In contrast to some regions like the United States, where tipping is expected after most services, French Polynesia follows a different etiquette. This guide explains tip customs on the islands.
Tipping is not a traditional custom in French Polynesia and is generally not expected. However, for exceptional service, a small tip can be appreciated but is entirely at the guest's discretion.
When you're exploring French Polynesia, understanding the local customs around tipping can enhance your travel experience. Here's what you need to know about expressing gratitude in a region where tipping practices might differ from what you're used to.
Your bill in French Polynesia, especially at larger resorts, may include a service charge. This fee is often distributed amongst the staff, which means an additional tip is not typically necessary. However, if you feel the desire to reward exceptional service, a discreet tip is considered a kind gesture rather than an obligation.
If you do decide to tip for outstanding service, know that there's no strict rule on the amount. While there's no pressure, if you're moved by exceptional hospitality, feel free to leave a small tip as a token of your appreciation. This could range from a few coins to a modest sum, based on your discretion and the level of service you received.
By understanding these specifics of tipping in French Polynesia, you can navigate the local norms with ease and show gratitude in a way that aligns with the customs of the region.
When visiting French Polynesia, your tipping practices might change depending on where you are—be it sipping a drink at a beach bar or heading back to your hotel after a day of exploring.
At most restaurants and bars, tipping is not a standard expectation as service charges are often included. If you receive exceptional service, a small gesture of gratitude is appreciated. Usually, there's no specific line for a tip on the bill, but you can leave around 10% for excellent service if you feel inclined.
| Service Type | Suggested Tip | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants and Bars | Around 10% | For exceptional service, as service charges are often included |
| Hotels and Resorts | 500 to 1,000 CFP (5 to 10 USD) | For housekeeping or butler services |
| Tour Guides and Activities | 1,000 to 2,000 CFP (10 to 20 USD) | For a full-day excursion with memorable service |
| Taxi Drivers | Up to the nearest 100 CFP or 10% | For excellent service |
| Air Tahiti Staff | No tip expected | For inter-island flights |
Service at hotels and resorts may vary, but tipping is generally not obligatory. For services like housekeeping or a helpful butler, leaving a tip is seen as a way to thank them for their dedicated service. A modest amount, perhaps 500 to 1,000 CFP (around 5 to 10 USD), is considered generous.
Your tour guides and activity operators in French Polynesia generally offer personalized experiences, and while tips are not required, they are a good way to express your satisfaction. For a full-day excursion, around 1,000 to 2,000 CFP (10 to 20 USD) is a kind token of appreciation if you've had a memorable time.
Whether you’re taking a taxi from the airport or hopping on the ferry, tipping isn't expected but is a kind gesture for excellent service. For a taxi driver, rounding up to the nearest 100 CFP or adding up to 10% is sufficient. When using Air Tahiti for inter-island flights, you're not expected to tip the staff or ground crew.
When you're visiting French Polynesia, understanding the local practices regarding tips can enhance your travel experience. Keeping in mind the currency and how you manage tips, whether by cash or credit card, will ensure smooth transactions during your stay.
In French Polynesia, the local currency is the Pacific Franc referred to as CFP or XPF. It's important to have your money converted to CFP for easier transactions. You can exchange money at the airport, banks, or ATMs, which are widely available throughout the islands. Be aware of the exchange rates to get the best value for your currency, especially when converting from US dollars or other major currencies.
While credit cards are commonly accepted in hotels and restaurants, cash is often preferred for tipping in French Polynesia. It's faster and more direct, ensuring that your appreciation goes straight to the service provider. This holds true even though tipping is not obligatory; a cash tip for exceptional service is a warm gesture. Keep in mind that not all small businesses may accept credit cards, so having some cash on hand is useful.
It's practical to keep a supply of small bills and coins for tips, which can be conveniently obtained from an ATM or when you exchange money. You don't need to tip large amounts; even a modest sum is appreciated for good service. Remember, if you're offering a tip for a tour or personal service, doing so in CFP as opposed to US dollars can be more beneficial for the recipient due to exchange rates and accessibility.
When you're enjoying the stunning vistas and warm hospitality of French Polynesia, you might wonder about gratuities. While tipping isn’t a deep-rooted custom on these islands, understanding the nuances can enhance your interactions with local service providers.
| Island | Suggested Tip | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Tahiti | Rounding up the bill or leaving change | For exceptional service at restaurants or hotels |
| Bora Bora | Discretionary | For service above and beyond at resorts |
| Moorea and Other Islands | Modest tip for exceptional service | Tipping not common; service charges often included |
In Tahiti, particularly in Papeete, tipping isn't expected as service staff are generally paid a full wage. However, if you receive exceptional service at high-end restaurants or hotels, a small tip is appreciated. For instance, at a restaurant in Papeete, rounding up the bill or leaving the change can be a kind gesture.
Moving to the serene landscapes of Bora Bora, the approach to tipping is similar. Employees at larger resorts, like the Hilton Bora Bora, don’t rely on tips, but if someone goes above and beyond, offering a tip is seen as a generous way to say thank you. These gratuities are discretionary and based on the level of service experienced.
On Moorea and surrounding islands such as Huahine, Rangiroa, and Fakarava, you'll find that tipping is not common practice. At places like the Hilton Moorea, service charges are usually included in your bill. Nevertheless, for exceptional service or when engaging in activities through local tour operators, a modest tip to show your gratitude can be well-received.
Before you set out on your adventure to French Polynesia, it's vital to understand the local customs regarding tipping. Whether you're exploring Tahiti, winding down in Bora Bora, or embarking on an immersive tour, being informed will enhance your travel experience.
When it comes to specific recommendations:
Remember, while tipping isn't customary, it's a personal choice to show appreciation.
When exploring French Polynesia, you might find yourself in situations where gratuity isn't customary but may be considered a kind gesture for exceptional service.
| Service Type | Suggested Tip | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|
| Adventure and Water Sports (e.g., scuba diving) | Small tip for exceptional service | Not expected but appreciated for going above and beyond |
| Special Services at Accommodations (e.g., overwater bungalow) | Discretionary | For standout service, despite service charges often being included |
For activities like scuba diving or paddle boarding, tipping is not expected but can be a nice way to show appreciation for a guide's excellent service or expertise. If someone goes above and beyond during your adventure, feel free to leave a small tip.
Staying in an overwater bungalow at the Intercontinental or enjoying the amenities at Coco Beach, any special services received may warrant a tip. While service charges are often included, for something that stands out, a discreet tip can express your gratitude.
While tipping in French Polynesia isn't generally expected, there are particular instances where it's appropriate to leave a tip or pleasantly decline.
You don't need to tip when taking local transportation like Le Truck or a cab. Similarly, while exploring various stores or purchasing camera equipment, tipping isn't a common practice. At hotels, such as the Hilton, tipping isn't customary for services like handling your bags. Tipping isn't expected for services where there's already a service charge included (SSI) on your bill.
During special events or if you've received exceptional service, a discretionary tip is appreciated. For instance, if you are attending a private event at a high-end venue and the staff go above and beyond in their service, consider offering a tip. Consider your tipping practices as you would in the United States, Europe, Canada, or U.S.—acknowledge extraordinary service when encountered.
