodging for your entire Moorea stay, especially during high season.

-2 Months Before Departure

  • Travel Health:

    Consult a health professional for recommended vaccinations (Hepatitis A, Typhoid) and prescriptions.

  • Driving Permit:

    Arrange an International Driving Permit if you plan to rent a automobile and lack a French license.

  • Bank Notification:

    Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid card freezes.

  • Itinerary Detailing:

    Plan your daily itinerary, including opening hours and transport for attractions.

  • Travel Insurance:

    Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including medical emergencies and activities like diving.

Travel Reminders

-4 Weeks Prior

Redouble-check all reservations directly with providers. Make digital and physical copies of all essential documents; store copies separately from originals. Acquire necessary Travel gear, including reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes. Download offline maps and translation apps.

Week Prior

Pack luggage, observing weight restrictions for all flights. Confirm airport transfers or your rental vehicle pick-up. Obtain some French Pacific Francs (XPF) or plan ATM withdrawal. Charge all electronic devices. Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts. Consider Travel insurance from World Nomads for unforeseen events.

Home Preparations

Arrange for mail collection or forwarding, pet care, and home security. Ensure trusted contacts are aware of your absence and how to reach you in an urgent situation. These steps allow for a worry-free departure.

Arrival Checklist

First Steps at Tahiti Faa'an Airport PPT

  • Clear immigration and customs efficiently, all documents at hand.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card (Vini or Vodafone) for instant internet access.
  • Exchange currency or use an ATM to obtain French Pacific Francs (XPF) for immediate needs.
  • Proceed to the inter-island flight terminal or the ferry terminal (a short taxi ride).

Orientation in Moorea

  • Obtain a local map from the airport, ferry terminal, or your hotel.
  • Check in to your accommodation and ask staff for local advice and recommendations.
  • Have enough XPF cash for initial taxi rides, ferry tickets (if not pre-booked), and small purchases.
  • Have pre-arranged hotel transfers confirmed or know where to find taxis/rental cars at Moorea Airport or Vaiare Ferry Terminal.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Allocate time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • For black pearls, ensure you have documentation for customs.
  • Confirm shipping arrangements if sending larger items home.
  • Careful consideration of luggage weight for international flights.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Moorea Airport (MOZ to PPT): Arrive at least 60-90 minutes before departure.
  • Ferry (Vaiare to Papeete): Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • International Flight (PPT): Arrive 2-3 hours before scheduled departure for check-in and security.

Return Trip Finalization

  • Confirm your return flight details (times, terminal, gate).
  • Pack carefully, verifying no things you can't bring are in your luggage.
  • Check out of your accommodation on schedule.
  • Arrange for your transfer to the airport or ferry terminal.

Emergency & Medical Information

Essential Contacts

Emergency Numbers

  • Medical Emergency (SAMU): 15
  • Police: 17
  • Fire/Rescue: 18
  • Keep these numbers readily available on your phone.

Hospital and Clinic Locations

  • Moorea: Centre Hospitalier de Moorea (clinic) and private medical centers.
  • Tahiti: Centre Hospitalier de Polynésie Française (CHPF) in Papeete.
  • The Tahiti hospital is for more serious or specialized needs.
  • Seek medical attention for any health concerns.

Embassy and Lost Documents

  • Embassies: Most foreign embassies for The Islands of tahiti are in Papeete.
  • Lost Documents: Report lost passports to local police immediately; obtain a police report.
  • Embassy Contact: Contact your country's embassy in Papeete for emergency travel documents.
  • Prompt action aids in document recovery.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Cyclone Warning

  • Seasonal Period: November to April.
  • Follow Authority: Adhere to instructions from local authorities.
  • Hotel Plans: Accommodations typically have established emergency protocols.

Tsunami Warning

  • Move to High Ground: Immediately proceed away from the coast.
  • Evacuation Routes: Familiarize yourself with routes if staying beachfront.
  • Stay Informed: Local advisories for current conditions.

Further Reading & Exploration

Media & Art

  • Documentaries: Watch films on Polynesian navigation or marine life for visual context.
  • Music: Listen to traditional Polynesian music (ukulele, drumming) for cultural immersion.
  • Art: Explore Polynesian art forms like carving, tattooing, and weaving.

Online Communities & Language

  • Online Communities: Join travel forums for specific questions and recent experiences.
  • Language Learning: Consider dedicated apps for basic Tahitian or French phrases.
  • Understanding: These resources foster greater cultural insight.

Recommended Reading

Guidebooks and Maps

  1. Comprehensive French Polynesia guidebooks (Lonely Planet, A Popular series of travel guidebooks) offer detailed information on Moorea.
  2. These often feature maps, historical context, and dining recommendations.
  3. Local maps of Moorea are available at the airport, ferry terminal, or your hotel.
  4. These maps are useful for self-driving, cycling, and locating specific attractions.
  5. Consult guidebooks for a thorough a look at the region.

Books About the Destination

  1. "The Lure of Tahiti" by Robert Lee Eskridge provides historical insights from a firsthand account.
  2. "Mutiny on the Bounty" by Charles Nordhoff and James Norman Hall offers a dramatic narrative set in the region's history.
  3. Look for books on Polynesian mythology, art, or contemporary local authors.
  4. Reading about the area prior to travel enriches the experience.
  5. A understanding of culture is a valuable outcome.

Planning Resources

Online Guides

Official tourism websites are a reliable starting point for travel data.

Visual Inspiration

Social media accounts focusing on French Polynesia present visual inspiration.

Tour Operators

Search reputable tour operator websites for specific offerings and reviews.

Important Advisory

Always review current travel advisories and local conditions before and during your trip.

Departure & Reflection

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping Considerations

  • Last-Minute Shopping:

    Allocate time for purchasing souvenirs in your final days on Moorea.

  • Black Pearls:

    If buying black pearls, retain authentication certificates for customs in your home country.

  • Shipping Options:

    Confirm shipping logistics if you intend to send larger items home.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

  • Inter-Island Flight (MOZ to PPT):

    Arrive at Moorea Airport at least 60-90 minutes before your scheduled departure.

  • Ferry (Vaiare to Papeete):

    Arrive at Vaiare Ferry Terminal at least 30-45 minutes before departure.

  • International Flight (PPT):

    Arrive at Tahiti Faa'an International Airport 2-3 hours before your international flight.

Return Trip Finalization

Flight Confirmation

Confirm your return flight details including times, terminal, and gate information prior to your leaving day.

Packing Check

Pack carefully, verifying no prohibited items are in your carry-on or checked luggage to avoid issues at security.

Accommodation Checkout

Check out of your accommodation on time and organize for your transfer to the airport or ferry terminal without delay.

Reflecting on Moorea

Personal Growth Opportunities

  • Self-Discovery: New activities or navigating unfamiliar settings foster personal growth.
  • Digital Disconnect: Unplugging from digital distractions fosters clarity.
  • Mindfulness: The serene environment encourages appreciation for simple joys.
  • Environmental Connection: The experience might spark a commitment to conservation.

Life-Changing Aspects

  • Natural Beauty: Moorea's volcanic peaks and tranquil lagoon offer profound beauty.
  • Relaxed Pace: Island life fosters a slowing down and detachment from daily stresses.
  • Present Focus: A renewed highlight the present moment often unfolds.
  • Refreshing Impact: The change of pace and setting is truly refreshing.

Responsible Travel Pledge

Ways to Give Back

  • Local Support: Choose locally owned restaurants, shops, and tour operators.
  • Conservation: Consider donating to local environmental organizations like Moorea Coral Gardeners.
  • Educate Others: Share experiences about responsible travel with friends and family.
  • Mindful Practices: Encourage mindful travel choices.

Sustainable Practices

  • Reduce Waste: Minimize single-use plastics; opt for reusable items.
  • Conserve Resources: Be mindful of water and energy usage, even at home.
  • Respect Nature: Practice responsible interaction with wildlife; dispose of waste properly.
  • Cultural Respect: Maintain an open mind; support traditional arts and crafts.

Moorea's Lasting Impact

Moorea's natural wonders, rich culture, and tranquil environment create a truly memorable escape, inspiring plus rewarding for future travels.

Moorea Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts