Internet, Electricity & Communication
Mobile & Internet
EU roaming does NOT apply in French Polynesia! Mobile costs are high. Options:
- Vini (Onati): The local mobile provider. SIM cards available at the airport in Tahiti or in Vaitape. Data packages: 5 GB from 3,000 XPF (25€). Coverage on the main island is good, on the motus partially patchy.
- Resort Wi-Fi: All luxury resorts offer Wi-Fi — usually included, sometimes at an extra charge. Speed varies: sufficient for emails and social media, often not for video streaming. Bora Bora is 7,000 km from the nearest continent — internet connectivity has its limits.
Digital Detox: Take the opportunity! Bora Bora is the perfect place to set aside your phone and enjoy the lagoon. Most guests find they don't miss Wi-Fi after the first day.
Electricity
Bora Bora uses 220V with a mix of plug types: Type A/B (American, two flat pins) and Type C/E (European, two round pins). Most hotels have universal sockets or adapters at the reception. To be safe, bring a universal adapter.
Money & Payment
- Currency: CFP Franc (XPF), pegged to the Euro: 1€ = 119.33 XPF. Conversion is easy: price divided by 120 = price in Euros.
- ATMs: Two ATMs in Vaitape (Banque de Polynésie, Banque Socredo). Visa and Mastercard accepted. Withdraw cash, as many small shops and roulottes only take cash.
- Credit cards: Accepted in hotels and larger restaurants. At market stalls, in roulottes, and small shops: cash only.
- Tipping: In French Polynesia, tipping is not customary and not expected — service is included in the price. For exceptional service, a small tip (500–1,000 XPF) is of course welcome.
