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Marquesas Islands Travel Resources

Marquesas Islands Travel Resources

Marquesas Islands Tahiti And French Polynesia Travel Guide

Digital Tools for Your Trip

Essential Apps

  • Offline Maps (Google Maps, Maps.me, Organic Maps):

    Download maps for navigation without internet; Maps.me and Organic Maps often include hiking trails.

  • Translation (Google Translate):

    Download the French language pack for offline correspondence and reading signs.

  • Communication (WhatsApp):

    Widely used by locals, guesthouse hosts, and tour guides for communication.

  • Air Tahiti App:

    If taking domestic flights, this app helps with schedules, booking, and updates.

  • Connectivity:

    These mobile apps assist in staying connected even with limited mobile data.

Useful Websites

  • Tahiti Tourisme:

    The official tourism website for French Polynesia, good for general info plus insights into the culture.

  • Air Tahiti:

    Official site for domestic flights, schedules, and multi-island pass options.

  • Aranui Cruises:

    The main site for the Aranui 5 passenger-freighter, with itinerary and booking details.

  • French Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

    Official source for up-to-date visa requirements for French Overseas Territories.

  • Your Country's Travel Advisory:

    Consult your national government's travel advice for protection and entry requirements.

Print & Media Guides

Recommended Guidebooks

Lonely Planet French Polynesia and Bradt Travel Guide French Polynesia include dedicated sections on the Marquesas, offering practical information.

Historical Reads

"Typee" by Herman Melville and "In the South Seas" by Robert Louis Stevenson offer historical glimpses into Marquesan life.

Cultural Narratives

"Noa Noa" by Paul Gauguin and "The Song of the Marquesas" by Greg Dening provide insight into Polynesian culture and art.

Learn more on Skillshare

Emergency & Health Information

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 17
  • Medical Emergency (SAMU): 15
  • Fire: 18
  • Store these numbers in your phone and on a physical card.

Medical Facilities

  • Small hospitals or medical centers exist in Taiohae (The Largest of the marquesas islands) and Atuona (Hiva Oa).
  • Smaller islands have dispensaries or nurses for basic needs.
  • For serious medical issues, evacuation to Papeete (Tahiti) or further is needed.
  • Emergency evacuation to major medical hubs is a consideration.

Further Exploration

Documentaries & Films

  • Search for documentaries on Polynesian culture or specific films about Paul Gauguin's or Jacques Brel's time.
  • Visual content offers context for your trip.
  • YouTube channels feature videos on the Marquesas islands.
  • These resources deepen your appreciation.

Music & Art

  • Listen to traditional Marquesan chants and drumming.
  • Explore imagery of Marquesan tattooing history and symbolism.
  • Appreciate intricate Marquesan wood carving details.
  • Cultural immersion through sound plus visual art.

Online Communities

  • Join Facebook communities focused on French Polynesia or the Marquesas Islands.
  • Participate in travel forums (e.g., TripAdvisor or specialized travel sites).
  • These communities share tips from fellow travelers and personal experiences.
  • A good place for specific questions and insights.

Critical Safety Information

Financial & Legal Preparedness

Visa & Passport

  • Passport valid for six months beyond departure from The Land of pristine lagoons.
  • Check for sufficient blank pages in your passport.
  • Verify specific visa requirements for French Polynesia based on nationality.
  • Consult the official French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website (france-visas.gouv.fr).

Travel Insurance

  • Comprehensive travel insurance is a must for Marquesas travel.
  • Policy covers medical emergencies and emergency medical evacuation.
  • Trip cancellation/interruption and misplaced baggage coverage.
  • Confirm coverage for any adventurous activities you plan. World Nomads is a trusted provider.

Health Advisories

  • Consult your doctor on recommended vaccinations (e.g., Typhoid, Hepatitis A/B).
  • Discuss any vaccinations needed based on your travel history.
  • Obtain prescriptions and doctor's notes for controlled medications.
  • Travel health clinic visits provide good insights.

On-Island Health Advice

General Well-being

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of bottled or purified water.
  • Sun protection: Use high-SPF sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
  • Food safety: Consume well-cooked food and peeled fruits.

Insect Protection

  • Use insect repellent diligently, especially at dawn and dusk.
  • Wear long sleeves and pants in forested areas.
  • Sleep under mosquito nets if your accommodation provides them.

Getting Assistance

Lost Document Procedures

  • Report lost/stolen passport or documents to local Gendarmerie immediately.
  • Obtain a police report for your records.
  • Contact your embassy or consulate in Tahiti for emergency travel documents.

Natural Disaster Protocols

  • Follow instructions from local authorities during tropical depression warnings.
  • Heed tsunami advisories and other emergency notifications.
  • Your inn host often provides immediate information and guidance.

Departure Preparation Highlights

Souvenir & Shipping Tips

  1. For large wood carvings or significant souvenirs, arrange shipping well in advance.
  2. Inquire with the artisan or local post office about international shipping options and costs.
  3. Keep receipts for purchases; you may declare them upon re-entry to your home country.
  4. Be conscious of any restrictions on bringing natural materials into your home country.
  5. The Land of pristine lagoons does not operate a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists.

Pre-Departure Timings

  1. For domestic flights from Marquesas, arrive at least 1 hour before scheduled departure.
  2. For international flights from Tahiti PPT, arrive 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
  3. Reconfirm your return international flights a day or two before departure.
  4. Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding passes) are in order and accessible.
  5. Repack luggage securely, leaving space for last-minute purchases.

Local Etiquette Overview

Greetings

Use "Kaoha" frequently to show respect and receive warm smiles in return.

Patience

Embrace "Polynesian Time"; things move at a relaxed pace. Expecting promptness can provoke frustration.

Cultural Sites

Always ask permission before entering ancient sites. Do not remove any items, showing respect.

Cultural Immersion

Language & Communication

Basic French

  • Offline French Pack:

    Download a French language pack for translation apps for offline use.

  • Online Courses:

    Language learning platforms like Babbel or Duolingo assist in learning basic French phrases.

  • Conversational Skills:

    Basic conversational French greatly improves interactions with locals.

Marquesan Phrases

  • "Kaoha":

    The Marquesan greeting for hello and welcome. Use it frequently.

  • "Koûtou":

    Means "thank you" in Marquesan; a gesture that earns warm responses.

  • "Eaha te i'oa?":

    Asking "What is your name?" is a a good way to connect.

Local Customs & Social Norms

Generosity & Hospitality

Marquesans are incredibly welcoming; you might receive fresh fruit or a drink. Accept with gratitude.

Respect for Elders

Show proper respect to older individuals within the community.

Polynesian Time

Things move at a relaxed, unhurried pace. Patience is helpful; do not expect strict Western timing.

Art & Tradition

Tattooing Significance

  • Explore the history and symbolism of Marquesan tattooing.
  • This art form holds deep cultural meaning.
  • Observe the intricate designs and their stories.
  • Reading about its past builds appreciation.

Wood Carving Heritage

  • Discover the intricate details of Marquesan wood carving.
  • This traditional craft showcases exceptional artistry.
  • Visit local artisan workshops to see the process.
  • Each piece tells a story through its form and symbols.

Community Connection

Engaging with Locals

  • Embrace cultural exchange by interacting with Marquesan people.
  • Their warm hospitality creates memorable experiences.
  • Opportunities to find out about their traditions directly.
  • These connections deepen your trip's authenticity.

Supporting Artisans

  • Purchase handicrafts directly from local artisans.
  • This directly benefits their source of income and traditions.
  • Seek out small, locally-owned shops and markets.

Enrich Your Experience

Delving into Marquesan culture and traditions truly enriches your visit, making it more memorable and meaningful.

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