Getting there

Thanks to the modern jet French Polynesia is easy to reach today by air.

Air Tahiti Nui offers the most direct and nonstop flights to Papeete, Tahiti, the gateway city to French Polynesia. It flies from Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Tokyo, Sydney, Auckland, and Paris. Click Air Tahiti Nui to view its website and schedules.

Other international airlines flying to Papeete include Qantas, Air New Zealand, Air France, Lan Chile, United, and Hawaiian Airlines. Inter-island airlines are Air Tahiti and Air Moorea.

Best time to visit Polynesia

June to August has the least rain, lowest humidity, and the coolest temperatures. The opposite occurs from November to February. However, downpours are almost always brief, sometimes measured in minutes.

Passenger demographics

Guests come from all corners of the world. The vast majority is Americans, though Canadians, French and the British are well represented. The typical passenger is well traveled and educated.

Dress code

It's smart country-club casual, meaning no swim suits in restaurants - and no jeans or shorts in public areas after 6 p.m. This is the tropics, so jackets are not necessary in the evening (a polo shirt or short-sleeve Hawaiian-style print shirt worn with dress slacks will do). However, you will probably want to wear a jacket for the Captain's Welcome Party (ties are optional).

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